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Educationally Speaking

Educationally Speaking

By Oakland Schools

Educationally Speaking is an Oakland Schools Intermediate School District broadcast which focuses on important local and national topics related to education.
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A Fresh Perspective on Education

Educationally SpeakingSep 08, 2022

00:00
19:27
The Amazing World Of Early Childhood

The Amazing World Of Early Childhood

Studies Have Shown That Early Childhood Education Programs Can Prepare Children To Develop The Academic, Social And Emotional Skills They Need To Succeed And Graduate High School. 

Other Long-Term Benefits Of Early Childhood Education Can Include Earning Higher Grades And Having A Lifelong Love For Reading And Learning.

Studies Have Also Shown That Children Who Attend High-Quality Early Childhood Education Programs Can Develop An Improved Attention Span Which Can Lead To More Productivity In Their Adult Lives.

So What Programs Are Offered To Families With Children Aged Birth To Kindergarten?

What Does An Early Childhood Learning Environment Offer Its Students?

And How Is It All Funded?

We’ll Explore Those Topics And More In This Episode Of Educationally Speaking!


Host: Mark Edwards, Oakland Schools' Communications Specialist

Guests: Oakland Schools’ Director of Early Childhood Dr. Dawn Koger and Early Childhood Consultant Dr. Krista Shambleau Producer: Brian Beck, Oakland Schools' Media Production Specialist



Apr 21, 202338:42
Fostering Student Creativity through the Fine Arts

Fostering Student Creativity through the Fine Arts

Research shows that the fine arts enhance brain function by impacting brain wave patterns, emotions, and the nervous system while also raising serotonin levels. By using our creative abilities, we tap into multiple intelligences that support how we learn.  Evidence suggests that students improve in math, reading, science, and other subjects when the arts are infused into a school's curriculum. So what artistic opportunities do K-12 students have available to them, how are these programs funded and what career opportunities do the fine arts provide? We’ll explore those topics and more in this episode of Educationally Speaking.


Host: Mark Edwards, Oakland Schools' Communications Specialist

Guest: Hedy Blatt, Oakland Schools’ Fine Arts Consultant

Producer: Brian Beck, Oakland Schools' Media Production Specialist


Mar 29, 202324:13
The Impact of Career and Technical Education

The Impact of Career and Technical Education

At some point in our life we have envisioned ourselves working in our dream job! To get there students need engaging, cutting-edge instruction that is rigorous and relevant. So what are the necessary steps needed to ensure that today's learner can achieve their career goals? Is Career and Technical Education the answer when it comes to landing a high-wage, high-skill, high-demand career? We’ll explore those topics and more in this episode of Educationally Speaking!

Host: Mark Edwards, Oakland Schools' Communications Specialist

Guest: Jarrad Grandy, Oakland Schools’ Executive Director of Student Services

Producer: Brian Beck, Oakland Schools' Media Production Specialist

Feb 23, 202326:18
K-12 Live Well Lead Well Summit

K-12 Live Well Lead Well Summit

We have all faced and overcome many challenges during the past couple of years. It’s safe to say our overall health and wellness are the most important aspects of our lives!

So how are Intermediate School Districts and Educational Service Agencies partnering together to ensure the overall well-being of staff and students is a long-term priority?

Host: Mark Edwards, Oakland Schools' Communications Specialist

Guest: Christina Harvey, Health Education Consultant for Oakland Schools

Producer: Brian Beck, Oakland Schools' Media Production Specialist

Jan 31, 202318:56
Transforming Lives Through Automotive Technology

Transforming Lives Through Automotive Technology

For over a century the greater Detroit area has served as a hub for designing and building automobiles and the region is poised to continue to be an automotive leader into the future.

With that said vehicles are not getting any simpler, they are equipped with computer chips and advanced technology making it nearly impossible to perform any personal maintenance outside of putting air in the tires.

It is important to have a certified auto technician to perform and oversee the maintenance on your vehicle.

Host: Mark Edwards, Oakland Schools' Communications Specialist

Guest: Juwan Willis, OSTC-NE Automotive Technology Instructor 

Producer: Brian Beck, Oakland Schools' Media ProductionSpecialist

Dec 22, 202226:09
National Apprenticeship Week

National Apprenticeship Week

National Apprenticeship Week is a nationwide celebration where industry, labor, equity, workforce, education, and government leaders showcase the successes and value of registered apprenticeship for rebuilding our economy, advancing racial and gender equity, and supporting underserved communities.

Host: Mark Edwards, Oakland Schools' Communications Specialist

Guests: Paul Galbenski, Dean OSTC-Northeast
Jennifer Mefford, Director of Workforce Development, Must Construction Careers

Producer: Brian Beck, Oakland Schools' Media Production and Distance Learning Manager

Nov 14, 202229:28
Cybersecurity in Education

Cybersecurity in Education

We live in the information age. A world filled with modern technology has paved the way for multi-functional devices like the smartwatch and smartphone. Computers are increasingly faster, more portable, and higher-powered than ever before. With all of these advancements, information technology has also made our lives easier, faster, and overall better, it has especially increased the effectiveness and efficiency of the educational system. So where does productivity and security intersect? Information technology departments are tasked with creating digital security plans, backing up data, and checking for vulnerabilities to ensure the safety of users on their network.

Host: Mark Edwards, Oakland Schools' Communications Specialist

Guest: Dwight Levens, Oakland Schools’ Executive Director of Technology

Producer: Brian Beck, Oakland Schools' Media Production and Distance Learning Manager

Nov 02, 202239:42
The Necessity of Proper Child Nutrition

The Necessity of Proper Child Nutrition

The National School Lunch Program serves nearly 30 million children every school day.

Balanced nutrition throughout the day is one of the leading factors when it comes to student success. Research has proven that school meal programs play an important role in obesity prevention, overall student health and academic achievement.

Host: Mark Edwards, Oakland Schools' Communications Specialist

Guest: Lori Adkins, Oakland Schools’ Child Nutrition Consultant

Producer: Brian Beck, Oakland Schools' Media Production and Distance Learning Manager

Sep 30, 202229:60
A Fresh Perspective on Education

A Fresh Perspective on Education

It's been said that the only constant in life is change itself. That also holds true in the education world, as it is always evolving. Groundbreaking ideas, cutting-edge curriculum, innovative technologies, and the list goes on.

As we head into a new school year one variable remains constant, education professionals are gearing up for the 2022-23 school year with the goal of serving every student, every day!

Host: Mark Edwards, Oakland Schools' Communications Specialist

Guest: Kenneth Gutman, Oakland Schools’ Deputy Superintendent 

Producer: Mark Hansen, Oakland Schools' Media Production and Distance Learning Manager

Sep 08, 202219:27
ABC's of Telling Your Story

ABC's of Telling Your Story

In today's world, public perception can make or break your brand. So who is responsible for telling your organization's story? What are the most efficient ways to deliver a message? How do you evaluate whether or not your communication was effective? We’ll explore those topics and more in this episode of educationally speaking.


Host: Mark Edwards, Oakland Schools' Communications Specialist


Guest: Sheri Stuart, Oakland Schools’ Communications Director


Producer: Mark Hansen, Oakland Schools' Media Production and Distance Learning Manager

Jul 28, 202219:54
The Road Ahead Talking K-12 Transportation

The Road Ahead Talking K-12 Transportation

Getting from point A to point B can be a challenge for all of us! But when it comes to our most precious cargo, our children, safety rises to the top. More than 25 million children are transported to and from school and school-related activities every day. So how are school districts overcoming rising fuel prices, and dealing with bus driver shortages? We’ll explore those topics and more in this episode of Educationally Speaking.

Host: Mark Edwards, Oakland Schools' Communications Specialist

Guest: Tom Korth, Oakland Schools’ Transportation Supervisor

Producer: Mark Hansen, Oakland Schools' Media Production and Distance Learning Manager

Jun 15, 202236:49
Better Hearing & Speech Services for K-12 Education

Better Hearing & Speech Services for K-12 Education

We've all heard the old adage that communication is key. However, nearly 5 -10 percent of Americans have a communication disorder, this includes speech & language & the deaf & hard-of-hearing communities. So what interventions are in place to ensure that our children are receiving the necessary support that leads to a successful school experience? Who are the professionals responsible for facilitating these critical services? We’ll explore those topics and more in this episode of educationally speaking.

Host: Mark Edwards, Oakland Schools' Communications Specialist

Guests:
Diane Katakowski, OS Speech & Language Consultant
Jennifer Ryan, OS Speech & Language Consultant
Janice Rich, OS Audiologist
Nancy Sullivan,  OS Deaf & Hard of Hearing Teacher Consultant
Tina Roy, OS Deaf & Hard of Hearing Teacher Consultant

Producer: Mark Hansen, Oakland Schools' Media Production and Distance Learning Manager

May 27, 202201:07:21
The World of Competitive Robotics

The World of Competitive Robotics

When it comes to robotics the future is now! From vacuums to lawnmowers, home security systems, personal assistants and even dogs. So how are today’s students learning about and using these rapidly changing technologies? In what ways will robotics shape our world for generations to come? We will explore those topics and more in this episode of educationally speaking.

Host: Mark Edwards, Oakland Schools' Communications Specialist

Guests:
Steve Smitka, OSTC-SE Instructor
Issiah Johnson, OSTC-SE Student
Justin Howard, OSTC-NE Instructor
Gabe Hornbuckle, OSTC-NE Student

Producer: Mark Hansen, Oakland Schools' Media Production and Distance Learning Manager

Apr 22, 202246:07
Everything Education with Dr. Dania Bazzi
Mar 15, 202258:25
February celebrates CTE month! OSTC students work to restore a 1969 Chevy Camaro
Feb 17, 202235:14
Accessing free preschool resources in Oakland County
Jan 05, 202206:07
Oakland Schools Technical Campuses offer unbeatable opportunities to local students
Oct 19, 202128:17
Dispelling misconceptions about English Learners

Dispelling misconceptions about English Learners

Due to the pandemic, and how it affected learning these past several months, there are many students who are going to need additional support and resources this school year. In particular, those conversations seem to center around English Learners.

A recent article published in Education Week pointed out that just because English Learners may need more support this fall, doesn’t mean that they are behind other students.

This podcast examines the assumptions the general population often has when it comes to our English Learners and how to dispel those assumptions.

Guests:
Suzanne Toohey, Oakland Schools Supervisor of Instruction and Pedagogy
Christy Osborne, Oakland Schools English as a Second Language (ESL) Consultant
Hadeel Azzo, K-12 English Language Development (ELD) Consultant with the West Bloomfield School District
Rob Beltz, English Language Development (ELD) Instructor and Trauma-Informed Practitioner, Novi Community School District 

Resources:
Oakland Schools ESL/Bilingual
Oakland Schools' Community Resources
Oakland Schools' Professional Learning Opportunities for Educators of English Learners
United States Office of English Language Acquisition ELL Toolkit
US Department of Justice/Department of Education Dear Colleague Letter
Oakland County Youth Assistance 

Host: Oakland Schools' Communications Specialist Sarah Davis
Producer: Oakland Schools' Media Production and Distance Learning Manager Mark Hansen

Sep 22, 202136:27
Oakland Schools offers ultimate STEM experience
Sep 08, 202129:40
Looking forward: Experts weigh in on upcoming school year
Aug 26, 202133:37
How Special Populations educators stepped up during the pandemic

How Special Populations educators stepped up during the pandemic

Jul 12, 202144:47
How do we bring them back? Why education professionals are increasingly leaving the field

How do we bring them back? Why education professionals are increasingly leaving the field

This year, there has been a huge uptick in the amount of staff who have left the education profession. Many teachers, in particular, are retiring, but the issue is touching every aspect of the education field from superintendents to bus drivers.

In our January Educationally Speaking podcast titled "Where are they? Why students are increasingly leaving the classroom," we explored why more students have left school due to the pandemic. Now we want to look at the staff side of the equation and discuss this loss that is occurring as well as some solutions for that loss.

Guests:
Karen Olex, Oakland Schools' Executive Director of Special Populations
Dr. Christopher Lee, Oakland Schools' Teacher Induction And Social Studies Consultant
Carol Diglio, Oak Park Schools' Assistant Superintendent Of Human Resources
Cara Lougheed, 2019-2020 Michigan Teacher Of The Year

Resources:
Oakland Schools
Contact NTIP on Twitter at @NTIPINOC or #NTIPINOC or Dr. Christopher Lee at christopher.lee@oakland.k12.mi.us

Host: Oakland Schools' Communications Specialist Sarah Davis
Producer: Oakland Schools' Media Production and Distance Learning Manager Mark Hansen

Jun 23, 202146:50
How to talk to your kids about race, racism and anti-racism

How to talk to your kids about race, racism and anti-racism

Race and racism have always been hot button issues in our society, but recent events have really seemed to push these topics to the forefront of everyone’s mind, including our youth.

Discussing the topics of race and racism can be complicated, but it is always necessary. So how does a parent properly and effectively begin and continue this discussion with their child or children?

Guests:
Dr. Jay Marks, Oakland Schools’ Diversity and Equity Consultant
Dr. Ashelin Currie, Oakland Schools’ Literacy Consultant
Jianna Taylor, English Language Arts, Multi-tiered Systems of Support and School Improvement Coordinator for k-12 in West Bloomfield School District
Sonja James, Principal at Sheiko Elementary School In West Bloomfield School District
Both are also co-chairs of West Bloomfield School District’s Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion committee

Resources:
Oakland Schools
Dr. Jay Marks and Dr. Ashelin Currie Powerpoint Presentation on How to Talk to Your Kids about Race, Racism and Anti-racism
The Talk Video
Freedom Reads: Anti-Bias Book Talk
Culturally Responsive Sustaining Curriculum ScoreCard

Book Recommendations:

Toddler - 7 years
All the Colors We Are: The Story of How We Get Our Skin Color by Kate Kissinger
A is For All the Things You Are: A Joyful ABC Book by Anna Forgerson Hindley

8 years old and up
Not My Idea: A Book About Whiteness: Anastasia Higginbotham
This is You Brain on Stereotypes: How Science is Tackling Unconscious Bias by Tanya Lloyd Kyi
The Talk by Wade and Cheryl Hudson
We Rise, We Resist, We Raise Our Voices by Wade and Cheryl Hudson

12 years old and up
The Black Friend: On Being a Better White Person by Frederick Joseph

Host: Oakland Schools' Communications Specialist Sarah Davis
Producer: Oakland Schools' Media Production and Distance Learning Manager Mark Hansen

Apr 19, 202101:09:26
Student + Breakfast = Achievement
Mar 04, 202124:48
Self-care help for students, parents and teachers
Feb 12, 202135:09
Partnerships At Home: Parents and caregivers are essential partners in learning
Jan 27, 202112:22
Reimagining Education: How the pandemic may change the future of education
Jan 19, 202131:18
Where are they? Why students are increasingly leaving the classroom during the pandemic
Jan 07, 202129:33
How to support immigrant students
Nov 10, 202020:53
Oakland Together School Nurse Initiative launches
Oct 20, 202029:18
Managing the polarity of meeting students' social-emotional health and learning during COVID-19
Aug 26, 202012:15
Early childhood transitions: How to prepare your kindergartener for the upcoming school year
Aug 17, 202012:21
Tips and tricks for online learning during COVID-19
Aug 03, 202010:34
Oakland Schools Outreach, Part Two
Jun 01, 202023:42
Oakland Schools Outreach, Part One
May 26, 202013:48
Teaching cultural proficiency
Feb 20, 202023:19
Oakland Schools Technical Campuses offer myriad of opportunities for students
Feb 05, 202020:50
Oakland Schools Service Desk chosen to provide support for MIServiceDesk
Jan 08, 202014:09
Piece of the Pie: How school aid funding works
Dec 10, 201918:12
NTIP program helps ensure teacher retention
Nov 18, 201915:54
Bullying 101
Oct 10, 201915:47