 It happens every May. Walking down the hallway, you see bare bulletin boards, empty bins, and desks stacked early. I get it. We feel tired. Testing has ended. The calendar says we are almost done. But we want to challenge that thinking. Now is not the time to pack up. Why Not to Pack It All UpOur classrooms are not just physical spaces, they are environments that communicate without words. When the walls go blank and the supplies disappear, students feel it. For many, the message becomes, “School is over.” That moment matters. Some students rely on the structure and predictability we build all year. When we start to tear it down early, their sense of safety can fade too. It's our responsibility to maintain this structure until the very end, showing our commitment to their learning journey. I remember students who dreaded summer. For them, school was their consistent place. The one spot where adults showed up every day and routines made sense. For those kids, every poster pulled down felt like another goodbye. So we keep it up. The routines, expectations, and classroom environment all stay because school has not ended. Not yet. Keep the Creativity Going Instead of winding down, choose to turn up the creativity. The end of the year gives us a chance to try new things. This is the time for learning experiences that feel different but still push growth. Let students showcase their knowledge through art, music, technology, and storytelling. Build a class podcast or mural. Host a student-led showcase where learners teach mini-lessons. These ideas keep the momentum going while celebrating student voice and choice. Learning experiences elevate learning by inviting students to connect to the content through action. They bring joy, spark purpose, and help students see how far they have come in your classroom. Emotional Awareness and Behavior This season stirs a range of emotions in students. Some are excited, while others may feel anxious or unsettled. As educators, it's important that we respond with both empathy and structure. Behaviors may rise. That is normal. Routines and emotional check-ins help. Circle time, reflection activities, and conversations about the year help students name their feelings. I ask simple questions like: What are you most proud of? What will you miss? What do you look forward to next year? These questions matter. They bring closure. They bring connection. Support Your Teacher MindsetLet's also talk about us teachers. We understand that you're tired and have given your all. However, the finish line is not the time to coast. It's the time to demonstrate to students what it looks like to finish strong. Small shifts can reignite your energy. Try a theme day. Do a lesson swap with your team. Put the kids in charge of teaching a mini-lesson or a read-aloud. Step into a colleague’s classroom to get inspired. One of my favorite end-of-year ideas is the balloon countdown. I place five numbered balloons in the classroom. Each day we pop one to reveal a surprise theme—like “STEM-tastic Day” or “Reading Adventure.” These days still include learning, but they feel fresh and fun. That small twist helps me and my students end with joy. Celebrate With PurposeCelebrations should feel earned and meaningful. Instead of just parties, let students share their learning. Let them reflect. Let them walk away proud. As educators, we should take pride in these moments, knowing that we have guided our students to this point. This moment is when it all comes together. Your students will remember how the year ended and how you showed up for them. So do not pack up yet. Not until the kids see that you stayed. Not until they feel that learning matters until the very last day. You set the tone. And the end still counts. Kara and Meg Get 10 FREE End of the Year Ideas to Implement Now  Bring IntegratED to your school!Schools and districts seeking meaningful professional development can bring IntegratED in for an ElevatED Educator session, an engaging and strategy-packed workshop focused on creating purposeful classroom learning experiences through multiple learning pathways. This PD session equips educators with innovative tools that help transform required content into hands-on, memorable experiences tailored to the diverse needs of today’s learners. Learning pathways such as music, movement, visual arts, and storytelling provide students with more than just information. They offer connection, creativity, and a chance to shine. Educators leave the session with ready-to-use ideas, while students gain access to learning that feels exciting, meaningful, and built just for them. The result? Stronger engagement, deeper understanding, and classrooms that students cannot wait to enter.
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 Why This Is the Best Time of the YearAs we look around the campus right now, and we see a unique energy. This time of year, many people think about winding down, coasting toward summer, wrapping things up, and counting down the days. We see it differently. We call this the best time of the year. Why? Because now we truly see what we have built. Now, we see what students remember, what they understand, and how they apply everything we have worked on. Right after state testing, this stretch gives us the perfect opportunity to push instruction even further. We no longer have testing pressure. We now hold the space for learning experiences that reach deeper and stretch wider. Instruction Must Keep GoingWe want to remind every educator that the school year has not ended. Students still need direction. They still need high expectations. They still need meaningful tasks that challenge them to think, create, and grow. Our job does not stop after testing. In fact, our purpose is sharpened right here. As we reach this pivotal point in the year, it's crucial that we continue to be the beacon of energy and passion. Our students draw inspiration from our commitment. If we show them that we still care deeply about learning, they will follow suit. On the other hand, if we signal that we have checked out, they will be more likely to do the same. Elevate Learning Through Experiences Now is the time to show students what learning looks like when we remove barriers. Create labs, hold debates, and dig into projects. Push their thinking. Ask them to reflect. Let them make connections across subjects and apply knowledge in real ways. Learning experiences elevate instruction because they make learning tangible and memorable. When students interact, build, solve, and create, they do more than recall content—they live it. These experiences are where students truly grow. Now is the time to try something new! Listen to the podcast about our last unit on forces and motion. When you are ready to elevate your instruction remember these steps:
Finish Strong and Set the Tone As we near the end of this school year, we have a unique opportunity to set the tone for the next. Let's ensure that our students feel the success of their achievements and understand that learning is a continuous journey. By reinforcing the mindset that every moment in school is valuable, we can help our students enter the following year with a sense of purpose and anticipation. We choose to see this as the highlight of the year. When we walk into classrooms, we see creativity come to life. We see relationships between teachers and students reaching their fullest strength. We hear questions that reveal curiosity and deep thinking. We witness confidence shining through. These moments happen because we lean into this season—not away from it. The Season Belongs to YouWe want to encourage every teacher, every support staff member, and every administrator to finish strong. Set the tone. Raise the bar. Provide the kind of instruction that creates purpose and joy. Let your students leave the year better than they came in. This season belongs to those who show up and stay focused, and to the educators who still believe in learning, even after the tests leave the building. If you share our sentiments, subscribe to our podcast so you are updated and inspired. So, we say it again: this is the best time of the year. Show us what you got, Kara and Meg P.S. It’s Here! ElevatED Educator! Elevated Educator equips you with exactly what this season of teaching demands—purposeful strategies that extend learning beyond the test and elevate instruction through meaningful experiences.
Elevated Educator provides ready-to-use tools, frameworks, and examples that help teachers create powerful learning moments through labs, debates, real-world projects, and content-rich lessons. The book shows educators how to implement them immediately through different learning pathways! If you seek to reenergize your instruction, increase student ownership, or create a classroom culture that pushes learning until the final bell, this book is your guide. Our first book, this labor of love, shows our further commitment to education outside the classroom to help schools build intentional, rigorous, and joyful learning environments.  A year in the making, and it is finally here! We are thrilled to announce the release of our first book, ElevatED Educator: Turning Classroom Lessons into Engaging Experiences Using the 7 Pathways of Learning. This book is a transformative guide that equips educators with actionable strategies to turn traditional lessons into dynamic, immersive learning experiences grounded in the IntegratED learning pathways and includes narratives of proven classroom success. Designed for educators who want to reach students through multiple learning pathways, this book is backed by our proven field studies and multiple years of hands-on classroom experience. The Core Message ElevatED Educator is about revolutionizing how we teach. It focuses on turning everyday lessons into engaging, experience-driven learning using the 7 Pathways of Learning. Traditional teaching methods can fail to meet the diverse needs of today’s students. Too often, teachers find themselves stuck in a cycle of lecturing, worksheets, and assessments in a “sit and get” situation, only to see disengaged students who struggle to retain information. This book presents an alternative: a way to break free from conventional methods by integrating hands-on, student-centered strategies to create lasting impact. Each chapter provides step-by-step guidance, practical tools, and real-world examples that teachers can apply immediately in their classrooms. These strategies are tested techniques implemented successfully in classrooms nationwide. Students do not learn in just one way. By tapping into these pathways, teachers can create differentiated learning experiences that make lessons more accessible and engaging for every student. Our method ensures that every student can connect with the material in a way that resonates with them, rather than a one-size-fits-all approach. Real Classroom Impact These strategies transformed our classrooms. Educators who implemented these techniques from our keynotes and professional development sessions report back with increased student engagement, stronger classroom communities, and a renewed sense of joy in their work. By expanding how we teach, we unlock student potential in incredible ways. Learning pathways benefit students and reignite passion for teaching. Teachers who have implemented these strategies shared increased student engagement, stronger classroom communities, and a renewed sense of joy in their work. Why Educators Need This BookTeachers today face numerous challenges—disengaged students, limited time, and the pressure to differentiate instruction for diverse learners. Many educators feel overwhelmed by the expectation to create meaningful, interactive lessons without any additional support or resources. ElevatED Educator offers a solution. This book provides educators with actionable strategies that can be easily implemented, saving time and reducing the stress of lesson planning. With over 80 practical ideas, teachers will have a toolkit of ready-to-use techniques to elevate their teaching without adding extra workload. The Climate and Culture ConnectionA positive classroom climate is essential for student success, and ElevatED Educator provides the tools to create an engaging, supportive learning environment. By implementing the 7 Pathways of Learning, educators can foster a culture of curiosity, collaboration, and inclusivity. These strategies encourage students to actively participate in their education, building confidence and a sense of ownership over their learning. When students feel seen, heard, and valued through diverse teaching approaches, they develop stronger relationships with their teachers and peers, leading to a more cohesive and respectful classroom community. Order Details This book is a movement toward transforming education. Order your copy today and join the conversation. Follow our journey on social media, share your thoughts using #ElevatEDeducator, and connect with other educators ready to make learning more meaningful. Orders are now open through Youth Light Publishing, Amazon, and IntegratedK12.com. Bulk orders are available for schools and districts looking to implement these strategies on a larger scale.
We help educators bring these strategies to life in their classrooms through hands-on workshops, training sessions, and ongoing support. Our tailored professional development ensures that teachers feel confident and equipped to create engaging, student-centered learning experiences that lead to lasting academic success.
 Teachers, don’t blink! The rest of the year is about to fly by! How can you maximize the time you have left for student growth? The answer is integrated learning pathways. Pathways provide students with multiple ways to access and engage with learning. Project-based learning and inquiry-driven instruction come to life with hands-on experiences, and the integration of arts, music, movement, technology, and storytelling. By using different methods to teach concepts, pathways ensure that all students find meaningful ways to connect with content. Learning is not a one-size-fits-all process. A variety of pathways in the classroom allows students to explore, create, and think critically, leading to deeper understanding and personal growth. 10. Creates Opportunities for Guided Student Choice  When students have a say in their learning, they take more ownership. Guided student choice can be a game changer in the classroom. Pathways offer choices in how students approach assignments, complete projects, or demonstrate understanding in nontraditional ways. Allowing students to design their own presentations, interviews, or choose from different project formats empowers them to take responsibility for their education. This shift boosts motivation, confidence, and a lifelong love of learning. 9. Engages Hard-to-Reach Students Some students (and adults) struggle with traditional instruction. Pathways provide multiple entry points into learning, capturing the attention of those who might otherwise disengage. A student who finds reading challenging might thrive in a role-playing activity. Another who struggles with math might understand a concept better through a hands-on approach. By offering different ways to interact with material, pathways reach students who might not succeed in a one-dimensional learning environment. 8. Fosters Collaboration and Communication  Success in life requires communicating and working well with others face-to-face. Pathways emphasize teamwork by encouraging students to communicate, share ideas, and build on each other’s strengths. Group projects, discussions, and peer reviews develop essential interpersonal skills. Through these experiences, students learn to listen actively, express their thoughts clearly, ask guiding questions, and respect diverse perspectives. Pathways help students not only learn academic content but also prepare for the collaborative nature of the workplace and society. 7. Provides Real-World Relevance Students often ask, “When will I ever use this?” Pathways help answer that question by connecting classroom learning to real-world applications. Connecting background knowledge and student interests solidifies learning long-term. Lessons tied to current events, community issues, or hands-on projects show students how their education matters beyond school. When students see the relevance, they become more invested in their education. 6. Encourages Creativity and Critical Thinking  Students need opportunities to think beyond simple right and wrong answers. Pathways encourage problem-solving and innovation by allowing students to explore different solutions and perspectives. Designing an experiment, writing a story, or developing a project allows students learn to analyze, question, and create. These skills are essential not just in school, but in life. Pathways foster a creative environment where students feel comfortable taking risks and thinking deeply about the world around them. 5. Promotes Built-In Differentiation Every classroom has students with different abilities and needs in every grade. Pathways naturally support differentiation by allowing students to approach content in ways that fit their individual learning styles. Whether a student needs additional support or an advanced challenge, pathways provide the flexibility for personalized learning. Instead of modifying a lesson after the fact, pathways anticipate diverse learning needs from the start, ensuring that all students can access and master the material in ways that make sense to them. Ditch the “sit and get.” 4. Enhances Long-Term Memory Processing information through multiple senses strengthens memory and understanding. When students engage in activities that require them to see, hear, move, and interact, they store information more effectively. Pathways make learning more than a one-dimensional experience. Instead of memorizing facts for short-term retention, reading a definition and trying to remember it, students might create a skit, participate in a debate, or construct a model to represent their understanding. These varied experiences deepen cognitive connections, leading to improved recall and application of knowledge. 3. Builds Stronger Connections to Background Knowledge New learning builds upon what students already know. Pathways create bridges between past experiences and new concepts, making learning more accessible. When students see connections between their personal lives and classroom lessons, they understand information on a deeper level. Ideally, as students proceed through the grade levels, the curriculum should build with content overtime. By the time they get to fifth grade, they have certainly learned about geography at some point in their education. Help the students activate that prior knowledge to then build upon for deeper learning. It is purposeful! 2. Supports Diverse Learning Styles  Every student learns differently. Some prefer movement, while others thrive through visual arts, music, or storytelling. Pathways embrace these differences by integrating multiple approaches to learning. By providing a variety of options, pathways meet students where they are and honor their unique strengths. Some students may understand a concept best through hands-on experiments, while others might grasp it through discussion or creative expression. The flexibility of pathways ensures that all learners have the opportunity to succeed. Help them discover their strongest pathways! 1. Increases Student Engagement Learning is not quiet. A classroom filled with engaged students is alive with discussion, movement, and collaboration. When students create, perform, and work together on projects, they develop a sense of curiosity that fuels their desire to learn more. Pathways ensure that learning is about experiencing concepts in action, not just memorization. This active engagement makes lessons enjoyable and purposeful, turning students into eager participants rather than passive receivers of information. The Power of Pathways Pathways transform learning into an active, engaging, and student-centered experience. They engage all students and find ways to connect with content, build critical skills, and see the relevance of their education. By increasing engagement, supporting diverse learners, strengthening memory, and fostering creativity create a classroom environment where every student has the opportunity to thrive. When learning includes multiple pathways, students do not just memorize information—they experience it, understand it, and carry it forward into their futures. Are you ready to start using pathways in your own classroom? Here are some ideas to modify and use right away! You can watch and listen to this blog to hear more!
 The Challenge BeginsWhen our principal announced an upcoming "unplugged" day at school, I admit my first thought was panic. How would I display instructions on the classroom screen? What about my carefully planned digital activities? As teachers in a one-to-one classroom, technology has become so deeply embedded in our daily routine that the prospect of teaching without it seemed daunting. But what transpired that day surprised me – and taught me valuable lessons about teaching, learning, and connection in our digital age. 1. Setting the Ground RulesThe rules were simple: No devices were allowed, except for secretaries who needed them to run the building—no tablets for students, laptops or phones for teachers, or interactive panels or projectors. Even our communication had to go old school! Instead of our usual quick texts to colleagues, we used classroom phones and walkie-talkies. The students' reaction was the first surprise. Rather than the expected groans and complaints, they were genuinely excited about this novel experience. They even became enthusiastic enforcers of the rules. They immediately called me out when they spotted my laptop open first thing in the morning (I was quickly printing materials before the official start): "It's unplugged day! Close that computer!" 2. Discovering New PathwaysAs the day unfolded, we discovered something remarkable: the absence of technology did not hinder learning – it opened up new pathways for connection and engagement. Instead of what would typically be "digital time," I brought out puzzles for center rotations. Watching students collaborate to complete these puzzles revealed valuable soft skills that often go unnoticed in our tech-focused environment. The natural communication, teamwork, and problem-solving that emerged reminded me of the power of simple, hands-on activities. 3. Reflecting on Tech Dependence The experience made me reflect on how far we swing toward technology dependence in education. When our school first became one-to-one, we followed the SAMR model (Substitution, Augmentation, Modification, Redefinition), deliberately redesigning our lessons to require technology. We were proud of this transformation, but our unplugged day showed us that sometimes less really can be more. What struck me most was how seamlessly the students adapted. When technology was not an option – no quick escapes to reading apps or math games – they fully engaged with the alternative activities we had planned. They were not just tolerating the change; they were thriving in it. By the end of the day, I overheard multiple students commenting on how much fun they were having. 4. Finding BalanceTechnology does have its place. Digital tools offer incredible opportunities for learning and creativity. But, our unplugged experiment reminded me of the importance of balance and the value of diverse learning pathways. Sometimes, disconnecting from one thing allows us to connect more deeply with others – whether through our peers, creativity, or different learning pathways. 5. Rethinking Teaching Strategies The experience also challenged me to think differently about my teaching strategies. When you cannot rely on your usual digital tools, you are forced to be more creative. Instead of pulling up a YouTube video to fill a spare five minutes, Meg brought out the Play-Doh and turned it into an impromptu lesson about holiday shapes and 3D objects. Rather than displaying timer countdowns on the screen, good old-fashioned clock-watching and verbal cues took over. Looking ForwardPerhaps most importantly, this day reminded me as educators, we need to reflect continuously on our practices. Are we using technology because it truly enhances learning or just because it has become a habit? Are we providing our students with enough variety in their learning experiences? Are we giving them opportunities to discover all the different ways they might learn best? As we move forward in an increasingly digital world, these moments of intentional disconnection become even more valuable. While technology is a powerful tool, it is just one of many in the teaching toolkit. Sometimes, the simple act of unplugging can create space for new connections, different perspectives, and unexpected learning opportunities. Would I want every day to be unplugged? No. But I do want to maintain this newfound awareness of balance. I want to remember that it's okay – and sometimes beneficial – to step away from our screens and engage with learning in more traditional ways. Most importantly, I want to keep challenging myself to think differently about how to teach, always asking whether there might be another pathway to help students connect with the content and with each other. After all, what is teaching is really about? It is not about the tools we use but the connections we help our students make—with the material, each other, and their own capacity to learn and grow. After all, technology is just one pathway to learning. Sometimes, stepping away from the screen helps us see the bigger picture.  Let's Think Different Together, Meg and Kara  When it comes to education, the magic lies in engagement. As an educator, I (Meg) always believed that our role is more than imparting knowledge—it's about sparking curiosity, inspiring creativity, and creating experiences that students carry with them long after the bell rings. Yet, many of us have faced moments where lessons fell flat or students seemed disconnected. The question is: How do we bridge the gap between content and meaningful connection? It all started for us when we began dissecting our teaching approach. We asked ourselves why some lessons resonated while others didn’t. This reflection led to a powerful realization: teaching isn’t just about what you know—it’s about how you present it. That epiphany became the foundation of IntegratED: don’t just teach a lesson; create an experience. Turning Lessons into Experiences Think about it. Dave is absolutely correct. Which sticks with a student longer: a lecture about Prohibition or a simulated speakeasy where they step into the 1920s and engage with the material firsthand? Experiences like these transform abstract concepts into tangible memories. Students may forget the specifics of a lesson, but they’ll never forget how they felt when learning it. Creating experiences doesn’t have to be extravagant. It’s about weaving creativity and relevance into your content. The key is to make lessons come alive—to present material in a way that sparks curiosity and makes students eager to engage. The Triple Venn Diagram of Teaching Dave’s approach involves three interconnected circles: content, techniques and methods, and presentation. Most educators are well-versed in the first two. We know our subject matter and have a toolbox of teaching strategies. But the third circle—presentation—is often overlooked. Presentation is where the magic happens. It’s about delivering the material in a way that captivates students. It’s asking yourself: *How do I make this relevant? How do I make it engaging? How can I draw my students in, almost magnetically, to what I’m teaching?* For instance, when teaching complex or abstract concepts, focus on making the material relatable and accessible. Hands-on activities, storytelling, and real-world applications breathe life into even the most challenging topics. Why Engagement Matters  One of the most common questions students ask is, “Why do I need to know this?” This question can make teachers cringe, but it’s also incredibly valid. After all, isn’t that what we ask ourselves during professional development sessions? If we can’t answer this question for our students, we risk losing their interest entirely. Relevance is key. Show students how the material connects to their lives, interests, and futures. When students see the purpose behind their learning, their engagement soars. Embracing Creativity  Many educators express frustration that rigid curricula stifle their creativity. While it’s true that we face constraints, creativity is something we must actively reclaim. It takes courage to step outside the box, to try new methods, and to face potential criticism. But teaching in the most powerful way possible for our students is worth it. Kara and I encourage teachers to bring their authentic selves into the classroom. Your passion, creativity, and willingness to take risks inspire students more than you realize. If you’re in a funk or feeling creatively drained, start small. Experiment with one new idea, tweak a familiar lesson, or collaborate with colleagues to brainstorm fresh approaches. Remember, growth comes from discomfort. You must step out of your comfort zone to evolve as an educator. Pushback and Progress Teachers often hear concerns that creating engaging lessons might not prepare students for the “real world” or that it might detract from test preparation. But let’s challenge those assumptions. Does making learning enjoyable now hinder a student’s ability to face challenges later? Absolutely not. Engaged learners become lifelong learners, better equipped to tackle future obstacles. As for test scores, engagement and academic success go hand in hand. Students who are interested and invested in their learning perform better. After all, it doesn’t matter how brilliant your lesson is if no one’s listening. A Call to Action At its core, engagement is about connection. It’s about meeting students where they are and guiding them toward where they can be. It’s about evolving with our students and embracing the ever-changing landscape of education. So, to our fellow educators, take risks. Be bold. Create experiences that make your classroom a place where students feel seen, heard, and inspired. Let’s push the boundaries of what’s possible in education and, in doing so, reignite our passion for teaching. Because when we teach with heart, purpose, and creativity, we don’t just educate—we transform lives. And isn’t that why we became educators in the first place?
 Our Story: The Journey of IntegratEDHey, fellow educators! We’ve hit the four-year mark, which has us reflecting on how it all began, the challenges and triumphs, and the exciting plans we have for the future. So grab a coffee, and let's dive into how passion met purpose in creating IntegratED. The Humble BeginningsYou might wonder, "How did this whole idea come about?" When Meg and I worked closely with the University of Wyoming, we found ourselves diving into curriculum creation—Meg for second grade and me for first grade. We weren’t just adding another task to the list; we were really digging into the standards, figuring out how to integrate new content meaningfully into our classrooms. Working on this curriculum was eye-opening. We gained valuable skills in curriculum design and a deeper understanding of educational standards. It felt more than just a project; it was a purpose-driven task. But we knew adding “one more thing” to an already-packed teacher workload could feel overwhelming. So, we started brainstorming ways to make it easy, adaptable, and impactful for fellow educators in the classroom. An Invitation That Changed EverythingOur journey took a monumental turn when we were nominated for a Teacher Leadership Academy in Houston, Texas. We couldn’t believe it! We thought, “Two teachers from Wyoming? No way!” But we were invited. This experience was transformative. It wasn’t just the professional growth, though that was incredible. We realized that we had something valuable to offer beyond our classrooms. We thought, "Could we be leaders, sharing our insights and making a real impact in education on a broader scale?" That question stuck with us, and IntegratED began to take shape. Building the Vision and Finding Our Name When we decided to make IntegratED a reality, we knew the heart of our mission: integrating resources and simplifying approaches for educators. Naming it, however, was another challenge! We went through endless sheets of paper with potential names, synonyms, and ideas. Finally, we landed on “IntegratED,” with the capital “ED” symbolizing education. But it was more than just a clever name; it represented how we envisioned our work—integrating skills, content, social-emotional tools, and strategies that support educators holistically. And that little arrow in our logo? It’s not just a design choice. It stands for our commitment to continuous growth, moving forward, and helping others do the same. IntegratED is not just a service; it’s a mindset we hope to share with every educator we connect with. From Classroom to Conference Rooms Our first presentation was at a national Innovative Schools Conference in San Antonio, Texas. We felt on top of the world. Being on the River Walk and seeing even a small group of engaged attendees left us buzzing with excitement. That day, something clicked for both of us: we were hooked! We loved sharing what we’d learned, not just as content but as a passion to help other educators make fundamental changes in their classrooms. And here we are today, continuing to speak at conferences, lead trainings, and host virtual cohorts. Every opportunity to connect with fellow educators reaffirms our commitment to this work. It’s about making classrooms more engaging, effective, and supportive for students and teachers. Balancing It All: Our Integrated Lives People often ask us, “How do you manage it all?” Well, to be honest, it’s not just about professional balance but personal integration, too. We’re still in the classroom, teaching third-grade next door to each other. We both love greeting our students each morning—standing in the hallway with coffee, soaking in their smiles as they start their day. But our lives don’t stop there. We’re also wives and moms. Between us, we have seven kids, ranging from two to 15 years old. It’s a beautiful, chaotic juggle, and we wouldn’t have it any other way. The support systems around us—our families, husbands, and friends—play an enormous role in making this possible. Their support allows us to put our all into IntegratED, knowing that our families are there and cheering us on. Strong Teams: The Foundation of Success Through IntegratED, we’ve learned that teamwork isn’t just something we preach—it’s essential. Our team plays an indispensable role in everything we do. Together, we create, innovate, and support one another to deliver the best we can. Working together as “yin and yang,” Meg and I bring different strengths to the table. It’s a unique dynamic that helps us tackle tasks more effectively. We complement each other’s styles, ensuring that every part of IntegratED is touched with insight and care. We want to bring that teamwork philosophy to other educators, too. Building strong teams in education is foundational to creating strong content, lesson plans, and, ultimately, strong instruction. Why Passion Meets Purpose Reflecting on the past four years, I see how our passion has guided us. IntegratED didn’t start as a grand plan; it was born from small, genuine steps—conversations during post-work runs, scribbled brainstorms, and the desire to make a difference. Each stage has been about pursuing our passion: improving education, one integrated idea at a time. Our work with IntegratED continues to be deeply fulfilling. Knowing that we can help fellow educators find ease and excitement in teaching is a feeling that never gets old. As we move forward, that little arrow in our logo serves as a reminder of our purpose. We’re here to help educators find meaning and joy in what they do, with tools that help them—and their students—thrive. So, here’s to passion meeting purpose, continued growth, and the incredible journey that is IntegratED. Thanks for being part of it with us! Let’s think different together, Kara and Meg Want to learn more about the IntegratED Cohort? The IntegratED cohort is a professional development program designed for educators who seek to enhance instructional practices with innovative, integrated strategies. Through hands-on training and collaborative sessions, participants learn how to create cohesive, standards-aligned lesson plans that bridge subjects and engage students on multiple levels. We provide resources and coaching to help teachers implement these strategies in their classrooms effectively, emphasizing student engagement and team-based curriculum design. We aim to equip educators with the tools to customize instruction, foster stronger classroom dynamics, and streamline planning processes to improve educational outcomes. Contact us today at [email protected].  Reflecting on one of the most joyous learning experiences Meg and I shared with our students, I realize the immense joy of creating hands-on, engaging lessons. This past month, we’ve delved into the fascinating world of weather and climate in our third-grade classroom. Before unraveling the complexities of weather systems, we needed to lay a solid foundation by discussing the world itself—continents, oceans, and the places where weather occurs. Instead of just using maps, we wanted our students to immerse themselves in this knowledge in a more profound, tactile way. And so, our globe-making adventure began, starting with punch balloons and evolving into a lively, yet fulfilling paper mache project.  It all started with a seemingly simple task: handing out punch balloons for the kids to blow up. However, as any elementary teacher knows, something involving balloons is more complex than it seems. The excitement (and frustration) was palpable as 24 students in each of our classes attempted to inflate their balloons. Meg preemptively told them, "Today is not the day to learn how to blow up a balloon. If you don’t know how to do it, find a friend who does." It was one of those moments where you laugh to yourself, knowing that the most challenging part of the lesson might just be getting through the balloon-blowing stage!  With the punch balloons finally inflated, the next step was where the real adventure began: paper mache. Now, picture this—a commons area filled with 75 third graders, each holding a balloon and eagerly waiting to coat it in flour-water paste and newspaper strips. Our team of teachers prepared everything in advance, from trays of paste to heaps of newspaper, but there’s only so much you can control when you have dozens of young students, flour paste, and fragile balloons in one room. The scene was nothing short of organized chaos. Balloons flying around, strips of newspaper stuck to shoes and hands, and kids covered in goop from head to toe. Despite the mess, the project wasn’t just about having fun with paper mache. It had a clear purpose. Our students were creating their own globes as part of their journey toward understanding weather and climate around the world. Before they could grasp why weather systems differ from place to place, they needed to understand the geographical layout of continents and oceans. The hands-on nature of the project made this abstract knowledge more concrete, even if the results were less-than-perfect. This year’s globes were, well, let’s just say, "less globe-shaped" than we had hoped. Still, the learning that happened along the way made the entire messy process worthwhile.  From doing this project year after year, I've learned that it’s not about the product but the process. The first year we did this, every single globe came out beautifully. They were round, well-painted, and the continents fit perfectly. This year? Not so much. But that’s okay. There’s so much value in the students’ struggle and experimentation. Sometimes, they have to figure out that their way of doing something isn’t working before they’ll stop and try it a different way. And honestly, that’s where a lot of the learning happens. It's in these moments of struggle and experimentation that students truly learn and grow, and as educators, we need to trust in this process.  As teachers, we have to be comfortable with stepping back and letting students work through these challenges, even when it’s hard to watch them struggle. I’ve learned to walk away for a bit, give them space to figure things out, and then come back to check on their progress. There’s a delicate balance between offering guidance and letting them problem-solve, and I’ve found that letting them take the reins often leads to a deeper sense of pride in their work. It’s just like a butterfly's struggle to emerge from the cocoon, which is essential for developing the strength in its wings needed for survival and flight. By the end of the project, the kids had learned more than just how to paper-mache a balloon. They had worked together, shared materials, navigated the mess, and—most importantly—had fun while learning. While not Pinterest-perfect, their globes represented their own visual understanding of the world. Some globes even defied the odds of surviving the drying process, ending up moldy or collapsing once the balloon inside popped. But even those unfortunate globes taught the students about trial and error, persistence, and flexibility. As educators, we often plan these experiences knowing that they will be messy, literally and figuratively. However, at IntegratED, we also understand that these hands-on activities create connections that go beyond the classroom. The globes our students made sparked conversations at home, with parents hearing all about the project at the dinner table. These moments of connection, from school to home, are just as important as the lessons we teach in the classroom. They create a sense of community and shared experience that is invaluable in the learning process. Ultimately, these experiences aren’t just about learning geography or climate—they’re about building connections, problem-solving, and creating memorable moments that turn into long-term knowledge. Even if the globes themselves eventually find their way to the trash (which, let’s face it, most of them will), the learning that happened along the way is something our students will carry with them. And as teachers, it’s these messy, chaotic, wonderfully rewarding moments that remind us why we do what we do.
 In the newest episode of “To Teach or Not to Teach,” we are joined by culture and climate expert Steve Bollar. Meg and I have worked closely with Stand Tall Steve, and he is the perfect person to bring into the conversation when it comes to building a positive community and relationships. Climate refers to the immediate atmosphere within a school or organization—how it feels daily, shaped by attitudes, behaviors, and interactions. On the other hand, culture is the deeper, enduring set of values, beliefs, and norms that guide and influence how people within the organization work together and approach challenges. Together, climate and culture determine the overall health, success, and productivity of the environment, directly impacting everyone involved. Unfortunately, climate and culture often take a back seat when getting ready for the school year to start. There is a long checklist of compliance aspects of our jobs, articulation meetings, and required pieces of training. (We see you blood-borne pathogens.) Whether you have started school like us or your first day is this week, teachers and administrators know the importance of building the community and relationships within the classroom. But what is being done to build the excitement and climate in your district? Do you have a plan for enough fuel to last the year? Try these helpful tips for active engagement from all stakeholders to get everyone involved!  Pick a theme! Select a theme that embodies what your school respects and values that can flow from the classroom level, the whole building, or even the entire district! If you need a list of possible themes, contact Steve at [email protected]. This will set the tone and the direction for the year. Ideally, selecting the theme should happen at the end of the school year for the following year. (Don’t worry! There’s still time and opportunities to start and incorporate a theme.) By announcing the theme at the end of the year, you are creating excitement for the following year. Students will already know the year's theme and tone, walking into the building on the first day with a sense of community and belonging. Teachers will have time to let the theme marinate over the summer months and have the mental capacity to have some creative ideas for their classrooms and lessons. Welcome new staffulty! As your staffulty of teachers evolves, a theme is an opportunity to bring them into their new position, building, or district with a sense of belonging. Administrators, you can discuss the theme during summer interviews! When you offer the new staff member a job, incorporate the theme into their welcome letter or that first phone call to tell them they were selected to join the team! New staff will begin with an invitation to join the community. Veteran teachers will join in on the fun! Not all veteran teachers are shaking their keys at staff meetings, signaling it is time to wrap it up. Many veteran teachers look forward to ideas to shake up school norms each day. A theme will bring new life to the year for lessons, units of instruction, bulletin boards, and more!
Let the seniors steer the way! Giving your seniors a voice in the theme is a game changer. Allowing the next graduating class time to brainstorm and collaborate ideas among their rising classmates provides a massive sense of community. We all know seniors want anything and everything to have their graduation year on any swag. The rising classes will look forward to their chance to contribute in the future. Include ALL staffulty! There are teams or groups of your staff that need to be included in the community. Every person in your building should be included in the community and theme, from support staff to custodial teams, substitutes, and food service employees. If you need help purchasing more T-shirts to include others, ask for sponsorships from community businesses or outsourced service organizations. Bring in the parents! Parents will love the opportunity to participate in your theme. Proud parents in the community want swag, too! Get more t-shirts printed to have them for sale at Back to School Night, Open House, parent-teacher conferences, sporting events, award ceremonies, or any other time! Get out your calendar! Purposeful action is needed to keep the theme going. Set dates in your calendar to revisit or celebrate the theme. From the morning announcements to spirit days, reinforce the theme to keep it thriving! Don’t forget to recognize students and staff who are great examples of the message you have set forth. Brand your theme! Create a logo and a color scheme. Include the theme on every announcement sent home, calendar, reminder, email signature, newsletter, or even homework! Keep your theme alive all year long. It’s never too late to start a theme! You can start a theme anytime after a long break, a semester, a new month, or any other time that works for you and your organization. Meg and I focus on purposeful actions and activities to build our classroom community. By incorporating a theme, you are creating a safe space for your staff and students. We all know that once students or staff feel safe and included, the real learning begins. Do you have a theme for the year? Be sure to tell us all about it! Do you have another way to incorporate a theme you want to share? Post it in the comments!
Listen to This TNT Blog Here: It’s the first day of school, and you have a choice. Are you going to be the teacher from Charlie Brown? Or will you be the teacher where kids can’t wait to return tomorrow? Parents and teachers alike know how the conversation typically goes when children come home from the first day of school. You ask probing questions, and you get one-word answers in return. Imagine your students turbo-talking about their first day the moment they see their families. Meg and I are passionate about improving the learning experience for students and teachers. Making small changes in your thinking can impact your classroom exponentially. We’re here to show you how to grow your repertoire! Ditch the rules, syllabus, and curriculum the first days. We sign your permission slip to have fun on the first day of school! Not only will you enjoy starting the year, but you will observe your students through a new lens. Your first goal is to start building the climate and culture of your classroom by building connections, inviting engagement, and creating a safe space for learning. Elementary, middle, and high school teachers- try one of these ideas the first week. Remember, big kids are still kids, too. 1. Snowball Whether from the excitement of the first day or the end of summer heat, use this ‘ice breaker’ to have a snowball fight! That’s right! It is so simple. First, provide the students with a plain piece of paper. Ask them to write three specific facts about themselves independently. Give them some non-examples so they know just what to write. When everyone finishes, tell them to crumple up their papers. Then yell, “SNOWBALL FIGHT!” Get the snowball fight started with your own list. When everyone has thrown their paper, students will need to pick up a random crumpled paper. (If by chance they pick up their own, tell them to crumple it back up and pick a different snowball.) Students will then have to guess which student their paper belonged to! It’s not just a fun game. This activity will break the ice, but you can observe with a new lens who is the first to raise their hand, take turns, penmanship and pencil grips, speaking and listening skills, and interactions with others. Be sure to be a part of the conversation by taking guesses. You can take this activity to a new level by including where the recycling bin is located, how you call groups to take turns, and the importance of cleaning up our learning spaces. Have a mini science lesson with mass and gravity. Look at how a blank piece of paper can change the climate and culture of your classroom! Adding any kind of physical movement brings more engagement to your lessons. 2. I Dough-Not Know About YouGetting to know your students through different learning pathways is so essential. This activity includes art! Prepare a slide deck with various questions. Students will use playdough to create and build their answers. What an excellent opportunity to chat with students while they build! You will see smiles for sure! But do you know what else you will see? You can step back and watch fine motor skills, interactions with others in their groups, and the treatment of exciting classroom materials. Be sure to spend time circulating the room to converse with the students about their builds. You will learn so much more about them than an ‘All About Me’ worksheet. Creating a space for learning that accepts creative risks and efforts will allow the students to learn and grow in new ways. You can incorporate your classroom procedures for passing out or collecting materials and cleaning up after your new engaging lessons. 3. Beautiful HandsNo matter the age, students enjoy listening to their teacher read aloud to them. We came across this book titled Beautiful Hands. Read the book aloud or use a video! Challenge students to identify a unique word to describe one of their academic or personal goals. Students can choose the color paint for their handprint on a poster or individual paper to create a class bulletin board. Have them write their word next to their name! Like the book, allow them to be creative with their hands or fingerprints. You will create a beautiful classroom or hallway display that the students can see each and every day. Be sure to celebrate a goal achieved! Want to take this activity to the next level? Ask your maintenance staff for a pack of ceiling tiles. Students will undoubtedly come back to visit you and their handprints.  4. Reader’s TheatreSo you’re feeling the pressure to pull in some academics but still want to keep it light and continue the relationship-building for both you and the students? Why not try a Reader’s Theatre? Reader’s Theater utilizes scripts (just like a play or film) to deliver content. No matter what grade or subject area you are teaching, you will be able to find an appropriate script. Depending on your class, you can assign parts through volunteers or pull popsicle sticks. Ensure everyone has a way to participate and a copy for each student. Encourage students to bring the words to life through their performances! Props, music, backdrops, and silly voices galore! What an exciting way to observe students’ fluency, comprehension, understanding of vocabulary, and speaking and listening skills—all in the first week of school! As the school year progresses, allow students to write their own content-based scripts (science, social studies, or even math), another learning pathway for students to demonstrate mastery. 5. Four CornersWant to see what background knowledge your students have on a particular subject? Play four corners with any multiple-choice question! This game is a free and simple way to review concepts or activate background knowledge that can be utilized for any subject area, any grade, any age. All you need are prepared questions, your students, and four corners. Assign corners or available spaces in the room (A,B,C,D or 1,2,3,4) so students know which direction to go based on their answers. To access all types of learners, prepare a slide deck with the content questions and answers. Has checking for understanding ever been so invigorating and informative?! Feel free to add how you expect participants to move appropriately through the learning space as part of your beginning-of-year procedures. If you typically play games with scores throughout the year, you can give points to students or teams with a discussion on sportsmanship. So, which teacher is starting the school year? Is it the wah-wah boring rules and syllabus teacher, or an engagement rockstar? Do the kids have their heads on the desk in boredom, or are they building connections with you and their classmates? Did your students have so much to say about the first week of school because you took the time to create the climate and culture of your room? Only you know the answer. We want to hear from you if you try even one of these ideas! Be sure to tell us all about it. Do you have a favorite strategy you are willing to share? Post it in the comments!
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AuthorMegan and Kara are educational leaders, professional development experts, and current classroom teachers who are improving the way instruction is being delivered in the standard classroom. Archives
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