D'Andre M. Sims

Instructional Coach

[D'Andre M. Sims @D_M_Sims]

As a school leader, give yourself time to view an issue from multiple angles before deciding on the best course of action.

#EDLR5402

[D'Andre M. Sims @D_M_Sims]

Had the opportunity to view and participate in a fishbowl last night. It was one of the most candid discussions on racial inequality in the school system I've been apart of.

#EDLR5402

[D'Andre M. Sims @D_M_Sims]

Based on a study of principals with 5+ years of experience, collaborative peer-network learning is one of the most powerful professional learning strategies.
https://t.co/mwSlT5J360

#EDLR5402

[D'Andre M. Sims @D_M_Sims]

In order to have genuine conversations around the topic of social justice, the participants need to open, honest, and willng to be vulnerable to share their authentic experiences.
#EDLR5402

[D'Andre M. Sims @D_M_Sims]

Discussion on social justice:
Things don't change because those in power don't want them to change - @LakeMislal

It's very difficult to give up power with no personal benefit.
#EDLR5402

[D'Andre M. Sims @D_M_Sims]

When in leadership positions we have to continue to search for professional learning opportunities to evolve with globalized education.
#EDLR5402

[D'Andre M. Sims @D_M_Sims]

When listening to others experiences don't try to devalue them with anecdotal evidence to the contrary. A lived experience is a truth.
#EDLR5402

[D'Andre M. Sims @D_M_Sims]

When implementing social justice and equity training, districts need to vet professional learning curriculum from consultants and vendors to make sure they are not superficial diversity activities branded as racial equity

[D'Andre M. Sims @D_M_Sims]

When approaching DEI professional learning it's not the burden of Black teachers to expain how systematic racism, prejudices, micro aggressions, and other topics to their white counterparts.
#EDLR5402

[D'Andre M. Sims @D_M_Sims]

Racial PD that caters to make white teahers feel good about themselves are promoting watered down version of multiculturalism - J. Grinage
True diversity PD should and will elicit strong feelings from attendees.
#EDLR5402

[Kelly Allen @kellyreneeallen]

“There are limitations to the current structures in schools because they cannot capture the complexities of hip hop.”
How are we supporting the complexities of our students in the classroom? @chrisemdin #HipHopEd

[D'Andre M. Sims @D_M_Sims]

"There's a difference between a calling and a job."@larrydlewis2424
15 years ago I changed careers from fiber optics telecommunications to high school math teacher. It was one of the best decisions I ever made.

#EDLR5402

[D'Andre M. Sims @D_M_Sims]

When creating change, all stakeholders need a voice in the direction.
#EDLR5402

[D'Andre M. Sims @D_M_Sims]

Discussing an article from @jimknight99 for my #EDLR5402 class, came across this quote,"Perception is reality." Teachers are likely to resist change if they perceive they are under attack from change leaders.

[D'Andre M. Sims @D_M_Sims]

Over multiple classes, readings, lectures, and guest speakers, my analysis is that conducive teacher professional learning comes from trust, collaboration, choice, and time.

#EDLR5402

[D'Andre M. Sims @D_M_Sims]

We need to leverage teacher expertise in school based professional learning.
#EDLR5402

[D'Andre M. Sims @D_M_Sims]

There is no one right to approach professional learning. The most effective approaches are personalized and meet teachers where they are and address their individual needs.
#edlr5402

[D'Andre M. Sims @D_M_Sims]

Too often, professional learning sessions plod through a series of strategies and leave participants with a list of tools they never have an opportunity to fully experience or use. - @thelearningloop
A teacher toolbox where you don't have a chance to use the tools.
#EDLR5402

[D'Andre M. Sims @D_M_Sims]

No matter how well a facilitator plans a professional learning experience, there will be low engagement if teachers' don't feel that the PDL relates to their learning needs.
#EDLR5402

[D'Andre M. Sims @D_M_Sims]

Facilitator credentials have a big effect on teachers' willingness to fully engage in Professional Learning. Teachers would rather learn from someone who shares their experiences than a facilitator who's never taught in the classroom.

#EDLR5402