Karren Colbert's Page

I just finished reading "Building a Better Teacher" and I have to say, I feel worried.

I’m worried that people in the business of teaching teachers claim that successful teaching depends partially on an innate ability. The un-teachable teacher…is that not the ultimate oxymoron?

I’ll agree that some people seem to possess natural talent for teaching, but I think that’s true of most professions. What…

"What is in your pocket?" I asked Natalie. She had recently discovered the joy of storing small trinkets in her pockets. (I discovered her new habit after a tube of melted Chapstick wrecked havoc on a load of laundry.)

"I only have a smile in my pocket," she replied with a smile and I couldn't help but smile myself.

Sometimes little people have the biggest and best ideas. I'm mean, why shouldn't I keep a smile,…

Should effort be a part of a student's grade?

Earlier this week I attempted to answer this question with a brief response. The more I thought about it, the more I realized that such a big question was deserving of a big response, so here's my long answer.

I think effort is important, REALLY important. The reason that I had such a hard time answering this question is that I really, REALLY think grades are overrated. A good grade might get a child free…

Grab some popcorn, a soda, and one of these inspiring flicks to renew your educational energy:

1) The Miracle Worker (This movie has been remade several times, but the Patty Duke version is my personal favorite!)

2) To Sir, With Love

3) Finding Forrester (Not a teacher movie in the traditional sense, but still fabulous and it stars Sean Connery, which in my book is reason enough to watch. Connery is a reclusive writing prodigy who mentors an…