Skyline Teachers Find “Classroom Magic” in Morning PD

Before most of Sedalia was even awake, a dedicated group of Skyline teachers was already gathered around coffee, conversation, and creativity — ready to strengthen one of the most essential parts of teaching: classroom management.

Throughout September, teachers voluntarily met on Tuesday mornings for the Classroom Management Club, a professional development series led virtually by Dr. Lori Friesen. Dr. Friesen is an expert in early childhood education and classroom management, with more than 20 years of experience helping teachers build joyful, well-structured classrooms through practical strategies, research-based ideas, and real-world teaching experience.

Each week focused on practical tools and fresh perspectives — from staying calm under pressure to creating a little “classroom magic.” The goal was simple: give teachers strategies they could use right away to strengthen routines, build relationships, and make classrooms more joyful places to learn.

Session topics included “From Overwhelmed to In Control,” “Your Behavior Prevention Checklist,” “Develop Your Behavior-Busting Toolkit,” and “A Little Classroom Magic.” Along with the learning came breakfast, laughter, and collaboration — turning early mornings into a space for connection and growth.

Full-time substitute teacher Laura Stromblad said she was eager to join the club as soon as she saw the opportunity.

“As a full-time sub, I want to jump on any opportunity to ensure I’m offering the most appropriate learning experience for students,” Stromblad shared. “Before this, I felt pretty comfortable with classroom management, but knew I wanted more. Now, I feel equipped with diverse techniques that can be adapted to students’ needs.”

First-grade teacher Sara Quinn said the sessions reignited her enthusiasm for positive reinforcement.

“Behaviors are constantly changing, and I’m always looking for new tools,” Quinn said. “Speeding up how often I reward my students has made a big difference. Our class reward jar fills faster, and their excitement — and good behavior — grows with it.”

For fellow first-grade teacher Allison Burton, strong management is the foundation of every good day.

“Classroom management truly makes or breaks your class,” she explained. “Every year is different, so I wanted to get ahead with new strategies.”

Burton added a creative twist to one of Dr. Friesen’s ideas.

“We have a classroom goose named Cookie who earns ‘Brownie Points’ for positive behavior. The kids love watching Cookie’s tray fill up — it’s brought so much joy and teamwork to our classroom.”

Third-grade teacher Shelley Elsea found inspiration in the session “A Little Classroom Magic.”

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“The focus was on finding creative, low-cost ways to bring fun, imagination, and positivity into the classroom,” Elsea said. “I’ve added whole-class incentives, surprise brain breaks, and uplifting music. Those small changes have made a big impact in keeping students motivated, focused, and inspired.”

Teachers shared stories, brainstormed ideas, and encouraged one another — proving that professional growth doesn’t have to feel like extra work. Sometimes it just takes a warm breakfast, a few great ideas, and a room full of passionate educators willing to keep learning.

As Dr. Friesen reminded them, “One degree of difference can change everything.” At Skyline, those early-morning degrees are adding up to stronger classrooms, happier students, and a little more magic in every school day.

In the photo: Skyline Elementary School teachers gather before school to work on classroom management topics and tactics.