Teacher burnout doesn’t just happen to new teachers, or to people who “aren’t cut out for the job.” It shows up for experienced educators, passionate educators, even the ones who care the most—often because they care so much.

It can feel like you’re constantly behind, no matter how much you do. Like the work never really ends. Like the parts of teaching you once loved are still there somewhere, but buried under everything else you’re carrying.

And maybe the hardest part is the quiet question underneath all of it: Is it me?

It’s not.

Burnout isn’t a personal failure. It’s what happens when you’re working in a role that asks you to give more than is sustainable—day after day, without enough space to recover.

In this article, we’re going to walk through what teacher burnout actually is, how to recognize it, why it happens, and what you can do about it—whether you want to stay in the classroom or you’re starting to wonder if it’s time for something else.

What is teacher burnout?

Teacher burnout isn’t just about feeling tired at the end of a long week.

It’s the kind of exhaustion that lingers, the kind that doesn’t fully go away even after rest, because it’s not just physical—it’s emotional, mental, and cumulative.

Over time, it can start to look like:

• Feeling drained before the day even begins
• Carrying a constant sense of pressure or urgency
• Struggling to feel motivated, even when you care deeply

And what makes it especially difficult is that teaching isn’t just a job you clock in and out of. It follows you home—in your thoughts, your to-do list, your emotional energy.

So burnout isn’t just about working hard.

It’s about working in a way that doesn’t give you enough back to sustain you.

Signs and Symptoms of Teacher Burnout

Burnout rarely announces itself in a clear or dramatic way. It doesn’t usually show up as a single moment where everything falls apart. Instead, it builds quietly—through long days, constant pressure, and the slow accumulation of things that never quite get finished.

At first, you might just feel tired. Then a little more overwhelmed than usual. Then, over time, something deeper shifts—not just in your energy, but in your mental health, your focus, and even how you relate to your work as a teacher.

You start to feel like you’re always behind. Like no matter how much you do, it’s never enough.
Like you’re running through your day, but never actually catching up.

One teacher described it this way:

“I was working 24/7… I didn’t know how much longer I could make it.”

That feeling—of constantly giving and never quite arriving at a place of “done”—is one of the clearest burnout symptoms educators experience, especially in a profession that often requires sustained energy over long periods of time.

You feel constantly overwhelmed—and never quite caught up

There’s always something waiting.

Even on your most productive days, there’s still more:
another lesson to plan, another email to respond to, another task you didn’t get to.

And over time, that creates a kind of mental load that doesn’t go away when the day ends. It follows you home. It lingers in your thoughts when you’re trying to rest, making it harder to fully disconnect from work.

This constant sense of unfinished work is one of the biggest drivers of teacher stress, and it often contributes to ongoing stress and anxiety that can feel difficult to manage.

If this feels familiar, read Navigating Teacher Anxiety When You’re Drowning in Work—it offers a more grounded way to think about that constant overwhelm.

Navigating teacher anxiety when you’re drowning in work

You’re emotionally and mentally exhausted

What often makes this kind of exhaustion confusing is that it doesn’t always match how hard you’re working in a visible way.

You might have days where, on paper, you didn’t do anything extraordinary—no major events, no unusually difficult situations—and yet you still end the day feeling completely depleted.

That’s because burnout isn’t just about what you do.

It’s about the constant cognitive and emotional load you’re carrying in the background:
keeping track of student needs, adjusting lessons in real time, managing behavior, anticipating problems before they happen.

All of that requires energy—and when it happens every day without pause, it builds into the kind of fatigue that doesn’t go away with a good night’s sleep.

This kind of exhaustion isn’t just about needing more sleep.

It’s the result of prolonged chronic stress—being “on” for extended periods of time without enough recovery. You’re constantly responding, supporting, adjusting, and managing, often without a real break.

You might notice:

• You’re more easily irritated
• You feel detached or numb
• Your patience feels thinner than it used to

This emotional exhaustion is one of the most defining characteristics of burnout in the teaching profession, and it can affect not just your work, but your overall mental health as well.

You’ve lost motivation or joy in teaching

This can be one of the most unsettling parts of burnout because you still care. You still want to show up for your students. You still believe in the work. But the energy that used to come naturally—the creativity, the enthusiasm, the sense of purpose—feels harder to access.

And that can lead to a quiet kind of doubt: What changed?

Often, it’s not your passion that disappeared—it’s that your energy has been depleted over time.

You feel anxious, pressured, or constantly “on”

For many teachers, burnout shows up not just as exhaustion, but as persistent stress and anxiety.

Your mind keeps going, even when you’re not working:

• Thinking about what you didn’t finish
• Replaying interactions with students
• Anticipating what’s coming next

This constant mental activity can make it difficult to relax, and over time, it can begin to affect both your emotional state and your physical health.

Helpful to read: How teachers can conquer anxiety, overwhelm, and the pressure to always do more becomes especially helpful—it focuses on small ways to create space in that constant pressure.

How teachers can conquer anxiety, overwhelm, and the pressure to always do more

You’re noticing physical symptoms of burnout

Burnout doesn’t stay contained in your classroom. It shows up in your body, your energy, your relationships. You might notice trouble sleeping, getting sick more often, feeling drained even outside of work. And when that happens, it’s often a sign that this isn’t something you can just push through anymore.

You might experience:

• Frequent fatigue
• Headaches or tension
• Trouble sleeping
• Getting sick more often

These physical symptoms are often the body’s response to prolonged chronic stress, and they’re an important signal that your current pace may not be sustainable.

You’re starting to question whether you can keep going

This is the moment many teachers don’t talk about out loud.

When the thought shifts from:
“This is hard” to “I don’t know if I can keep doing this.”

And if you’ve had that thought—even once—it’s worth paying attention to.

What Causes Teacher Burnout?

It’s easy to assume burnout is something you should be able to fix with better time management, more organization, or just trying a little harder.

But that’s rarely the real issue.

Burnout in the teaching profession is rarely about individual failure.

Most of the time, burnout isn’t happening because you’re not doing enough.

It’s happening because you’re being asked to do too much, for too long, without enough support or space to recover.

1. The workload is simply too much

Teaching isn’t just teaching anymore—it’s planning, grading, meetings, emails, data tracking, behavior management, and responding to diverse student behaviors, all layered on top of one another.

And even when you’re working efficiently, the list doesn’t shrink. Because the issue isn’t productivity. It’s volume.

As one idea puts it:

There are simply too many things demanding your time and attention.

And no amount of time management can fully solve that.

And what makes this especially challenging is that much of this work is invisible.

From the outside, teaching might look like a series of lessons delivered throughout the day.

But behind those lessons are hours of preparation, decision-making, and follow-through that often go unseen.

It’s not just the time spent working—it’s the mental bandwidth required to hold everything together.

And when that bandwidth is constantly maxed out, even small tasks can start to feel overwhelming.

We explore this more deeply in Fewer Things, Better: 4 Beliefs to Help You Focus on What Matters Most, which challenges the idea that productivity alone can solve burnout.

Fewer things, better: 4 beliefs to help you focus on what matters most

2. Being good at your job can actually increase your workload

The more capable you are, the more is often expected of you.

You might be given:

• More challenging students
• Additional responsibilities
• Leadership roles without reduced workload

Over time, this can lead to increased teacher stress, especially when expectations continue to rise without clear boundaries.

If this resonates, Why great teachers get saddled with the biggest workload (and how to advocate for yourself) offers a really honest look at this dynamic.

Why great teachers get saddled with the biggest workload (and how to advocate for yourself)

3. The emotional labor adds up

Teaching requires a level of emotional engagement that goes far beyond instruction.

You’re supporting students through academic challenges, personal struggles, and behavioral issues—all while maintaining a calm, steady presence.

That emotional output, repeated daily, contributes significantly to burnout symptoms and can impact overall teacher well-being if not balanced with recovery time.

You’re also navigating a wide range of student needs at any given time.

Some students need academic support. Others need emotional reassurance. Some are dealing with challenges outside of school that affect how they show up in your classroom.

Responding to all of that requires presence, patience, and adaptability—and that kind of sustained attention can be exhausting, even when you’re deeply committed to your students.

Over time, this emotional load becomes one of the most significant contributors to burnout, especially when it’s paired with high expectations and limited recovery time.

4. The pressure to do more never really stops

There’s always something else you could be doing.

Even outside of work hours, many teachers feel the pull to keep going—reviewing lessons, planning ahead, or thinking about what they could improve.

These long hours and constant mental engagement make it difficult to fully rest, which reinforces the cycle of burnout.

5. Some of the challenges are systemic

There are also factors that go beyond any one teacher’s control:

• Staffing shortages
• Changing expectations
• Increasing demands

Recognizing this matters because it helps you step out of the mindset that this is something you should be able to “fix” on your own.

How to Prevent Teacher Burnout

Burnout doesn’t always happen suddenly.

Which means there are ways to shift your experience before it reaches that point—but not by doing more.

By doing things differently.

Stay connected to what matters most

It’s easy to get pulled into the daily frustrations of teaching—the repetition, the interruptions, the paperwork.

But those aren’t the reason you became a teacher.

Reconnecting with your purpose, even in small ways, helps keep those frustrations in perspective.

Build support instead of doing everything alone

Teaching can feel isolating, even when you’re surrounded by people.

Having someone you can talk to—someone who understands—can make a significant difference in how manageable the work feels.

The full framework in 8 Keys to Avoiding Teacher Burnout includes practical ways to build that support and protect your energy.

8 keys to avoiding teacher burnout (part one)

Make space for a life outside of teaching

When teaching becomes your entire life, it takes more than it gives.

Having interests, relationships, and routines outside of work isn’t a luxury—it’s what helps you come back with energy

How to Overcome Teacher Burnout (When You’re Already There)

When you’re already burned out, the goal isn’t to push harder.

It’s to begin creating conditions that support your mental health, your energy, and your overall physical health.

Do fewer things, better

You are not going to get everything done.

And more importantly—you’re not supposed to.

Trying to keep up with everything is what leads to burnout in the first place.

Instead, the shift becomes:
What actually matters?
What doesn’t?
What can I let go of?

This approach supports both your effectiveness and your teacher well-being, because it allows you to focus your energy where it has the most impact.

Start here: Fewer Things, Better: 4 Beliefs to Help You Focus on What Matters Most

Fewer things, better: 4 beliefs to help you focus on what matters most

This doesn’t mean lowering your standards or caring less about your work.

It means being more intentional about where your energy goes.

Because when everything feels equally important, nothing gets the attention it truly deserves.

And that’s often where burnout intensifies—the feeling that you’re doing everything, but not doing anything well enough.

By narrowing your focus, you’re not giving less.

You’re giving more of yourself to fewer, more meaningful things—and that shift alone can start to change how your work feels.

Make small, consistent shifts

When everything feels overwhelming, big changes can feel unrealistic.

Small adjustments—like creating moments of stillness or removing unnecessary tasks—can gradually reduce stress and anxiety.

How Teachers Can Conquer Anxiety, Overwhelm, and the Pressure to Always Do More introduces this idea through simple, practical approaches.

How teachers can conquer anxiety, overwhelm, and the pressure to always do more

These small shifts also help rebuild a sense of control.

When you’re burned out, it can feel like everything is happening to you—that you’re reacting all day, without any real agency.

But even small choices—like pausing before moving to the next task, or deciding not to take on something extra—can begin to shift that dynamic.

And over time, those moments add up.

They create space not just in your schedule, but in your experience of the day.

Let go of the pressure to do everything perfectly

Burnout is often fueled by the belief that you should be doing more.

But sometimes, the most effective change is learning to let go.

As one idea puts it:

There’s a lot of power in letting go.

This is explored more deeply in Letting Go Instead of Trying Harder.

Letting go instead of trying harder

Change the story you’re telling yourself

Burnout isn’t just about workload.

It’s also shaped by the way you interpret your experience.

One teacher described this shift in a powerful way:

“I realized I was telling myself a story I didn’t want to live.”

That realization became a turning point.

Because when the story changes, the experience begins to change too.

You can see how this played out in From Burnout to Teacher of the Year: Pam’s Story of Loving Her Job Again

From burnout to Teacher of the Year: Pam’s story of loving her job again

Real Stories of Teacher Burnout and Recovery

Sometimes what you need most isn’t another strategy.

It’s reassurance that recovery is possible.

Pam’s story is a powerful example.

After nearly 20 years in the classroom, she found herself dealing with intense burnout—working long hours, experiencing significant stress, and feeling disconnected from her work.

She described it this way:

“I was exhausted, stressed to the max, and I truly just didn’t know how much longer I could make it.”

Her experience reflects what many educators face when chronic stress goes unaddressed.

But what changed things wasn’t one major decision.

It was a series of smaller shifts:

• Rebuilding her routines
• Practicing gratitude
• Engaging in meaningful professional development
• Changing how she viewed her work

One of the most important turning points came when she realized:

“The story I was telling myself was not one I wanted to live.”

Another important part of Pam’s experience was recognizing how much of her stress was tied to how she was approaching her work—not just the work itself.

She realized that she had been equating longer hours with being more effective, and that belief was keeping her stuck in a cycle of overworking without actually feeling accomplished.

When she began to track her time more intentionally, she noticed that multitasking was slowing her down, not helping her.

That awareness allowed her to make small adjustments—focusing on one task at a time, planning more intentionally, and giving herself permission to step away when needed.

These weren’t dramatic changes, but they were consistent.

And consistency is what allowed her to gradually rebuild both her energy and her confidence.

Over time, those changes supported both her mental health and her sense of purpose—and ultimately helped her rediscover her passion for teaching.

Should You Quit Teaching Because of Burnout?

This is a deeply personal question—and one that deserves space. Sometimes burnout is tied to a specific environment. Other times, it’s a sign that something more fundamental isn’t working. And sometimes, the answer isn’t immediate.

It might be the environment. A different school, role, or team can completely change your experience.

It might be time for something different. If the work itself no longer feels sustainable, it’s worth exploring what else is possible.

You don’t need a perfect next step

You don’t have to replace teaching with something you’re equally passionate about. Sometimes, a role that gives you more balance and energy is enough.

If you’re in this space, Is Teaching Still the Right Career for You? walks through how to think about that decision realistically.

Is teaching still the right career for you?

Final Thoughts

Burnout isn’t something you’re meant to just endure. It’s a signal that something needs to shift.

And while not everything is within your control, more is within your influence than it might feel right now.

You don’t have to figure it all out at once. But you can start somewhere.

And even small shifts, over time, can change how this feels.

The post How to Deal With Teacher Burnout (Without Quitting Right Away) appeared first on Truth For Teachers.

It’s a part of a volunteer effort I’m part of (the EDSAFE AI Alliance​). The task force brought together 70+ educators, researchers, policymakers, tech developers, and youth advocates to recommend guidelines for AI companion use in education.

Meaning, we have concerns about young people using AI chatbots and other artificial intelligence “companions,” and as leaders in our respective fields, we want to make sure lawmakers and tech companies are doing the right thing by our kids.

The situation right now

Most teens report having used AI chatbots, and about a third say talking to these tools feels as good as talking to real friends.

Even more concerning, 31% of high school students are using AI for personal conversations on school devices, which means the line between academic tools and emotional support has already blurred in ways most schools haven’t caught up with yet.

These tools remember what you tell them, engage emotionally, and are designed to keep you coming back. We’ve seen kids form attachments to these chatbots, we’ve seen the tools fail to redirect kids in crisis to actual humans who can help, and in the worst cases we’ve seen tragedies.

As educators, we know learning happens when students have relationships with teachers who know them and care about them. We know kids need friends and community members who don’t always agree with them. They need parents and family members who are there when things get hard.

AI can support kids’ wellbeing when it’s well-designed and purpose-driven, but when AI pretends to be a child’s friend, always validates them even when they’re wrong, and will keep pushing a dialogue at 2 am when kids should be sleeping?

That’s replacing the relationships kids actually need and potentially creating harm and dependence.

Our recommendations

We’ve focused specifically on AI tools designed for young people in educational settings (not consumer-facing products like ChatGPT.) The task force paper states, “consumer products that could underpin these educational products should also consider the guidelines and guardrails outlined in these recommendations.”

The distinction matters because we believe educational AI tools should be “grounded in learning sciences and instructional design” rather than optimized for engagement and market capture. They need to scaffold learning, not replace human relationships. (Of course, I’d personally like to see consumer-facing tools comply with these same precautions to protect adults, as well, but I’m staying in my lane.)

Download the research paper + guidelines

Over the last four months, the SAFE AI Companions Task Force developed guidelines for four groups:

For federal policymakers:

• Create comprehensive privacy laws that actually protect student data from being used to train AI models or target ads, going beyond FERPA and COPPA to address how these technologies actually work
• Require age verification that protects privacy using zero-knowledge proofs rather than collecting birth certificates and creating honeypots of personal information
• Establish a National Child-AI Safety Lab to evaluate tools and track incidents before products hit classrooms
• Fund research on how these tools affect child development, since right now the technology is moving faster than our understanding of its impact

For states:

• Require vendors to report verified incidents to designated school staff within 72 hours
• Create pre-approved vendor lists so districts aren’t all reinventing the wheel
• Make AI literacy part of the curriculum across subjects instead of siloing it in computer science, teaching kids to recognize when they’re being manipulated by design choices that prioritize engagement over accuracy
• Give families plain-language information about what AI tools their kids are using, delivered in formats and languages that actually reach them

For school districts:

• Vet AI tools using the Five Pillars of EdTech Quality (safe, evidence-based, inclusive, usable, interoperable)
• Set up monitoring for concerning patterns with clear protocols for false positives, because we can’t protect kids without oversight but we also can’t violate their privacy or create disciplinary consequences for technical glitches
• Only use AI tools that support specific learning goals rather than general “companionship”
• Train educators and communicate clearly with families, because implementation without understanding leads to exactly the kinds of problems we’re trying to prevent

For tech developers:

• Design for learning outcomes instead of engagement metrics, measuring success by whether students actually understand the material rather than how long they stayed on the platform
• Strip out features that build emotional attachment (romantic language, excessive empathy, relationship cues that make kids think they’re talking to a friend)
• Make it crystal clear to kids that they’re talking to technology, not a person, with persistent visual and verbal reminders
• Provide plain-language transparency about training data and how the tool actually works
• Work with learning scientists during design, not after launch when the architecture is already set

 

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Why I’m part of this

Since I provide AI Literacy training and professional development in schools (both in-person and via 40 Hour AI), I have voluntarily joined the EDSAFE AI Alliance. It’s a commitment to best practices, basically, and an agreement to follow the alliance’s guidelines (both those outlined in this task force’s recommendations for AI companions, and others that were established previously.)
Since other task force members and EDSAFE participants have made the same commitment, we’re not just putting out recommendations, but actually building products and providing services aligned with them.
What this means going forward

What this means going forward

I’ve spent over 25 years in education, so I know teachers are overwhelmed, districts are strapped, and families are trying to keep up with technology that changes faster than anyone can process. This paper gives us a framework that names what needs to happen at every level and grounds the recommendations in what we actually know about how kids learn and develop.

• If you work in a school or district, this includes checklists and toolkits you can use right now.
• If you’re a parent, there’s guidance on talking with your kids about these tools.
• If you’re in tech, there are design principles grounded in learning science.

Download the full report

This work matters because the stakes are real and because we can do better than just reacting after something goes wrong.

As Erin Mote, CEO of the nonprofit InnovateEDU, shared in her speech to us on Monday, our collective response to students’ use of social media was simply too little, too late, and we don’t want to repeat those mistakes with AI. She says,

“Our report argues for a fundamental shift: AI in education should not be built for sycophancy(prioritizing emotional validation and false intimacy) but for Socratic thinking (supporting learning through structured questioning). We believe AI must serve as a catalyst for human judgment, not a replacement for it. This paper is a call to action for policymakers, developers, educators, and parents to move beyond reactive fixes and design intentionally.”

You’ll hear more about this in future podcast eps, including an interview with Erin Mote, as well as two students who were on the panel at the event and advocating for change on behalf of their peers.

Let me know what you’re seeing with your students (or other kids you care about) and their relationship to AI companions.

The post 1 in 3 teens say AI feels like a real friend. Here’s how ed tech is responding. appeared first on Truth For Teachers.

That’s because teaching is a demanding, fast-paced profession, and most of us were never taught how to manage the workload strategically.

Unlocking Teacher Productivity is here to change that.

This live virtual cohort is designed to help you tap into your strengths, build sustainable systems, and make more space for the parts of teaching you love most. It’s a five-session experience that will guide you through practical, sustainable strategies that help reduce burnout and increase efficiency.

When and how the live cohort runs

The cohort begins Tuesday January 27, 2026, and runs weekly through February 24, 2026.

Each live session will take place via Zoom on Tuesday at 7:00 PM ET and will last 90 minutes.

All sessions are recorded, so you can revisit the content or catch up if you miss a live meeting.

This is a live, interactive experience—not a self-paced course—so you’ll get the benefits of real-time support, Q&A, and accountability.

What you’ll learn

During these five sessions, I’ll walk you through step-by-step strategies that help you:

• Prioritize high-impact tasks so you can focus on what really matters
• Streamline your lesson planning and grading systems
• Cut unnecessary tasks that drain your time and energy
• Implement productivity techniques like time-blocking, batching, and workflow automation
• Customize your approach based on your teaching style, personality, and workload

The emphasis is on helping you develop systems that are flexible, teacher-centered, and sustainable long-term—not just adding more to your plate.

What’s included

Registration includes:

• Access to five live Zoom sessions (90 minutes each) with me, Angela Watson
• Lifetime access to all session recordings
• A downloadable workbook with reflection prompts and planning tools
• A private online community for ongoing discussion and support
• Real-time Q&A and personalized coaching during each session

The cohort is priced at $495 per person, and team discounts are available. If your school is looking for high-impact professional development that respects educators’ time and provides long-term value, this is a great option to consider.

Who this is for

This cohort is ideal for:

• Teachers who are feeling overwhelmed and need practical support—not just theory
• Teachers who feel confident in their systems and want to optimize their workflows
• Teachers who want to create structures and routines that support work-life balance
• Instructional coaches, specialists, or school leaders looking to model effective workload management

Whether you’re in your first year or your thirtieth, this cohort will help you develop strategies that align with your specific context and challenges.

Why it works

Unlocking Teacher Productivity is based on over a decade of my work supporting over 60,000 educators through the 40 Hour Teacher Workweek program. The strategies shared in this cohort are time-tested and classroom-proven.

What makes this experience unique is the combination of live instruction, guided implementation, and peer support—all in a flexible virtual format.

Teachers will leave this experience with more clarity, more time, and more energy to do the work they care about most.

Ready to join us?

If you’re ready to shift out of survival mode and into a sustainable rhythm, I’d love for you to enroll. This is not about perfection or doing it all. It’s about finding a better way—one that honors your expertise and supports your well-being.

Registration is open now at RocketPD.com.

We begin January 27th! Let’s create better systems, together.

The post Unlocking Teacher Productivity: A live cohort experience to help educators work smarter appeared first on Truth For Teachers.

Introducing Truth for Teachers Retreats with Angela Watson

You spend your career taking care of everyone else. These retreats are where you finally get to be taken care of.

Our retreats are rejuvenating weekend experiences designed for PreK-12 educators and school-based staff. Over a weekend, you’ll learn practical, research-based techniques to manage stress and restore balance. Through both community connection and intentional solitude, you’ll explore what it means to pause, reset, and bring restorative practices into your daily life. You’ll leave not only refreshed, but equipped with a lasting toolkit of strategies to sustain your wellbeing back home.

See upcoming teacher retreat dates and locations

Our Core Truths

The word truth is in our name because we always begin with honesty. Teaching is both beautiful and demanding, and educators deserve spaces that acknowledge both. These are the truths that guide our time together:

1. The truth is that teaching takes an enormous emotional, mental, and physical toll. These retreats create space to acknowledge those challenges honestly, while also exploring sustainable practices that restore balance.
2. The truth is that your wellbeing matters just as much as your students’. These retreats are designed to give you permission to rest, reset, and carry simple wellbeing tools back into everyday life.
3. The truth is that lasting change comes from sustainable practices. That’s why these retreats aren’t just a weekend of relaxation, but an introduction to restorative practices you can continue at home, long after the retreat ends.
4. The truth is, you’re not alone. At these retreats, you’ll connect with fellow educators who understand your journey, and you’ll walk away with both community and a toolkit for resilience.

What to Expect

These aren’t your typical professional development sessions. There are no new strategies to implement, no action plans to create, no pressure to bring anything back to your classroom.

These retreats exist for one purpose: to help you reconnect with yourself, restore your energy, and remember why you love this work in the first place.

Throughout each 3-day experience (typically 4 PM Friday through early afternoon Sunday), you’ll be offered a variety of experiences. Everything is included in the retreat pricing and everything is optional: select as many activities as you’d like to try, and use your downtime to journal, meditate, walk the natural grounds of our retreat site, nap, or chat with other educators. You never have to participate in anything you’re uncomfortable with. Listen to your body and do what you need in each moment.

These are phone-free events: practice intentional connectivity by using your phone for calls, texting, etc. only in the privacy of your room. During our time together, we’ll be fully present with one another.

2026 Retreat Dates

Pennsylvania (Himalayan Institute, Honesdale)

Exhale and Renew: A Summer Retreat for Educators June 12-14, 2026

Restore in the Wild: An Autumn Retreat for Finding Rest October 23-25, 2026

North Carolina (INDIGO Retreat Center, Old Fort)

Awakened Retreat: Transform Your Teaching Through Mindful Practices July 24-26, 2026

Arizona

March 2027 (details coming soon)

Learn more or book teacher retreats

About the Facilitator

If you’re new here, welcome! I’m Angela Watson, a National Board Certified Educator with over 25 years of experience as a classroom  teacher and instructional coach.

I’ve been sharing best practices for productivity and mindset here on my website since 2003! I have a podcast, have published 6 books for teachers (including Awakened: Change Your Mindset to Transform Your Teaching and Fewer Things, Better: The Courage to Focus on What Matters Most), and developed countless online and in-person professional development opportunities.

For 2026, I’m bringing a long-term dream into reality, and conducting teacher retreats to share what I’ve learned about restorative practices. I’m blending my professional expertise with my personal expertise in meditation, nature, mindfulness, art and music therapy, and more. I hold accredited certifications as a Restorative Yoga Teacher, Sound Healing Practitioner, and Forest Therapy Guide.

My vision is for everything I do at these retreats to be replicable by you at home, so you can create sustainable resiliency practices in your everyday life.

Retreat Highlights

Everything is included in the retreat pricing and everything is optional: select as many activities as you’d like to try, and utilize your downtime to journal, meditate, walk the natural grounds of our retreat site, nap, or chat with other educators. You never have to participate in anything you’re uncomfortable with: listen to your body and do what you need in each moment.

The activities and schedule offered vary by season and location, but may include:

• Japanese Forest Bathing (Shinrin-Yoku): Participate in a guided, meditative stroll through nature to experience proven benefits for reducing stress and restoring focus
• Mindful Walks: Learn to transform everyday movement into a calming, centering ritual
• Workplace Stretching: Gentle, accessible postures designed to release tension and renew energy in sitting postures while at work
• Restorative Yoga Postures: Learn stretching routines to release tight muscles and unwind in the evenings
• Breathing for Stress Relief: Practice simple, science-backed techniques to calm the nervous system anytime, anywhere
• Sound Bath Meditation: Immerse yourself in soothing sound vibrations for deep relaxation
• Mindfulness-Based Art Therapy: Try techniques like Zentangle and mandala designing which NIH studies have shown to positively impacts cognitive focus, emotional well‐being, and brain activity
• Art for Stress Release: Explore playful, no-pressure art-making as a form of personal expression and joy
• Tea Ceremony: Learn how to incorporate a mindful ritual of slowing down and savoring presence during a hot drink of choice after work
• Foot Rolling Self-Massage: Discover quick, easy techniques with a massage ball you’ll get to take home to relieve physical fatigue and pain in your feet after standing all day.

Sample Mindfulness Mini-Seminars

Join our group for 30 minute mini-seminars with teaching from Angela, discussion opportunities, and reflection time on topics such as:

• Practicing Presence — how to anchor yourself in the here and now
• Sitting with Boredom — learning to rest without reaching for your phone
• Experiencing Awe — cultivating wonder as a form of resilience
• Harnessing the Power of Diffuse Attention — using daydreaming and mind wandering to tap into creative problem solving and divergent thinking

Connection & Community:

• Shared meals: A simple but nourishing breakfast, lunch, and dinner are provided.
• Evening campfire gathering: Share stories, laughter, and inspiration with other educators who understand your journey.
• Plenty of downtime: Have a cup of tea in the lounge and chat or read, wander the hiking trials alone or with a new friend, or use your time how you need.

Certificate of Completion

All attendees will receive a Certificate of Educator Wellbeing and Restorative Practices, acknowledging participation in training focused on mindfulness, restorative wellness, and practical stress-management strategies for teachers. This certificate can be added to your professional development portfolio or used to demonstrate continuing education.

Retreat Extension: Your Online Resource Hub

Your retreat doesn’t end when you go home. As part of your registration, you’ll receive exclusive access to a private online resource hub with resources to help you continue implementing your resiliency practices:

• A guided forest bathing meditation you can use in nature at home
• A sound bath recording for deep relaxation at home
• Step-by-step home guides for each practice and experience from the retreat
• Printable reminders and suggestions for self-guided routines

This ensures you can revisit what you learned anytime, and gradually weave these restorative practices into daily life.

Who These Retreats are For

The retreats are designed for PreK–12 educators who want:

• Practical, easy-to-use strategies to manage stress
• Time for rest, renewal, and reflection
• A supportive community of like-minded teachers
• Tools to carry wellness practices beyond the retreat and into everyday routines

No prior experience with yoga, meditation, music, art, or anything else is required—everything is beginner-friendly and adaptable. Neurodivergent folks and those with disabilities are welcome. 

See upcoming retreat dates and locations

FAQ

Where are the retreats held?

Our home base is the Himalayan Institute in Honesdale, PA (in the Pocono Mountains, approx. 2 hours by car from NYC and Philadelphia). This location was selected for its proximity for Angela, affordable accommodations and amenities for teachers, and relaxing natural setting on 400 acres of forest land.

Angela will travel to other 2-4 additional locations throughout the year to accommodate teachers in other regions of the country. We choose locations offering “conscious simplicity” so you’re comfortable and safe, but not in expensive luxury resorts.

When are the retreats held?

All year round!

Is there any religious affiliation?

No. We draw on wellbeing practices from around the globe and articulate the history of these practices while presenting them within a secular context. Some of our retreat locations may be founded by practitioners of an organized religion, but our group’s retreat interactions will be entirely secular. Everyone is welcome.

What is the cost?

Costs are based on the location and time of year, but are designed to fit with teacher budgets. The retreat costs are paid directly to Angela; you can then book your accommodations (which include 3 meals a day) through the resort and select the room type you prefer.

Can I bring someone who’s not an educator?

Sure! A friend or relative who also needs to develop resiliency and stress management techniques would be a great companion for this retreat. Just make sure they know we’ll be “talking shop” a bit, and the needs of educators will be centered.

Can I get my school to pay for this?

We accept purchase orders and are happy to work with your district or school leaders to arrange payment. A letter of interest you can submit to your admin will be provided here soon.

Can you come to my area to conduct a retreat?

I’m open to suggestions for sure! If you can get a group of educators together in your area, or book me for a school-based retreat or organization/union-sponsored teacher retreat, even better! Fill out the form below, and I’ll put together a custom proposal for you.

The post Teacher Retreats: Upcoming opportunities for educators appeared first on Truth For Teachers.

It’s incredible to see students using artificial intelligence to brainstorm creative project ideas, get instant feedback on their writing, or even generate unique artwork—but how do we ensure they’re using it responsibly?

As educators, we have a unique opportunity to guide students in harnessing AI’s potential while teaching them to think critically about its limitations and impacts. In this article, I’ll share practical strategies to help you teach students how to use AI responsibly, ensuring they become thoughtful, tech-savvy learners in an AI-driven world.

Teaching Students AI Literacy

Before students can use artificial intelligence responsibly, it’s crucial they understand how it operates. Many students interact with AI daily—whether it’s through personalized playlists, virtual assistants, or autocorrect on their devices—but they often don’t realize it, or grasp the mechanics behind it. To teach students responsible AI use, we need to first demystify the technology.

1. Start with Simple Definitions

Explain that AI, at its core, is technology designed to learn from data and make decisions or predictions based on that information. Compare AI to a very fast and complex version of human learning: just like people learn from experiences, AI learns from data.

You can use accessible analogies to explain this. For instance, when a student uses a streaming service like Spotify or Netflix, AI pays attention to the types of songs or shows they prefer and recommends similar content. This is much like a friend who knows their preferences and suggests what they might like next. AI’s power lies in its ability to recognize patterns and continually refine its predictions.

2. Discuss How AI Gathers Data

Students need to understand that AI isn’t a magical decision-maker. It’s powered by vast amounts of data collected from different sources. This includes everything from what users click on to the questions they ask a virtual assistant like Siri. Explain how AI gathers and processes this data to “learn” and improve its responses.

For example, when students use search engines or social media, AI is constantly collecting information about their interactions to improve the accuracy of the results they see. This can be a fun opportunity to let students brainstorm how their favorite apps might be using data.

3. Explain Machine Learning

Machine learning, a core part of AI, allows AI systems to improve over time without explicit programming. Introduce this concept by explaining that machine learning enables AI to get better with practice, much like how students improve their skills the more they study a subject. The more data AI has, the better it becomes at recognizing patterns and making decisions.

Use examples like how a smartphone’s autocorrect function learns from a student’s typing habits. Over time, it adjusts to suggest the correct words they tend to use. The phone isn’t programmed for every possible word; instead, it learns what the user typically writes and adjusts accordingly.

4. Cover the Limitations of AI

It’s important that students understand that AI isn’t perfect. It can make mistakes because it’s only as good as the data it receives. If the data is biased, incomplete, or inaccurate, the AI’s outputs will reflect those flaws. You can encourage students to think critically by asking questions like, “What happens if an AI system is trained on biased data? How might that affect its recommendations?”

Ways That AI is Changing the World

Once students understand how AI works, the next step is to show them the real-world impact AI has across different industries. Teaching this can inspire students to think about the broader implications of AI and how it will affect their future careers and daily lives.

1. AI in Healthcare

AI is transforming healthcare by improving diagnostics, treatments, and even predicting health outcomes. For example, AI systems can analyze medical images more quickly and accurately than a human doctor, helping to detect diseases like cancer earlier. Chatbots and virtual health assistants can provide patients with basic health advice, and wearable devices use AI to track heart rates, steps, and sleep patterns, giving real-time health feedback.

This is a good moment to ask students questions like, “Would you trust an AI doctor? Why or why not?” Such discussions can help them consider the ethical implications of relying on AI for critical decisions.

2. AI in Retail and Shopping

AI is everywhere in retail, from personalized shopping recommendations to virtual assistants like Alexa. When students shop online, AI is constantly analyzing their behavior—what they click, what they add to their cart, and what they leave behind. AI-driven chatbots answer customer questions and even help with purchasing decisions.

Students can explore how AI impacts their shopping experiences: “How does AI make online shopping easier? How might it influence your decisions without you even realizing it?”

3. AI in Transportation

Self-driving cars are one of the most recognizable examples of how AI is changing transportation. Autonomous vehicles use AI to process real-time data from cameras, sensors, and GPS to navigate roads, avoid obstacles, and make split-second decisions. AI is also improving public transportation systems by optimizing routes and reducing traffic congestion.

Ask students to imagine what their future might look like if self-driving cars become the norm. Would they feel safe in one? What are the potential benefits and risks?

4. AI in Education

In the classroom, AI is helping both students and teachers by personalizing learning experiences. AI-powered platforms like DreamBox or Khan Academy adapt their lessons based on how well students are doing. For example, if a student is struggling with a specific math concept, AI will offer more targeted practice problems. AI also helps teachers by automating grading, identifying student needs through data, and suggesting resources.

Teachers can have students reflect on the benefits and challenges of AI in education: “How might AI help you learn better? What are the risks of relying too much on AI in school?”

5. AI in the Workplace

AI is reshaping jobs in nearly every field. In manufacturing, robots powered by AI are working alongside humans to assemble products faster and with fewer errors. In offices, AI automates repetitive tasks like scheduling, data entry, and customer service. As AI becomes more advanced, it’s essential for students to consider how it will impact their career options.

Engage students with questions like, “What jobs might be replaced by AI? What new jobs might AI create?” This helps students think critically about the future of work and the skills they will need to thrive in an AI-driven world.

6. AI in Everyday Life

Students may not realize it, but AI is all around them—in their smartphones, smart home devices, and even social media filters. AI helps predict the weather, provide driving directions, and even powers the voice recognition features of their virtual assistants like Siri or Google Assistant. By exploring these everyday uses, students can see just how much AI has integrated into their routines.

A fun way to engage students is by asking, “What AI tools do you use every day without even thinking about it? How do they make life easier or more fun?”

AI’s Possibilities

As educators, we want to inspire curiosity and excitement about the future, but we also need to encourage healthy skepticism and critical thinking. I like to talk with students first about the possibilities, and then the limitations:

• Efficiency & Time-Saving: AI can handle repetitive or time-consuming tasks that humans might find tedious. Think about autocorrect, voice-activated virtual assistants, or even AI-powered chatbots that answer common customer questions. For students, this might mean using AI tools to help brainstorm ideas for a writing assignment or improve the clarity of their grammar.
• Creativity & Innovation: AI can also help foster creativity. For example, AI tools like DALL·E and Canva are helping students and professionals create stunning visual designs with minimal effort. AI-generated music and art are pushing the boundaries of human creativity by suggesting ideas that people may not have thought of on their own. Ask your students to imagine: How might AI help them get creative in their school projects or even hobbies outside of school?
• Problem-Solving: AI excels at analyzing large amounts of data and finding patterns. In fields like healthcare, AI is already helping to diagnose diseases earlier and more accurately than doctors alone. It’s used in finance to detect fraudulent transactions, and in education, it can personalize learning paths to fit the needs of individual students.

AI’s Limitations

• Bias in Data: AI can only be as good as the data it’s trained on. If the data is biased or incomplete, the AI’s decisions will reflect those biases. This can lead to unfair outcomes—like facial recognition systems being less accurate for certain races or genders—or search results that reinforce harmful stereotypes. It’s critical to have conversations with students about the ethical use of AI and how bias in data can impact the world around them.
• Lack of Human Intuition: AI is great at analyzing data, but it lacks human intuition, emotion, and judgment. It can’t always understand the nuances of human behavior or relationships. For example, an AI system might be able to tell you which book you might like based on your reading history, but it can’t have a conversation with you about why you loved that book. In fields like teaching, counseling, or customer service, there will always be a need for human connection.
• Dependence on Algorithms: While AI can be a helpful tool, we need to be careful not to become overly dependent on it. Students should understand that not all tasks should be automated. For instance, using AI to write a complete essay might seem tempting, but it can prevent students from developing their own critical thinking and writing skills. Encourage students to consider: “What tasks should I do on my own, and when is it okay to ask for help from AI?”
• Privacy Concerns: AI relies heavily on personal data, and this raises concerns about privacy and data security. Students should understand the importance of being cautious about the information they share online, especially when using AI-powered apps or tools that collect personal data.

Do’s and Don’ts for Responsible AI Use

By establishing some key do’s and don’ts, you can help students understand how to make ethical choices when using AI in school and in their daily lives. These guidelines will give them a framework for evaluating when and how to use AI tools, both for academic work and personal projects.

Do’s:

• Do use AI to brainstorm and generate ideas.
  AI can be a great tool for jump-starting creativity. Whether it’s coming up with essay topics, brainstorming projects, or getting feedback on ideas, students should feel encouraged to use AI as a resource for inspiration and support.
• Do use AI to help with research and fact-checking.
  AI-powered search engines and tools like language models can help students find information faster. Encourage students to use these tools to locate relevant sources, check facts, and gain a deeper understanding of complex topics.
• Do give credit when AI assists in your work.
  Students should be transparent about when and how they use AI. If an AI tool helped them generate an idea or solve a problem, it’s important to acknowledge that in their work. Teaching students to credit AI sources reinforces honesty and integrity.
• Do use AI to practice and improve skills.
  Whether it’s learning a new language or improving writing skills, AI can provide personalized learning experiences. Encourage students to use AI for skill-building exercises, like grammar checks or language practice apps, to supplement their learning.
• Do think critically about the information AI provides.
  Just because AI provides information doesn’t mean it’s always accurate. Teach students to critically evaluate the outputs of AI, cross-check facts with reliable sources, and consider the potential for bias in AI-generated content.

Don’ts:

• Don’t use AI to complete assignments for you.
  It’s important that students understand AI should be used as a tool to assist learning, not as a shortcut. Submitting AI-generated content as their own work deprives them of the opportunity to develop their own skills and understanding.
• Don’t rely solely on AI for decision-making.
  AI can offer suggestions, but it can’t replace human judgment. Students should understand that AI is a tool to assist with tasks, not a substitute for their own thinking. For important decisions, human intuition and reasoning are still essential.
• Don’t ignore privacy concerns when using AI.
  Many AI tools collect data to function effectively. Students should be cautious about the personal information they share with AI platforms, understanding the importance of protecting their privacy and data.
• Don’t use AI in ways that harm others or spread misinformation.
  AI can be used to create misleading information, like deepfakes or fake news. Students should understand the ethical implications of misusing AI for manipulation or harm and avoid participating in such activities.
• Don’t let AI replace human effort in creative or personal tasks.
  While AI can assist in many ways, some tasks require a personal touch or creative input that only humans can provide. Encourage students to maintain ownership of their personal and creative projects, using AI to enhance their work, not replace it.

How to Determine When AI is Okay to Use for Assignments

One of the most important lessons for students is learning how to discern when it’s appropriate to use AI for schoolwork. To help them with this, we can guide students in referring to a simple continuum that shows varying levels of AI use. This chart provides a structured approach, so students can make informed decisions about how and when to integrate AI into their assignments responsibly.

Here’s a breakdown of the continuum:

• 0: No AI Use Allowed
  Some tasks should rely entirely on the student’s own thinking and skills. These might include personal reflections, creative writing, or assessments where the goal is to evaluate the student’s understanding. For these assignments, students should work independently without using AI assistance.
• 1: AI-Assisted
  In this stage, AI can be used as a helper to assist with brainstorming or editing, but the final product should be the student’s own. For example, a student might use AI to generate ideas or get feedback on grammar, but they should still write the essay or complete the assignment on their own. AI tools should be supplemental, not the main creator of the content.
• 2: AI-Enhanced
  This level allows for AI to be used for specific tasks within an assignment, like organizing research, generating examples, or providing detailed feedback. However, students must be transparent about their AI use and cite it properly as a source. In these cases, AI adds value to the project but does not replace the student’s own work or analysis.
• 3: AI-Empowered
  For more open-ended or exploratory assignments, full use of AI may be allowed. Students might use AI for tasks like creating visuals, generating full reports, or conducting comprehensive research. In these instances, students need to acknowledge the AI’s contributions and ensure their work is still meaningful and accurate, even if AI played a significant role in shaping it.

While it’s important for you as the teacher to spell out where an assignment or task falls on the continuum, it’s also good to teach students how to self-reflect:

• “Is this assignment about showing my personal understanding and skills, or is it more about creativity and problem-solving where AI can help?”
• “Can AI assist me in improving my ideas, or will it take over and do most of the work?”
• “Am I using AI to help me learn, or am I relying on it too much to complete the assignment for me?”
• “Am I giving credit where it’s due by acknowledging the AI’s role in my work?”

Encouraging students to use this continuum will empower them to be more thoughtful about when and how they use AI for academic tasks. It emphasizes balance—showing students that while AI can be a helpful tool, it’s important to use it in a way that enhances their learning rather than replaces it.

Want a done-for-you solution?

Teach students how to use artificial intelligence responsibly and ethically with a no-prep 3 lesson mini unit!

What’s included:

• 40 professionally-designed slides that are fully editable, and guide you through the lesson implementation, including interactive partner, group, and whole class practice activities
• 5 student reflection pages which can be printed or used digitally
• A short teacher’s guide with instructions
• An editable AI use continuum to convey to students when they can and can’t use AI for assignments in your class

Each lesson is designed to take only 20 minutes of class time, but can be extended if you’d like to encourage additional discussion.

Students will learn:

• How AI works
• Ways that AI is changing the world
• AI’s possibilities and limitations
• Ethical issues to consider with AI
• Do’s and don’ts for responsible AI use
• How to determine when AI is okay to use for assignments

Watch the video preview here to see every slide and activity in the unit.

NOTE: This resource is included for members of 40 Hour AI at no cost, and can be downloaded from the membership site.

The post Teach students how to use artificial intelligence responsibly appeared first on Truth For Teachers.

Designing high-quality assessments and giving students thoughtful, timely feedback on their work can take hours every single week.

So, I wanted to share one of my favorite tools for automating student assessment. It’s a free Google Chrome extension called Brisk Teaching that’s powered by artificial intelligence.

There’s tons of other things you can do with Brisk beyond assessment, including generating lesson plans, creating slideshow presentations, and designing activities for students.

But today, I’m doing a deep dive on just the assessment piece, because there’s a lot to explore. We’ll look at using Brisk for student feedback, rubric generation, and quizzes.

Disclosure: Brisk Teaching is a proud sponsor of Truth for Teachers. They’ve compensated me for sharing this post, but I do not get paid referral commissions for sign-ups. All opinions are my own, and I only share resources that I use myself and recommend for others. Brisk is one of the top tools I’ve always recommended to teachers in my 40 Hour AI program, and I’m proud to partner with them to bring you this article.

1. Give better student feedback more quickly

Giving students high-quality feedback on their writing is super time-consuming.

You can use Brisk Teaching to quickly give students feedback on work submitted through Google Docs. There are a lot of different types of feedback you can give with Brisk, but the Glow and Grow is free and a great place to see exactly how this process works.

If you haven’t installed the Brisk Teaching Chrome extension, click the button in the top right-hand corner of the site’s homepage to add it. Then follow these steps:

1. Open a Google Doc where student work is submitted.

2. Click on the Brisk Teaching icon in the lower right corner.

3. Select “Give Feedback” and choose either “Glow and Grow.”

4. Select the grade level, language, and standards if applicable.

5. Review the generated feedback including “Glow” (positive feedback), “Grow” (suggestions for improvement), and “Wondering” prompts for deeper thinking.

6. Edit the feedback as needed for clarity or conciseness.

7. Copy and paste the feedback directly into the document or insert it as a comment.

8. Optionally, use the “Next Steps” feature to provide students with specific suggestions for improvement based on the feedback received.

A few tips to help you get the best results:

• Select standards from within the dropdown if you have a paid account; copy/paste standards in if you have a free account

• You can give targeted feedback aligned to a rubric if you have a paid account.

• Avoid overwhelming students with too much feedback; customize the amount based on the student’s needs and capacity. Brisk generates 3 pieces of feedback for each aspect of assessment: you can delete the one (or two) you find less helpful, or ask it to generate only 2 piece of feedback.

2. Generate customized rubrics in minutes

Customized rubrics are an excellent tool for teachers because they provide a clear, personalized framework for assessing student work. Every class is unique, and rubrics tailored to specific assignments and student needs ensure that evaluation criteria align with learning goals. They help students understand exactly what is expected of them, reducing confusion and promoting more focused effort. A well-designed rubric also allows teachers to offer more meaningful feedback, highlighting both strengths and areas for improvement in a structured way.

Additionally, customized rubrics make the grading process more efficient and consistent. By establishing specific criteria beforehand, teachers can assess student work more objectively, minimizing subjectivity and bias. This not only makes grading easier but also ensures fairness, as every student is held to the same clear standard. In the long run, customized rubrics support both student growth and teacher effectiveness, creating a more transparent and productive learning environment.

If you haven’t installed the Brisk Teaching Chrome extension, click the button in the top right-hand corner of the site’s homepage to add it. Then follow these steps:

1. Open a new Google Doc.

2. Click the Brisk Teaching icon that appears in the bottom right-hand corner of your document.

3. Select the rubric option.

4. Choose the language, grade level, and scale for the rubric.

5. Click “Brisk It” to generate the rubric.

6. Save the rubric for future use or make edits as needed.

3.  Reduce the time it takes to create quizzes in Google Forms

In the video above, teacher Chelsea Howells demonstrates how she uses Brisk Teaching’s tool called AI QuizMaker to generate quizzes in Google Forms.

Brisk Teaching’s AI quiz maker is a fantastic tool that enhances the feedback process for both students and teachers. With its ability to create customized quizzes quickly, teachers can assess student understanding in real-time and tailor their instruction accordingly. The AI quiz maker allows for instant feedback, showing students what they got right (the “glow”) and where they can improve (the “grow”). This immediate response keeps students engaged and gives them clear insight into their progress without waiting for manual grading.

The tool also supports differentiation, as it can adjust quizzes to fit the varying needs and skill levels of students. This personalized approach ensures that each student is challenged appropriately while receiving constructive feedback that fosters growth. By integrating technology like Brisk Teaching’s AI quiz maker into the classroom, teachers can streamline assessment and make feedback more dynamic, helping students thrive through the balanced “grow and glow” model.

If you haven’t installed the Brisk Teaching Chrome extension, click the button in the top right-hand corner of the site’s homepage to add it. Then follow these steps:

1. Open a new Google Doc.
2. Click on the Brisk button and select “Create” then “Quiz.”
3. Enter quiz details like topic, questions, and grade level.
4. Choose question types and desired language.
5. Opt for Google Form for quiz presentation.

Need help getting started?

The short overview video above by Chelsea will introduce you to more features Brisk offers, show you how to install the Chrome extension, and give an overview of the free and paid pricing plans.

Once you install the extension, Brisk Teaching integrates automatically with Google Classroom so the icon will appear whenever you are working in Google Docs. So, you don’t have return to the Brisk website when you want to use the tool–it’s already there, automatically!

The Getting Started page on Brisk is a solid place to begin and get an idea of what you can do with the tool.

The post 3 tips for more effective, efficient student assessment appeared first on Truth For Teachers.

Join me for a free online training to help you teach productivity practices to students by finding flow.

Teach your students how to be more productive

I’ve really enjoyed the time I’ve spent in schools training teachers on the Finding Flow Solutions curriculum, and helping teachers reimagine student engagement in their classrooms. Productivity practices and mindsets CAN be taught, and Finding Flow makes that process super simple (read: no-prep!) for teachers.

Because not every school has the funds to bring me in to conduct professional development in person, I thought it would be fun to offer an online event.

The post Join me for free online professional development: Finding flow and student engagement in the classroom appeared first on Truth For Teachers.

The 40 Hour Teacher Workweek program is an online course first created in 2015 (with a total update in 2020), and we’ve now had tens of thousands of teachers complete the course.

With so many different personality types and teaching contexts, the amount of new ideas to spring out of the course was inevitable. I’ve always been impressed by the tweaks, offshoots, extensions, and transformations teachers have done as they’d made my ideas their own.

And now, I’ve finally got an awesome way to feature them and share their phenomenal work!

In the 40 Hour Teacher Workweek Online Summit this summer:

• 30+ presentations and roundtable discussions are included
• Opening and closing keynotes by 40 Hour founder Angela Watson (that’s me)
• All session presenters are current K-12 classroom teachers + 40 Hour members
• No fluff, filler, icebreakers, or pitches: each session is just 15-20 minutes long
• Chat with other teachers during the live sessions to get personalized advice

This event is entirely online, completely FREE, and beneficial for all K-12 teachers!

Some of our presenters will take you on a video tour of their classrooms to share organizational tips and classroom routines. Other presenters will screen share their way through tutorials of how they organize digital files, save links, manage assessment, or plan lessons. Still others will give a fast rundown of all their best timesaving tips for grading, differentiation, email, and more.

Learn more and sign up here.

The post The 40 Hour Teacher Workweek Online Summit is coming soon appeared first on Truth For Teachers.

That makes me so happy!  Podcasts have been instrumental in my growth as an educator (and as a human), and I love to see other people fall in love with podcasts, too.

I frequently listen to podcasts when going for walks, driving, running errands, preparing meals, cleaning, making art, exercising, stretching, and doing stuff around the house. That’s a pretty big proportion of my day, so I consume a LOT of audio content and have found some incredible shows.

I’ll admit that I’ve been hesitant to release a list like this, because there’s no way I could name all the great education podcasts in existence and I’m leaving some great folks out for sure. This is not a definitive list of the “best” podcasts, but rather, a curated collection of shows that I find simpatico with my own and help push my thinking.

My top education podcast recommendations for Truth for Teachers listeners

If you like my Truth for Teachers podcast, I think you’ll enjoy these, too.

1. Leading Equity Podcast

Hosted by the incredible Dr. Sheldon L. Eakins, The Leading Equity Podcast is all about empowering educators with the tools and resources they need to create equitable schools. Each episode is jam-packed with inspiring interviews and stories from the most influential voices in equity in education today. As a listener, you’ll come away with a wealth of practical tips and strategies that you can put into action right away to make a real difference in your school.

2. Cult of Pedagogy

A must-listen for any educator looking to stay ahead of the curve in their teaching practice! Hosted by seasoned educator Jennifer Gonzalez, this podcast explores the latest trends, strategies, and technologies in education (she comes up with an annual Ed Tech Guide). From classroom management to assessment techniques, Cult of Pedagogy covers a wide range of topics designed to help educators improve their craft and meet the needs of their students. With engaging interviews, real-world examples, and actionable advice, this podcast is the ultimate resource for teachers looking to stay inspired, informed, and connected with the education community.

3. The Bright Morning Podcast

Hosted by Elena Aguilar, a coaching expert and author, the Bright Morning podcast presents weekly guidance to educators aimed at fostering their success. The majority of the episodes focus on coaching but she also talks about equity and combatting racism in the education space. If you like the tone and mindset/resilience/communication topics covered on Truth for Teachers, I think you’ll really enjoy Elena’s work.

4. Too Dope Teachers and a Mic

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic is a podcast hosted by the only black and brown teachers in their school: Kevin Adams and Gerardo Munoz. Together, they deliver a refreshing take on important topics like equity, social justice, teacher wellness, and more. A lot of their episodes feature various educators and thought leaders who are making a difference in the world of education. This podcast pushes me to be a better, more empathetic educator (and person) by highlighting perspectives often missing in K-12 conversations. It’s light-hearted and very informal, but also incredibly insightful.

5. TED Talks Education

If you want to be inspired or challenged about what education can and should be, you’ll love TED Talks Education. This podcast features a diverse range of voices, all of whom are dedicated to exploring the latest trends and ideas in the field. The episodes are available either as a podcast or as a video. They’re quite short but very meaty–perfect if you don’t have a lot of time.

6. Burned-In Teacher Podcast

The Burned-In Teacher Podcast is a weekly show for educators who are looking for ways to rekindle their love for teaching. Hosted by veteran teacher, Amber Harper, this podcast explores the challenges and triumphs of the teaching profession, offering practical tips and strategies for staying motivated and engaged in the classroom. If you’re feeling teacher tired, you can get started with her episode on how to combat teacher fatigue and keep yourself energized. Whether you’re a new teacher just starting out, or a seasoned veteran looking for fresh inspiration, Amber and her guests are the perfect resource for anyone who wants to keep their teaching fire burning bright.

7. The Balance with Catlin Tucker

Dr. Catlin Tucker is a veteran educator and authority on technology, blended learning, and balance. In this podcast, she uses her expertise to help teachers find more sustainable approaches to teaching (I interviewed her on my Truth for Teachers podcast to talk about that exact topic). The Balance with Catlin Tucker is packed with solid strategies and inspiring advice. This mini episode on self-management is only 10 minutes long but is super helpful for teachers who want to incorporate their SEL skills when working with students. Catlin frequently talks with thought leaders to explore the question, “How do we empower ourselves to create and implement boundaries both inside and outside of the classroom?”

8. The Creative Classroom with John Spencer

The Creative Classroom with John Spencer is a podcast for educators looking to infuse creativity and innovation into their teaching practices. It’s hosted by John Spencer, a former middle school teacher and now a professor and best-selling author. From discussions on project-based learning and design thinking to tips on how to foster a culture of innovation in the classroom, this show focuses on making learning more impactful for students. John also offers insights into how teachers can tap into their own creativity and bring new energy to their classrooms.

9. Always a Lesson

This is the podcast I recommend most for people who are looking for a podcast similar to Truth for Teachers in topic, format, and tone, because its host and I think so much alike. The Always a Lesson podcast has a single goal: to empower educators to reach their full potential. Hosted by Gretchen Bridgers (formerly Schultek), a seasoned teacher, teacher coach, and trainer, the show focuses on supporting teacher leaders such as peer mentors, cooperating teachers for student teachers, and instructional coaches. Through expert guidance, Gretchen helps these educators develop and implement effective, empowering support models that drive student success and teacher satisfaction. Whether you’re looking for support and guidance as you grow in your career, or seeking inspiration and new ideas, the Always a Lesson podcast is the perfect resource for any educator who is committed to always finding the lesson.

10. The Transformed Teacher

The Transformed Teacher is an uplifting weekly podcast that centers on finding balance and happiness in both teachers’ professional and personal lives. Hosted by Meredith Newlin, the episodes focus on topics like reducing stress, increasing organization, and making a comeback from burnout. From discussions on self-care, to insights on how to get through to students more effectively, The Transformed Teacher is a supportive and empowering resource for anyone looking to find more joy in their teaching.

11. The Resilient Teacher Podcast

The Resilient Teacher podcast with Brittany Blackwell, M.Ed., provides educators with the resources and mindset needed to combat burnout and maintain a sustainable teaching career. With a new episode every Tuesday, this podcast can help personalize your self-care, prioritize your well-being, and have a greater impact on your classroom and community.

12. Teachers Need Teachers

Teachers Need Teachers is a podcast that’s focused on providing support to new and beginning teachers as they navigate their initial years in the profession, helping them thrive instead of just surviving. It is hosted by Kim Lepre, a 40 Hour Teacher Workweek alumni, experienced educator, and instructional coach. In the episodes, she shared her insights and best practices on a variety of topics relevant to the teaching profession.

13. The Spark Creativity Teacher Podcast

Betsy Potash shares so many practical, relatable teaching ideas in this show. Though topics are geared toward middle and high school English teachers, there are tons of episodes that will help any K-12 educator stay creative. Betsy is thoughtful, intentional, and embodies thinking outside of the box, and I especially appreciate her equity-focused lens.

Want more? Check out the dozens of excellent K-12 podcasts available on the BAM radio network for educators. You’ll find high-quality, professionally produced shows on every education topic imaginable.  Seriously–if you love podcasts, don’t miss this site!

Also, I personally don’t listen to ed tech podcasts very often, but if that’s an area of interest for you, check out Dr. Monica Burns’ Easy EdTech podcast and The Shake Up Learning Show with Kasey Bell. Both are extremely informative and share lots of great practical classroom tips. They’re great resources for folks who want to stay current with trends in education and make new ed tech innovations work for them.

Limited series education podcasts

Although no longer producing new episodes, these limited series podcasts are still definitely worth your time and will push you to think more deeply about how K-12 education functions.

Nice White Parents

“Nice White Parents” is a podcast produced by Serial and The New York Times that examines the ways in which well-intentioned white parents can perpetuate systemic racism in the American education system. The show dives into the 60-year history of a New York City public school, PS 45, and follows the experiences of Black and Latino students, families, and educators as they navigate the challenges posed by well-intentioned white parents and a history of school segregation. The podcast provides a unique and thought-provoking look at the ways in which race and class intersect to shape the American education system.

Southlake

Southlake is a must-listen for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of race and class in America and how that impacts education. In Southlake, Texas, on the surface, everything appears to be perfect – beautiful homes, strong community spirit, and top-notch schools. But when a video emerged showing high school students using a racial slur, the town was rocked to its core. Black residents came forward to share stories of racist bullying and harassment, leading the school board to take action. Yet, the unveiling of the Cultural Competence Action Plan sparked a heated debate that divided the community. Hosted by NBC News national reporter Mike Hixenbaugh and correspondent Antonia Hylton as they delve into the depths of Southlake to uncover the truth behind this seemingly idyllic town.

Sold a Story

In Sold a Story, the investigative journalist Emily Hanford delves into the reading crisis affecting millions of children. Despite decades of research on how children learn to read, many schools are disregarding the findings and instead investing in training and materials based on a discredited theory. This six-part podcast exposes the authors and a publishing company profiting from this flawed approach. Anyone who’s taught reading will find this relatable, and it’s a good listen for any educator who wonders how certain understandings in education become canon.

Crash Course Black American History

This limited series podcast has 50 episodes that cover the full spectrum of Black American History. Hosted by Clint Smith, he talks about key events and personalities — from the first enslaved Black people to touch American soil at Jamestown to the current Black Lives Matter movement. More than a history lesson, the podcast is an opportunity to deepen our understanding and appreciation for the vital role Black Americans have played in shaping our country and its culture.

Teaching Hard History

Teaching Hard History is a podcast that explores difficult and often neglected aspects of American history. Though it’s technically not a limited series and IS producing new episodes, they are organized by topic/season in a way that makes it easier to consume the content like a limited series. It’s produced by Learning for Justice (formerly Teaching Tolerance) which has tons of great educator resources. Through discussions with experts and educators, the podcast delves into topics around systemic injustice, with the aim of promoting a deeper understanding of the past and its ongoing impact on society today.

Non-education podcasts I enjoy

In addition to the list above, here are some of the podcasts not specifically related to K-12 teaching that I often listen to. I don’t necessarily agree with or endorse everything on these shows, but folks ask me a lot what non-education-related shows I enjoy. Here’s a partial list of the ones I listen to most frequently:

• The Daily
• The Ezra Klein Show
• Why Is This Happening? The Chris Hayes Podcast
• Pantsuit Politics
• We Can Do Hard Things with Glennon Doyle
• You’re Wrong About
• Consider This from NPR
• Hidden Brain
• The One You Feed
• Into America
• TED Radio Hour
• Undistracted with Brittany Packnett Cunningham
• Work in Progress with Sophia Bush
• Lectures in American History
• Throughline
• Citations Needed
• Oprah’s SuperSoul
• The Argument
• The Backwards Podcast

What K-12 education podcasts do you listen to?

There’s no way that I could name all the great education podcasts that are out there, but I hope this list is enough to get you started! Please share your favorites in the comments, and if you’re an educator who recently started a podcast, let us know that, too, so we can follow you!

The post My favorite podcasts for teachers and K-12 educators appeared first on Truth For Teachers.

It’s called Reverse Educator Burnout: 10 Shifts to Help Educators Enjoy the Journey and Stay the Course, and it’s designed to support EVERYONE who works in K-12 schools (teachers, admin, paraprofessionals, coaches, counselors, etc).

Rebecca and I have been friends for over 10 years, and one thing I love about her is the way she incorporates playfulness and fun into everything she does. So, we didn’t just make yet another online PD…

We did a 60s hippie road trip theme, filmed in San Francisco where she lives. I’ve always been a flower child at heart so this was a no-brainer. We wore bell bottoms and borrowed her neighbor’s green van which reminds me of the Scooby Doo Mystery Machine. (You can see a bunch of our pics here.)

The course itself is set up in easily digestible 7-10 minute videos. (Don’t worry, we didn’t go overboard on the theme — we’re wearing professional clothes in the actual trainings.)

Rebecca — as a school psychologist — talks about the research and neuroscience of reversing burnout, and then I talk about the practical classroom application. Each module also has a guest expert who shares their unique perspective on reversing burnout.

We also provide a “roadmap” journal to help you keep track of your ideas as you watch the videos.

Rebecca and I believe in helping educators co-thrive WITH students. We find the overlap between what’s best for kids and what’s best for educators. So, as you learn new skills through the course, you can teach the same strategies to your students.

You can buy the course on your own, but it’s really designed for school purchases: we want districts investing in their faculty’s well-being and mental health, and this is a tool that can help.

We’re losing so many of our best educators — and our new educators don’t even have a chance to thrive — because the institution of school just completely burns them out. This needs to be addressed at a systemic level, and the course Rebecca and I created is a simple inroad for better educator support.

You can pass this link along to administrators who are invested in teacher retention and wellbeing, or any other educators you know who might benefit.

If you’re purchasing with your own funds, you can use the discount code ANGELA to get 25% off. 

Rebecca and I are so excited to get some relevant and fun professional development into schools so that educators feel more supported and better equipped. Thank you for helping us spread the word, and for supporting us in what we do!

The post A “groovy” new resource for reversing educator burnout appeared first on Truth For Teachers.