Slang Translators Q&A
Meet our Student Slang Translators
We've assembled a team of slang-savvy teachers to help parents better understand what their kids are saying so we can all ensure they look and feel great for the first day of school. Meet our Student Slang Translators and check out our Q&A with the crew for insight into the latest language kids are using.
Gabe Dannenbring
Science teacher and Gen Alpha slang translator
Rocks a taper fade, or as the kids might call it, “Alpha sigma ohio rizz, no toilet”
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Lauren Cella
History teacher who’s quite current on high school slang
Lauren’s look is Basic millennial girly pop with curtain bangs often tied up in a teacher messy bun that is 99% dry shampoo
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Philip Lindsay
SPED Teacher and middle school slang expert
A self-proclaimed rizzley bear who reps his sigma modern mullet with pride
Follow Mr. Lindsay on TikTokWhat slang words can you, as bona fide members of the Great Clips Student Slang Translators, pull off using in the classroom?
Gabe:
- Rizz
- You're him
- Go off, king
Philip:
- Sigma
- Bruh
- W
Lauren:
- Say less
- Go off
- W/L
Whats the best compliment you've received from a student?
Lauren:
“I love your outfit,” or, “Your outfit ate, Miss.” They will only say this if it’s true, TRUST. So, take pride in it!
What terms did you struggle to decode when you first heard them, and what was your incorrect definition?
Philip:
- Sigma - This one was just very obscure as the origin of the word is not what it means.
- Skibidi - I thought it was just a filler word like “um.” That is true, but it can also be used in both positive and negative contexts.
What would you tell parents trying to connect with their kids using trending language?
Gabe:
"Lean into it. You may not use the word right and receive an epic eyeroll, but you’ll create a moment of connection with your kids."
What advice would you give a parent to set their kids up for success on the first day back?
Philip:
"Parents should be able to communicate with their children about their needs (emotionally and physically). Do they feel comfortable? Do they feel prepared? Are they nervous? Why?"
Lauren:
"Read the syllabus and/or know the courses they are taking and prepare all summer by reading or watching YouTube—anything to get more familiar with the subject. Encourage them to join at least one activity—even better if it’s one that starts over the summer before school starts.
Get your hair cut and fit set with enough time before the first day. Explain and normalize body changes and hygiene without shaming and encourage routines at school and at home.
Try to care about what they care about. Listen to understand, there is a lot more pressure with social media and constant surveillance so don’t belittle their anxiety. Find strategies to help them cope and recruit as much of a support system as possible in their real life."
Gabe:
"Make sure they know where their classes are. Make sure they don’t have bedhead on the first day."