Month: September 2023

Falling Into Fall Break

I shared this note with my team on our last day before Fall Break. I hope you find encouragement here, as well.

“Every person needs to take one day away. A day in which one consciously separates the past from the future. Jobs, family, employers, and friends can exist one day without any one of us, and if our egos permit us to confess, they could exist eternally in our absence. Each person deserves a day away in which no problems are confronted, no solutions searched for. Each of us needs to withdraw from the cares which will not withdraw from us.”

Maya Angelou, Wouldn’t Take Nothing for My Journey Now
boy walking on wooden pathway beside plants during day
Photo by Harrison Haines on Pexels.com

Fall Break

You may have already figured this out, but Fall Break is my favorite break of the year. We’ve navigated the busyness of beginning a new school year and made some progress toward our goals. For me, this break comes at the perfect time. The weather cools, mornings begin on the back porch with a cup of coffee, and evenings end with a backyard fire. It’s not so much a break as it is a pause—the deep breath before diving into winter. I need this break. You need this break. We all need a moment away.

Blaise Pascal wrote, “All of humanity’s problems stem from our inability to sit quietly in a room alone.” Most adults lead very busy lives. Teachers, arguably more so. Rarely do we have a moment during our day to call our own, even if it means we just have the chance to catch our breath.

During the break, I encourage you to find time to call your own. Amidst all the plans we make for fun and family, find some time to hide away from it all. Forget, for a few moments, the demands of the classroom, of testing, of dealing with parents, and the demands of your administration and coaches.

You need rest. Spirit, soul, and body all need a break from time to time to face this madness we call life.

The great Stoic philosopher Seneca said, “The mind must be given relaxation; it will rise improved and sharper after a good break.” Stephen Covey reminds us of the 7th habit of Highly Effective People to “sharpen your saw.” Make sure to take care of yourself. We all did this pretty well during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, but I fear we may have lost some of these lessons in our return to the world of deadlines and demands.

Please take time for yourself over the break. You won’t regret it.


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Unveiling the Best Google Drive Features for Teachers: A Must-Read Guide

In the ever-evolving world of technology, teachers continually seek tools to enhance their teaching experience. Google Drive has emerged as a favorite, offering a plethora of features tailored to the needs of educators. This comprehensive guide will explore the best Google Drive features for teachers, shedding light on how these features can transform your daily routine.

best google drive features for teachers
Photo by Christina Morillo on Pexels.com

1. Offline Access: One of the Best Google Drive Features for Teachers

Never Worry About Losing Connection Again

Among the best Google Drive features for teachers is the ability to make files available for offline use. This feature ensures you can access your lesson plans, slides, or sheets without an internet connection. Here’s how to enable it:

  • Use Google Chrome: It’s the recommended browser for this feature.
  • Enable Offline Access: Go to settings in Google Drive and check the offline use box.
  • Choose Specific Files: Select the Google Slides, Sheets, and Docs you need offline.

This feature is a lifesaver, especially for those in areas with unreliable internet connections.

2. The Priority Section: Your Personalized Hub

Quickly Access Your Favorite Files and Folders

The Priority section is another one of the best Google Drive features for teachers, allowing you to favorite or easily access different files or folders. Here’s how to make the most of it:

  • Add to Priority: Right-click on any file or folder and select “Add to Priority.”
  • Remove from Priority: Right-click again to remove it from the Priority section.

This feature keeps your most-used files and folders at your fingertips, saving valuable time.

3. The Side Panel: Integration with Other Google Apps

All Your Essential Tools in One Place

The side panel in Google Drive, one of the best Google Drive features for teachers, offers easy access to Google Calendar, Keep, and Tasks. You can:

  • View Your Calendar: See your schedule without leaving Google Drive.
  • Add Notes in Google Keep: Quickly jot down notes or reminders.
  • Manage Tasks: Add and manage tasks seamlessly.

This feature enhances productivity by keeping essential tools within reach.

4. Shared Drives: Team Collaboration Made Easy

Share Files Without the Hassle

Shared drives are among the best Google Drive features for teachers, providing a seamless way to share files between team members. Here’s why it’s beneficial:

  • Team Ownership: Files belong to the entire team, not just one person.
  • Access Levels: Customize the access level for different members.
  • Ease of Collaboration: Ideal for sharing lesson files or collaborative planning notes.

Shared drives simplify collaboration, making teamwork a breeze.

5. Converting Files: Transitioning Between PowerPoint and Google Slides

Flexibility at Your Fingertips

Converting files between PowerPoint and Google Slides is one of the best Google Drive features for teachers. You can:

  • Convert Individual Files: Change PowerPoint files to Google Slides effortlessly.
  • Download as PowerPoint: Take Google Slides files and download them as PowerPoint.
  • Automatic Conversion: Set up automatic conversion for new PowerPoints to Google Slides.

This feature offers flexibility, allowing you to easily work with various file types.

Conclusion: Embrace the Best Google Drive Features for Teachers

Google Drive is more than just a storage platform; it’s a treasure trove of features designed to make teachers’ lives easier. By embracing the best Google Drive features for teachers outlined in this guide, you can streamline your workflow, enhance collaboration, and enjoy a more efficient teaching experience.


The Eclectic Educator is a free resource for everyone passionate about education and creativity. If you enjoy the content and want to support the newsletter, consider becoming a paid subscriber. Your support helps keep the insights and inspiration coming!