Flipboard EDU Podcast

For over a year now we all have been teaching with video. Quite frankly, teaching with video is a craft that needs to be developed, especially if you want to get your point across. I can honestly say that I believe video in education is here to stay. I’ll go further and say that in education, COVID-19 will be remembered as a catalyst for improving instruction. Former high school teacher Rob Bayuk understands how important video is to education. He has worked with the Microsoft Innovative Experts and served as general manager of the Teaching Channel. Rob is currently senior education marketing lead at Prezi, where he and his team develop innovative ways to support the “flipped classroom” model, virtual teaching, virtual assignments, test preparations, and school-to-home communication. In this episode, we speak with Rob about how the pandemic has changed the use of video in classrooms. We also discuss creativity tools like Prezi Design, a Canva-like platform that allows teachers to create interactive graphs, presentations, and video templates that enhance student understanding. Flipboard EDU Magazine  Flipboard Educators Blog 

One of the prevalent problems in the COVID-19 era is the lack of digital access for students. Parents, students, and teachers know this problem all too well and it has led to disparities in education that manifest in multiple ways. The most significant of these is that teachers and schools have struggled to get students to show up for online classes and interact with them using technology at the same rate as face-to-face instruction. Cari Kozicki Dr. Stephanie Frazier, Salandra Bowman, and Stacy Fitzsimmons addressed this problem recently at SXSW EDU. In the session “EduCast: Legacy Tech Is a Bridge to Broadband,” they shared how they are serving multiple communities without access to the internet using legacy technology. It simply blew me away. In this episode, Dr. Stephanie Frazier of SCETV in South Carolina and Stacy Fitzsimmons of SNF Writing Solutions in Indiana are our guests. We speak about the way states like South Carolina, Indiana, Pennsylvania, New Mexico, Kentucky, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Virginia, Michigan, and Idaho are collaborating on bringing digital access to students without an internet connection. We also talk about equity and improving access for all students, regardless of their socio-economic background. Flipboard EDU Podcast Website  Flipboard EDU Magazine  Flipboard Educators Blog  Copyright Chillhop Music - https://chll.to/b9bb917b Copyright Chillhop Music - https://chll.to/6cd0b356 Copyright Chillhop Music - https://chll.to/fae889b3

I am a firm believer in giving credit where credit is due. When COVID-19 broke loose last year I was looking for a resource to prepare our teachers for what I thought was coming. I had no idea at this time last year that I would write 40 articles and episodes about education because of a pandemic. Even more surprising to me is that Flipboard has supported me to do it! I dedicate this episode to Flipboard and its employees who support educators. They have been amazingly supportive through this journey. This year has been a doozy and I couldn’t have done it without the support of this group of people. Flipboard EDU Magazine  Flipboard Educators Blog  Copyright Chillhop Music - https://chll.to/b9bb917b Copyright Chillhop Music - https://chll.to/6cd0b356 Copyright Chillhop Music - https://chll.to/fae889b3

On March 2, 2021, Texas Governor Gregory Abbott, along with Mississippi Governor Tate Reeves, decided to waive mask requirements for their respective states.  Face masks had become our “new normal” in the COVID-19 pandemic since they were quickly required to slow the spread of the coronavirus. Moreover, public health experts say masks are key in ensuring schools are safe for students and staff. This plan was shared with all stakeholders simultaneously as a newscast, without a mention of a strategy for the safe return of students and teachers, or guidance for transportation, extracurricular competitions, and special events such as proms and graduations that happen in the spring. In this episode, I share the mic with fellow educators to explore the pros and cons of decision-making from an educational standpoint. We cover the impact of the decision on students and teachers and talk about the push to fully open up as the fourth largest city in the nation grapples with four virulent strains of the coronavirus. Flipboard EDU Magazine  Flipboard Educators Blog  Copyright Chillhop Music - https://chll.to/b9bb917b Copyright Chillhop Music - https://chll.to/6cd0b356 Copyright Chillhop Music - https://chll.to/fae889b3

On October 26, 1967, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. surprised students of Barratt Junior High School in Philadelphia as he made a pitstop to talk with them about their life’s blueprint. He gave this speech six months before his untimely death. In my estimation, this speech affected America profoundly as it exposed racial injustice in the American education system. To understand the breadth and depth of the impact this single 20-minute speech has had, you need to understand why it was pivotal to students. Tensions had been brewing for some time in Philadelphia due to the lack of diversity in the city’s employment. Students complained that their teachers were insensitive, and they noticed a lack of diversity and inequality on the school board and in the school system as well. In this episode, I will explore the impact of Dr. King’s greatness on students and teachers. I also examine why Dr. King spoke to these students and what the lasting impressions of this talk have been on students. Lastly, I discuss why it’s important to assist students with discovering who they will become. This is the final podcast episode in a series of three that looks at what educators can do better when teaching Black history. Flipboard Education Resources for Black History Month  Flipboard EDU Magazine  Flipboard Educators Blog  Copyright Chillhop Music - https://chll.to/b9bb917b Copyright Chillhop Music - https://chll.to/6cd0b356 Copyright Chillhop Music - https://chll.to/fae889b3

We all know that the future of education has changed since COVID-19 but what that future looks like for students and teachers is a clear as mud. Educators know that at the core of that change in education is a collaboration with peers and amongst teachers and incorporating meaningful critical thinking exercises for students to learn from. That future also entails a thrust for creativity to be inserted into teacher’s lessons requiring students to use creativity to show mastery of those lessons, and for all stakeholders to communicate effectively using 21st-century tools like personalized and audio and video. David Preston the author of Academy of One: The Power and Promise of Open-Source Learning. David is a graduate of the University of California, Los Angeles where he received a B.A. in Communication Studies and a master’s degree in Teacher Education and completed a Ph.D. in Education Policy from the UCLA Graduate School of Education & Information studies. David began his educational career at UCLA and taught there for eleven years. Being challenged by a high school principal stating that research doesn’t always equate to teaching practice David took him up on his offer. In this episode, we talk with David about open-source learning and why education is more than books and tests. We also talk to David about why it’s essential to teach students to use tools like the internet to collaborate and communicate effectively with their peers, as classroom assignments. We also discuss training and professional developments he offers to teachers and schools to incorporate the Academy of One into their curriculums. Flipboard Education Resources for Black History Month  Flipboard EDU Magazine  Flipboard Educators Blog  Copyright Chillhop Music - https://chll.to/b9bb917b Copyright Chillhop Music - https://chll.to/6cd0b356 Copyright Chillhop Music - https://chll.to/fae889b3

I have had many discussions with my peers in the last year about race, equity and culture as well as what it means to be Black in America. We discuss how ingrained racism is in this country and its education system. One conversation in particular that has continued to surface is how the celebration of Black History Month has rested in the hands of educators. I can honestly say that my peers, who are as diverse as the United Nations, have been appalled at how some of the ways Black history is taught and introduced to students. Michelle Ellis tweeted an example, which caught my eye as it began with “Somebody is ALREADY MESSING up Black History Month.” It dawned on me, many educators may not know what is culturally appropriate or be aware of biased practices embedded in Black history lessons. For the podcast, I spoke with Michelle Ellis and Yvette Blake Ed.D, my mentor, about the way we celebrate Black History Month in American schools. These two brave educators didn’t hesitate to share their knowledge and expertise on the subject. In this episode, Michelle, Yvette, and I discuss Black History Month, exploring ways Black history can be incorporated into curriculums with fidelity. We also review resources for teachers teaching Black history and provide suggestions for ways to do this purposefully and meaningfully. Flipboard Education Resources for Black History Month  Flipboard EDU Magazine  Flipboard Educators Blog  Copyright Chillhop Music - https://chll.to/b9bb917b Copyright Chillhop Music - https://chll.to/6cd0b356 Copyright Chillhop Music - https://chll.to/fae889b3

During the month of February, we will be highlighting conversations that I feel are necessary for educators as well as the recognition of Black History Month. These conversations are sparked by photos and articles I’ve seen on Twitter about How Not To Celebrate Black History. The gist: for anyone’s participation in Black History Month to not come across as performative it’s important to understand the culture and experience of Black people in America. As some educators begin to celebrate Black history during the month of February, African American males continue to face a bleak future in 2021. According to the Bureau of Justice Statistics, one in three Black men can expect to go to prison in his lifetime. Our guest, assistant principal Ricardo Bates, works extensively to change this narrative. Ricardo is passionate about mentoring students of all cultures but understands that reaching Black youth during COVID-19 is a priority. He has spent six years in education advancing the ranks from his start as an English teacher to his current role. He played college football at the University of Houston, where he discovered a passion for filmmaking and storytelling. In his films, Ricardo depicts the struggles that young Black men face and overcome through sports and teamwork, and their victories. In this episode, we speak with Ricardo about his experience with mentoring African American youths. We also discuss how students thrive when teachers build relationships with them and create authentic learning experiences. I also asked him about his film The Prattville Way, his production company The BateHouse, and his newest movie “Fruit”.

During this pandemic, we have highlighted the way teachers can enhance their careers through collaboration with other successful educators. We believe that connecting teachers with other teachers will foster creativity and collaboration in ways that will enhance student achievement. Humberto Perez of E4 Youth takes that collaborative mindset to a whole other level. E4 Youth is a nonprofit organization that develops and mentors marginalized youths into creative professionals and Humberto Perez is its education director using the arts, sciences, and technology, the E4 Youth team mentors high school and college students to explore career pathways in the film and graphic arts community. The organization also offers hands-on training and exposure to real-world opportunities. In this episode, we speak to Humberto about mentoring high school and college students on building a solid foundation in the film and graphic arts industry. We discuss how COVID-19 has affected his work with E4 Youth and spent some time reviewing his resources for filmmaking. Copyright Chillhop Music - https://chll.to/b9bb917b Copyright Chillhop Music - https://chll.to/6cd0b356 Copyright Chillhop Music - https://chll.to/fae889b3

Teaching students to be critical thinkers during this pandemic is at the forefront of most teachers' minds. Teaching students to be truth-seekers may be one of the most essential objectives for educators during the COVID-19 pandemic. Combating misinformation and citing credible sources can make all the difference when getting information online. Jonathan Rogers is an award-winning journalism adviser at Iowa City High School, where he was a former Journalism Teacher of the Year in Iowa. Jonathan speaks nationally at education and technology conferences and is a contributing writer for Media Shift, JEADigitalMedia.org, the English in Texas journal, and blogs about education on Medium. In this episode, we discuss the importance of students becoming critical thinkers and managers of their social media accounts, as well as the relevance of media literacy. Jonathan also shares his insights on multiculturalism in the media and the importance of cultural diversity.

Preparing the next generation of teachers is a daunting task. The incorporation of mobile technology has led to many changes in education in the last five years, and the pandemic has accelerated the need to embrace these changes. New teachers need to know how to build relationships virtually, deliver engaging lessons using the best tools available, and communicate with parents to monitor students' progress. How will preservice teachers know where to start? These trends inspired Samantha Fecich to publish EduMagic, a book that helps prepare teachers to hone their digital presence and create activities with technology tools. In this episode of the Flipboard EDU Podcast, we speak with Samantha about the challenges pre-service teachers face during the pandemic. We detail how to build relationships virtually with college students and how pre-service teachers will use technology in their classes as teachers. We also talk about the importance of maintaining a positive presence as a teacher on various forms of social media. Copyright Chillhop Music - https://chll.to/b9bb917b Copyright Chillhop Music - https://chll.to/6cd0b356 Copyright Chillhop Music - https://chll.to/fae889b3

What if the taught-and-tested curriculum in schools could foster really engaging learning experiences? If this pandemic has taught us anything, it is that the standards-based curriculum in school will have to evolve, along with expectations placed on teachers. Evin Schwartz, CEO of Belouga, was well aware of this paradigm shift when he started his curriculum supplement company four years ago. Think of Belouga as an on-demand video service that supports what students need today to build a better tomorrow. Videos curated by this platform allow topics taught in school to be applied to real-world scenarios in various content areas. Common Sense Selection describes Belouga as an “impressive cross-curriculum platform that establishes global connections.”  That might explain why Belouga excels in advocacy and grassroots movements with global projects through the United Nations and UNICF to name a few. In this episode, Evin also speaks about students having access to a viable, self-directed curriculum for student achievement. We discuss the importance of storytelling, as well as student voice and choice during COVID-19. We also detail how Belouga is tailored to support 21st-century learning and student advocacy. Copyright Chillhop Music - https://chll.to/b9bb917b  Copyright Chillhop Music - https://chll.to/6cd0b356 Copyright Chillhop Music - https://chll.to/fae889b3

Passionate educators like Christy McGowan are a necessity for reshaping equity in marginalized neighborhoods through education. Her plan of action is to build a charter school from the ground up, with open admissions based on a lottery system. A former teacher and literacy coach and current BES fellow, Christy is building her own school, One Collegiate, deeply rooted in literacy. BES believes that great schools are led by great leaders who are passionate about changing the educational landscape of underserved communities. Michael Milstead, who is a friend of our show and co-hosted several of our earlier episodes, is a school board member and assists Christy. In this episode, we speak to Christy and Michael about starting the One Collegiate charter school. We discuss why some charter schools have a negative reputation, the challenges a charter faces, and what the mission and vision are for One Collegiate. Copyright Chillhop Music - https://chll.to/b9bb917b Copyright Chillhop Music - https://chll.to/6cd0b356 Copyright Chillhop Music - https://chll.to/fae889b3

During the month of December, computer science is finding its way into classrooms around the world. “DeSTEMber” was created by Girlstart as a month-long virtual program to build awareness for STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math). The goal is to show children and families that STEM is everywhere and to promote equal access to computer science initiatives for girls and misrepresented youth. These 21st-century skills taught this month range from writing lines of code for computer programming to building functioning robots. This emphasis on computer science is made possible by curricular activities found on Code.org, Girls Who Code, and Microbits to name a few. Navigating these activities can be overwhelming and some teachers struggle with the process of incorporating computer science into the traditional curriculum of reading, math, social studies, and science. Brenda Bass is not only an expert at these integrations, she is also an amazing educator who trains and supports teachers to deliver computer science initiatives. I first met Brenda when she was a digital learning specialist; she mentored me as a newly hired employee, training me to train elementary school teachers in technology integration for our school district.  I saw her brilliance with students and teachers firsthand, as she showed my colleagues and me how to connect computer science with various subjects. In this episode, we speak with Brenda about ways to integrate computer science into a traditional curriculum, engaging classroom activities, and resources for teachers. Copyright Chillhop Music - https://chll.to/b9bb917b Copyright Chillhop Music - https://chll.to/6cd0b356 Copyright Chillhop Music - https://chll.to/fae889b3

Dr. Josue Falaise is joining us again this week to dive deeper into the topic of cultural competence. As founder and CEO of GOMO Educational Services, he trains educators and writes articles on a variety of topics such as “Turning Adversity into Opportunity” and “Dealing with Difficult Students.” While he was director of improving student achievement at the Rutgers University Graduate School of Education, he traveled the world to train educators on practices for equity and equal access to opportunity for all students. A former teacher, principal, assistant superintendent/chief academic officer and, his career in education spans 20 years. In this week’s episode, in addition to sharing his professional expertise, Falaise recounts a time as a youth when he disregarded his culture and allowed others to use an “Americanized” version of his name. His awakening to his own Haitian roots steered his professional and educational journey. His story resonates with many culturally diverse students and helps him hold educators accountable to strengthen their cultural competency. Copyright Chillhop Music - https://chll.to/b9bb917b Copyright Chillhop Music - https://chll.to/6cd0b356 Copyright Chillhop Music - https://chll.to/fae889b3

Storytelling might be the unsung hero of the pandemic. More and more schools are seeing the importance of incorporating “a narrative” during COVID-19. Traditionally school districts don’t proactively tell their own stories and as a result, they aren’t accurately represented in the media. Professional journalist and author Clement Townsend fill a huge need as he mentors students and teachers on video journalism and broadcasting. In this episode, we speak with Clement about the importance of mentoring students in the field of video broadcasting and the appropriate use of social media.  He discusses how teachers can incorporate media learning opportunities that are project-based and outlines his step-by-step process to motivate students to use their voice like a pro. Copyright Chillhop Music - https://chll.to/b9bb917b Copyright Chillhop Music - https://chll.to/6cd0b356 Copyright Chillhop Music - https://chll.to/fae889b3

Tarael Kee, the president-elect of the Illinois School Counselors Association, speaks with me about these discrepancies and how some minority teachers are identifying bias in education that promotes various stereotypes. Tarael is also a high school counselor in Collinsville Illinois and has worked as an educator for 15 years. He is currently working on his doctorate in educational leadership and writes for the Illinois School Counselor Association about mental health-related topics In this episode, we identify several biases that play a crucial role in maintaining systemic racism in education in America. We also discuss the impact of gerrymandering on school funding and how COVID-19 has increased pressure on children in poverty. Copyright Chillhop Music - https://chll.to/b9bb917b Copyright Chillhop Music - https://chll.to/6cd0b356 Copyright Chillhop Music - https://chll.to/fae889b3

It seems like 2020 has most of us feeling boxed in and overwhelmed with grading student’s work and virtual parent meetings. What better way to navigate the COVID-19 education era than with a wingman? Especially if your wingman is “EDUCopilot” Albert Thomas. Albert is an amazing educator who has been a teacher, principal, and instructional technologist and serves as the President for ISTE PLN. He has done extensive work with Adobe Education and is a founding member of the Adobe Creative Educator Creative Crew, as well as a Google Certified Educator. In this episode, we speak about the importance of school administrators to allow room for creativity in schools. Specifically, we discuss practical ways to use creativity in all aspects of education, from the lesson cycle to curriculum planning, as well as how creativity can support district administrators in communicating with the school community. We discuss the willingness of school leaders to take risks by incorporating creativity wherever possible. Due to COVID and compliance with rules from CDC and Education boards creativity can be the last thing on the school leader’s mind. Copyright Chillhop Music - https://chll.to/b9bb917b Copyright Chillhop Music - https://chll.to/6cd0b356 Copyright Chillhop Music - https://chll.to/fae889b3

Nikki Spears has been an educator for 25 years, but in recent years, stepped away from her career as a principal, and now works as an educator, motivational speaker, and change leader.  In 2016, Niki co-founded the Energy Bus for Schools with Jon Gordon, where she trained educators to create positive school climates for teaching and learning. She recently embarked on yet another career – as an author..” In this episode, we speak to Niki about her non-fiction motivational book, “The Beauty Underneath the Struggle” and her children’s story, “The Hand Hug,” which features her granddaughter Baelor. We also discuss how COVID-19 has brought unexpected growth opportunities for self-awareness to educators and she invites them to rewrite narratives often perceived as negatives into positives that empower a growth mindset. We also speak about how school leaders can groom educators to walk in their purpose, focusing on how they fulfill that inner purpose versus what they are doing in pursuit to fulfill their professional goals. Copyright Chillhop Music - https://chll.to/b9bb917b Copyright Chillhop Music - https://chll.to/6cd0b356 Copyright Chillhop Music - https://chll.to/fae889b3

It wasn’t until later in my career that I realized applying creativity to problem-solving is critical in engaging students. Claudio Zavala Jr. and Fred Benitez don’t just understand that component of the learning cycle. They also use it to train teachers and students. Both of them inspire my growth as an educator. Claudio Zavala, Jr. and Fred Benitez are renowned educational technologists, in Burleson ISD and Eanes ISD respectively, that develop training for teachers, staff, and students. Both are Adobe Education Leaders and have presented at education conferences like ISTE, TCEA, and Adobe for Education. In this episode, we discuss the importance of being creative in teaching and problem-solving. We discuss why it’s important to take bite-sized or “Chicken Nugget” opportunities to incorporate creativity into the learning cycle — with or without electronic devices. We also discuss how tools like Adobe Spark lower the barrier for designing beautiful graphics, web pages, and video stories in minutes. Adobe Spark is an excellent tool for remote and face-to-face learners to show mastery of learning objectives. What I like even more is that these learning tools can be used by all students from kindergarten through 12th grade. Copyright Chillhop Music - https://chll.to/b9bb917b Copyright Chillhop Music - https://chll.to/6cd0b356 Copyright Chillhop Music - https://chll.to/fae889b3

Now, more than ever, video is playing a key role in the classroom. Teachers at all levels are using video daily for various classroom activities. Synchronous and asynchronous learning are terms that were definitely born in 2020 and are becoming staples of professional development for teachers. It appears that they are here to stay. Oddly enough using video in classrooms is nothing new for educators. Yet, this school year has required a new skill from teachers, who may or may not have anticipated the shifts that are occurring this fall. With apps like Flipgrid which allows students to use video to collaborate with other her students around the world In this episode, we speak with Monica Nahas, a distance-learning specialist, who works with over 50 school districts and 30 charter schools in one of Texas’ largest education service center Region 4. Monica lays out best practices for using video with students, including ways for teachers to create their own videos, and keeping students safe during video conferences. Copyright Chillhop Music - https://chll.to/b9bb917b Copyright Chillhop Music - https://chll.to/6cd0b356 Copyright Chillhop Music - https://chll.to/fae889b3

I have had the fortune of working with many talented people throughout my career. One that stands out for me is Patience Edwards, who was a newly minted third-grade teacher when I met her. At that time, she was one of the best new teachers I had ever seen: charismatic, well organized, and eager to learn anything that would change the lives of her students. This dynamic educator excelled in the classroom back then and now in a new role during COVID-19 In this episode, we talk with Patience about this career change and pose the following questions: when is it the right time to spread your wings in education? Can you be impactful outside of the classroom supporting teachers in other capacities? What happens if you don't “bloom where you are planted”? Because when you finally figure out your “Why” you’ll need a vision on your “How”  and that’s something Patience has done. Copyright Chillhop Music - https://chll.to/b9bb917b Copyright Chillhop Music - https://chll.to/6cd0b356 Copyright Chillhop Music - https://chll.to/fae889b3

In this episode, we explore the technique of “mining for treasures” in students and teachers. We also discuss meaningful instructional design for diverse student populations. We speak about her podcast Designed to Thrive Podcast and connecting multidisciplinary approaches to instruction. Elissa also details how important it is for teachers to cultivate personal creativity and using varied approaches to reach students where they are to grow students and teachers. In Elissa’s terms “mining for treasure” is essential in guiding the education process that reverses traditional teaching models. She believes that students have more to offer inside of them than what’s presented to them through traditional lecturing. Elissa gained insight into her instructional practice by parenting two Autistic students and “believing she could tap into them”. I’m personally inspired by Autistic parents because of their positive attitudes toward their children, which is refreshing in education. Elissa unwavering belief that her own children have unique greatness that has cultivated a math savant and musical genius. This process has transferred to a teaching practice that is passionate sincere for improving student and teacher outcomes. Copyright Chillhop Music - https://chll.to/b9bb917b Copyright Chillhop Music - https://chll.to/6cd0b356 Copyright Chillhop Music - https://chll.to/fae889b3

In this episode, we speak with Tom  Mc Fadden about using hip-hop as a way to teach science. We also discuss how COVID-19 and social distancing may hinder teacher creativity in the classroom, and strategize on how to get that excitement back into teaching. Tom teaches 8th graders biology at the Nueva School in Southern California. He also teaches the world science with his YouTube Channel Science Rap Academy. Tom’s videos are engaging, to say the least, and he encourages his students to create amazing video science content as well. Tom has been a guest on various morning talk shows, done duets with Lil Jon, and even had Bill Nye the Science Guy in one of his rap videos, Everybody Has Questions. He is also building one of the most creative apps I have ever seen to enhance science instruction using hip-hop. Copyright Chillhop Music - https://chll.to/b9bb917b Copyright Chillhop Music - https://chll.to/6cd0b356 Copyright Chillhop Music - https://chll.to/fae889b3

One of the biggest challenges for teachers lately is organizing curricula and having meaningful conversations online with students in a safe environment. There are several horror stories of teachers video conference classrooms being hijacked by hackers, who until now were the furthest thing away from the minds of educators. Like, who really thought that would be an issue eight months ago? Weirdly enough this year has brought about another wrinkle to online instruction that is currently a flaw in most Learning Management systems, a lack of social-emotional interaction. Enter Microsoft Teams for Education, an excellent one-stop-shop for security, safety, and supporting student engagement. In this episode, Bhavani Kola mathematics and statistics instructor at Tarrant Junior College, and Kimberly Barrett English teacher at Calloway County High School, help me explain why Microsoft Teams for Education just works in the 21st-century classroom environment. Bhavani, a Microsoft Innovative Educator Expert shares her expertise on her youtube channel F2F to Online Transition training educators on the ins and outs of effectively using Microsoft Teams with students. Bhavani also helped me to understand that learning math from a teacher you like is more memorable than learning math from a teacher you dislike, which pretty much explains my relationship with Math. Speaking of relationships, Kimberly is also a Microsoft Innovative Expert and specialized in personalized learning, teaching freshman English at Calloway High School. Kimberly is a master at engaging students as she was the Kentucky Career and Technolgy teacher of the year in 2017. Copyright Chillhop Music - https://chll.to/b9bb917b Copyright Chillhop Music - https://chll.to/6cd0b356 Copyright Chillhop Music - https://chll.to/fae889b3

“Isn’t this a perfect time to gather all the students in your class and teach them how to podcast?” I asked Randy Marble, band director, and Jennifer Kincannon, English teacher at Columbia High School, where we all work, that exact question a couple of weeks ago. Then it hit me: if I’m going to practice what I preach, I need to preach less to the choir. So instead, I pitched this idea to our principal, Scott Moody, who in turn mentioned it to our superintendent, Steven Galloway of Columbia Brazoria ISD. After a vision casting session, a great program was born: we will have students make a podcast! In this episode of the Flipboard EDU podcast, I invited Randy and Jennifer to detail how we will enlist our students to record a podcast. Jennifer has been an English teacher for seven years and has worked in education for 13 years. Under her leadership, students have won awards in the University Interscholastic League competition. Randy has been an educator for 35 years, starting out as a youth minister and working as a band director for the last 18 years. He is also an avid Flipboard user. We discuss the tools we will be using, like Soundtrap and Flipboard, how they enhance teaching and learning in the 21st century and boost student engagement. Copyright Chillhop Music - https://chll.to/b9bb917b Copyright Chillhop Music - https://chll.to/6cd0b356 Copyright Chillhop Music - https://chll.to/fae889b3

Can you think of anything that is more important to a school than teaching and learning? This is the sole reason schools exist, right? COVID-19 has presented an opportunity for teachers to embrace the modern practices of 21st-century education, albeit it also comes with challenges. In this episode, I detail how I began using Flipboard as an educational tool and why it is the app to rule them all. I discuss how you can use Flipboard to showcase student work, curate meaningful discussions, and use it as a tool to target instruction. I also highlight practical uses for Flipboard that increase student’s ability to communicate, collaborate, think critically, and be creative. Copyright Chillhop Music - https://chll.to/b9bb917b Copyright Chillhop Music - https://chll.to/6cd0b356 Copyright Chillhop Music - https://chll.to/fae889b3

Schools across the country are opening as superintendents and school boards decide on best practices for keeping students safe and COVID-free. Some say that the reopening of schools should have been universally led by the Secretary of Education. Without regard to political affiliation, we ponder how much regulation and oversight is needed in returning to school nationally. Should we have a unified effort and plan from the Secretary of Education, or should decisions about openings be left up to local school boards? In this episode, we speak with Dr. Nida Saeed and Jeremy Sanders about their approach to these questions. I met Dr. Saeed in the Digital Learning Department of Fort Bend ISD which we both worked in during her undergraduate studies. She is a gifted educator who specializes in integrating Writing curricula with technology, as well as an expert on cultural awareness for Muslim Americans fostering inclusive environments in school settings. Mr. Sanders is an assistant principal in Galena Park ISD. He works at one of the largest high schools in the state of Texas, boasting a student body of 4,500 students.

Student engagement will be at the forefront of all educators’ minds this fall. In my experience, nothing engages students more than music and especially hip-hop—the music as well as the culture. Whether you are a fan of the genre or not, students have now been engaging with the five elements of hip-hop culture: Breakdancing, DJing, graffiti, emceeing, and beatboxing) for 47 years.  In this episode, we speak with renowned hip-hop educator Ike Ramos, the director of district partnership at NearPod. Mr. Ramos, a former middle school principal, and coach have capitalized on his avid love for hip-hop by making it his career. He has written and performed educational W.R.A.P.s (Writing Rhymes with an Academic Purpose) on various TV shows, opened for mainstream artists, and even rapped at the United Nations World Peace Day.  Copyright Chillhop Music - https://chll.to/b9bb917b Copyright Chillhop Music - https://chll.to/6cd0b356 Copyright Chillhop Music - https://chll.to/fae889b3

A meaningful discussion about the lack of funding and resources for schools across America requires an honest look at the role systemic racism plays in education. All too often, we hear about the need for equity as a way to rectify disparities; in reality, equity doesn’t address the core problem but rather perpetuates it. “Separate but Equal” was abolished and replaced by equity, yet minority communities still struggle 66 years later. I’ve invited Dr. Michael Moody back on the show for a discussion about equity in education,, along with Knikole Taylor. Dr. Moody is the CEO of Insight Advance, an organization dedicated to improving instructional practices and students’ achievement through various strategic coaching models. He joined us for episode 10 of the podcast about Racism in America. Also for this conversation, I wanted a real educator doing the work of equalizing education, and Knikole Taylor is perfect. She’s a rockstar educator who resides in Dallas, Texas and currently works as a technology instructional coach. Mrs.Taylor is an international professional development trainer, curriculum developer, speaker, and author. She is known for her magnificent Edcamp/Edtech projects that train teachers and educators virtually and in person. Copyright Chillhop Music - https://chll.to/b9bb917b Copyright Chillhop Music - https://chll.to/6cd0b356

In this episode of Flipboard Edu Podcast, we speak with Dr. Sarah Thomas and examine the impact of EduMatch personal learning network. Edumatch which started as a conversation has grown into an “edu-preneurial” force over the last five years. From publishing up to 50 books from dedicated rockstar teachers to a growing several podcast hosts of thriving educational shows.  Edumatch founded by Dr. Sarah Thomas was instrumental in my growth as a professional as well, as it allows me to collaborate with like-minded educators around the world. Dr. Sarah Thomas is known for welcoming demeanor and passion for teaching-learning with technology with a multicultural approach. Dr. Sarah-Jane Thomas is currently a Regional Technology Coordinator in Prince George’s County Public Schools in Maryland. Sarah is a Google Certified Innovator, Google Education Trainer,  founder of the EduMatch project, which promotes connection and collaboration among educators around the world and part-time Affiliate Faculty at Loyola University.  Through EduMatch, Sarah has published several collaborative and individual books and serves as President on the Board of Directors for EduMatch Foundation, Inc. Sarah is also on the leadership team of the ISTE Digital Equity PLN, and Dr. Thomas is the host of her own EduMatch Podcast Copyright Chillhop Music - https://chll.to/6cd0b356

During the COVID era, many teachers have started to use TikTok to engage their students. Janet Speyer has curated a Flipboard Storyboard titled Going to school with TikTok that includes several great examples. That’s where I discovered the amazing history videos by Brooke Pavek aka “Slavic Caesar.” A recent high school graduate, she uses TikTok to teach the world to love history. Her extensive knowledge of history is impressive for a person of any age. The way she teaches gave me the impression she’s already in front of a classroom... and quite frankly we need more educators like her in the world. In this episode of the Flipboard EDU Podcast, we speak with Brooke Pavek, who engages students of all ages with interesting historical facts on TiK Tok. Her episodic themed history lessons are as engaging as they are informative. Her instructional delivery is so captivating that her TikTok channel has 600,000 followers. Her sixty-second videos about Julius Caesar, the former emperor of Rome, have become instant classics.

For far too long systemic racism has deterred the dreams of equity and equality for children of color. To really dig into this conversation we enlisted the help of several educational thought leaders. In this week’s episode, we discuss observations, gatekeepers, and possible solutions with Dr. Michael Moody, the founder of Insight Advance, along with his Senior Vice President Dr. Andrea Thomas-Reynolds, who have been actively coaching teachers to improve instructional practices in K-12 education. We also invited Dr. Josue Failase founder of FOMO Educational services and Dr. Adana J. Janaki Associate Vice President for Student Equity and Inclusion at Georgetown University. Music by Chillhop Music: https://chillhop.com Written: Christel Vander Boom, Stacie Boudrie, Dr. Michael Milstead, William Jeffery 

Episode 9 is a continued conversation with Shelly Terrell about Social-Emotional Learning. Shelly explains that listening to teachers’ concerns as she traveled the world not only enhances her ability to reach teachers but that it supports instructional delivery. We firmly believe that a passionate teacher who enjoys learning will transfer that enthusiasm into the students as well. Shelly says that as a presenter she attempts to learn from her audience. As we address the isolation of COVID-19, learning from our student’s experiences will enhance the relationship between the teacher and the student.

Are students' mental health and their ability to socialize a priority at your school? In this episode of the "Flipboard EDU Podcast," we interview author and award-winning public speaker Shelly Sanchez Terrell about social-emotional learning. In light of the traumatic experiences that our students have faced over the last two months, there is a need for educators to prioritize healing and making sense of the world with students. In times like these, it’s a gift to have good friends to lean on, especially if they are like Shelly. Shelly is a teacher trainer, e-learning specialist, and the author of the books "The 30 Goals Challenge for Teachers: Small Steps to Transform Your Teaching" and "Learning to Go: Lesson Ideas for Teaching with Mobile Devices, Cell Phones, and BYOT." She has traveled the world as an educational expert and is respected as a professional development pundit. Shelly’s work has been recognized by the ELTon Awards, The New York Times, NPR, and Microsoft’s Heroes for Education. She was named Woman of the Year 2014 by Star Jones’s National Association of Professional Women and awarded a Bammy Award as a founder of #Edchat. Writers: Stacie Boudrie, Dr. Micheal Milstead, and William Jeffery Producers: Stacie Boudrie, Dr. Micheal Milstead, and William Jeffery Music used in this episode was authorized by the following: Copyright Chillhop Music - https://chll.to/ad1e4411 Copyright Chillhop Music - https://chll.to/b9bb917b Copyright Chillhop Music - https://chll.to/ad1e4411

In this episode, we have three amazing guests who are the backbone of the Flipboard EDU Community. Janette Speyer, Terry Porter, and Michael Toothman all stop by the show and discuss their love for Flipboard’s uses. Janette Speyer, a Marketing Executive Partner of Hot Ice Media and Terry Porter a former Systems Administrator and current Flipboard enthusiast exclaim their love for educating others on Flipboard’s versatility. While these ladies are not educators by trade, they enlisted the services of esteemed educator Michael Toothman on Flipboard’s ability to engage his college students. Writers: Stacie Boudrie, Dr. Micheal Milstead, and William Jeffery Producers: Stacie Boudrie, Dr. Micheal Milstead, and William Jeffery Music used in this episode was authorized by the following: Copyright Chillhop Music - https://chll.to/ad1e4411 Copyright Chillhop Music - https://chll.to/b9bb917b Copyright Chillhop Music - https://chll.to/ad1e4411

In this episode, we will conclude our conversation with George Couros where we look at valuable professional learning connections for educators. We also ask George about embracing meaningful change as post-COVID-19 settles more into our reality. George clarifies the “Networker” characteristic, which is one of the eight characteristics of an "Innovative Mindset” that he wrote about in his book. He details the importance of interacting online with the purpose of establishing connections with educators to build capacity for the start of school in the fall. Writers: Stacie Boudrie, Dr. Micheal Milstead, and William Jeffery Producers: Stacie Boudrie, Dr. Micheal Milstead, and William Jeffery Music used in this episode was authorized by the following: Copyright Chillhop Music - https://chll.to/ad1e4411 Copyright Chillhop Music - https://chll.to/b9bb917b Copyright Chillhop Music - https://chll.to/ad1e4411

In this episode, we talk about building relationships in the COVID-19 era with educator and author George Couros. George has served students for over 20 years in key roles as a teacher, principal, technology coordinator, and district administrator. Heis also a highly sought-after public speaker, author, and avid basketball fan. (That makes him a forever guest on our show by the way)  He can be found sharing his love of basketball, his personality, and professional learning on all social outlets. George is world renown for his work in leadership development George has written, “The Innovator's Mindset: Empower Learning, Unleash Talent, and Lead a Culture of Creativity” and “ Innovate Inside the Box: Empowering Learners Through UDL and the Innovator's Mindset”  with Katie Novak. George’s books couldn’t have been written for a better time in education.  We talk about the necessity to get educators to build meaningful relationships with students by understanding the culture of students they teach. Specifically, marginalized students who may be underserved will be engaged by a teacher who invests time in relationship-building. The master teacher will then flip that interest into the subject matter to achieve student success. George reminds us that “Innovating Inside of the box” is the most useful tool available to educators. We say that  Flipboard makes that process even easier. Writers: Stacie Boudrie, Dr. Micheal Milstead, and William Jeffery Producers: Stacie Boudrie, Dr. Micheal Milstead, and William Jeffery Music used in this episode was authorized by the following: Copyright Chillhop Music - https://chll.to/ad1e4411 Copyright Chillhop Music - https://chll.to/b9bb917b Copyright Chillhop Music - https://chll.to/ad1e4411

In this week’s episode, we continue our conversation with educator Carl Hooker as we detail how collaboration tools support instruction and how they work really well with Flipboard. Carl discusses his go-to app to stay on task: Trello, a free platform that allows students to collaborate on assignments with purpose. I flipped a “Scientific Method” Trello board into the "Flipboard EDU Podcast" magazine as an example of the way the two apps can work together. Writers: Stacie Boudrie, Dr. Micheal Milstead, and William Jeffery Producers: Stacie Boudrie, Dr. Micheal Milstead, and William Jeffery Music used in this episode was authorized by the following: Copyright Chillhop Music - https://chll.to/ad1e4411 Copyright Chillhop Music - https://chll.to/b9bb917b Copyright Chillhop Music - https://chll.to/ad1e4411

In this episode, we speak with Carl Hooker, the Mad Hatter of teaching and technology integration. Carl was instrumental early in my career as I transitioned to become a digital learning specialist fresh out of school. During our interview, Carl shared myriad ideas about the evolving landscape of professional development during COVID-19. We asked him about one of his latest blog posts, “A Beginner’s Toolkit for Teaching Remotely,” in which he details five key components in support of remote teaching. We will also share weekly FlipTips from Terry Porter and Janette Speyer. We end this episode, in the spirit of Teacher Appreciation Week, by honoring educators who curate on Flipboard:  Josh Allen, Linda Bernstein, Clay Reisler, Michael James, Liz Cho, Wesley Fryer, and Bret Biornstad. Learn more about them on the Flipboard for Educators blog. Writers: Stacie Boudrie, Dr. Micheal Milstead, and William Jeffery Producers: Stacie Boudrie, Dr. Micheal Milstead, and William Jeffery Music used in this episode was authorized by the following: Copyright Chillhop Music - https://chll.to/ad1e4411 Copyright Chillhop Music - https://chll.to/b9bb917b Copyright Chillhop Music - https://chll.to/ad1e4411 

In this episode, we continue our discussion of the book written by Robinson and Aronica Creative Schools: The Grassroots. Our focus in this session is on the second set of the 8 C’s Creativity, Communication, Collaboration, and Critical Thinking which are essential traits to instruction and building leadership capacity in students. The authors state that these skills are pillars of learning and pathways to student mastery in the 21st Century. As teachers purposefully incorporate Creativity into instruction we explore what is required of the learner when measuring student achievement. During this period of COVID 19, what steps are teachers imploring to emphasize the importance of effective communication during a period of crisis?  How are educators promoting best practices for Collaboration? These and other questions will be answered on this episode of 21st Century Teaching Skills.  Writers: Stacie Boudrie, Dr. Micheal Milstead, and William Jeffery Producers: Stacie Boudrie, Dr. Micheal Milstead, and William Jeffery Music used in this episode was authorized by the following: Copyright Chillhop Music - https://chll.to/ad1e4411 Copyright Chillhop Music - https://chll.to/b9bb917b Copyright Chillhop Music - https://chll.to/ad1e4411 Materials referenced: “Creative Schools” should focus on these 8 C’s. (2015). What is a Progressive School?. Retrieved 13 April 2020, from https://teachertina.net/2015/06/15/creative-schools-should-focus-on-these-8-cs/ Infusing the 4C's. (2016). Flipboard. Retrieved 13 April 2020, from https://flipboard.com/@michelletraylor/infusing-the-4c-s-hj9gm2kjz The 5th ‘C’ of 21st Century Skills? Try Computational Thinking (Not Coding) - EdSurge News. (2018). EdSurge. Retrieved 13 April 2020, from https://www.edsurge.com/news/2018-02-25-the-5th-c-of-21st-century-skills-try-computational-thinking-not-coding

In the first episode, we will look at how to incorporate the first four attributes: citizenship, composure, compassion, and criticism. Dr. Michael Milstead and Stacie Boudrie explain why fostering 21st-century skills in instruction, learning, and student achievement Are critical for teachers to implement in the current state of Education. We will introduce the listening audience to Flipboard EDU Podcast. We will tell the audience to expect a fair and balanced look at education, its practices, and promote student achievement in the 21st century. On this podcast, we will use Flipboard Magazines to unite all components of Digital Learning focusing on student communication, collaboration, critical thinking, and creativity. We will explore how the use of Flipboard in education enhances instruction and promotes beautifully crafted magazines that support 21st Century learning. Writers: Stacie Boudrie, Dr. Micheal Milstead, and William Jeffery  Producers: Stacie Boudrie, Dr. Micheal Milstead, and William Jeffery  Music used in this episode was authorized by the following:  Copyright Chillhop Music - https://chll.to/ad1e4411 Copyright Chillhop Music - https://chll.to/b9bb917b Copyright Chillhop Music - https://chll.to/ad1e4411 Materials referenced:  “Creative Schools” should focus on these 8 C’s. (2015). What is a Progressive School?. Retrieved 13 April 2020, from https://teachertina.net/2015/06/15/creative-schools-should-focus-on-these-8-cs/ Infusing the 4C's. (2016). Flipboard. Retrieved 13 April 2020, from https://flipboard.com/@michelletraylor/infusing-the-4c-s-hj9gm2kjz Learning Flipboard for your business or school - YouTube. (2020). YouTube. Retrieved 30 April 2020, from https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLZGlQ5isiIkY3TXK4KWCStNUX_98A7asj Tell A Story With Your Flipboard Magazine Title. (2020). Medium. Retrieved 30 April 2020, from https://medium.com/flipboard4business/tell-a-story-with-your-flipboard-magazine-title-2b60a41fc1b0 The 5th ‘C’ of 21st Century Skills? Try Computational Thinking (Not Coding) - EdSurge News. (2018). EdSurge. Retrieved 13 April 2020, from https://www.edsurge.com/news/2018-02-25-the-5th-c-of-21st-century-skills-try-computational-thinking-not-coding