Ever wondered how to turn your classroom into a hub of creativity? In the recent Unbox Innovation episode, "Cultivating a Creative Classroom," Preston Trebas, Boxlight STEM Training and Development Specialist, addresses the challenges educators face with integrating creativity into modern teaching and learning practices. The discussion covers balancing hard skills and creativity, dealing with parental concerns, and addressing administrative pressures. 

When I embarked on my teaching career as a 4th-grade teacher in Verrado, Arizona, the vast desert landscape was a far cry from the familiar surroundings of my hometown in Detroit, Michigan. Transitioning from a state surrounded by lakes to the sparse desert evoked a deep appreciation for the resilience of the land and the communities flourishing in this seemingly inhospitable terrain. 

Today is Pretend to Be a Time Traveler Day (December 8, 2023). Pretend to Be a Time Traveler Day whimsically celebrates the allure of time travel, sparking curiosity and reflection on the mysteries of temporal exploration in popular culture. Seeing this day on my calendar takes me back to a special memory from my early teaching days. It was a time when I, like my students, became a time traveler of sorts. We delved into a fascinating project to celebrate our town's 100-year anniversary, a project that left an indelible mark on my teaching philosophy. 

The concept was simple yet powerful - students could choose any time frame, past or future, and create a time capsule representing that era. This not only celebrated our community's rich history but also allowed students to explore the spirit of change over time. Today I see Pretend to Be a Time Traveler Day on my calendar —a day that may not seem very important—it brings back memories of the happiness and positive impact such projects had on students and teachers. 

 

Application for Teachers 
For fellow educators, consider channeling the spirit of time travel in your classrooms. Encourage students to take pride in their local history by assigning a time capsule project. Share the process of the project on digital displays throughout the school campus to involve everyone in the school community. Connecting with the community's past not only fosters a deeper appreciation for the present but also creates lasting memories that stand the test of time. 

Denver Public Schools (DPS) is leading the way in career exploration through its Spark Early Career Exploration Program, emphasizing diverse career exposure for students. Olivia Barraza Kee, Senior Manager of DPS Spark, highlights the importance of developing career identities to shape students' futures positively: “The work of developing career identities for our students is really important to us so that they can plan and chart their futures and get careers that sustain them and their families." The program connects students with local businesses and offers an extensive online resource library. 

November was National Gratitude Month but it’s certainly not the only time we can reflect on how we show our appreciation. As we get ready to close the year, let’s explore the profound connection between gratitude, kindness, and the positive impact they have on our lives, relationships, and communities. While expressing thanks was integral to this month's theme, let's delve into how acts of kindness, both big and small, not only highlight gratitude but also play a crucial role in fostering positive relationships and strengthening the fabric of our communities.  

Teachers, are you ready for winter break? Your students are, too, so bring some excitement to your classrooms as winter break approaches using your interactive displays. They are excellent tools that can turn any lesson into an engaging adventure. Whether you're teaching language arts, any STEM class, art, history, or any other subject, these activities will “spark” some enjoyment and engage both you and your students in the weeks leading up to winter break. 

World Children's Day, observed annually on November 20th, is an occasion dedicated to promoting international togetherness and awareness among children worldwide. Established by the United Nations General Assembly in 1954, this day marks the anniversary of the adoption of the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC) in 1989. It serves as a reminder of the ongoing need to advocate for, protect, and celebrate the rights of every child. 

As we wrap up American Education Week, we applaud the relentless dedication of educators and their pivotal role in enriching the lives and learning experiences of their students. The education landscape is constantly evolving, and learning to navigate change is vital. As we continue to appreciate educators, let's explore how change management, professional development, and ongoing support are empowering educators to be even more amazing than they already are.  

Ever thought about those amazing folks who step in for our regular teachers and keep the learning going smoothly? Let's talk about those dynamic “Guest Educators” and recognize their efforts on Substitute Teachers Day (November 17, 2023). 

In the first official episode of Unbox Innovation, Boxlight’s newest podcast series, Host Gabrielle Bejarano had a chat with Preston Trebas, STEM Training and Development Specialist, to discuss the challenges teachers face in today's educational landscape, with a special focus on fostering creativity in the classroom.