
CATCH a Spark – December 2021
Gifting books opens the door to creativity, imagination and wonder.
Jaime Patterson is the Director of Content for The Institute. She understands educators need practical, time-saving ideas for bringing creativity into their classroom. These articles offer resources on the top issues facing educators today.
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Gifting books opens the door to creativity, imagination and wonder.

We all wish things were different right now. What better way to start than to spread small moments of hope with this kindness activity?

With SEL becoming a bigger focus for schools, mindfulness in the classroom is taking a front seat.

November is the perfect month to find rich, powerful books that will help your students with reflection through meaningful conversations.

Need some calming activities for your classroom that lessen behaviors, engage students and incorporate the arts?

Poor preparation will lead to ineffective teaching and the inability to meet the needs of the classroom.

October is a month of magic and mystery… and what reader doesn’t love those two elements?


Hands-on assessment activities offer students an opportunity to show what they know.


The theatre is a place where we tell stories and where we connect so this month’s Sparks all celebrate the magic of Broadway and the performing arts.

Use these math and dance icebreaker activities to bring more student engagement, community building, and excitement to the beginning of the school year.
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