Kids love them!! How many of your students do the right thing each day and receive no attention or less than the ones that "act up" in class or during school hours?
Middle School kids need praise for their accomplishments no matter how small or large or whether they are A or D students!! A 30 second phone call to home, (better done in the evening) will give that student a kudos that they are most likely longing for. Remember though...this is a 100% positive phone call. Other calls are necessary but this is for the sole purpose of Praising the student for a job well done!!
I know we are all busy. Coaching, family, personal needs, etc But it can be done easily. ( I have all the listed items myself. )
Write down 1 student, his/her tele # ,current grade, and parents 1st name.
Do this for each of your sections or your one class.
On any night, (Sunday evenings seem to be the best) take your note with the names and make 30 second or longer phone calls to the parents bragging how their child has improved or is always working hard, has an A, etc.
Good reasons to do this:
Student benefits from praise
Good Parent connection
Aid in Classroom atmosphere/better discipline (All students are aware that you call for "any reason")
Keeps all students on their "toes"
It will give you a great feeling as well!!
It is amazing!!
No, don't think of excuses!!! Just do it! Try it once!!
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ReplyDeleteI personally believe this is a direct hit to their ego. If you get the kids thinking they are too good this could cause problems in other classrooms. They will think too highly of themselves and boast to other students about how they got a self empowering phone call from their "teacher".
ReplyDeleteI'm not sure if you have tried this or not. I have found the opposite is true. Could he reaction you describe take place? Sure! I have not personally witnessed this in my 23 year career. Thanks for your comment. We all learn from each other!
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