Question: What’s a “Stolen” Idea That Worked for You?

Great teaching ideas have a way of spreading—from hallway conversations and PD sessions to social media threads and conference keynotes. Sometimes, the best move you make in your classroom isn’t something you invented, but something you borrowed, adapted, and made your own. Our question is: what's a stolen idea that worked for you?

Maybe it was a classroom management technique, a new way to teach writing, or a clever way to build community. You heard it, tried it, and it stuck.

In education, “stealing” good ideas is often encouraged—especially when those ideas lead to better learning, smoother routines, or more engaged students. And giving credit where credit’s due can be just as valuable, helping others discover great voices and resources they might not know about.

We want to hear from you:

• What’s a teaching idea or strategy you “stole” that made a real impact?
• Where did you find it—who shared it or modeled it for you?
• How did you make it work in your own context or classroom?
• What advice would you give to someone trying it for the first time?

Whether it came from a colleague next door or a teacher you follow online, your success story might inspire someone else to give it a try. Let us know what worked—and who we should be thanking.

More ideas to STeal

Want more? If you're looking for a specific topic, check out our A-Z Index. There's also our Professional Learning page where you can "discover formal and informal professional learning programs and practices that will keep you at the top of your teaching game."

In addition, these specific resources may be helpful:

• How Bluesky Can Help You Build Your PLN
• Learning Walks: Structured Observation for Teachers (video)
• Edutopia Sessions: Reclaiming Your Time With AI (video)
• Creating Effective Professional Learning Communities
• Question: What Are Your Favorite Podcasts?

At Edutopia, we're always looking for educators to share their strategies. If you have ideas that go beyond what can be said in the comments, please be sure to visit our Write for Us page.

Thank you for sharing your stolen idea that worked. If you have questions of your own, feel free to post them here—our community facilitators are ready to help!