Author: Erica De Los Santos

Erica De Los Santos is a Learning Experience Designer with a wide range of experiences in education. From her work in the Peace Corps, to helping teachers as a SEL and Cultural Proficiency and Inclusiveness Specialist, she has developed a deep understanding of pedagogical practices that help teachers to propel all students to academic success. When she’s not working on classroom applications, Erica enjoys running and works to develop inclusive environments for other runners.

Making Space for Juneteenth: Creative Ways to Celebrate and Educate

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Juneteenth, celebrated on June 19th, marks the end of slavery in the United States and commemorates the announcement of freedom to enslaved African Americans in Texas, two and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation was signed. It offers a profound opportunity to delve into the complexities of American history and the ongoing journey toward … read more »

Empowering Future Generations: Celebrating Families & Climate Action

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The best gift we can give to our children is a greener future. We don’t need to give them anything special. Bhuwan Thapaliya The future of our planet rests in the hands of the next generation. As educators, we have a unique opportunity to shape young minds and inspire them to become champions of environmental … read more »

Celebrating World Voice Day in the Classroom

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Have you heard of World Voice Day? On April 16, people around the globe celebrate the significance of our voices and the art of communication. As we approach World Voice Day, it’s an excellent opportunity to engage our students in conversations about the importance of vocal health and effective communication. This day, with its motto … read more »

Embracing Sustainability on World Water and Recycling Days

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The environment is where we all meet; where all have a mutual interest; it is the one thing all of us share. It is not only a mirror of ourselves, but a focusing lens on what we can become. Lady Bird Johnson Lady Bird Johnson’s wisdom reverberates as we near World Recycling Day on March … read more »

Igniting Curiosity: Stories and Resources for Celebrating Women and Girls in Science

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“If you know you are on the right track, if you have this inner knowledge, then nobody can turn you off… no matter what they say.”  Barbara McClintock, cytogeneticist and winner of the 1983 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine As we approach the International Day of Women and Girls in Science on February 11th, … read more »

Celebrating the Grand Canyon’s 105th Anniversary: Unleashing Nature’s Wonders in Your Classroom

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Did you know that on January 11th, 1919, the Grand Canyon achieved a historic milestone, transforming from a National Monument to a National Park? This pivotal transition showed a commitment to preserving and celebrating the canyon’s breathtaking beauty for generations to come. Another significance of this transition is that it embodies a higher level of … read more »

Building a Positive Classroom Culture: The Role of Effective Classroom Management

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“Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire.” William Butler Yeats This quote encompasses the essence of a classroom—a space not just for imparting knowledge but for igniting curiosity, fostering relationships, and nurturing growth. A positive classroom culture thrives only when a safe and inclusive space is cultivated. Effective … read more »

Celebrating National Parental Involvement Day: Strengthening the School-Home Connection

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National Parental Involvement Day is observed on the third Thursday in November; it’s a chance to celebrate the invaluable contributions of parents, grandparents, and other caregiver adults in your students’ lives. This day also provides an opportunity to build strong partnerships between schools, families, and communities, emphasizing collaboration and teamwork for the holistic development of … read more »

Celebrating Global Diversity Month

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“We are all different, which is great because we are all unique. Without diversity, life would be very boring.” – Catherine Pulsifer October is Global Diversity Month, a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the different types of cultures, backgrounds, and experiences that make up our school communities. As educators, we have an opportunity to foster an … read more »

Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month in the Classroom

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“The most valuable possession you can own is an open heart. The most powerful weapon you can be is an instrument of peace.” Carlos Santana These words resonate deeply as we approach Hispanic Heritage Month. It’s a time when we open our hearts to the richness of Hispanic culture. From September 15 to October 15, … read more »