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1. My impression in chapters 1-3 is an affirmation of sorts that being creative in an honors class is OK.  While we are always aware of that fact that we have to cover certain things, it is OK to be creative and be a “wild card” in how we do it.  After 23 years in the classroom, I still find it to be challenging to do both.

2. I am hoping that I will learn more strategies to be engaging in the classroom.  After a while even the “tried and trues” get old, even for me.  And if they aren’t engaging for me, they certainly won’t be for my students.   There is always room to learn more.

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1. I love how easy this book is to read. It flows well and keeps my attention. I'm also enjoying the comparison of a deck of cards to teaching. I like how the authors are telling their stories.

2. I am excited to read more to find out how I can be the positive wild card in students' lives. Sometimes you can get in a rut with teaching because of all the demands. I'm excited to read more and be inspired to make learning exciting for all of my students.

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1. Chapters 1 - 3 left with me the impression that the authors are relatable and are sharing their wisdom on a down to earth level. Many books talk about how to engage students but rarely engage the reader. I am a very colorful person on my "good days" in the classroom. I like to use my personality to relate to the students and draw them in. As much as I like to think that I engage my students during class, I can't say for sure that there is a direct correlation between engagement and actually retaining information. I am hesitant that my students are only engaged socially, not intellectually. I think this book does a great job so far of emphasizing the importance of students getting the best education possible without feeling like they're trapped in a classroom.

2. I like to think that I am skilled at keeping students engaged in my classroom. I am a bit of a "wild card" on my campus. One of the things that I get complimented on is my ability to build a positive classroom environment along with classroom culture.  I am hoping that by the end of this book I am able to truly blend the classroom engagement seamlessly with each student's growth. I am hoping that I am able learn ways to prevent burnout on my end and for my students. I am excited to tap into my out of the box way of thinking, but I think this book will help me stay on focused on the learning target.

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1. My first impression is that this author is really an inspiration when it comes to students and creativity. This is a great topic to be reading about!
2. I hope to learn new ideas and ways to deliver lessons to all of my students. I also hope that I can plan and implement these very strategies in my classroom as soon as this upcoming school year.

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1. I love that this book gives educators an opportunity to break into the process of a creative breakthrough so that I can deliver engaging, inspiring, content-driven curriculum!!  I feel empowered to be the wild card that makes the difference in my students' lives. I am excited to create a truly supportive environment where all students are invested in each other's success. I feel challenged to boost the confidence of all learners and to be more reflective about my delivery methods.
2. As I continue to read I am hopeful to add several strategies to my toolkit and learning how to create a fun and supporting environment for every student in my class while forging bonds and honing in on the personal interest and abilities to every student.

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What are your first impressions of this book after reading Chapters 1-3?

My first impressions from chapters 1-3 show me to look beyond traditional ways that people show their creativity. I need to be open to any and all variations of the ways my students can show me what they've learned. I am excited to see how I can implement the ideas from the book.

What do you think you will learn from this book study?

I will learn to view how and what I teach from different angles than what I am used to. I will also be able to tailor what I teach to the specific groups of students I have in class.

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1. My first impression of the book is that it will be a page turner! The authors' passion is inspiring. I am excited to keep reading!
2. I think this book will teach me how to engage and inspire my students. I think this book will help me to look at my curriculum through a new more exciting lens that I can pass on to my students.

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1. My first impression of the book is that this may really help me see that creativity comes in many different forms and a little out of the box thinking makes a big impression on students. You can feel the authors' passion!
2. I hope to gain some new ideas and approaches to delivering lessons.....especially the ones with the most boring subject matter.

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1. My first impressions of this book are that I am going to be able to identify what creativity looks like in a teaching aspect, not just the stereotypical way. I am excited to keep reading and learn how to dive into that myself and how to implement it in the classroom. I also get the impression that these tools will aid in student engagement and how they may even change their feelings toward a certain subject, math in my case!

2.  As I complete this course I hope to learn how to challenge myself and try new things in the classroom. I think the quote “tapping into kid-centered energy is crucial” really sets the tone for the essential grounds for “creativity” that is needed to make lessons or activities successful. I am excited to learn some instructional strategies to accomplish this!

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1. One of my first impressions is that this book is kind of a deep, calming breath. A lot of times teaching advanced classes can feel very dominating. The expectations of students, parents, and ourselves are sharper and higher. This book makes me feel at peace that it's not stacked against me, and that there is value in creativity and there are opportunities for flexibility and spontaneity even within the sometimes rigid framework of AP classes.

2. I am hoping to continue developing that feeling and learn some strategies that can help me streamline my planning processes and break down some of the rigidity in my lesson planning. I am especially looking forward to Ch. 7 and its takes on redefining engagement and increasing rigor.

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1.  My first impression of this book is how the author recongnizes teacher struggles with regards to what we have to teach and what we want to teach, while maintaining a constant balance. This has been  a struggle for me in the classroom.
2. I am looking forward to finding out some new approaches to reach the creative side while engaging all of my new kindergartners.

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1. What are your first impressions of this book after reading Ch 1-3?
I love the creativity that is sparking inside! I have a desire to support the creativity of my students.

2. What do you think you will learn from this book study?
I believe I will be able to reach outside my comfort zone and tap into that creative side that we all have. My hope is to have the courage to implement some of their ideas into my own room this coming school year.

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1. First impressions of this book are very similar to several other books/workshops that I have attended over the years.  I like how the author recognizes teacher struggles with regards to what we "have" to do with what we "want" to do.  It is a constant balance between the two.  I know it's my constant struggle and I will be entering my 22nd year. The "wild card" reference hits home for me.
2. I am hoping to tap into my inner creativity as I did when I was younger and refresh my teaching spirit. I want students to be engaged and fascinated by the wonderful subject of Biology and am looking forward to creating strategies to help accomplish this.

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1.  Chapters 1-3 really made me think about my daily actions and interactions with my students, it made me want to challenge myself even more to provide an engaging enviroment that makes my students not want to leave my classroom.  It made me start journaling and planning even more about what hooks, what experiences I can create in my lessons to create life long learners.
2. I can't wait to read the next chapter.... I love to read, but this book is so easy to read as it has captured my attention. I am so looking forward to building my teacher toolkit!

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1. My first impressions of the book The Wild Card were surprisingly positive. It was refreshing to read/listen to a book about teaching that was uplifting and positive. I am excited to continue reading to find out how I can use my creativity in my classroom.

2. I think that I will learn a lot about how to use my own style of creativity in my classroom. I also think that this book will help me to realize how I can help student utilize their skills to best play the “deck they were dealt.” I am also hoping to get some new ideas about how to make my classroom fun and engaging for my students.

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1. I appreciate how the authors are aware of the struggle with teaching “the script” or “to the test”.  I loved the wild card analogy because I think I may have been more in the Monopoly mindset and this was really an eye opener for me.  These first few chapters have renewed my desire to be even more creative and try to do what I love instead of just following the standardized plan/script.
2. I am excited to try some of their different approaches while putting my own creative spin on creating engaging activities. I want to create a classroom that the students look forward to coming into each day eager to learn. I believe that I will gain greater understanding of how to reach this goal.

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1. The authors' enthusiasm and down-to-earth approach quickly got my attention. They were realistic about the struggles teachers face, but at the same time they inspired hope that we as teachers can bring our brand of creativeness to the classroom. I'm excited about implementing some actions that will hopefully increase student engagement.
2. I think I will learn some different ideas and approaches that have worked for Hope and Wade and in turn can create my own brand of creativity within my classroom.

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1. This book is relatable as the author uses references that really sunk in when I was reading. The author references life as a Monopoly game and educators as being a "wild card", such as a deck of cards. The author discusses the obstacles and how teachers form a rut of excuses, it was encouraging to read, as the author discusses finding creative ways to hurdle these obstacles.
2.  As I complete this course along with our assigned readings, I hope I gain information on how to teach and best educate GT students. I am not 100% comfortable in teaching yet because I know I have so much to learn, as this will be my third year teaching. I hope I learn a variety of information to help me become a better educator for my students. Also, as it discusses obstacles, I hope I learn ways to overcome obstacles in educating in a positive way.

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1. I love the "deck of cards" analogy with creativity in the classroom.  Hope and Wade shoot it straight and give so many teachers hope that they, too, can find their inner creativity.
"You have to teach standards, but standards don't determine how you deliver the content" hit home with me as I hope it does every reader.
2. I'm looking forward to adding strategies from this book to my creativity toolkit.

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1. I love how the authors create this feeling of honesty and positivity that can easily be related to the everyday struggles we see in the classroom. I enjoy reading their real life experiences because it allows me to relate more to them as real educators not someone teaching a PD.
2. As I continue to read I am hoping to learn more concrete/hands on strategies that will allow me to find new inviting ways to teach our curriculum.
I am ready to take on the mindset of being a "rookie" and being more okay with my bloopers so I can see the growth and mastery in the little minds I teach daily.

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So far I really appreciate how the authors acknowledge the setbacks to creativity in the classroom without brushing them aside. The way they discuss the obstacles of prescriptive curriculum, testing and scores, student behavior and parent support makes it feel less overwhelming than it can sometimes feel, while still encouraging you to pursue change despite the problems you might face. I also appreciate that the tone so far has never been condescending. There are many successful and innovative ways to run your classroom, and I dislike it when authors assume their way is the only way to engage kids.

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I like the honest and straightforward way the authors present their information. They are full of positivity and encouragement but still remain real and give real life examples of their experiences and the pitfalls one might experience when trying to be creative and grow. I look forward to hearing more of what they have to say and to finding out some more concrete examples of strategies they have tried and how those might apply to a high school classroom.

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Checkpoint #1 - Kimberly Kwiatkowski - BISD

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Checkpoint #1 - Kimberly Kwiatkowski - BISD

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1. This book starts off with enthusiasm towards growing a positive mindset by unleashing creativity through our current curriculum which is what I have always struggled with. Trying to find a way to teach what I am expected to teach, but at the same time trying to find a creative and engaging way to do so.
2. I am hopeful that this read will help me reach that creative side with all of my first graders. I love finding new ways to do new and old things. I strive every year to NOT get in a rut and to try new things. I feel that is so important for more "seasoned" teachers. Sometimes it's easier to do what we have always done. I am optimistic that this book will provide me with the "newness" that I try to acquire each school year.

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1. My first impression as I read the first several chapters is a feeling of being refreshed, but I am worried becuase I have read alot of PD books like this before.  I know that to keep an open mind is key and take each moment and experience and learn from it.
2. I hope that my take away is to bring a new creative approach to develop and implement lessons that can be more engaging for little people in the classroom!

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My first impressions include keeping an open mind to change and realizing everyone will experience ups and downs along the way. I am hoping to learn ways to look differently at the curriculum which must be taught so that I can bring creativity into the classroom making lessons more interesting and engaging for both my students and myself.

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1. My first impression of this book is a breath of fresh air. Sometimes it’s easy to get in a slump
and let “the joker” get the best of you.

2. I’m hoping to get some fresh and new ideas on how to implement creativity in my
classroom in a way to engage ALL students.

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1. My first thought was wow! How refreshing! It was wonderful to feel seen as an educator who is tired of the standardized curriculum being the end all be all. Also, feeling pressures to align to cookie cutter teaching and stay in lock step with others in your department with little breathing room for creativity and deeper connection and engagement for students can be overwhelming.  We hear that it is okay to slow down and pull in engaging activities that delve deeper into content. We are told that we should break away from notes and drill and kill, but when we do that, we  are criticized and pressured to fall back into racing to cover all the standards at a surface level in time for the standardized tests.
2. My hope is to gain strategies to engage my students and use my creativity to connect with my students and provide them opportunities to develop a love of learning. To focus on what I can control and develop my growth mindset.
Y.M.

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Checkpoint #1 - Kelly Wall - Brenham ISD

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Checkpoint #1 - Kelly Wall - Brenham ISD

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Creativity is something that every human has in their own way, no matter where they come from or what experiences they have lived. It excites me to be able to learn how to enhance mine. I truly believe that creativity can be intensified by having a positive and open mindset.
I feel confident that once I'm finished with this book study, I will have some fresh, new ideas that I can incorporate into my daily lessons for ALL of my students.

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I am reading the Wild Card for the second time using the GT lens. I read it when it was first originally published and was able to do a PD at the Ron Clark Academy. It is a great reminder to everyone that creativity can and should look different based on each individual teacher or class make up.
I appreciate the discussion on creativity being a personal brand. I think as a teacher grows their brand slightly changes each year which is incredibly important based on reflections made.
I am excited to revisit this book. I will also get to see the authors present again at the end of June at Get Your Teach On. I am curious to see how their thought process has changed since they wrote this book.

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My first impressions after reading chapters 1-3 are mixed. It's clear that the authors are the right messengers for this classroom philosophy, but it's all stuff I've read before. I hope this book isn't another rehashing of the same "build relationships, have a creative mindset, shake off the haters" narrative that you find in so many other Ed books. However, I do like the "Wild Card" label that creative teachers often carry.

Hopefully as the book continues, I'll get some fresh takes.

Remaining optimistic!

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After finishing the first few chapters, I have a refreshed mindset. After teaching the same subject and grade level for a few years, it's easy to fall into patterns of using the same assignments you've always implemented year after year. It reminds you of the value of trying something new and being creative.

As we approach the end of the school year, I look forward to hearing from the author on how to motivate my students and to keep them engaged.

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ree chapters I was super excited by the fact that there are others out there that "feel as if they're stranded on an uncharted island, trying to do things by themselves with limited resources" as I am on year 5 of teaching and I still feel this way, however this book gives me hope that I will find a way to not sink. I feel like this book will provide me with resources that I have long been searching for to make my lessons more engaging and memorable for students. This book is reader friendly so that I actually understand what the ideas behind the research actually mean and I look forward to learning more and implementing the suggestions.

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KT      Checkpoint 1: Chapters 1 - 3    What are your first impressions of this book after reading Chapters 1-3?What do you think you will learn from this book study?

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KT      Checkpoint 1: Chapters 1 - 3    What are your first impressions of this book after reading Chapters 1-3?What do you think you will learn from this book study?

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...creativity is the key to engagement, and engagement is the magic pixie dust... (p. xiii)

My first impression after reading these chapters is that I CAN DO THIS.  While I do have a growth mindset, I do not consider myself to be a creative person.  The Joker was in my head before I began the first chapter!  Students need teachers to quit making excuses about things that cannot be controlled and engage them in a manner in which they want to learn.  The statement that the teacher is a 'Wild Card' which can have a positive or a negative impact on students is powerful.  No one in education can truly say they want to have a negative impact on students and their achievement; however, actions do not always match that.  As teachers, we need to learn how to spark their natural curiosity so we can create a love of learning and growth.

While participating in this book study, I hope to learn ways to cultivate creativity in my classroom, while keeping the Joker at bay, in order for my students to have more academic success moving forward.  I am excited to see what Hope & Wade have to share!

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When I first looked at this workshop, I looked at both books. After reading the descriptions, I was interested in this book in particular. Excitement was felt starting this. At the beginning of the book, however, I was a bit disappointed. I really thought that I had started something that was not going to benefit a high school teacher. As I continued to read and reflect, I see how the insight can be used in any grade level. I am certified EC-6 originally. The want to be creative is there!! Trying to squeeze in time to be creative is probably the biggest hardship at high school level.
I love how they share the good, the bad, and the ugly throughout the text. I am one that will definitely talk myself out of doings things. Reading their experiences lets me know that it will all be ok, no matter the problem that may occur.
What I hope to get most out of this book study is to get out of my head and into the classroom. As I am getting older, I am less worried about perception and more worried about the end result. I have been shuffled around throughout the grades over the years and when I find a confidence in the content, finally, I am moved on to the next needed grade level. This year I have found the confidence in the content and want to build upon the activities to help the students academically and build relationships within and outside the classroom.
P.S. I am always jealous to hear about the Ron Clark Academy. It is on my bucket list of PD!!

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What are your first impressions of this book after reading Chapters 1-3?What do you think you will learn from this book study?

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What are your first impressions of this book after reading Chapters 1-3?What do you think you will learn from this book study?

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My first impression of the book from chapters 1-3 are thinking to myself, "Why have I not read this sooner?" I have moved schools many times due to my husbands job and there have been struggles with starting over, however I can say for certain there are only two schools I have been at long enough to experience becoming too comfortable. The constant change has forced me to be flexible and adjust to what those students need in the classroom. I love incorporating my creativity into lessons and trying new things. This book has me excited for what it to come. I was a student who dreaded the monotony of work sheets and hope to avoid that pitfall in my own classroom, since I am at a previous campus. I hope this book can give me yet another lens to build more inclusive and inspiring lessons!

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Checkpoint 1: Shawn Schaper

1. What are your first impressions of this book after reading Chapters 1-3?

The idea of having a growth mindset instead of a fixed mindset related to creativity is intriguing. These terms are usually related to intelligence, but it is important to note that they can also be applied to creativity. I definitely have a fixed mindset with regards to creativity. I agree with the authors point that teaching a curriculum that follows a scope and sequence that corresponds to standardized testing it is easy to get caught up in what must be taught to the students and not necessarily how it is taught. I agree with the idea that lessons also should be creative and engaging. Even though I do not think of myself as creative, it is important to change my mindset to that of a growth mindset. With a different mindset I can start to explore new approaches that are different than what I have followed for 14 years of teaching.

1. What do you think you will learn from this book study?

I am hoping to gain strategies and insight as how to become a more creative teacher. I am not one to "think outside the box" but I can see how that would make my lessons more engaging. The authors make the point that in certain school districts the students are written off as not being capable of applying critical thinking skills or being successful on standardized testing because they are in Title 1 schools and do not have the opportunities that other students have. It is important that each student is valued no matter what their background is or home life may be. I agree that every child is capable of having success and should be encouraged to also set high expectations for their own learning. I am hoping that there will be strategies and ideas of how to implement creative engaging lessons into my curriculum.

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Something that stood out to me when I first started reading this book was how much creativity is highlighted and really drives engaging and rigorous instruction for all students. Sometime we start to lose that creativity (even for me and I feel like I'm a naturally creative person) including that into my instruction and my students work can't get pushed to the side or second guessed. I love how they speak so highly of it. I truly was motivating and refreshing.

Hearing about Ron Clark Academy is SO inspiring. I knew this book would not only help me grow my creative side in the classroom, but encourage me to follow through incorporating it. I think it will also give some advice on how to drive creativity and engagement for ALL students and speak on the importance of it!

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From the moment I started reading, I was itching to put my creative hat back on. It often feels put on the back burner because of whatever the new “push” in education is at the time. Being told to use a certain curriculum or program with absolute fidelity, often leaves me feeling very overwhelmed on how to use everything & bring in the creativity I know draws students in & keeps them wanting more each day. I believe teachers can do both & I look forward to this book providing more examples, tools, &/or encouragement.

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The one part of the book that stood out to me was part of the introduction that explains that "creativity is a stereotype."  Placing creativity in a box hinders imagination.  If educators can find their creativity beyond their limits then they can create engaging lessons that excite learners to learn important concepts.

In this book, the main importance reiterated is that creativity is personal. Within this book study, I expect to find my creativity that is personal and unique to my teaching style. I think a lot of times we often try to mimic what we see and this book allows for freedom to create from our own unique perspectives.

Learning about the journey between Hope and Wade King allows educators to see that it's okay to fail but to continue to grow from the failures. This allows for an authentic opportunity to be more confident in the journey to creating engaging lessons for our learners.

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The line "creativity drives engagement" already had me hooked.  Teaching is an art, I believe, and the creative, artistically minded thrive in creating outside of the box lessons to engage students.

Reading chapters 1-3 inspired me.  It was so  nice to hear from excited, passionate teachers.  They were speaking y language.

After reading the chapters, I knew that I would learn some new, creative ideas to put into place in my classroom.

In this book study, I believe I will learn how to take what I already do in the classroom to the next level.  Something that stuck with me was commitment to the part.  If you are not fully committed, the students will feel uncomfortable.  This teaching pair seem to ignite each others' passion and instill passion into other colleagues.  To be able to teach in a Ron Clark Academy seems such a privilege - their school, in the pictures provided, looks amazing.

It was nice to see setbacks that we all face be addressed. The setbacks are so many, it seems, and that can weaken resolve. The authors of this book inspire me to continue forward, through whatever hurdles I come across.

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Catherine Schindler

Engaging students to increase growth is something I think every teacher can get behind. I don’t think anyone would argue the effectiveness of the approach, but it comes with challenges also. It definitely forces many teachers out of their comfort zone to attempt something that may fall flat.

I agree with their belief that you must ignore the “Joker” or the voice in your head that causes you to continually doubt yourself when you take a chance and try something new. I believe I can gain good insight from this book about strategies to be more creative while getting out of my comfort zone, but it will look different in my classroom than in theirs.

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After reading part 1, I was excited to hear about the ways these authors are learning to engage their students. I could relate to the idea of being nervous about introducing their creative talents to the classroom. It contradicts the current mood of education where everything is standards based and using academic vocabulary to teach to the TEKS. I have always proposed to my administrators this idea that using vocabulary that is "over a First graders head" will have no relevance to them. I often use cute songs and references that rhyme to help my students remember how to do tasks in Math but have been made to feel that somehow this reduces the rigor. I respectfully disagree with this mindset and am excited to hear that these educators promote learning to be creative and fun and that these techniques actually fall under the umbrella of meeting the needs of GT students.

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After reading part 1, I made many connections to another book that I am currently reading titled, Grit by Angela Duckworth. The importance of mindset can be a game-changer for what we can do in our classroom and how we perceive our students. Being mindful of our roles and how we can engage students daily to look at learning as an opportunity rather than a chore will create life-long learning and will decrease teacher burnout.

I believe this book study will help me continue to see the importance of student engagement and will give me some new tools to share with other educators too. My current role centers around data driving instruction. This book study will be a constant reminder to me to focus conversations on not only what should we be teaching to HOW can we teach it. Encouraging other teachers to share their craft and creativity in teaching is a missing piece in some of our current conversations and I look forward to helping facilitate it.

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After reading Part 1, I am hoping to learn ways to make my classroom a more engaged learning environment for my students. Hope and Wade have a love for teaching and I look forward to seeing what they can help add to the classroom. It is easy for us to get caught up in "teaching to the test" we forget we have to make teaching fun for the students and relatable. I hope to learn some actual strategies/ideas I can take back to the class. I have never been one of those silly song/dress-up kind of teachers but hopefully I can learn some things I can incorporate.

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1. After reading the first three chapters, I am inspired and ready to change my mindset. I love how it reminds us that we have to teach the curriculum, but we get decide how we will deliver the curriculum.

2. I believe I will learn how to channel my creative side in making lessons engaging despite the pressure of testing or dealing with unsupportive administrators. I know boosting engagement leads to higher test scores, so I am open to new ideas and/or suggestions. I want to learn more about room transformations. I tried it when we read Lord of the Flies, and the kids loved it. But then I hit a creative block and felt I couldn't live up to that same energy when we read A Separate Peace.

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1. First impressions: So far, I'm finding the book refreshing. The last few years were rough for me, especially last year (I had to switch from English 3 to English I halfway through the year). And I expect next year, my first full year as an English I teacher, to be rough. Instead of thinking of it in those terms, the Kings have inspired me to look at the upcoming year as a new hand that I can play strategically. Just this change in my mindset and help me create a creative atmosphere. I loved his idea of thinking of failure as bloopers.

2. What I want to get from the book: I am hoping to get some solid strategies and tools to foster this atmosphere within myself and my classroom. I know the metaphorical hand that I will be dealt next year, so now what?

I am hoping to learn how to bring this creativity to my high school campus, especially when I don't have admin support. I'm also interested to see how this concept will translate into a high school setting, where I have severely limited time with each student.

My department head is reading this book with me, and so I am excited to learn how we can work together to infuse our department (or at least our two rooms) with creative energy.

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After reading this the first three chapters you can't help but be inspired to start the new school year with a fresh outlook on what is possible in your teaching. If nothing else, I believe this book could stand to be a yearly reminder that we can be so much for our students and that everyone has so much to offer and sometimes it just takes getting out of our comfort zones to make that happen.

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I have attended GYTO conferences and have seen the authors present their content live. The amount of inspiration they give off in their seminars is admirable. However, I always wondered what drives them to inspire. It was nice to know their backstory. It made me reflect on how often I think about the process of teaching and how truly it makes a difference to shift our mindset from what we are teaching to how we are teaching and evaluating its effectiveness.

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The moment I started the book, I heard the ‘Joker’. By the end of chapter three, I was thinking about how thankful I am for my team. I work with amazingly creative women, and I’m ready to fake it until I make it. I will be like Prince until I find my own creative voice, and I will borrow from my colleagues.

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This book is phenomenal I love the way it explains and compares situations something I love the fact that we as teachers are the wild card because it has all the reason in the world each child is a different world, each one is living their story and how it says the comparison with the monopoly game nobody starts from the beginning some are born in families with more resources, with more support, with more prepared parents and all this and more are advantages that a large part of the students do not have.  So we have a very important role because the teacher has the power to build or destroy a student and our job is not only to teach them academic things but also to give them tools to be able to be good people in the community.

I want to learn from this book how to get better using creativity in order to push students to a higher level.

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1. The first three chapters were informative. I sometimes feel like the joker is taunting me during a lesson. I need to ignore the joker.
2.I think I will learn from this book how to be more creative in my lessons. I will learn how to ignore the joker and engage my students with every lesson.

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1. My first impressions on the first three chapters were very encouraging. As a science teacher I am always finding ways to help students engage in class especially with new topic they have never learned about.

2.  What I am hoping to learn are skills and tricks to help me over come the knowledge gap that covid left in most of our students.

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So far I'm loving the concept of: 'the hand of cards' we (and our students) are dealt. I can own being the wild one that has potential to change everything in the lives of my learners!

Perhaps more than that, I think it's always valuable to embrace creating significant learning environments that are FUN. That goes so far.

It's interesting that the Kings (ha ha, their name) start their book on the foundation of growth mindset. I'm leaning into a learning mindset a little more right now in my teaching, and on that note, am ready to learn more from Hope & Wade.

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1. My first impressions are reading chapters 1-3 are that the book is going to be positive and uplifting. It will give many ideas to implement creativity and differentiation into lessons and activities.

2. I think I will learn how to implement my own creativity in my classroom instead of comparing my teaching to others. I believe it will give ideas to keep students engaged and interested in what they are learning.

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After reading the first chapters, it made me think of all my years of teaching and how I can be of influence to my students. They come from different backgrounds and they do not need to be level GT to be challenged. I believe all students are able to learn when given the tools. I am looking forward to the next chapters to implemented next school year.

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I realized my joker is the negativity that seems to try and suck the joy and life out of my creativity. From blanket emails sent by administration to the gossip that is rampant in schools as well as other things. I hope to learn how to stifle the joker and learn even more creative ways to engage my high school science students.

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After reading part I, my first impression is that this is how teaching should be! It reminds me why I started teaching and why I continue to do so. You, as the teacher, drive how the kids respond each day to your lessons. I have taught in similar schools all my teaching career, and it gives me a boost to want to kick the new school year off right! I hope this book teaches me some creative ideas to change those not-so-exciting lessons around.

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After reading part I, I have been reminded how important it is for me to set the stage for my lessons. I teach high school, so sometimes we forget about the "fun" that should go into a lesson. By seeing the different ways that Wade and Hope have engaged students, it has put a fire back in my heart to try harder this school year to engage the students that do not want to be there. I look forward to being the "Wild Card" on my campus, the teacher that students do not know what they will get day to day from me. I look forward to getting to part two, so I can see the suggested steps that Hope and Wade provide to take the hands that are dealt to me and playing them to my advantage.

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After reading Part 1; chapters 1-3 I realized I have lost some of my passion for teaching.  (Super sad because I have only completed my 4th year of teaching)  I realized I had students who's stories are very similar to Wade's story and I may have missed some big opportunities to reach them.  After reading Wade's story, crying, and doing some personal reflection... I want to ignite that little passion still left inside of me.  I am so thankful that the students who I have in mind- I will also get to work with them over the next few years.  I feel like I have a chance to redeem myself and make a difference.  I am already at the point where I don't want to put this book down.  I am excited to learn how to make scripted lessons come alive, I am excited to learn engaging tricks and hacks, and I am the most excited to see how it will make a difference in my students' lives.

By reading this book I feel I will learn how to find my excitement about teaching again.  I feel I will learn some inspiring was to keep student engagement and classroom culture authentic, upbeat, and inspiring. I can't wait to find how this book will help me unleash my own creativity!

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My first impression, it’s encouraging to realize that we all have struggles of some sort and that we can rise above it. Not allowing the joker to win.
I hope to learn detailed ways of adding creativity to my lesson delivery. I would love to be able to know that I am excitedly engaging students and they are enjoying learning.

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My first impression of the first three chapters confirms that children everywhere have problems we are not aware of and we as teachers are their safe place to try to see them through their challenges. We do have to teach the content, however, including our own personal experiences and talents to engage students more and interest them beyond that day of the lesson. I am also reminded of how I can fail, but learning from the failures makes future lessons even better by learning from my mistakes. I believe I will learn how to engage with my student more by using my life experiences and talents. I also believe I will learn how to not listen to the Joker as much as I have in the past years.

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After reading the intro and Part I, my impression of the book is a positive one. I totally believe in engagement being the key. And though I'll never be one to wear a costume, I understand that it isn't required to engage students. They haven't yet addressed the part that holds me back...money, so I look forward to finding ways to bring in staging and props as encouragement without having to spend money most of us do not have. It's kind of funny I guess, as I read through each of the examples included about what they've done in their classrooms, in my head I'm going, "Wonder what that cost?" LOL Whether I can afford it or not, however, I look forward to reading more about what they've done. Maybe I could implement at least a generic version of things they do, because, like they said, if it's new to the kids, they are going to be excited by it.

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Nina Christian                                                           After reading the first few chapters of the book, I am trying to embrace the growth mindset when it comes to creativity.  I am going to have to practice what I preach!  As educators we really do all face the same challenges to differing degrees and levels and we do have to realize that we can't use them as excuses, but rather hurdles to reach the finish line.  I will also have to remind myself that set backs and failures need to be expected and prepared for, but (again, practicing what I preach) I can't let them derail me.  EVERYTHING takes practice to become proficient.

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Nina Christian                                                           After reading the first few chapters of the book, I am trying to embrace the growth mindset when it comes to creativity.  I am going to have to practice what I preach!  As educators we really do all face the same challenges to differing degrees and levels and we do have to realize that we can't use them as excuses, but rather hurdles to reach the finish line.  I will also have to remind myself that set backs and failures need to be expected and prepared for, but (again, practicing what I preach) I can't let them derail me.  EVERYTHING takes practice to become proficient.

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1. What are your first impressions of this book after reading Chapters 1-3?

This is a positive book.

The authors are creative and the show that it is how one looks at things that make a difference for teachers & their students.

Learning from our mistakes can increase student productivity and success.

2. What do you think you will learn from this book study?

I think I will see how creativity can be found in the most unlikely places.

Perseverance in a teacher is important for our students’ success as well as our own.

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After reading chapters 1-3, my first impression is that Hope and Wade are just real people. Authentic. Authenticity is important to me. I have visited the Ron Clark Academy. Phenomenal! I am excited to continue reading because the authors have made me feel that I, too, can learn to be creative in my classroom. I am the least creative when I compare myself to others. As Hope and Wade stated, my "...creativity will look very different...", and I can find my own creative style.

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After reading Part I and the introduction, I see how much passion the authors have for creativity and making lessons memorable. They were willing to try almost anything to connect with their students. I hope to learn ways to do this with my junior high kids that they will enjoy.

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After reading the first few chapters, I am reminded of how the most loved lessons in my class are when I am excited and tell the kids how much I love this topic. I also makes me think back to when I was a new teacher and more willing to take those risks. I hope this book will remind me of ways to bring myself into the lessons.

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Sometimes in the midst of a good card game I will find myself with a sad, losing hand and it looks as if everything is going against me. If I draw a Wild Card - YES! - it can turn everything completely around. I love the theme Hope and Wade chose for this book. I would love to become a "wild card" for my kids.

I am veteran teacher who lives each day with a growth mindset. I have taught in all types of schools, and I believe all kids need excitement and engagement in the classroom. I am excited about discovering ways to renew my own classroom so I can become a Wild Card, a game changer, for my students.

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After reading these first few chapters, Hope and Wade are very high energy elementary educators who have found a way to dive into their teaching headfirst. They seem to have found ways to engage, even when it’s most difficult. I hope by reading the rest of the book, I glean from their ideas and their energy to apply their knowledge to my own classroom. I love the frisbee idea, but might need an alternate object. Middle schoolers can throw pretty hard… 🙃

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I think that Hope and Wade are lucky to have one another to bounce ideas off of, help ward off the “Joker” together, and encourage one another. There is certainly strength when multiple minds and wills are combined. I can see their energy and wish that I still had it. I am quite a bit older and so the Joker has already started plopping negative ideas into my mindset that I will need to overcome.  I question if I have the energy or creativity for what they may suggest. I am totally about a growth mindset, and I believe student engagement gets harder and harder each year, especially with so much focus on standardized testing. I hope to learn new ideas that brings a fresh approach to what I do.

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Hope and Wade's energy is clearly shown even in the way that they write this book. I am excited for the ability and the possibility to change, grow, and do something different. I am excited about teaching, but I want to learn how to show that more in my hs classroom.

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I love the idea of getting rid of the worksheet and writing on a frisbee. I am enjoying how they reference Ron Clark Academy many times on how the Teacher is the Wild Card. It all depends on what the teacher does to make the lessons engaging/come to life and students eagerness to come to school to see what is going to happen each day. I am excited to see what 7 steps are going to be.

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I am enjoying the book so far. I think that it is going to teach me techniques to go outside my comfort zone to reach students. As a teacher, it is easy to get caught in a rut, but in order for our students to achieve their best, we sometimes have to try new ways to reach them.

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