Ideas for educators.
From educators.

AI in the Classroom: What Teachers Really Need from PD

Districts may have AI policies, but teachers need hands-on training to confidently and responsibly use AI in the classrooms.

5 Mistakes School Districts Make With AI Implementation

Avoid the top 5 AI implementation mistakes in schools. Learn how to bridge policy and practice with clear strategy and educator support.

AI Policy Isn’t Enough: Turn Guidelines into Classroom Practice

Explore why educators need more than AI guidance to use AI impactfully in their classrooms. Learn how to make the most of AI tools.

The State Of AI: How To Maximize The Benefits Of AI In Education

Learn how the benefits of AI in education are transforming teaching, enhancing learning, and supporting educators with new tools and training.

Transformative AI: Preparing Educators for the Future of Learning

AI has the potential to bring about far-reaching and systemic changes to education. A transformative AI revolution is coming. Are you Ready?

Artificial Intelligence in Education: AI Professional Development for Teachers

Discover how AI professional development for teachers empowers educators to integrate AI tools, personalize learning, and improve classroom outcomes.

The 3 Best AI Prompts for Teachers

AI prompts for teachers should complement the educator's expertise, not replace it. Learn how to create effective AI prompts for your classroom.

Technological Integration, Mindfulness, and Education: How to Empower Teachers

Discover how mindful technological integration, especially AI, can help teachers save time, reduce burnout, and personalize learning. Learn practical strategies to support educators and empower students.

Rethinking Teacher Burnout: How Human-Centered AI Can Restore Balance in Education

Discover how AI can help prevent teacher burnout by reducing workloads, easing stress, and supporting educator well-being in today’s classrooms.

Why Relationship-First Support Matters in Virtual Teaching

Discover how virtual teaching, supported by AI, helps educators streamline workloads, personalize instruction, and build more sustainable, engaging classrooms.

Nurturing Informed Agency: How to Impart Digital Responsibility

Understand digital responsibility and discover strategies for fostering digital citizenship.

Eliminate Summer Break: Time in School and Academic Competitiveness

This blog explores how extending time in school, when used effectively, can help close achievement gaps and prepare students for a competitive world.

Why Tech Policies Should Start with People: An Ethical Dilemma

This blog explores the ethical dilemmas of using technology. Learn how ethics, digital literacy, and inclusion support responsible tech use in schools.

Global Awareness in a Digital World: Education and Global Context

Explore the importance of global awareness in education and discover strategies for incorporating cultural competence into your curriculum.

Emotional Safety in Distance Learning: Why Connection Comes First

Discover why emotional safety is crucial for student success and learn practical ways to foster healthy online classrooms.

The Global Soundtrack: Enhancing Online Learning with Music Listening

Dr. Giuliana Conti, Director of Professional Development at Music Workshop, shares insights on how to empower students in virtual schools through music.

Teaching with Heart: Reflective Practices that Empower Every Student

Unlock the benefits of reflective practices in education. Foster teacher identity and student success through intentional reflection.

The Digital Commons: The Third Place in Virtual Education

In our latest blog, we explore how virtual schools can create meaningful “third places” online—spaces where students connect, belong, and grow beyond academics. Learn why these digital commons matter and how thoughtful design can turn online classrooms into vibrant communities.

Appropriate Pace: How to Give Students Control Without Sacrificing Support

Discover how finding the appropriate pace for each student while providing individualized teacher support, leads to better academic outcomes.

Intentional Teaching: Elevating Engagement and Igniting Inquiry

Discover how intentional teaching strategies help educators maximize time, build student skills, and spark deeper learning in the classroom.

The Inspired Student: Technology in Music Education

From AI-assisted composition to virtual collaboration, technology in music education makes it more accessible, interactive, and flexible.

Beyond Automation: Exploring the Powerful Intersection of AI and Creativity

Can AI and creativity coexist in the classroom? Discover how AI tools can aid or hinder student creativity and critical thinking.

Motivation for Students: 6 Powerful Strategies to Inspire Success

Explore how building relationships and fostering curiosity can drive motivation for students, leading to higher achievement and fulfillment.

Teacher Retention: How to Limit Teacher Turnover in Online Schools

Explore actionable steps to improve teacher retention and ensure a stable and motivated team dedicated to education.

Beyond the Screen: How to Build Meaningful Relationships in Online Learning

Build meaningful relationships in online learning with strategies for engagement and connection in virtual classrooms.

Rethinking Education: The Transformative Power of Learning Cities

Rethinking education with learning cities: Where every corner of the city becomes a classroom for all ages.

Why Culture Comes First in Virtual School

Exploring how a strong culture supports academic success in virtual schools.

Mindfulness and Technology in Education: 4 Tips To Integrate Mindfulness

Enhance your teaching approach by combining mindfulness and technology, fostering emotional growth and digital wellness.

Pioneering the Path: The Long Journey of Distance Learning

Explore the evolution and future of distance learning, a flexible approach connecting students globally through technology.

Teaching Learning for Strong Students Global Competence and Online Learning

Explore how global competence in online learning fosters cultural awareness and prepares students for a globalized world.

Global Citizenship in K-12 Classrooms: A Guide for Educators

Explore global citizenship and how it empowers students to thrive in a diverse world through empathy and critical thinking.

Navigating Academic Challenges with Empathy and Mindful Strategies

Unlock student success by addressing executive functioning to tackle academic challenges and build lifelong skills.

The Flow State and Education: Deep Focus, Engagement, and Productivity

Discover how deep focus and flow can transform learning, enhancing motivation and engagement in both physical and digital classrooms.

Executive Function in Online Education: How to Empower Students

Uncover the role of executive function in online education and learn effective techniques to support learners.

Increasing Student Engagement: 6 Powerful Ways to Inspire Virtual Learning

This topic addresses the importance of creating a positive, organized classroom environment for increasing student engagement and participation.

Culturally Responsive Teaching: 8 Ways to Foster Connections with Students

This post explores the advantages of adopting culturally responsive teaching practices, highlighting its positive impact on student learning and classroom dynamics.

How Virtual Events Overcome Isolation in Online Schools

Online learning offers flexibility and convenience but can sometimes leave students feeling disconnected. Virtual events provide a powerful solution by fostering social interaction, building community, and reducing feelings of isolation in online schools.

Teacher Self-Care: 5 Powerful Tips to Recharge and Elevate Your Classroom

10 Unique Benefits of Synchronous Online Learning

Teaching Cognitive Skills: 7 Balanced Ways to Unlock Student Thinking

Enhance student cognitive skills with practical applications and global problem-solving techniques.

Using an AI Essay Writer Ethically: The Value and the Concern

Investigate the role of AI essay writers in modern education. Are they enhancing student skills or hindering literacy development?

Metacognition in Education: Encouraging Students to Think About Thinking

Learn how metacognition in education empowers students to think critically and improve their learning outcomes.

Personalized Online Learning: How Virtual Schools Unlock Student Potential

Explore the future of education with virtual schools, offering personalized online learning and flexibility beyond traditional classrooms.

Trouble with Tech: 11 Problems with AI in Education

Explore the real problems with AI in education and discover solutions to overcome these challenges in the classroom.

Podcasts in Education: Technology for Enhancing Learning

Digital media is an excellent way to increase engagement, accessibility, and collaboration in the classrooms. Explore how to use podcasts in education.

What is the Impact of Technology on Education?

Technology is changing the way students interact with educational information. Explore the impact of technology in education and examine the benefits of virtual programs in making educational resources more accessible.

What Is Student-Centered Learning? How Educators Put Their Students First

Student-centered learning (SCL) is an educational practice that encourages learning autonomy in education. SCL has had positive results.

The Importance of Family Engagement and How Technology Can Help

Leveraging digital tools, educators can create a supportive environment that encourages family engagement in education, ultimately improving student outcomes.

Understanding AI Accessibility: 5 Applications of Equity AI Tools in Education of AI in Education

Explore the practical application of AI accessibility and how to make education technology equitable for students regardless of their learning needs.

When to Use Tech? Professional Development and Integrating Technology in Education

As integrating technology in education becomes more common, digital professional development needs to increase significantly.

Generative AI in Education: Is this Technology a Friend or Foe?

Explore the pros and cons of generative AI in education, focusing on how it can both enhance and challenge traditional teaching methods.

Systems Thinking in Education: A Mindful Approach to Curriculum Design

Is it time to change the way we think about our education system? Systems learning in education may foster a brighter future for our students and educators.

Multiple Means of Engagement: 5 Ways Technology Can Help Students Show What They Know

Multiple means of engagement address the ‘why’ of learning, focusing on students’ motivation and interest. Learn how to use it in your classroom.

The Future of Virtual Learning: Integrating AI in Education

Artificial Intelligence is revolutionizing education by offering personalized learning experiences, enhancing teacher capabilities, and providing data-driven insights. This article explores the impact of AI in classrooms.

The Paradox of Slow Change for Fast Progress in Education

Discover how slow change can lead to fast progress in education. Explore the benefits, research insights, and case studies demonstrating sustainable improvements through deliberate, thoughtful adjustments.

AI in Education: Beyond Technology, a Catalyst for Cultural Transformation

Explore how AI is reshaping education—not just as a tech tool but as a cultural catalyst. Discover strategies for leaders to embrace AI and enhance learning, with insights on overcoming challenges and maximizing opportunities.

From Chalkboards to AI: The Evolution of Educational Tools

Explore practical strategies for navigating the digital shift in K-12 education. Delve into foundational conditions, evidence-based instructional practices, and future perspectives to understand AI as an educational tool.

Disruptive Technologies in the Classroom

Learn about the transformative impact of technological advancements in education.

Navigating the Digital Shift: Strategies for Effective Online Learning in K-12 Education

Refreshing Minds and Energizing Learning: The Power of Brain Breaks in Education

From Shipwrecks to Screen Time: The Double-Edged Sword of Progress

Teachers, Hack Your Time!

Free Webinar with USDLA - Tech + SEL = Digital Citizenship

The Importance of Digital Citizenship

Explore why digital citizenship is crucial in today's tech-driven world and how it prepares students for a safer digital future.

Prepare for Digital Citizenship Week

Banyan Wins Pinnacle Award for Outstanding Programming

10 Reasons Why Virtual Field Trips Benefit Students

Virtual field trips allow teachers to expand the scope of their students' learning environment. Read about the top ten benefits of virtual field trips and how to try one this quarter.

Grasping The 'Chain

Student Choice Amplifies Student Voice

Shark Tank! Project-Based Learning over Video Conferencing

Give Your Brain a Break... Before it Breaks!

Give your brain a break. In my own lessons, I’ve witnessed how just 30 seconds of strengthening that precious mind-body connection can change the way our students process information. Committing to one or two Brain Breaks in a lesson that lasts about an hour can increase the overall amount of information they retain. Brain Breaks can also make the lesson more enjoyable!

Innovation for Banyan Brains

Digital Citizenship is a Literal Life-Saver!

Action Project in Elementary Schools

Life Cycle of a Lesson: Applying the Pre-Mortem Strategy to Lesson Planning

Award for Outstanding Live Virtual Programs

SEL Newsletter: Halloween Doesn't Have to Be Scary

Halloween: Laughter is the Best Medicine

Engaging Learners through a Growth Mindset

Live Virtual Field Trip Highlights - Itacaré, Brazil

K20 Innovates Collaboration: An NPR of Education

Have you ever been to BRAZIL?

Fall Fun for Everyone!

Back to School: SEL Tips for the New School Year

FaceTime Is Not Screen Time

Welcome to Digitopolis! A Digital Citizenship Adventure for Young Learners

Daily Digital Detox: Technology Balance Challenge

Learning Live 2021 Graduation

Write Your Own Dig Cit Script!

5 Lockdown Life Hacks with BGL

Not Your Average Bridge Project!

True History of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr - Student Activism Club

Our Favorite Tools for Online Learning

"Just Vote," A Song by Amani Weary - from BGL's Activism Field Trip Club

Teaching Sustainable Development Goals in Collaboration with Expert Changemaker Robert Thornton

Surviving Halloween in Quarantine: BGL's Variety Show & Zoom Party!

Portland Radio Station KBOO Interviews BGL Founder

Will Online Learning Be Permanent?

Expression Through Puppetry & Dance: Online Learning Club Starts 9/16

BGL Receives Pinnacle Award for Outstanding Programs

5 Ways Teachers Can Rock This Distance Learning Thing

Thinking Through the Transition to Online Learning