The Next Wave: A ConnectED Learning STL Podcast

When you live in a small town and wear a lot of hats, having a creative vision is so important. Not only that, but being a connected educator helps spur innovation within the district. Laura Steinbrink is my guest on this podcast. We discuss the unique way her school selected a principal and the need for a strong network when you work in a small school district. Even if you work in an urban, or suburban district, there is a lot to learn here.

Manuel Herrera is the Director of Innovation for the Affton School District in St. Louis. An avid doodler and creative force in the education field, Manuel shares his secrets in this wide ranging interview. We discuss inspirations for creativity and how we all can be creative and intentional in our work. Listen on the Anchor app and you can listen to a couple of Manuel's musical inspirations for his creative work. This interview was recorded shortly after his keynote at IS2Dale and now being released shortly before he goes to MassCue. So much to learn in an hour.

Alex Schenck is entering his fifth year of teaching Math, Computer Science, GIS, and AP Courses at Collegiate School of Medicine and Bioscience in St. Louis. Our conversation focuses on the struggles of taking on too much as a new teacher and how relationships with students and mentors makes a world of difference. Our discussion then turns to STEM and why the Humanities are so important to being a well rounded student. Finally, Alex talks about a recent passion project with students that involved Arduinos. Amazing engagement and fun for all the students.

While he may love Red Lobster and Tower Grove Park, he loves teaching his students even more.

Megan is entering her 3rd year of teaching and talks to us about the lessons learned in the early years of her career. From leading a journalism club in her first year of teaching, to leading student council this year, Megan shares her experiences with us. We talk about the importance of self care, as well as the need to connect kids with community partners. Find Megan on Twitter @msobrien14

Ever wondered how you can bring innovation and awesome learning to your school? You do not want to miss this episode! Charmaine Smith from the Innovative Technology Education Fund gives some insight into the Lean Into Learning Grant process, as well as discusses what it takes to get one of the big awards from ITEF. Charmaine is passionate about education and her love of innovation comes through in this podcast. #learningstl #itef

Meet Connected Learning team member Chuck Baker. Not "just" a math teacher, but a man of faith and empathy who loves the creative side of education. Chuck talks about PBL, gifted education, and rejecting a deficit mindset.

Chris McGee talks about what brought him to be an educator, his influences, and the reason why Connected Learning STL is such a great organization for improving education here in St. Louis. We also discuss what innovation in education could look like. #LearningSTL

What is innovation in education? We are going to explore this idea and discuss what it can be. #learningstl #itef