Most Popular Books by Tom Hierck

Aim for a target-based grading system and create stronger learning opportunities! Do you wish there was more clarity when it comes to measuring student progress and learning? What if there was a way to utilize grading and assessment to focus on learning rather than performance, and the process rather than the product? As grading, assessment, and reporting continue to be relevant topics of discussion, this book helps you create a functional plan to elevate and advance standards-based grading practices. Teachers and administrators will learn how to assess, grade, and report against specific learning targets rather than standards as a whole to make skill acquisition the highest priority. Grounded in application to provide focus and clarity, this book features: Real case studies of schools that have incorporated target-based assessment, feedback, grading, and reporting Practical examples to guide implementation Questions, checklists, illustrations, and audits of practice to showcase the work in action An accessible format and layout that support both immediate implementation and long-term goals Despite being a topic that generates emotion and resistance to change, target-based assessment builds the foundation for a learner-centered system that provides clear expectations and feedback for teachers, students, and parents. "Grading for Impact is a simple and straightforward guide to re-thinking grading based on mastery of specific skills and concepts rather than broadly-written standards. Real-world examples of teachers struggling with--and answering--the old questions are included: "How do we grade fairly and accurately?" and "How do we use grades as an instructional strategy?"" Joseph Staub, High School Teacher Downtown Magnets High School, CA "Most stakeholders agree that report cards aren’t enough to show what our students are learning in school, but changing the traditional grading system is a task that requires careful planning and challenging discussions. Grading for Impact shows educators how to start and plan the discussions that will result in genuine learning experiences for students." Ernie Rambo, Virtual Learning Community Coordinator Nevada National Board Professional Learning Institute

First introduced in Unstoppable Learning, the Unstoppable Learning framework details seven essential elements of teaching and learning: (1) planning, (2) launching, (3) consolidating, (4) assessing, (5) adapting, (6) managing, and (7) leading. This resource by Tom Hierck focuses specifically on the element of managing learning outcomes in the classroom environment, outlining a collective approach to behavior management strategies and student engagement that minimizes the impact of negative behaviors and maximizes the potential (as well as the social and emotional learning) of each student. Effective classroom management strategies to create a positive learning environment: Review the Unstoppable Learning framework originally laid out by Douglas Fisher and Nancy Frey. Closely examine how to manage student behavior and classroom climate using the Unstoppable Learning framework''s proven approach. Become familiar with classroom management strategies for creating a positive learning environment, developing teacher-student relationships, and dealing with problem behaviors. Benefit from summaries of key points at the end of each chapter, as well as questions for reflection. Access free reproducibles designed for reader reflection on classroom behavior management strategies. Contents: Introduction Chapter 1: Improving Behavior Management Through Cultural Change Chapter 2: Supporting Teacher-Student Relationships Chapter 3: Supporting Group Interactions and Peer Relationships Chapter 4: Supporting a Positive Learning Environment Chapter 5: Responding to Problem Behaviors Epilogue Appendix

Creating a positive classroom learning environment is a complex but necessary task if a teacher wants to cultivate a new, productive classroom culture. By fully realizing the seven keys the author highlights, teachers can establish clearer expectations, enhance instruction and assessment practices, and foster quality relationships with students, thereby maximizing the potential of all students. The book includes helpful stories from teachers, as well as classroom strategies to consider in implementing the keys. With this book, teachers can clearly define the misunderstood concepts of differentiation and enrichment and know how to use these strategies to help all students succeed, no matter their needed level of support. Benefits Read stories from classroom teachers that highlight how each key can help establish a positive learning environment. Explore research and anecdotal evidence that maintains that students who feel connected are more motivated and successful in the classroom. Learn how the effective use of data can minimize both academic and behavioral challenges among students. Discover collaborative practices that can establish common expectations between teachers and their students, so a positive classroom tone is set when the school year starts. Consider tactics teachers can use to record and analyze data on students’ progress, to make informed decisions that help students gain proficiency. Peruse the essential practices that teachers should have in their classroom assessment toolbox. Contents Introduction Classroom Culture and Positive Relationships: Precursors to a Positive Learning Environment Classroom Expectations Targeted Instruction Positive Reinforcement Data-Driven Decisions Differentiation and Enrichment Collaborative Teams Connecting to the Schoolwide System Epilogue References and Resources Index

RTI is more than just a buzzword—it’s a success story! RTI isn’t just about interventions—it’s about assessing how all students respond to instruction. Here, you’ll learn to translate RTI from research to practice and build a realistic plan of action for your school. Concrete recommendations and resources include: Interventions linked to the Common Core, with emphasis on college and career readiness Practical strategies for screening, progress monitoring, and diagnostics Sample approaches to specific interventions across the curriculum

Introducing your guide to navigating the seemingly endless swirl of questions facing new and veteran teachers. Trusted education experts Tom Hierck and Alex Kajitani draw from their experiences to offer research-backed tools and strategies in an easily referenced FAQ format. With wit and wisdom, they address the aspects of teaching that are often unacknowledged to help educators be better equipped for the year ahead. This book will help you: Build healthy relationships with students, parents, and guardians Create a classroom environment where everyone feels safe, seen, and confident Plan engaging lessons that inspire all students to learn at high levels Become aware of secondary traumatic stress symptoms and map out ways to stay mentally, emotionally, and physically healthy Adapt practical strategies you can implement immediately to support student success Contents: Introduction Chapter 1: How Do I Set Up My Classroom? Chapter 2: How Can I Build Relationships With My Students? Chapter 3: How Should I Manage My Class? Chapter 4: How Do I Get Students to Behave? Chapter 5: How Do I Plan and Deliver Engaging Lessons? Chapter 6: How Do I Know When Students Have Learned? Chapter 7: How Do I Work With Students’ Parents and Guardians? Chapter 8: How Do I Take Care of Myself? Epilogue: Building a Long-Term Career as an Educator References and Resources Index

The impact of trauma on learning can be significant and long lasting. Learn how you can confidently and meaningfully support your trauma-impacted students and foster trauma-informed schools with this accessible resource. The authors draw from their personal and professional experiences with trauma, mental health, and school culture to provide real insight into what you can do now to help learners build resilience, cope with adverse situations, and achieve at high levels. Implement trauma-informed teaching practices and cultivate a classroom environment that encourages positive learning experiences: Understand childhood trauma and the impact traumatic experiences have on learners. Develop a trauma-informed attitude and mindset. Examine classroom structures that support trauma-sensitive practices while recognizing those that may contribute to trauma. Gain effective classroom management strategies and techniques to support all students, including those experiencing trauma. Learn how to develop trusting and positive relationships with trauma-impacted students and their families. Contents: About the Authors Introduction Chapter 1: The Impact of Trauma on Educators and Students Chapter 2: The Importance of Attitude and Mindset in Working With Trauma Chapter 3: Classroom Structures to Support Trauma-Sensitive Practices Chapter 4: Positive Relationships With Students Chapter 5: Trauma-Sensitive Classroom Management Strategies and Techniques Chapter 6: Parent and Family Engagement References and Resources Index

Lead a foundational shift in the way your school approaches student behavior. Trauma-Sensitive Leadership offers research-based, practical strategies for understanding and supporting trauma-impacted students rather than "fix" them. Using straightforward language, the authors illustrate how to integrate new mindsets into daily practice to get to the core of critical issues like social-emotional safety and wellness for students and adults alike. Using this guide to address critical issues readers will: Understand childhood trauma and the impact traumatic experiences have on both students and educators. Develop a trauma-sensitive attitude and mindset to help lead teachers in supporting students experiencing trauma. Examine school structures and environments that support trauma-sensitive practices while recognizing those that may contribute to trauma. Learn how to develop trusting and positive relationships with trauma-impacted students and their families. Plan and maintain a trauma-informed school beyond the initial years of implementation. Contents: Introduction Chapter 1: Examining Trauma and Its Impact on Educators and Students Chapter 2: Fostering a Trauma-Sensitive Attitude and School Culture Chapter 3: Creating a Stable and Predictable School Environment Chapter 4: Implementing Teaching Practices Essential to a Trauma-Sensitive Classroom Chapter 5: Building Relationships With Parents and Families Chapter 6: Planning the Journey Toward a Trauma-Sensitive School Chapter 7: Leading Trauma-Sensitive Practices in Your School Chapter 8: Maintaining and Supporting a Trauma-Sensitive School for Long-Term Success References and Resources Index

Students thrive when educators commit to proactively meeting their behavioral as well as academic needs. This book will help teachers and school leaders transform the research on behavior, response to intervention, and professional learning communities into practical strategies they can use to create a school culture and classroom climates in which learning is primed to occur.

Assessing Unstoppable Learning explains how K-12 teachers and administrators can work in collaborative teams to form effective and efficient assessment systems in their schools that help all students maximize their learning. Based on the key principles of systems thinking, this book will help educators define student learning goals and plan, launch, and lead learning as a team to meet them. This user-friendly resource focuses on the assessing element of the the Unstoppable Learning model, which consists of seven elements: (1) planning, (2) launching, (3) consolidating, (4) assessing, (5) adapting, (6) managing, and (7) leading. This guide provides readers with crucial protocols and activities for collectively reworking their assessment systems. By implementing the step-by-step actions shared by the authors, educators can prepare themselves and their students to thrive in 21st century classrooms and beyond. Unlock the full assessment power of Unstoppable Learning by: Reflecting on the collaborative culture of your learning organization and what elements of it are within your control. Considering questions designed to focus your work on generating high levels of student achievement. Completing activities with collaborative teams to discuss how to better promote productive systems thinking using the book''s strategies. Learning about balanced assessment systems and how to include formative assessments in addition to summative assessments. Embedding evidence-based practices throughout the organization and using protocols for effective team discussions. Contents: Introduction Chapter 1: Building Trust and Healthy Relationships to Leverage Assessment Chapter 2: Seeking Evidence to Launch Assessments With the End in Mind Chapter 3: Gathering Evidence to Use Assessment as Instruction Chapter 4: Discussing Evidence to Leverage Assessment as Learning Chapter 5: Responding to Evidence to Adapt Assessment as Instruction Chapter 6: Embedding Evidence-Based Practices in Learning Organizations Epilogue

This is the roadmap educators need to create a customized intervention system for their unique circumstances. Packed with research-based strategies, The Road to Success With MTSS is an exceptional tool for educators beginning their school’s multitiered system of supports (MTSS) journey and those who have already come so far and are looking to reflect and reset for success. Educational leaders and teachers will: Embrace the multifaceted approach of MTSS, which includes academic, social-emotional, and behavioral needs Understand and anticipate obstacles to MTSS implementation while also learning how to overcome them Better assess student learning and growth Use a wide variety of tools to customize their MTSS journey Read case studies drawn from the authors’ and their colleagues’ experiences, as well as from research and literature in the MTSS field Contents: Introduction Chapter 1: What Practices and Elements Make Up Tier 1? Chapter 2: What Practices Make Up Tier 2 and Tier 3? Chapter 3: Where Are We and What Are the Next Steps? Chapter 4: What Is the Implementation Process? Chapter 5: What Does Student Evidence Reveal? Epilogue Appendix: Case Studies References and Resources Index

In order to make grading and reporting practices more meaningful and appropriate, schools must design core instruction to reflect both academic standards and specific academic and behavioral targets that clearly indicate what students must know and what they must be able to do. The authors'' experience shows that taking this approach positively impacts teaching and learning. This six-page, quick-reference laminated guide is designed to help schools move beyond standards to target-based grading and reporting. In 13 clear steps, it walks collaborative teams through the process of: Prioritizing standards and breaking them into specific learning targets; Creating assessments that accurately measure the relevant standards and learning targets; Designing and delivering instruction that specifically addresses learning targets; Administering and analyzing assessments; Reassessing when there is evidence of new learning; Reporting proficiency levels against learning targets using a summative scoring rubricThe guide includes examples of proficiency scales, proficiency targets, progress trackers, and summative rubrics.

Whether students feel stressed or supported has a profound impact on their success, sense of belonging, and behavior. Designed as a guide for education professionals and parents, this book explores emotional safety, its effect on learning, and practical strategies for fostering well-being. Discover how to shape students’ emotional responses by modeling healthy expression, building community, and nurturing self-awareness and self-management. K–12 administrators and teachers can use this book to: Foster emotional safety and belonging in schools Address how stress and anxiety impact the learning environment Address students’ emotional needs and cultivate positive relationships in the classroom Strengthen classroom management with healthy approaches and practices Maintain authority while balancing structure with freedom Contents: Introduction Part I: Dimensions of a Very Big Picture Chapter 1: What Safety Is Chapter 2: The Heart of the Matter—Feelings and School Chapter 3: Safety—It’s a Brain Thing Chapter 4: Learning and the Brain Chapter 5: Body and Mind Chapter 6: Where Children Are Coming From—Stress and Adaptation Chapter 7: Over the Edge—A World of Violence Chapter 8: Brave New World—The Changing Role of the School Chapter 9: All Are Welcome Here—The Need for Community Chapter 10: Snags in the Tapestry Chapter 11: More Welcome Than Others—Discrimination and Belonging Chapter 12: How Does Your Garden Grow? More Diversity, More Discrimination Part II: The Toolbox Chapter 13: Academic Safety—Learning and Success Chapter 14: Emotional Safety—Personal and Character Development Chapter 15: Social Safety—Belonging and Interpersonal Competence Chapter 16: Behavioral Safety—Discipline and Cooperation Chapter 17: Physical Safety—The Student Body Part III: The Grownups Chapter 18: Teacher Safety—Protecting the Protectors Chapter 19: The Collaborators—Parents and Community Epilogue: Are We Almost There Yet? Appendix References and Resources Index

Explore the research-based measures that help educators influence their students’ mindsets and inform behaviors, motivation, and engagement. Using 28 action items, educators can proactively plan, introduce new ideas, and strengthen existing practices to ensure that all students develop positive mindsets and productive behaviors. Learn why fostering four positive mindsets is critical to student success in school and life. Grades K–12 teachers will: Understand what the four foundational positive mindsets look like in a student and how to nurture each Determine whether classroom and school policies, procedures, and practices match the desired outcomes Receive surveys that help gauge student mindsets Discover novel ways to make setting short- and long-term goals part of the classroom and school culture Create action plans for fostering the four mindsets and monitor student progress toward positivity Contents: Introduction Chapter 1: “I Belong in This Academic Community” Chapter 2: “I Can Succeed at This” Chapter 3: “This Work Has Value for Me” Chapter 4: “My Ability and Competence Grow With My Effort” Epilogue References and Resources Index

Changing students’ attitudes about math and assessing number sense begins with shifting the teacher’s attitude and approach. Learn how the authors dispel the common myth that student apathy in mathematics class is inevitable. Math teachers can use the student numeracy assessment and practice (SNAP) approach to address the five strands of mathematical proficiency, promote thinking, and ignite a sense of wonder in their students. K–8 teachers can utilize this book to: Use the SNAP approach to help students learn number sense Address each SNAP skill from kindergarten, primary, and intermediate teachers’ perspectives Apply the SNAP method within the response to intervention model Learn the five strands of mathematical proficiency aligned with each SNAP skill Access templates and other resources Contents: Introduction Chapter 1: Exploring the SNAP Chapter 2: Looking at Number Sense Foundations Chapter 3: Understanding the Five Strands of Mathematical Proficiency Chapter 4: Implementing the SNAP With Beginning Mathematicians Chapter 5: Understanding How SNAP Supports Response to Intervention Chapter 6: Rubrics, Assessment, and Competency-Based Learning Chapter 7: School and District Implementation Epilogue: Final Word Appendix: Resources to Support Number Sense References and Resources Index

Engaged Instruction: Thriving Classrooms in the Age of the Common Core is a timely anthology of practical ideas from thirteen educators actively working to support teachers in the dynamic environment of the 21st-century classroom. Each author addresses a specialty area and provides ideas for teachers to engage students in their classrooms now, in the new age of the Common Core. The transition to new standards and assessments in 2014 will require teachers to develop and expand a repertoire of skills in anticipation of the new measures of achievement. Teachers will need to shift how they teach and assess students, and students will need to adapt to those instructional changes. The strategies presented in this book will help teachers expand their skills with successful classroom practices.

The Common Core State Standards are now a reality in most states in the US, and educators are grappling with the implications. This fifth handbook in the Getting Ready for the Common Core Series will help teachers and administrators reflect on the needs of students who struggle, whether from poverty, language acquisition, ineffective feedback, reluctance to engage, or other reasons, and it offers multiple and flexible examples for educators to take away and adapt to their unique situations.

"As a math teacher, have you ever begun a lesson only to be met with groans, indifference, or avoidance? Have you ever looked across the hallway at your colleague''s math classroom to see a room full of engaged and excited students and wonder what you''re doing wrong? In The SNAP Solution: An Innovative Math Assessment Tool for Grades K-8, authors Kirk Savage, Jonathan Ferris, and Tom Hierck dispel the common belief that student apathy in math class is an inevitability. Changing students'' attitudes about math begins with a shift in the teacher''s attitude and approach and a model that targets essential mathematical proficiencies. In this research-packed guide, math teachers will use the SNAP method to ignite a sense of wonder in their students and leave days of frustration behind"--