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The Schoolyard Podcast Episode 9: Sensory Spaces, Not Just for Students

Sensory spaces are carefully crafted to create a multisensory experience that can help us relax, focus, or simply enjoy the moment. In this episode, host Nancy Chung interviews occupational therapist and School Specialty’s subject matter expert for Special Needs, Cecilia Cruse. We also welcome back School Specialty’s National Education Strategist, Dr. Sue Ann Highland. […]

Drumroll Please. The 2022 Crystal Apple Award Winners Are…

Incredible nominations describing amazing teachers poured in. Thousands of votes were cast. Now, the time has come to reveal the winners of the School Specialty Crystal Apple awards. The contest, in its 8th year, invites educators and school communities to nominate deserving teachers who embody key contest criteria of inspiration, leadership and passion. This […]

2021 School Specialty Crystal Apple Award Winners

For the last 7 years, School Specialty has invited educators and families to nominate deserving teachers for the Crystal Apple Award. This year’s entries were especially impressive—we heard about so many teachers who went above and beyond in a challenging year to demonstrate inspiration, perseverance and passion in incredible ways. We selected 10 finalists […]

2020 School Specialty Crystal Apple Award Winners

Teachers and their students work hard to grow and learn together every year. That’s what inspired us to create the Crystal Apple award. It’s our chance to recognize and reward all the transformational efforts teachers and their classrooms make. This year, at a time when we see teachers and classrooms coming together in innovative […]

Fun and Funny End of the School Year Classroom Awards

Like many teachers, you probably work hard to engage students with humor to hold their attention. A fun way to cap this off with each class is by presenting humorous classroom awards at the end of the school year. But sometimes, what was meant as a joke can hurt the feelings of students and parents. […]

The Schoolyard Podcast Episode 10: Let’s Talk About Burnout and Staff Shortages

The teacher shortage problem across the nation is indeed a pressing issue. Many schools struggle to find qualified teachers, leading to large class sizes and increased workloads for existing teachers. This, in turn, contributes to teacher burnout. In this episode, host Nancy Chung interviews Dr. Richard Warren Jr., an award-winning educator, professor, and renowned […]

Teacher Appreciation Gifts Teachers Will Love

Teacher Appreciation Week falls on the first full week in May. Teacher appreciation gifts are the perfect way to show your teacher, child’s teacher, or fellow teacher how much they mean to you. Shine a spotlight on some hardworking teachers by giving them a thoughtful gift or kind note during this special week. 5 Starter […]

4 Volunteer Appreciation Ideas That Help Attract More Volunteers

What’s better than a happy, appreciated volunteer? More volunteers! In preparation for Volunteer Appreciation Week, here are some great ideas that will help you show your appreciation for your school’s volunteers. Publicize volunteer stories Volunteers positively affect the lives of your students every day. More of those stories need to be told. Reserve a […]