With the new academic year either already started or soon to begin, the excitement in the air in starting a new year, virtually different (see what I did there?) from the last one, is palpable. But there’s also uncertainty in the environment, from teacher anxiety to student uncertainty. There’s a lot to return to but also a lot through which to navigate.

Starting with the essential, this blog never intends on pontificating but instead providing immediate ideas, resources and strategies to support administrators and teachers who have a desire to become the best version of themselves, for the benefit of their students.

Wondering what you should see out of the start gate?

Let’s begin …

Pronunciation of Names
A name is deeply important to humans. It is a critical way of understanding not just one another, but the world around us. Surnames give us roots in history and family tradition, but first names establish our identities and personalities. Names have power. Names have significance.
Make sure everyone knows how to pronounce students’ names. This includes teachers, paraprofessionals, specialists, nurses, secretaries, lunch ladies, etc.
Use Google Translate and select the student’s language on the left side, in this case, Spanish.

Google Translate helps with name pronunciation.

Type the name and you can see the translation in English, for your own knowledge.

Below the student’s name, on the left side, you will see an icon of a speaker. Clicking on this speaker will give you an accurate pronunciation.

Special Note: Please use accents if student’s name contains one. An easy way to insert them is to hold down the ALT key and simultaneously type the following series of numbers (on the number pad) to include the letter and accent.

Please also ask students how to pronounce their names and how they wish to be called. Several cultures have given names (legal) but prefer to be called by another names.

It’s All About to Begin…The Top 5