Blog | Jewel's School Gems by Jewel Pastor

June 13, 2019

10 MATH AND SCIENCE ACTIVITIES TO PREVENT THE SUMMER SLIDE

What exactly does the term “summer slide” mean? Unfortunately, it’s not a playground equipment that you can buy for your students’ or own kids’ enjoyment during summer. Summer slide actually refers to the loss of academic skills – especially math and literacy skills – that occurs during summer break. We hear again and again how kids are encouraged to read…
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May 29, 2019

HOW TO EASILY FIT IN STEM AND NOT LEAVE ANYTHING ELSE OUT

Several years ago, when STEM became official at my school, my first thought was how would I find time to do another thing. Our days are chock-full of required subject minutes, pacing guides to follow, test prep and testing itself. Teachers were already performing a juggling act and now I have to fit in STEM, too. Truth be told, I love science…
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May 12, 2019

5 STEM MYTHS EVERYBODY REALLY SHOULD IGNORE AND WHY

I have a confession to make. I’ve never heard of STEM until 2017. I know, I know. You’re probably shaking your head and thinking Jewel has been hiding under a rock for the longest time. Well, that was in the past — thanks to my innovative ex-principal who believed in me even though I was mostly clueless at the start…
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April 28, 2019

THE BEGINNER’S GUIDE FOR THE CLUELESS STEM TEACHER: Three Super Simple Frugal Ways to Get STEM Supplies

A few years ago, when my friend first got word that her school would be embracing STEM, not everyone was pleased. Like many of you, she didn’t get much instruction or training, only that now they were supposed to “do it”. She and a colleague decided their best bet was to find something pre-packaged and quickly came across a picture…
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April 26, 2019

FREE STEM ACTIVITY, ANYONE?

Are you trying out STEM activities for the first time? Or are you just looking for a STEM challenge that can be done during any time of the year? Well, here’s a free STEM activity that you might want to try with your students today. WHAT IS THIS FREE STEM ACTIVITY ALL ABOUT? This Bird Feeder FREE STEM Activity is perfect for…
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April 26, 2019

STEM: NOT JUST ANOTHER CRAFTIVITY

Hello, Friends! By now your classroom is decorated, you have gotten to know your students, most routines are in place, and you have become familiar with that new math or reading curriculum. But what about STEM? Are you comfortable with it? Do you feel excited when implementing STEM lessons or does it feel like one more thing has been added…
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