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Making School Lunch a Better and More Relaxing Social Experience

Introduction

School lunches have long been a time for students to connect with friends, take a break from academics, and recharge before the second half of the day. However, in many schools, lunch periods are often chaotic, noisy, and rushed. In order to create more positive social experiences and foster stronger friendships among students, schools need to focus on improving the quality of their lunchtime environments.

1. Prioritize Nutrition and Variety in Meal Options

First and foremost, school lunches should provide balanced, nourishing meals that cater to students’ diverse needs and preferences. By offering a wider variety of meal options – including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergen-friendly choices – students will be more likely to enjoy their lunches and engage in conversations about their food.

2. Create a Calm Atmosphere through Physical Environment Design

The physical set-up of the cafeteria plays an essential role in creating a relaxing social experience for students. Introducing dimmable lighting or natural light through skylights can create a calm ambiance. Additionally, incorporating quieter flooring materials like carpet or cork can help reduce noise levels in the venue. It’s also important for cafeteria furniture to be comfortable and organized into smaller seating arrangements that invite conversation among small groups of friends.

3. Allocate Sufficient Time for Lunch Periods

Many students feel hurried during their lunch breaks due to insufficient time allotted for eating. Extending lunch periods by even just a few minutes can vastly improve the overall dining experience by allowing students enough time to sit down, eat properly, converse without interruptions from announcements or bells, and decompress.

4. Offer Alternative Spaces for Eating Lunch

Some students may prefer quieter spaces where they can eat away from the bustling cafeteria environment. Schools should consider designating alternative locations such as library corners or outdoor seating areas where students can choose to enjoy their meals in a more peaceful setting.

5. Provide Opportunities for Socialization and Community-Building

In order to facilitate a more relaxed and engaging social experience, schools can host themed lunches, cultural food celebrations, or holiday events to create opportunities for students to bond over common interests. Collaborating with local food vendors on occasion can introduce new cuisines and broaden students’ culinary horizons.

6. Encourage Positive Adult Interaction and Support

Staff members such as teachers, administrators, and lunchroom supervisors play an integral role in creating a positive environment during lunchtime. By fostering relationships with students, circulating the room to facilitate conversation, and monitoring situations that might lead to stress or bullying, adults contribute to making school lunches more enjoyable and relaxing.

Conclusion

School lunch periods should not be an afterthought for educational institutions. By focusing on nutrition, physical environment design, adequate time allocation, alternative spaces for eating, community-building events, and supportive adult interaction, schools can create a more enjoyable school lunch atmosphere that promotes relaxation and meaningful social interactions among students. These improvements will ultimately benefit individual students’ well-being and foster a stronger sense of community within the school as a whole.

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Flashcard Game Grades 3-5

Introduction

Flashcards have been a tried-and-true learning tool for generations. The simple act of flipping through cards with a question or term on one side and the answer on the reverse can help reinforce memory, boost comprehension, and introduce new concepts. For students in grades 3-5, flashcard games can provide a fun and engaging way to master essential skills and knowledge. In this article, we will explore the benefits of flashcard games for these young learners.

Why Flashcards Work

Flashcards tap into two cognitive processes crucial for learning: active recall and spaced repetition. Active recall refers to the process of extracting information from our memory. When students see a question or term on a flashcard, they must actively retrieve the answer from their memory bank. This act strengthens their neural connections to the information, making it easier for them to remember in the future.

Spaced repetition involves reviewing information at increasing intervals. By seeing the same information repeatedly over time, our brains solidify this knowledge in long-term memory. Flashcards are naturally conducive to spaced repetition since they can be easily shuffled and flipped through at varying frequencies.

Benefits of Flashcard Games for Grades 3-5

1. Retention of Information: As mentioned earlier, flashcards tap into active recall and spaced repetition processes that help learners retain knowledge more effectively than passive reading or note-taking.

2. Engagement and Motivation: Turning the task of studying flashcards into a game increases student motivation by making learning more enjoyable. When students are emotionally engaged in an activity, they are more likely to invest time and effort in mastering the content.

3. Customization: Flashcard games can be easily tailored to any subject area, providing endless opportunities for teachers to incorporate them into their lesson plans or parents to use them as a supplementary teaching tool at home.

4. Collaboration: Many flashcard games involve group play, which fosters teamwork and social skills among students. Working together to find answers or compete against one another promotes healthy competition and helps children learn from their peers.

5. Self-Paced Learning: Flashcard games allow students to work through the content at their own speed, ensuring that they develop a solid understanding before moving on to more challenging material.

Popular Flashcard Game Ideas for Grades 3-5

1. Memory Match: Students lay all of the cards face-down and take turns flipping over two cards at a time in an attempt to find matching pairs. This game aids in both memory and concentration.

2. Around the World: In this game, students stand in a circle with one student at the center holding a stack of flashcards. The center student shows a flashcard to the person on their right, who must answer correctly to move into the center (and claim the current center student’s spot). Play continues around the circle until every student has had a chance to answer a question.

3. Pictionary or Charades: Students take turns acting out or drawing terms from the flashcards while their team tries to guess the term within an allotted time.

Conclusion

Flashcard games for grades 3-5 offer an engaging and effective way to enhance learning experiences for young students. By tapping into cognitive processes like active recall and spaced repetition, flashcard games boost retention of information and foster essential skills like collaboration, motivation, and self-paced learning. Teachers and parents alike can benefit from incorporating these adaptable activities into their educational toolkit for students in grades 3-5.

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Should I Switch School Districts for More Money

Introduction

The decision to change school districts for a higher salary is a personal and, often, a complex choice that educators across the globe face. While higher pay can improve one’s financial stability, it is important to weigh the pros and cons of such a change, considering factors like job satisfaction, work environment, and quality of life. In this article, we touch on crucial aspects to analyze before switching school districts for more money.

Career Advancement and Job Satisfaction

Higher pay can be tempting, but it is essential to consider the professional growth opportunities and job satisfaction that come with changing school districts. Ask yourself whether you will be able to grow your skills and knowledge in your new workplace or if the higher pay comes at the cost of your professional development.

Work Environment and Community

The environment in which you work plays a significant role in your overall happiness and mental well-being. Take into consideration how comfortable you would feel in the new district, how welcoming its community is, and whether there’s a feeling of camaraderie among staff members. The rules, regulations, administration style, and overall philosophy might differ between districts; ensure that these differences don’t hinder your ability to teach effectively.

Impact on Students

Changing schools affects not only you but also your current students. If you have formed strong connections with them or find it difficult to leave groups you’ve been mentoring over time, weigh this emotional aspect against the potential increase in pay.

Job Security

For some educators, job security is of utmost priority when deciding on a new position. Research whether moving to another district impacts tenure and your overall job stability.

Quality of Life and Work-Life Balance

While monetary gains might boost your financial standing initially, think about how your new job affects your overall work-life balance – including commute times or potential relocations. Reflect on the implications of shifting from urban to rural environments (or vice versa), as well as the influence of differing school schedules on your personal life.

Opportunity Costs

Lastly, ponder the potential opportunity costs related to switching school districts for more money. Are there alternative income streams or future promotions within your current district you would be foregoing by making the move? What are potential extracurricular duties in the new district? Assessing these factors will further inform your decision-making process.

Conclusion

In summary, deciding to switch school districts for increased pay is a deeply personal choice that must consider various factors besides money. Thoroughly evaluate each aspect – from job satisfaction and career progression to work environments and quality of life – before making a decision that will have lasting consequences on your professional and personal life.

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Apply to Get a Free Kinsa Smart Thermometer for Every Family at Your School

In today’s fast-paced world, ensuring the health and well-being of our children is more important than ever. With the advent of smart technology, there are various tools available to help us monitor and prevent illnesses from spreading in our communities. One such innovative tool is the Kinsa Smart Thermometer, designed to help schools prevent the spread of illness among students and staff.

Kinsa Smart Thermometers offer a unique way to track body temperature, symptoms, and illness trends in real-time. This essential health tool not only offers precise and quick temperature readings but also connects with a smartphone app that provides personalized guidance based on the user’s symptoms.

Right now, a fantastic opportunity is available for schools across the nation – apply to receive free Kinsa Smart Thermometers for every family at your school! Read on to learn more about this amazing giveaway and how your school can benefit from this valuable resource.

Benefits of Kinsa Smart Thermometers

Here are some key benefits of using Kinsa Smart Thermometers:

1. Real-time data tracking: The Kinsa app enables users to track temperature and symptom data in real-time, which can be shared with health professionals, helping them make informed decisions.

2. Easy-to-read interface: The app displays temperature readings/storage clearly and concisely, making it easy for individuals to understand their health status.

3. Personalized guidance: Based on entered symptoms, the Kinsa app provides users with personalized guidance on how to soothe discomfort or when to seek professional medical help.

4. Illness prevention: The collected data can help schools identify trends in illness patterns among students, allowing them to take proactive measures in preventing further spread.

How To Apply For Free Kinsa Smart Thermometers

To take advantage of this fantastic opportunity, follow these simple steps:

1. Visit Kinsa’s official website and fill out the required registration form with your school’s details.

2. Await a response from Kinsa regarding your application status. If your school is selected, Kinsa will send further instructions on how to proceed.

3. Upon approval, arrange for the distribution of Kinsa Smart Thermometers to every family in your school community.

4. Encourage families to download the Kinsa app and register their devices, as this will help them get the most out of their new smart thermometers.

5. Monitor the illness patterns within your school through Kinsa’s aggregated and anonymized data to identify trends and take preventive measures as needed.

With a mission to prevent the spread of illness in schools, this giveaway is an incredible opportunity for educational institutions across the country. Don’t miss out – apply to get free Kinsa Smart Thermometers for every family at your school today!

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Why This Teacher Gave Up Work-Life Balance

Introduction

Work-life balance has been a hot topic of debate for decades, as professionals juggle their jobs’ demands with their personal lives’ responsibilities. The dichotomy between work and life has long been seen as something to strive for, but an educator’s recent decision to give up on work-life balance offers a new perspective on this delicate balancing act.

 Meet the Teacher: Jennifer Smith

Jennifer Smith is a dedicated and passionate teacher with ten years of experience in the education field. She has poured her heart and soul into her job, fostering an excellent relationship with her students while enriching their lives with knowledge. Over the years, Jennifer began feeling the pressure to maintain a “perfect” work-life balance.

The Turning Point

The tipping point came after one particularly exhausting day when Jennifer found herself questioning her efforts to strike the right balance between work and life. She had come home late from preparing her classroom for an upcoming event, only to spend a sleepless night worrying about some of her struggling students.

Jennifer realized that there was no such thing as perfect work-life balance⁠—that in trying to maintain it, she inadvertently neglected what truly mattered. It dawned on her that both aspects of her life were interwoven, and could not be separated.

A New Approach: Work-Life Integration

Instead of continuing down the path of compartmentalizing work and personal life, Jennifer decided it was time to integrate the two more seamlessly. She began by accepting that her career as an educator was not simply a job but an essential part of her identity – one she need not put aside when she crossed the threshold of her home.

Jennifer started prioritizing which aspects of her career required urgent attention over others while still making time for herself and being more present with friends and family. She opened up conversations about work with her loved ones, allowing them a deeper understanding of the classroom, her students, and the daily challenges she faced.

The Outcome

Jennifer’s newfound approach to work-life integration has rejuvenated her love for teaching. Embracing the idea that work and life are not separate entities but integral parts of a whole has allowed her to live more authentically and find greater satisfaction in both realms.

Conclusion

In an era where we are bombarded with tips and strategies for achieving work-life balance, Jennifer Smith’s story serves as a reminder that our reality is more complex and nuanced than can be captured in a neat binary. By giving up work-life balance and embracing work-life integration, Jennifer became a better teacher and rediscovered the passion she once held so dearly for the profession that shaped her life.

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Free Guide: Helping Your Most Vulnerable Readers

In today’s fast-paced society, literacy plays a critical role in the success and well-being of individuals. However, not everyone has equal access to resources, support, and education that can help to develop essential reading skills. This free guide is designed to assist educators, parents, and community members in supporting vulnerable readers by providing practical tips and strategies to foster a love for reading.

1. Creating an Inclusive Reading Environment

One of the first steps in helping vulnerable readers is creating an inclusive reading environment where everyone feels welcome and valued. This can be as simple as making a cozy reading corner in the classroom or library with comfortable seating, diverse book selections, and quiet spaces for independent reading. Promote inclusivity by offering materials in different languages and including stories with characters from various backgrounds and abilities.

2. Choosing Books Qualified for Different Learning Needs

Not all readers learn at the same pace. It is essential to provide appropriate material for varying reading abilities to cater to each individual’s needs. Identify struggling readers and provide them with books that are tailored to their current level while making sure there are clear paths to progress.

3. Encouraging a Reading Culture

Developing a love for reading is just as important as improving one’s skills. Foster a strong reading culture by encouraging students to talk about books they enjoyed and creating engaging events such as reading clubs or author visits.

4. Identifying Reading Challenges Early

Gauging a child’s reading capabilities early on allows educators and parents to better address any issues before they become larger problems. Monitor students’ progress through regular assessments, keeping an eye out for any consistent struggles or weaknesses.

5. Offering One-On-One Support

Some struggling readers may require individualized attention to overcome challenges they face while learning to read efficiently. Offer one-on-one tutoring sessions, coordinate with resource teachers or therapists, or assign peer mentors to provide additional support.

6. Utilizing Adaptive Technology

Many tools and resources can make reading more accessible for students with learning disabilities or other special needs. Utilize technologies such as audio books, large-print editions, or digital reading applications with adjustable settings like font size, background color, and text-to-speech options.

7. Empowering Parents and Caregivers

As a primary influence on a child’s learning, parents and caregivers should also be equipped with resources to support reading skills at home. Offer workshops for families to learn reading strategies or provide information on local reading programs and tutoring services.

8. Engaging the Community

Local organizations and businesses can be valuable partners in promoting literacy. Reach out to community groups for resources, volunteers, mentorship programs, or funding for literacy initiatives.

By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can make a significant impact on the lives of your most vulnerable readers. By offering support, fostering a love for reading, and building strong connections within your community, you can help ensure every child has the opportunity to thrive and succeed in their educational journey.

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What is Inclusion in Education

Introduction:

Inclusion, a widely discussed and essential concept in education, aims at providing equal opportunities to all students. This approach transcends learning boundaries, encourages better social development, and ensures that every student has access to quality education, irrespective of their background or ability. Understanding its significance, this article delves deep into the concept of inclusion in education and its various aspects.

The Importance of Inclusion:

Inclusive education is paramount in creating a positive, engaging learning environment where each student feels valued and respected. This inclusive approach involves removing barriers and promoting inclusivity by accommodating the specific needs of every student. It fosters a sense of belongingness among students and reduces the discrimination that may arise owing to differences such as disabilities, ethnicity, socio-economic status, gender identity, or cultural background.

Key Principles of Inclusion in Education:

1. Diversity: Diversity is at the core of inclusive education. It embraces the uniqueness of each student and values this variety as a source of potential learning for everyone involved. By celebrating and supporting diversity, schools provide an environment that fosters understanding and respect for different backgrounds.

2. Accessibility: Inclusive education requires the adaptation or modification of the physical environment as well as educational resources to cater to diverse needs. This includes making buildings wheelchair-friendly, using alternative formats for course materials, or offering additional support for students with sensory impairments.

3. Participation: Encouraging all students to partake actively in learning experiences ensures they feel like valued members of the community. Designing activities that engage every student – regardless of their needs or abilities – allows them to collaborate with their peers and develop essential life skills.

4. Individualized Support: Providing targeted support that accounts for individual differences enables students to thrive within an inclusive learning environment. For instance, offering specialized teaching strategies or specific accommodations such as extended time on tests can make a significant difference in a student’s academic progress.

5. Collaboration: Effective inclusion entails collaboration between teachers, administrators, support staff, parents, and community members. By fostering an open and cooperative dialogue between these stakeholders, inclusive education can be implemented successfully and holistically.

Benefits of Inclusion in Education:

Inclusion benefits not only students with special needs but the entire school community. Some of these benefits include:

1. Improved academic outcomes: Research suggests that inclusive education can significantly enhance learning outcomes for students with disabilities as well as their peers.

2. Enhanced social and emotional development: Inclusion fosters empathy, understanding, and respect for differences among students.

3. Higher self-esteem: When students feel valued and included, they are more likely to develop a positive perception of themselves.

4. Better preparation for adulthood: An inclusive environment equips students with skills that contribute to their success in the real world.

Challenges and Solutions:

Implementing inclusive education is not without its challenges. One significant obstacle is the lack of funding and resources necessary for successful inclusive practices. Governments and policymakers must prioritize funding to provide appropriate resources for schools adopting inclusive approaches.

Another challenge is resistance from educators or parents who may be skeptical of inclusion’s potential impact on academic progress. Professional development opportunities, teacher training programs, and increased parent awareness can mitigate these concerns.

Conclusion:

Ultimately, inclusion is a fundamental aspect of education that aims at fostering equity and providing opportunities for every student to succeed in a diverse learning environment. By embracing diversity, offering accessibility, ensuring participation, providing individualized support, and facilitating collaboration among stakeholders, we can create holistic educational experiences that benefit all students, setting them up for future success.

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6 Warm & Inviting Principal Offices You’ll Want to Copy

As the principal of a school, having an inviting office sets the tone for visitors, teachers, and students alike. An ideal office offers a welcoming atmosphere while still maintaining professionalism. Here are six warm and inviting principal offices that you’ll want to copy, and make your own.

1. Rustic Elegance

Incorporate a rustic yet elegant feel into your principal’s office by utilizing reclaimed wood for furniture and shelves. Pair this with cozy textile elements such as fluffy throw pillows, a soft area rug, and floor-to-ceiling drapes. Add warm lighting like table lamps or chandeliers to complete this look, creating an environment perfect for staff meetings or student consults.

2. Chic Minimalism

If you prefer a modern approach, a chic minimalistic design will showcase the perfect balance between organization and comfort. Use neutral shades like white and gray as your primary color palette with pops of color such as green plants or brightly colored art pieces. Opt for sleek furniture with clean lines and individual compartments to ensure tidiness and structured appearance.

3. Library Hideaway

Transform your principal office into a literary retreat by centering the design around bookshelves filled with novels, reference materials, and educational texts. Comfortable seating areas featuring armchairs and nooks surrounded by books will create an inviting atmosphere for independent reading or discussions between staff members. Don’t forget to include good lighting throughout.

4. Vintage Schoolhouse

Draw inspiration from classic schoolhouse designs by incorporating vintage-inspired furnishings like old-style wooden desks, chalkboards, or metal storage lockers. Then blend modern elements like ergonomic seating or convenient charge ports to provide practicality alongside nostalgia. This fusion of old and new will charm both students and staff alike.

5. Zen Retreat

Turn your principal office into a calming sanctuary by integrating elements of zen-inspired interior design. Soft neutral tones that evoke an earthy feel should be used alongside natural materials such as bamboo, stones, or plants. Incorporate comfortable seating arrangements and minimal clutter to promote a sense of tranquility and focus.

6. Creative Lounge

Showcase your creative side and foster collaboration in a principal’s office that doubles as an innovative lounge. Make use of colorful furniture, bold art pieces, and diverse textures to add character to the room. Create distinct zones with different seating styles for brainstorming sessions, group work, or one-on-one meetings.

In conclusion, having a warm and inviting principal office can set the tone for how students and staff perceive your leadership style. By drawing inspiration from these six styles, you can create a space that reflects your own unique personality while also helping to foster a positive and supportive environment at your school.

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The Ultimate Guide to College Scholarships

As the cost of higher education continues to rise, securing a college scholarship can be a game-changer for many students. Scholarships not only help reduce financial burden but also open up new opportunities for personal growth and professional development. If you’re looking to land that elusive scholarship, this ultimate guide will provide valuable insights and tips on how to navigate the process.

1. Start Early:

Beginning your scholarship search early is crucial. Many scholarships have deadlines in the fall or early winter of your senior year, so starting in your junior year or even earlier can give you a considerable advantage. This will provide you with ample time to research scholarships that best match your skills and interests.

2. Create a Profile and Bookmark Scholarship Websites:

There are numerous websites dedicated to helping students find scholarships – like Fastweb, Scholarships.com, and Cappex. By creating a detailed profile and answering questions about your interests, achievements, and financial situation, these websites can match you with potential scholarships and directly notify you about upcoming deadlines.

3. Utilize Local Resources:

Check with your high school’s guidance counselor or career center for local scholarships exclusive to your community or region. These scholarships often have fewer applicants, giving you a better chance of success.

4. Contact Colleges Directly:

Many colleges offer scholarships based on academic achievement, sports, or other extracurricular activities. Contact the college’s financial aid office or department heads for information on available scholarships.

5. Cast a Wide Net:

Apply for numerous scholarships as every award, no matter how small, can add up in reducing your overall expenses. The process may be time-consuming but can be well worth the effort.

6. Tailor Your Application:

Take the time to tailor each scholarship application according to the specific requirements and criteria set by the organization offering it. This demonstrates a genuine interest in the scholarship which could make your application stand out.

7. Showcase Your Strengths:

Highlight your academic achievements, extracurricular activities, community service, and leadership roles in your application. Provide examples of how you’ve overcome obstacles or made a meaningful impact in your community.

8. Write an Engaging Essay:

Many scholarships require an essay as part of the application process. Ensure that your essay is well-written, engaging, and proofread. Tell a compelling story that illustrates your character and uniqueness.

9. Gather Strong Recommendation Letters:

Reach out to teachers, mentors, or coaches who can accurately discuss your abilities, experiences, and potential for success. Provide them with adequate time to compose thoughtful letters of recommendation.

10. Stay Organized:

Keep track of application deadlines and submission requirements using a calendar or spreadsheet. It’s essential to remain organized to avoid missing out on potential scholarships due to missed deadlines.

In conclusion, the key to securing college scholarships is persistence and organization. Start early, do thorough research, and apply for as many scholarships as possible while maintaining a high quality of each application. Remember that every scholarship won can significantly alleviate financial stress, allowing you to focus on your education and future success.

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5 Hilarious Truths About Teaching on Your Feet All Day

Teaching is a profession that demands endless hours of dedication, preparation, and creativity. But what many people may not realize is that teaching also requires being on your feet all day long. In this article, we bring you the 5 most hilarious truths about this phenomenon that every teacher can relate to.

1. The Floor is Lava

Much like the popular childhood game, the floor in a classroom feels like lava for teachers who have been standing all day. With sore feet and lower back pain, it may seem like teachers have an aversion to the ground itself. It’s not uncommon to find a teacher standing on one foot trying various balancing acts to alleviate their discomfort – they might as well call us professional tightrope walkers!

2. Teacher’s Dilemma: To Sit or Not To Sit

Every now and then, during a lesson or group activity, there comes a sudden opportunity for a teacher to grab a seat. However, with great power comes great responsibility – and the fear that sitting down for even just a moment will be interpreted as slacking off. It’s quite the dilemma: embrace those precious moments of sitting or maintain a vigilant image?

3. Sudden Outbursts of Silly Dance Moves

Prolonged standing can lead to restlessness and the need for movement. Sometimes, teachers may spontaneously perform dance moves in an attempt to loosen up their body without gaining any attention from students. However, these make for some pretty hilarious scenes when caught by observant little eyes.

4. Wishing for Roller Skates

Imagine how much easier it would be gliding around inside the classroom on roller skates! Could there be any better solution than whisking across the room without putting any additional strain on tired feet? Of course, practicality must come into play – but hey, we can dream!

5. Footwear Fashion Show

Teaching is not the profession to flaunt stiletto heels or fancy leather shoes. When a teacher’s footwear can make or break their day, function takes precedence over fashion. Sneakers, flats, and even orthopedic shoes become the stars of a diverse shoe collection that teachers lovingly call their “foot saviors.”

In conclusion, teaching is a noble and rewarding profession, but it does come with its own set of hilarious challenges. By embracing the funnier aspects of spending all day on our feet, we can find a little more joy and comfort in our daily grind. So if you see a teacher spontaneously breaking out dance moves or rolling around on their office chair in the staff room, just know they’re simply embracing the hilarious side of teaching on their feet all day!