Author Archives: sutterlearn

Last Happy Thang

Posted on October 6, 2014 by sutterlearn

It’s only spelled with an “a” for emphasis to lighten the mood.  The purpose of this activity is to connect everyone in our busyness and observe how frequently or infrequently we, as a society, experience genuine happyness (also intentionally misspelled). … Continue reading →

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Profound or Profoundly Stupid

Posted on October 6, 2014 by sutterlearn

Teachers are full of anecdotes because children are wonderful sources.  The purpose of this opening activity is to create community among adult learners by encouraging conversation among small groups while purging recent experiences from their own lives, to clear the … Continue reading →

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This Hurts Me More Than You

Posted on June 25, 2014 by sutterlearn

I didn’t believe my Mom when she said these words to me right before the last spanking I received as a child.  Spanks didn’t come often, probably because I was a remarkably agreeable kid, but my memory of the events … Continue reading →

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Net Neutrality

Posted on May 25, 2014 by sutterlearn

In an era when students will be mandated to take achievement tests online, another challenge looms.  A concept called “net neutrality” or “open internet” is worth googling and learning about.  In short, the Federal Communications Commission is deciding if they … Continue reading →

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Responsibility…then accountability

Posted on May 25, 2014 by sutterlearn

The mom had good intent, but I had to pause shortly after we started talking about her son’s performance.  She was upset that his handwriting fell short of her expectations.  Then came out a math paper that further displeased and … Continue reading →

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Parent Guide to CCSS

Posted on May 25, 2014 by sutterlearn

A parent recently approached me with a list of questions about the Common Core State Standards (CCSS) and how our schools are preparing for them.  I was so pleased to have the conversation.  Why would this be so pleasing you … Continue reading →

Posted in Parenting, Politics, School Reform | Leave a comment

Tomorrow, We’re Not Friends

Posted on March 24, 2014 by sutterlearn

A beautiful, sad story crossed my desk today.  Each year, our elementary school invites back the current graduating seniors for an after-school reception.  We serve cake and have retired teachers come back to see the kids grown up, then the … Continue reading →

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Cultivating Grit

Posted on March 24, 2014 by sutterlearn

There’s a scene in my favorite movie, A River Runs Through It, where the father played, by Tom Skerrit, forces his son to write and rewrite an essay multiple times.  Each time, returning it with lots of red ink and … Continue reading →

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Environmental Print

Posted on March 23, 2014 by sutterlearn

When I was a child, you could have told me the word Coca-Cola was my grandfather’s name, or I might have told you that.  It wouldn’t have been the word itself, but the iconic white script on a red background … Continue reading →

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We Are Where We Are

Posted on March 22, 2014 by sutterlearn

As engaged parents, we say we want our kids to do their best, but what we often mean in our hearts is we want the best for them.  We even hope for our kids to be the best.  It’s hard … Continue reading →

Posted in Coaching, Leadership, Parenting, Teachers | Leave a comment