With Bloomz you have the technology to create a warm welcome to your class with a video introduction. A personal and powerful first impression can be long-lasting. Teachers know that before we even start teaching our students will have already made some decisions about us. You can set the tone for the upcoming school year by doing something that will stand out and make your students say, "I have the best teacher this year!"

If you aren't sure where to start reflect on what overall message your school is starting the year with. How can you bring that bigger message into your classroom? For example, at my first day back to work we talked about having a growth mind set at our teacher meetings. One pre-school teacher said that he promoted a growth mind set in his class last year and whenever a student said "I can't do this" the whole class responded, "YET!" To imagine pre-school children encouraging each other to have a growth mind set is amazing. This was the message I wanted to start my year off with. Because I play guitar and sing with my class I thought it would be welcoming to post a back-to-school song as my introduction. This will give parents a sense of who I am and make my students smile. What talents or interests do you have that you can share with your class in a welcoming message?

I posted this one day ago and already received one complimentary email and four parent comments on Bloomz!

Some say students learn more from the hidden curriculum, not the lesson you set out to explicitly teach but what is learned just by witnessing you being you. The clothes you wear, how you interact with others, your hobbies, the way you move around the room etc. Some things to think about in your video post are your attire and the physical environment. A formal attire communicates expertise and a less formal attire communicates approachability. As far as the physical environment something eye-catching or specific to your teaching style will show what kind of class yours will be.

Have a growth mind set when it comes to technology and upload a video introduction to your class this year. If you share your creative side and take a risk you'll model the behavior you wish to see from your students. Don't be afraid to put yourself on the line and show students you aren't afraid of making mistakes or trying something new. Putting forth this effort now will positively effect your communications with parents and students for the rest of the year.

If you are interested in viewing my video introduction click here. Please post your ideas for a creative introduction video in the comments below.