Caston Binger

" Having the ability to communicate is one key factor in being an effective building leader.  Especially today, when communication channels are rapidly increasing and the need for connectivity between the principal and their school community is in high demand." - Caston Binger Effective communication by a principal is a definitive cornerstone to a school’s success.   The principal's position requires one to write often and effectively.  Being responsible for communicating with all constituents demands a principal to present clear and concise messaging.  Using various channels of communication allows a leader to increase the likelihood that the school community will have access to pertinent information. There are various methods I would use to connect with all stakeholders. As principal, I’ll always use public meetings and events as opportunities to communicate with the school, the community and political entities.  These opportunities would also allow...

Parent involvement in education correlates with higher academic performance and school improvement. “When schools and families work together to support learning, students tend to earn higher grades, attend school more regularly, stay in school longer, and enroll in higher level programs” - Caston Binger For these reasons, it is critical for the building leader to engage families to involve them in the educational process. To do so, I would approach the situation in a variety of ways: Welcome family members to the school: Post welcoming signs in hallways that direct families to a staff member who will make sure their needs are met.   Invite family members to eat lunch with their children.   Invite family members to visit their children’s classrooms during instructional time when a new concept or resource is introduced so that they can experience what the children are doing firsthand.   Have staff personally distribute leaflets in the community concerning sch...

  Responding to the level of diversity in schools is more important than ever. But all too often, our education system reinforces the same inequalities it was designed to overcome. Collectively, the school community is responsible for promoting equity to help remove barriers so all students can succeed. When students in need have equitable access to resources, the entire school community thrives. - Caston Binger Below are several implementation strategies I would incorporate to support equitable access for our students. Be flexible with online learning Remote and hybrid learning have dramatically highlighted existing inequalities among students when it comes to internet access, food security, family situations and more.  Working with families to meet individual needs is essential. Being flexible can make a world of difference in creating an equitable learning environment. Whether students are looking after younger siblings so parents can work, working at a part-time job or un...

  Caston Binger Examines Technology’s Impact On Students Learning From Home Technology continues to impact the way students learn. The COVID-19 pandemic has put a spotlight on learning from home and how it impacts students’ education. Having technology devices and an internet connection allows students to access instructional resources with the click of a button. Caston Binger has been an elementary school teacher for more than 15 years and has seen an enormous change in the ways children can learn. Distance Learning vs. Home Schooling New technology has helped students of all ages learn from home. Many people assume that education completed from the home or another remote area is the same as homeschooling. While the location may be the same, the curriculum and credentials necessary to teach are frequently different. Virtual learning or distance learning is usually managed through an accredited school. Students are taught by a certified teacher such as  Caston Binger...

Caston Binger Discusses How Teachers Make The Most Out Of Additional Resources How To Choose Instructional Resources Instructional resources are necessary for retaining information regardless of a student’s age. Choosing the right resources to incorporate both in and outside the classroom helps engage students in the learning process. There are several components to choosing effective instructional resources. The Takeaway Message Simply choosing resources on the basis of topic is not usually enough. Focusing on the key message a student should consider is a much more effective way to start a dialogue. By identifying the issue and the questions surrounding it, a teacher can understand how to proceed. For in-person or video instruction, a dialogue will help students engage in the learning process. Depending on the state, certain materials may need to be approved before teaching. Selecting a multimedia approach rather than lecturing can often make a difference. Incorporating...