Pam Stafford

[Aaron Crossley @aaroncrossley]

Yesterday, I took a moment to honor the life and service of former state representative Ira Anders. Ira was a dedicated educator and public servant who gave so much to Independence. His legacy of service lives on in the community he loved. #moleg

[Pam Stafford @staffordwcss]

A6: There are three: Asking better questions, Increasing emotional connections, & Controlling emotions. The first two I have started trying to implement recently. The 3rd is something I have actually been practicing more over the last three years. #ISDBears23

[Pam Stafford @staffordwcss]

A5: Reliability & Character are two factors I think you need when having those tough conversations. They set the foundation for trust, which is key to having a valuable & beneficial conversation & aid in bringing some form of resolution. #ISDBears23

[Pam Stafford @staffordwcss]

@cristinnowak @BrettPlayter I agree, I think modeling & creating opportunity for these types of conversation would be key. Maybe build up to it in stages. #ISDBears23

[Pam Stafford @staffordwcss]

A3: I believe teaching the methods to our students will help the be stronger at sharing ideas without fear of negative pushback. In turn they will become confident conversationists in their own right. #ISDBears23

[Pam Stafford @staffordwcss]

A4: In the book they mention several characteristics. Reliability and competence sets the foundation. Warmth seals the deal in providing a safe environment, especially in those tough conversations #ISDBears23

[Pam Stafford @staffordwcss]

@BrettPlayter I totally agree with your statement. People won't open up and share if they can't feel that they are in a safe environment. #ISDBears23

[Pam Stafford @staffordwcss]

A2: I use interruption a lot, it allows a reset and redirect quickly before to much is said. It is hard to consider "silence", but as I read I realize I also employ the silence method. #ISDBears23

[Pam Stafford @staffordwcss]

@cristinnowak I agree, I think the balcony has been my favorite because I can visualize myself looking into a conversation & evaluate what would be the best direction. #ISDBears23

[Pam Stafford @staffordwcss]

A1: It is another way to take a mental break, to step away for a second and calibrate your timing & response, while making a conversation continue towards the negative. I like how in the book he references the balcony. #ISDBears23

[Pam Stafford @staffordwcss]

@cristinnowak Pam Stafford, Chrisman H.S. A few of my friends and I were having a "bad" day & we were in need of redirection. When one of us chose to start share what he saw as a strong trait in teaching he saw in each of us. By the end of lunch we had all shared.

[Pam Stafford @staffordwcss]

@cristinnowak Many SS like to draw/doodle. I find that is also a good entry point. #ISDBears23

[Pam Stafford @staffordwcss]

A6: This question hit close to home...a few years ago, many of my conversations tended to lend towards avoidance/toxic. Post COVID I have seek common denominators, building on common interests...leading to has led to more positive connections. #ISDBears23

[Pam Stafford @staffordwcss]

A5: Interest/activities/experiences are my typical go to when having to make connections & set a common ground. It also forces me to listen & not interrupt as I seek the connecting piece. #ISDBears23

[Pam Stafford @staffordwcss]

A4: I have always struggled w/ how to provide sincere praise. I always felt that I come up short, but the example helps put into perspective that tone/body language & focus is what is important in the message. #ISDBears23

[Pam Stafford @staffordwcss]

@NetzerGreg I agree. It can be difficult because it forces us to step back from our own bubble & acknowledge. For some reason I think this is becoming more difficult for individuals in today's busy world. #ISDBears23

[Pam Stafford @staffordwcss]

A3: I need to check in w/my fellow teachers more & be more intentional w/students body language & focus. As I my engagement w/ the class is just as important as their engagement. #ISDBears23

[Pam Stafford @staffordwcss]

@cristinnowak It has laid a good foundation of trust & is a good example of positive connection. #ISDBears23

[Pam Stafford @staffordwcss]

@cristinnowak It isn't easy in our busy world, but those speaking do notice & appreciate the effort. I have been making a intentional effort for the last few years when students seek my attention. #ISDBears23

[Pam Stafford @staffordwcss]

A2: Turning toward is a practice I have trained myself to do over the last few years. I pause what I am doing & look to the person speaking. My student have recognized this & have voice appreciation in the past. #ISDBears23