teacher tips

A group of students in an inclusive classroom are working together on the same tablet screen.

Creating An Inclusive Classroom Community

It sounds crazy, but current research shows that students’ academic achievements improve when social-emotional learning practices are infused throughout the school day. For example, when educators cultivate a positive and inclusive classroom environment, in which all students feel a sense of belonging and appreciation, this leads to positive outcomes around their motivation, self-efficacy, and engagement. …

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Community Spotlight: Lynette Richau

This month, we’re featuring Lynette Richau, an elementary school educator of the deaf and hard of hearing. Lynette is active member of the Empatico community, and has been an Empatico Kindness Champion as well as a participant in the Empathy Across the USA: Race and Identity program. Read on to learn more about Lynette!

students in backpacks

What’s new at Empatico!

Whether you have just signed up or are on your 20th exchange, we hope you check out and enjoy what’s new on the platform!

student with headphones

Friendships beyond the classroom

The chaos of the morning begins. It’s 8:30. Students are arriving and beginning to unpack. As I’m walking around the room checking on students, making sure agendas are filled in and lunch count is taken, students are swarming me like flies with questions. The one question I hear over and over again is, “Are we …

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students engaged

Finding the ‘path’ in empathy: Navigating student mental health with compassion, connection, and virtual exchange

“His palms are sweaty, knees weak, arms are heavy.”   These famous words from rapper Eminem have played over my car radio more than a couple of times in the past seventeen years since their release. But lately, I can’t help but think about how the feelings described in these lyrics plague more and more …

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students and map

How to incorporate reflection exercises in your lessons

Reflection is a necessary, but sometimes overlooked, part of learning. It allows students and teachers to process experiences, refine their thinking, and deepen understanding. Reflection can take a variety of formats from journal writing, to individual student reflection, to group discussion. But one of the most effective and engaging ways to incorporate reflection exercises into …

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Kathi and Kristin

Six steps to become an Empatico district: Part 2

Our administration is elated that a donation of this magnitude has provided our district with the gift of global connectedness. At this point, most of our teachers have signed up for Empatico, most have received the professional development they need to feel confident using the platform, and many have already completed a first connection […]

exchange selfie

Using technology in the classroom to make global connections

Using technology in the classroom to make global connections can benefit students in a variety of ways from improving learning through fun and engaging experiences to increasing student confidence in the use of technology tools. Although integrating technology in the classrooms can often be a great way to engage students and build their communication skills, …

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