The Classroom Newsletter

The Classroom Newsletter: Issue #33

In This Issue:

• Lesson Planning: Exit Tickets for Formative Assessments

• Classroom Management: Providing Opportunities for Creative Expression

• Parent Communication: Student Leadership

• Burnout Busters: Guidance for Seeking Professional Counseling

• Health and Wellness: Try New Forms of Exercise

• This Week’s Bonus Prompts: Special Education & Differentiation

• Homeroom Swag: Springtime Flowers Bulletin Board Letters and Numbers Set

• Laughter Lounge: Lesson Plans? What Lesson Plans?

• Poll Position: Must-Have Accessory

If Your Teacher Bestie Gifted You This Issue And You Want More… CLICK HERE!

Happy Friday Y’all,

This week, we’re leaning into growth! Student growth, personal growth, and even a bit of floral growth with a seasonal bulletin board set. Margaret Mead once said, "Children must be taught how to think, not what to think." That quote captures the heart of everything we aim for as educators. We don’t just pour information into students—we ignite the critical thinking, creativity, and confidence that fuel a lifetime of learning.

This issue will equip you with tools to spark reflection (exit tickets), build student voice (creative expression and leadership), and foster your own health and balance along the way. Every prompt and idea is grounded in a simple truth: teaching is more powerful when it’s intentional, inclusive, and personal.

And let’s not forget this season of change. Spring brings new energy and a chance to refresh our mindset and classroom routines. Whether you're looking to adapt a lesson, connect with families, or prioritize your own wellness, this week’s content is full of ideas that will bloom in the weeks ahead.

Now, let’s look at how we can leverage ChatGPT (or your favorite generative AI platform) to help turn your classroom into an optimal learning environment:

Scenario:
Ms. Burke, an 8th-grade science teacher, wanted a better way to assess student understanding without giving full quizzes or tests at the end of every lesson. She decided to integrate exit tickets into her instruction for quick, low-pressure reflection.

ChatGPT Prompt:
I am a [class subject] teacher and I teach [grade level] students. Develop a lesson plan for [subject/topic] that uses exit tickets as formative assessments to gauge student understanding throughout the lesson.

The Benefits Of This Prompt:
Encourages reflection: Students must think about what they’ve learned and what they’re still processing.
Improves lesson design: Data from exit tickets helps teachers adjust instruction in real-time.
Promotes student voice: Quick check-ins give every student a chance to express their understanding.

Scenario:
Mr. Cole teaches 5th grade language arts and wanted to give students more voice and choice in how they demonstrate learning. He was looking for creative outlets beyond written essays and multiple-choice tests.

ChatGPT Prompt:
I am a [class subject] teacher and I teach [grade level] students. Generate 3 activities that provide opportunities for creative expression, allowing [grade level] students to explore and showcase their creativity in relation to [lesson/topic].

The Benefits Of This Prompt:
Builds student engagement: Students are more invested when given creative freedom.
Increases ownership of learning: Personalized expression leads to deeper understanding.
Improves classroom culture: Students feel valued and encouraged to think differently.

Scenario:
Ms. Alston noticed that one of her students had taken initiative in organizing a peer tutoring group. She wanted to share this moment of leadership with the student’s parents and provide ideas for how they could continue nurturing these traits.

ChatGPT Prompt:
Draft a letter to [student's name]’s parents, [parent or guardian name(s)], discussing opportunities for [his/her] leadership development. Highlight [list specific leadership qualities observed], and suggest ways to nurture and develop these skills both at school and home.
The Benefits Of This Prompt:
Strengthens home-school connection: Positive feedback builds trust with families.
Celebrates student growth: Recognizes and affirms leadership qualities.
Encourages continued development: Offers practical next steps for nurturing strengths.

Scenario:
Mr. Harris had been feeling overwhelmed for months and realized he needed someone to talk to. He wasn’t sure where to start when it came to counseling, coaching, or emotional support.

ChatGPT Prompt:
Provide guidance on how I can seek professional counseling to address [feelings, anxieties, stresses, etc.]. This guidance should help me find [type of support, e.g., therapy, counseling, coaching, etc.].

The Benefits Of This Prompt:
Reduces stigma: Normalizes asking for help and prioritizing mental health.
Clarifies the process: Provides direction for seeking the right support.
Improves long-term well-being: Better emotional health leads to more balanced teaching.

Scenario:
Mrs. Jenkins was bored with her daily walk and wanted to spice up her routine with fun, challenging activities that could fit her schedule and energy level.

ChatGPT Prompt:
I want to try new forms of exercise. Suggest activities that are [challenging, fun, different] and align with my [fitness level, goals, etc.].

The Benefits Of This Prompt:
Adds variety: Keeps workouts fresh and enjoyable.
Supports holistic health: Boosts mood, energy, and endurance.
Encourages self-discovery: Trying new things builds confidence and motivation.

Special Education Prompt: Understanding Root Causes of Behavior

Scenario:
Ms. Riley works with a student who frequently disrupts class. She wanted insight into why the behavior was happening, not just how to respond.

ChatGPT Prompt:
I am a [class subject] teacher and I teach [grade level] students. Help me better understand the root causes of behavior issues in a student with [specific behavioral challenge].

The Benefits Of This Prompt:
Fosters empathy: Helps educators see beyond the behavior.
Guides intervention: Enables targeted and effective strategies.
Supports student success: Addresses underlying needs, not just surface actions.

Differentiation Prompt: Adapting Lessons for Students with IEPs

Scenario:
Mr. Daniels needed to modify his algebra unit for a student with processing delays. He wanted support designing lessons that met the IEP while still hitting key standards.

ChatGPT Prompt:
I am a [class subject] teacher and I teach [grade level] students. Provide strategies for adapting my lesson plans on [topic] to meet the specific needs of a student who needs [list needed services and/or supports], including modifications to content, delivery, and assessments.

The Benefits Of This Prompt:
Promotes equity: Every student can access learning in a way that fits them.
Improves planning: Provides clarity and structure for lesson adaptation.
Empowers teachers: Gives confidence to support diverse needs.

This week’s Springtime Flowers Bulletin Board Letters and Numbers Set features beautiful purple flower accents that are perfect for refreshing your classroom or hallway space! Spell out “Spring into Learning” on a bulletin board, decorate a class door with student goals, or celebrate Women’s History Month with inspiring names and quotes. These letter sets bring the season to life and brighten any classroom environment.

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Bottom Line Y’all…

Margaret Mead’s quote, “Children must be taught how to think, not what to think,” is a call to empower, not just instruct. Every strategy you implement, whether it’s using exit tickets, giving students a voice through creativity, or recognizing quiet leadership, is a tool for transformation. You are shaping thinkers, creators, and leaders.

Let this week’s prompts serve as reminders: keep stretching yourself and your students. Try something new. Reach out for support if needed. Celebrate your wins, no matter how small. And above all, keep showing up with intention. That’s where the real difference is made.

Your classroom is already brighter because of the work you’re doing. Keep building momentum, and let next week be one of growth, joy, and purpose!

Teach Forward! Improve Daily! Inspire Always!

Warm regards,
Mitch Fairchild
Founder, The Classroom Newsletter

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