Our biggest category represented in the top 15 blogs are those which speak to the educator experiences from classrooms across the state. From math to language arts to computer science to general student well-being, teachers across all grade levels are utilizing the resources shared on our blogs.  Keep Indiana Learning’s Assistant Director of Professional Learning Courtney Flessner has a top blog of 2023 rooted in her own experiences as an educator and a leader of educators, “Five Ideas to Turn a ‘Regular’ Math Worksheet into Something Great.” Middle School Educator Ella Hereth shared tips and resources on how to combine math and art to generate “amazing math talk.” Current high school principal and former high school English teacher Carrie Wisehart detailed how “rigorous learning CAN STILL BE hands-on, collaborative, and fulfilling” by sharing “15 Ways to Use Play-Doh in the Middle and High School Classroom.” The computer science standards make some educators nervous, but #VirtuallyDifferent Digital Learning Coach Jen Stewart explores why there is no reason to panic when it comes to implementing these. As many strive to make classrooms more inclusive and welcoming, two of our top 15 blogs were helpful. First, Educator Barnes shared profiles of 30 Black Hoosiers who are modeling excellence in a variety of settings (and don’t miss her YouTube series of interviews with contemporary Black Hoosiers who are also doing excellent work in all aspects of society). Finally, Hannah Pack authored a three part series on “embracing Black hair” and how educators can better support students of color.

Four of the top 15 blogs are of particular interest to school counselors.  Kyle Miller’s piece on shifting from trauma-informed to trauma responsive takes a very practical approach to making this important adjustment. Education is filled with acronyms, and Jennifer Miller’s blog helps all educators understand the differences between RTI and MTSS. Bonnie Kulenkamp’s helps readers understand there is much more to social-emotional learning than simply warm fuzzy feelings. The final counseling focused blog in the top 15 is Jessica Sullivan’s piece from January 2023 about how to use data to start the second semester well.

Finally, there are two blogs in the top 15 which are geared more towards administrators.  Kristin Parisi shared her knowledge about using ISPROUT to efficiently track data and monitor progress of our state’s youngest learners. Paraprofessionals are an integral part of every school staff; Kacey Seaver and Angie Wiggins both shared ideas on how to best utilize this portion of the school staff.

These blogs would not happen without the time and effort of the educators around the state who share their ideas and passions with others. If you would like to become a contributor, please check out the contributor info on our website or reach out to KeepIndianaLearning@ciesc.org.