Welcome to the Duck Pond Blog!
Your go-to source for all things education, trauma-informed, leadership, and beyond!
Our experts share some of their favorite tools, strategies, resources, and suggestions.
Are you a dinosaur? And what to do if you are.
Way back in 2011, as part of an every seven years legislative requirement, Kansas Department of Education Consultant Don Gifford started the process of reviewing the state social studies standards. But instead of simply updating some language, adding some new resources, and calling it good, Don led the writing committee down a completely different path.
Rather than asking the committee to create a list of required content items, Don pushed the committee to look at the research and come up with something that went beyond the simple memorizing of historical facts. The result? A set of standards that focused on creating a balance of content and critical thinking skills. A lot less memorizing and a whole lot more application and process.
The High Cost of Low Trust–And How Intentional Leaders Can Build It
As we examine how trust impacts the “black eyes” that teams and organizations inevitably experience, we ask ourselves: How can leaders best build and restore trust?
Tell Me Something Good- Chase-Raymond USD 401
In the 23/24 school year Kylee McDonald and her administrative team applied for a comprehensive grant to promote wellness and stronger school to community connections in the district. They were awarded, and part of Kylee’s vision for the grant was to bring a restorative approach to the campus with staff, students, and families. Both her principles jumped on board, and they hosted Professional Development with ESSDACK to bring this philosophy to staff.
Connections
When we ask students to see connections, we're doing more than just covering the content. You're asking kids to understand the world around them, an interconnected web of stuff that all works together. You're supporting critical thinking and problem-solving. What's not to like?
Look for the Glimmers
What is a Glimmer Moment?
A "glimmer moment" is a term that refers to small, fleeting experiences or sensations that bring a sense of calm, safety, or joy. These moments are the opposite of "triggers," which are experiences that can evoke negative emotions or stress.
Discovering Your Teen's Hidden Strengths: A Parent’s Guide
Imagine being a teenager today: navigating a world where every swipe and scroll stacks up against them, making them question if they’re smart enough, talented enough, or simply “enough.” Many teens struggle with the pressure to measure up. They watch their peers excel and wonder, “Why is it so easy for them, but so hard for me?” In school, they might feel like their teachers are disappointed in them or even don’t like them, mistaking feedback as a judgment on who they are, not just how they’re doing.