I know, I know—the internet's overflowing with newsletters from EdTech enthusiasts just like me, all sharing their insights, tools, and ideas. My approach is pretty simple: if a newsletter looks promising, I sign up. After a few issues, I decide if it's a keeper or if it's time to unsubscribe. What makes the cut? I'm always on the hunt for quick, actionable ideas or tools that I can easily pass along to the teachers and service providers in my district. My goal is to offer genuinely useful resources without overwhelming anyone.
So, which newsletters have made the cut? I'm still hooked on a few I've shared before. If you missed my "5 Blogs I Can't Stop Reading" post from November 2022, here's a spoiler: I'm still reading them all! Eric Curts, Matt Miller, Jennifer Gonzalez, Mandy Froehlich, and EdSurge remain my go-to leaders for EdTech, pedagogy, teacher sustainability, and news. Seriously, if you're not familiar with them, stop reading this right now. Check out my November '22 post, explore their blogs, and then come back. You'll thank me later if you're into educational technology!
If you're familiar with my Fab Five from above, maybe you're looking for something more! Here are a few others that are worth checking out!
1. Brian Buffington's Buff Nuggets
Brian Buffington is an engaging, enthusiastic, and eclectic guy. I really enjoy his newsletters because they always share a few "Buff Nuggets" which are quick, bite-sized anecdotal ideas/tips that anyone can use. Not only does Brian focus on EdTech tips, he also shares cool ideas he comes across while he travels all over the world as an educational speaker. In his last newsletter, he shared his thoughts on the loss of George Wendt, the actor who played Norm Peterson in the beloved sitcom, Cheers. Brian talked about his past growing up with the show and something he noticed.
"Near the start of every episode, often after the cold open or opening credits, Norm Peterson enters the bar and the entire staff greets him with a loud “Norm,” acknowledging his presence. The writers and producers made this a signature moment, showing his status as a beloved fixture of this comical community. It worked and this scene was repeated throughout the 11 seasons.
Why am I giving you all a lesson on an 80’s sitcom?
Cheers is all about community. And in this specific scene, simply acknowledging people with their name and a smile EVERYDAY, or at least every episode, keeps them coming back. (The beverages might also be part of the equation).
A classroom isn’t Cheers, but how cool would it be for every student to feel whatever Norm must feel when he opens the door.
I want to feel like I am welcomed and play a part, whether an entire room yells my name or not. That’s community."
18 minutes of Norm Peterson's Entrances on the show Cheers.
This is just one of the great things Brian shares. It's not just about tools; it's about creating a classroom that works. Subscribe to his newsletter here: https://briankbuffington.com/subscribe/
2. Educator Alexander
Educator Alexander, led by the incredible Dr. Desiree Alexander, is a true gem for any teacher who wants to sharpen their skills with real, workable strategies. Her site is packed with great stuff, from professional development to free resources, but the newsletters are where the magic happens.
If you're wondering what makes her newsletters stand out, it's pretty simple:
- Quick, Usable EdTech Ideas: They take complex tech (especially all things Google) and break it down into simple, ready-to-use ideas you can actually try in your classroom tomorrow.
- Seriously Practical Advice: We're talking about content you'll genuinely use to get kids more engaged, make your life easier, and boost learning outcomes.
- Beyond Just Tech: While she's an EdTech wizard, her newsletters also dive into other crucial topics like making your classroom more equitable, keeping teachers from burning out, and even educational leadership.
- Insights from an Actual Expert: Dr. Alexander is an award-winning educator with tons of certifications and real-world experience. You know you're getting solid advice.
- A Huge Time-Saver: Instead of sifting through endless articles, her newsletters deliver curated, high-quality ideas straight to your inbox. That means more time for you and less time searching.
Essentially, signing up for her newsletters means you're arming yourself with smart, practical, and expert-approved strategies that can truly make a difference in your classroom, without ever feeling overwhelmed. Subscribe to her newsletter here: https://www.educatoralexander.com/subscribe.html
3. Today's First Five
Many adults in our district have utilized the daily "First Five" from Edtomorrow. If you're not familiar, this free daily resource is designed for educators, delivered to your inbox every morning at 7 AM EST. Each day brings 19+ new, practical ideas perfect for the first five minutes of class, focusing on building classroom connections, fostering self-care and care for others, and developing character. These resources help you build dynamic, trusting relationships within your classroom community. Currently, there is a Primary (grades 1-5) and a Secondary First Five (grades 6-12). Next year, Edtomorrow is adding a First Five Jr (grades PK - 1) and a Spanish version! Be on the lookout for those.
I wanted to point out that Edtomorrow does more than just the First Five! Beyond the FF, Edtomorrow offers brain games and blog posts for teachers to read and ponder. Here is an example from the blog:
Slow and Steady: Happy National Turtle Day.
"Author: John Whalen
Date: May 23rd, 2025
Today is National Turtle Day, and we are here for it.
Turtles remind us to slow down, stay steady, and keep moving forward at our own pace. Whether you are racing toward the end of the school year or taking it one day at a time, you are getting there.
Sometimes the best progress is not the fastest. It is the most consistent, the most thoughtful, and the most lasting.
So today, take a deep breath, channel your inner turtle, and celebrate the small steps that are adding up to something amazing.
You are doing better than you know."
Just click here to subscribe: https://www.edtomorrow.com/the-first-five
4. Google for Education
Okay, this is a big one, but a critical one!
Google for Education (found at edu.google.com) is essentially Google's central hub for all things educational technology, offering a massive suite of tools, resources, and training specifically designed for schools and teachers. We're talking everything from Google Workspace for Education (think Docs, Sheets, Slides, Classroom) to Chromebooks, Google Arts & Culture, Applied Digital Skills, and even professional development.
Why is it important for teachers to sign up for updates? Because Google is constantly evolving and releasing new features, free tools, and learning opportunities that can literally transform your classroom. Being in the loop on these updates means you'll always have a heads-up on the cool new innovations that can make your workflow smoother, get your students more excited, and open doors to incredible learning opportunities, straight from an EdTech giant.
Sign up for emails here: https://edu.google.com/intl/ALL_us/communications/
PS- here are some bonus newsletters and PD that I haven't had a chance to look over yet... if YOU wanted to dig in, feel free!
- The EdTech Digest by Augusto Guarda, Director of Technology and Innovation @ Green Hills Academy in Rwanda
- Level UP! Discover the Power of Gamification by Erica Kaminski
- Power Tools for the Classroom from Eric Curts
- What's New with ChatGPT from Class Tech Tips
- National Tech Coach Ed Camp - May 15th, 2025
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