Question:
Dear Guidance Counselor,
I am a 5th grade teacher who is having a difficult time with classroom management this year--with one challenging student in particular .  He is consistently trying to be the center of attention, and as a result, I spend most of my time redirecting him instead of teaching.  It seems that incentives are the best way to get him to buckle down and focus, but can you give me any ideas beyond earning candy, stickers and pencils.  I appreciate your thoughts.  Thanks much, Melissa

[...]

Question:
Dear Teacher,

I was just hired at a "green school" as a 2nd grade teacher. While I am excited about the job and being part of a school that is eco-friendly, I'm embarrassed to say that none of my teaching jobs have been in a green school and I am not very experienced in the being green department. I want to make a good impression at my new school and am looking for any ideas on how to  [...]

Question:
Dear Teacher,

I earned my bachelor's degree in teaching about 9 months ago, but none of the teaching jobs I interviewed for worked out. I was only able to find part-time work this year, making things very difficult. I am attending my first teaching job fair in a few weeks and was hoping you could offer some tips, as this will be my first. I want to do everything I can to secure a teaching job for the fall and appreciate any help you can offer.

Than [...]

Question:
Dear Guidance Counselor-
Do you thinking building a portfolio for a teaching career is important? I have heard mixed opinions on the subject and just wondered if you think a portfolio can be a valuable tool to bring on teaching job interviews? Thanks so much!  Becky

Answer:
Dear Becky-
I appreciate your question and I am sure that many educators searching for [...]