Next-Level Teaching: Empowering Students and Transforming School Culture

by Jonathan Alsheimer

Next-level teachers are anything but average. They’re willing to use any and every strategy to reach students, increase motivation, and improve student outcomes. A next-level teacher never settles for the status quo. Instead, they ignite students’ passion for learning, and that enthusiasm spreads through the whole school. What’s more, next-level teachers can create school environments so exciting and electric that not only the students but even other teachers and administrators are inspired to greatness.Whether he’s creating unique content-retention strategies, collaborating with streetwear brands, or bringing out-of-the-box guest speakers into the classroom, award-winning teacher Jonathan Alsheimer never says no to an opportunity to incorporate innovative tools in his teaching. With unstoppable enthusiasm, in Next-Level Teaching Alsheimer demonstrates how educators •generate productive excitement in students using nonacademic strategies;•transform student enthusiasm into engagement;•create powerful relationships with students and colleagues; •seek out every chance to be a positive, motivating influence; and•become valued assets not only in the classroom but throughout the school.With dedication, creativity, and a vision of what’s possible, any educator can be that teacher for their students. Are you ready to level up?

Genres: Education, Teaching

126 pages, Paperback

Published March 1, 2020

Reviews

[Hank Hoeft · Rating 3 out of 5]

The principal at my high school bought copies of this book for all his faculty, and as motivational books for teachers go (and I've read a lot of them in my 30+ years of teaching), this is one of the better ones. It's short, it's concise, it's real-world, and it's a little bit different in its approach. I was reassured when reading it, to see how many of Alsheimer's ideas I already incorporate into my teaching, and have since I first started. One thing this book did do for me, though, is cause me to reinvigorate my efforts every day in my classroom. So this book is not only a good source of ideas, but also a good tonic for teachers who are close to retiring and fighting short-timer syndrome.

[Cassie Cox · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a quick and easy read, but I needed it. What a good reminder this has been for me. Regardless of what's happening around me, in my classroom, I can still be THAT teacher. If you are a teacher and just need a little pick-me-up, a reminder of the teacher you used to be, or even if you're looking for inspiration to take steps needed to move to the "next level" then this is a book you should consider.

[Patrick Burell · Rating 1 out of 5]

An incredibly self-aggrandizing work that seems to suggest the key to engagement and improving student learning is not based on strategies, methodologies, research-based practices and the like but primarily on the teachers personal level of excitement, enthusiasm, and embracing one’s role as an entertainer. This work offered little in the way of concrete practices for building student engagement. More than anything, it was a rattled off list of buzzwords and success stories that do not translate well to other contexts. I affirm the importance of much that he mentioned in terms of relationships, community, and attitude. However, this book falls very far short of creating a PRACTICAL guide to engagement.

[Jessica Williams · Rating 3 out of 5]

It was a quick read. You can tell he is a phenomenal teacher but I didn’t pull any new ideas from this read. Well written though.

[TheNextGenLibrarian · Rating 3 out of 5]

A lot of conceptual writing rather than actual concrete ideas, lessons or ways to strengthen your school community & classrooms. It also was a bit braggy.

[Patty · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a 15 year teaching veteran, I picked up some great new ideas to implement in my high school classroom in the fall. It's been great to see Jake excell in his teaching career. He had a passion for learning, teaching, and just generally striving to be the best even before he was in the teaching profession...way back when we were both serving ice cream at the local ice cream parlor in the summer months. I'm so glad to have had a chance to read this book!

[Peter Myers · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jonathan Alsheimer is a middle school social studies teacher in Virginia - he’s more than just a social studies teacher though, he’s an inspirational leader to both students and educators. Jonathan provided great insight in up-leveling how we as educators can improve relationships with students and improve school culture. This is a must read book for any educator to get inspired in creating solutions that better student leaders!!

[Melinda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Energized Me

I learned about this book on Twitter. The best summer read about being a teacher. This book made me reevaluate things I need to change and consider as a teacher in all aspects of the building. I am ready to share with my fellow teachers. Jonathan gives little tips and suggestions to consider for your classroom. I recommend to every teacher I know.

[Chris McCormick · Rating 5 out of 5]

Inspired teacher, inspired read

The passion exudes from each page of this book. Jonathan gives impactful ideas for turning up your school culture and climate while reminding you why this is the best profession on earth.

[Kristin Van Fossen · Rating 3 out of 5]

Main take away for me: connect with kids inside and outside of my classroom/ case load. Try to connect with one kid inside and one kid outside every day. And then every time you see those kids say hi and give them a high five/ fist bump. A small thing that will make a huge difference!

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

If only all teachers could try to be this next level teacher imagine how awesome public school education could be!

[Ellen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I won this book at a professional development where Jonathan was the keynote speaker. Let me tell you, if you are in education, or even thinking of being in education, you should check out Jonathan Alsheimer. Man, this guy has SO much positive energy flowing through him! He is so inspiring and uplifting. You need to see him talk! But even if you can't, you should check out this book. It will motivate you to push yourself as an educator and give you some great ideas of how to connect with students. I loved it! It's a quick read (because what teacher has time to read now that school is in session?). I cannot recommend this book enough, it is so good!