I have always been intentional about Universal Design for Learning (UDL), offering students multiple ways to engage with material. When I added emojis to a goal-setting worksheet, I thought they were just a fun visual. Five students interacted with them in different ways, revealing an unexpected way to make learning more accessible. That moment reshaped how I approach lesson design, proving that small changes can make a big impact.
Tag: Learning
Four Years of Thoughts Cost: A Journey from One Student to Statewide Impact
Tomorrow marks four years since Thoughts Cost began with one student and a mission to create meaningful change during the uncertainty of the pandemic. From humble beginnings with no plan or income, we have grown into a movement that builds programs, develops EdTech tools, and secures state-level contracts to empower students, families, and educators. This journey has been defined by resilience, creativity, and a commitment to equity and inclusion.
Celebrating Gerald Rhoden: Winner of the Thoughts Cost Teacher of the Year Award
Gerald Rhoden, a dedicated second-grade teacher at Mark Twain Elementary in Federal Way, WA, has been named the Thoughts Cost Teacher of the Year. Gerald's innovative teaching methods and deep community engagement have made a significant impact on his students and the broader school community.
Teacher Feature – Grace Kim: Championing Inclusive Education
Grace Kim, an early childhood educator at Lea Hill Elementary, champions inclusive education for preschoolers. Inspired by a deep-rooted desire to advocate for those without a voice, she has significantly impacted her students' lives through innovative teaching and a commitment to community engagement. Celebrate Grace's dedication to creating a more inclusive and supportive learning environment for all.
Teacher Feature – Ryland Brown: A Legacy of Learning and Empowerment
Each educator highlighted in our Teacher Feature series is also a nominee for the Thoughts Cost Teacher of the Year Award, celebrating their exceptional impact, innovative teaching, and dedication to education. This nomination underscores our appreciation for their significant contributions to shaping bright futures.
Spotlight on Excellence – Celebrating Ibijoke Idowu-Holiday’s Impactful Journey in Education
Ibijoke Idowu-Holiday's journey from a young tutor to a special education teacher in Seattle Public Schools showcases her unwavering dedication to equitable education. Her innovative use of assistive technology and commitment to family and community involvement highlight her approach to inclusive learning. Ibijoke's advocacy for high expectations and equitable opportunities for all students, especially those marginalized, underlines the transformative power of education. Her story is a beacon of inspiration, urging us to support and celebrate the profound impact of dedicated educators.
Celebrating Educational Excellence with Darius Page
In this week's spotlight, we delve into the inspiring journey of Darius Page, a middle-level math teacher from the Tukwila School District, whose dedication to education transcends the conventional classroom boundaries. Darius's story is not just about teaching math; it's about igniting change, fostering financial literacy, and building a brighter future for students in low-income communities.
Social-Emotional Gems found in tv shows
Pay attention to what your kids watch. A supporting question or a story related to a topic covered on the show can turn a good entertaining episode into a lesson your child can use for life.








