4. If you tell students not to spill India ink, they will absolutely spill it the second you close your mouth.

3. Build them up- celebrate the little wins like they’re huge.

2. Give kids time to answer you when you ask a question- they’re thinking of an answer! This is especially true for English Learners.

1. Kids want to learn and do well, and will do well and learn IF THEY CAN, not “if they want to”.

Here are some things I’ve learned during my first year in the field (with the benefit of 8+ years’ experience with high schoolers)

Sincerely, an Astarion girlie with an MFA in painting. 💅🏻