Principal's Suggestion Box #14

These letters are absolutely fictional (to protect the innocent and not-so-innocent.) But, with the hint of truth, maybe we can make some adjustments. Principals have the best chance to do that.
Dear Principal,

Since it is the beginning of the year, I wanted to share information I found over the summer.

Last year, we had ADD and ADHD kids who presented many classroom problems. I did some research and found we were using classroom discipline in the exact opposite way we are supposed to. According to the info, isolating the ADHD kids makes it worse for them, since they seek stimulation; modifying the activities of the class is better--for the ADHD kids and the others, too, actually, since a 'sedentary classroom' kind of runs down learning.

I recognize some names coming up on my roster that could use better interventions. Do I have permission to talk to the Behavior Specialist at the district? Maybe the teachers who have identified ADHD kids could collaborate on solutions.

Thanks,
Teacher Looking To Avoid Being Frazzled

ADDMagazine
http://www.additudemag.com/channel/adhd-learning-disabilities/index.html 

How ADHD Affects Learning

http://www.ncld.org/types-learning-disabilities/adhd-related-issues/adhd/how-adhd-affects-learning 

Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD/ADHD)
http://www.wrightslaw.com/info/add.index.htm 


My suggestion: Get expert advice when dealing with the attention deficit issues. Modifying your teaching style away from the sedentary will only benefit the entire class. Collaborate with other teachers and share strategies and successes. Behavior modification is always challenging. Collaborating can provide excellent solutions and support. An active mind is a terrible thing to waste.