Sandra
Wozniak


Sandra Wozniak recently retired from teaching after 33 years at the Mt. Olive Middle School in New Jersey. There, she developed and implemented coursework integrating critical thinking and technology. Sandra currently works with schools throughout the United States helping students learn how to think, not what to think. In 2010, she was honored as NJ Middle Level Educator of the Year.

Articles by Sandra

Tech Links Build Better Global Citizens

Thanks to technology, the world is virtually at our fingertips. Global awareness has new meaning for the teachers. According to the Partnership for 21st Century Skills, our students need to go beyond understanding global issues and be able to learn from and work with “individuals representing diverse cultures, religions and lifestyles in a spirit of mutual respect and open dialogue in personal, work and community contexts.” Using the “new and improved” nonfiction books on the market today is one way to get our students to this understanding.

‘Tis Always the Season

Somewhere around Thanksgiving, we’re bombarded with the commercial celebration of the holidays. Schools are no exception, and the hype is difficult to ignore. Is this a great time for our students to study the holidays celebrated throughout the globe?

Training for Arguments in the Classroom

Parents might think the last thing their child needs is more experience arguing. Teachers might agree. But I’d like to advocate for practicing arguing. Our democracy depends on it. It’s important we teach our children how to deal appropriately with different points of view.

Digital Discussions Get All Kids in the Conversation

Classroom discussions are usually dominated by a few “alpha” students eager to participate. We can all envision those students. Hands stretched high, fingers waving, literally or figuratively saying, “Ooh, pick me, pick me.” But how do you get that student who is desperately trying not to make eye contact with you—or anyone else in the classroom—involved in the conversation?