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powerED Up

powerED Up

By Ken Ehrmann

We are powering education up by empowering you! Join us to talk about everything education with the hosts and weekly interviews. We will interview teachers to find out what makes great teachers and how we can all grow together.
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Show 20: Ignite a Culture of Innovation

powerED UpMay 27, 2021

00:00
01:20:19
162: Find the Joy in Teaching andModel Our Best for Students

162: Find the Joy in Teaching andModel Our Best for Students

In this conversation, Sarah Painter discusses the challenges teachers face before and during the pandemic. She emphasizes the importance of reflecting on teaching practices and finding ways to simplify and prioritize tasks. Sarah also highlights the need for self-care and the importance of setting boundaries that work for each individual. She encourages teachers to know themselves and their priorities and to involve others in the reflection process. Sarah shares insights on MTSS and the role of educators in supporting students. She concludes by discussing the value of seizing opportunities to lead and building alliances with parents and caregivers.


Takeaways

  • Reflect on your teaching practices and find ways to simplify and prioritize tasks.
  • Take care of yourself and set boundaries that work for you.
  • Know yourself and your priorities, and involve others in the reflection process.
  • Seize opportunities to lead and build alliances with parents and caregivers.
Mar 28, 202401:23:02
161: Sketchnoting for Student and Teacher Success

161: Sketchnoting for Student and Teacher Success

Summary

Ashton Rodenhiser, a professional live illustrator and graphic facilitator, discusses the power of visual communication and the process of graphic facilitation. She explains how she got into graphic facilitation and the tools she uses for her work. Ashton also introduces the concept of sketchnoting and shares how it can be taught to students. She emphasizes the importance of providing students with the freedom to doodle and draw while setting parameters to ensure the focus remains on learning. Ashton highlights the benefits of sketchnoting, including improved retention of information and the ability to make connections. In this conversation, Ashton Rodenhiser discusses the benefits of sketchnoting in the classroom and provides practical advice for teachers. She emphasizes the importance of allowing students the opportunity to sketchnote and encourages teachers to change their delivery of information to promote thinking and visual processing. Ashton also highlights the flexibility of sketchnoting and the various ways it can be incorporated into different subjects. She suggests celebrating and supporting all forms of creativity and advises teachers to persevere through rejection and reconnect with their why to overcome moments of stress. Ashton concludes by recommending her book, 'The Beginner's Guide to Sketchnoting,' and inviting teachers to join the sketchnoting community at sketchnote.school.


Takeaways

  • Graphic facilitation involves creating visual representations of conversations and group processes.

  • Sketchnoting is a form of visual note-taking that can help improve retention of information and make connections.

  • Teachers can introduce sketchnoting to students by teaching basic drawing elements and encouraging them to use lines, shapes, and icons to represent information.

  • Doodling and sketchnoting can enhance learning and focus, but it's important to set expectations and parameters to ensure the focus remains on the content being learned. Encouraging students to sketchnote can enhance their learning experience by promoting visual thinking and processing.

  • Changing the delivery of information to a more creative and storytelling format can engage students and encourage deeper understanding.

  • Sketchnoting can be applied in various subjects and can be adapted to suit different learning styles and preferences.

  • Balancing creativity and productivity is important when incorporating sketchnoting in the classroom.

  • Embracing imperfection and understanding that sketchnoting skills develop over time can help teachers and students overcome self-doubt and fear of rejection.

  • Teachers can find resources and support for learning and implementing sketchnoting in the book 'The Beginner's Guide to Sketchnoting' and the sketchnoting community at sketchnote.school.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background

02:10 Facilitation and Graphic Facilitation

06:14 Process of Graphic Facilitation

10:45 Tools and Setup for Graphic Facilitation

14:22 The Power of Visual Communication

16:06 Introduction to Sketchnoting

19:21 Teaching Sketchnoting to Students

29:49 Encouraging Doodling and Sketchnoting

36:51 Benefits and Applications of Sketchnoting

41:06 Encouraging Students to Sketchnote

42:04 Changing Delivery of Information

43:03 Creating an Environment for Visual Thinking

44:39 Applying Sketchnoting in Different Subjects

45:34 Balancing Creativity and Productivity

46:21 Different Approaches to Sketchnoting

49:14 Flexibility in Sketchnoting

50:36 The Best Thing a Teacher Can Do

52:42 Overcoming Stress as an Educator

55:21 Advice for Teachers Trying Sketchnoting

57:32 Embracing Imperfection in Sketchnoting

58:27 Resources for Learning Sketchnoting


Twitter: @mindseyeccf

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Mar 21, 202401:07:59
160: Paternity Break for Matt and Ken

160: Paternity Break for Matt and Ken

Summary

In this episode, Matt Rogers and Ken Ehrmann discuss the upcoming paternity break for the Powered Up Podcast. They reflect on the podcast journey and the impact it has had on their teaching identities. They also discuss the future of the podcast and the importance of setting boundaries as a new parent. They share their experiences and insights on re-entering the classroom after a break and the challenges of balancing work and personal life. Finally, they reminisce about the most memorable moments on the podcast. In this episode, Matt and Ken reflect on their conversations with teachers and the impact they have had. They discuss the possibility and realness of educators and the valuable lessons they have learned from the greats in the field. They also emphasize the importance of friendship and personal connection in their podcast journey. The episode concludes with a discussion on core values and approaches in teaching and a farewell message from Matt to the audience.

Takeaways

  • Taking breaks and prioritizing family is important for personal well-being.

  • The podcast has provided a platform for personal growth and reflection as educators.

  • Setting clear boundaries and defining priorities is crucial for maintaining a healthy work-life balance.

  • Re-entering the classroom after a break requires adapting to changes while staying true to core values.

  • Memorable moments on the podcast include conversations with inspiring educators and learning new perspectives.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Paternity Break

07:23 Reflection on the Podcast Journey

12:30 Impact of the Podcast on Teaching Identity

18:08 Future of the Podcast

22:42 Setting Boundaries as a New Parent

34:18 Re-entering the Classroom after a Break

44:31 Defining Boundaries and Prioritizing

48:37 Most Memorable Moments on the Podcast

50:12 The Impact of Teachers

51:12 The Possibility and Realness of Educators

52:07 Learning from the Greats

53:09 The Friendship and Personal Connection

54:03 Core Values and Approaches in Teaching

55:30 Closing Remarks

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Apple Podcast Review

Feb 29, 202457:50
159: When You Wonder, You're Learning

159: When You Wonder, You're Learning

Summary

Ryan Rydzewski, co-author of the book 'When You Wonder, You're Learning,' discusses the enduring lessons of Mr. Rogers and their relevance in education today. He emphasizes the importance of relationships in the classroom and the need for teachers to bring their passions into their teaching. Ryan also highlights the impact of Mr. Rogers' methods on student learning and the need for changes in teacher training. He shares examples of schools prioritizing curiosity and relationship-building and discusses the challenges of implementing innovative approaches in education. The conversation explores the importance of creating a positive classroom environment, teaching subjects students don't enjoy, the impact of teacher enthusiasm, building relationships with students, the power of deep listening, finding strength in moments of struggle, teachers as lifelong learners, and spreading Fred Rogers' teaching methods.

Takeaways

  • The importance of building relationships with students in the classroom

  • The value of bringing personal passions into teaching

  • The enduring relevance of Mr. Rogers' methods in education

  • The need for changes in teacher training to prioritize relationships and curiosity Creating a positive classroom environment is crucial for student engagement and enjoyment of school.

  • Teachers should find ways to make subjects that students don't enjoy more meaningful and relevant.

  • Enthusiastic teachers have a positive impact on student performance and enjoyment of learning.

  • Building relationships with students by showing genuine interest in their lives can create a stronger connection and enhance the learning experience.

  • Deep listening, without judgment, is a powerful tool for effective communication and understanding.

  • In moments of struggle, teachers can find strength by focusing on the impact they have on students' lives.

  • Teachers should embrace a lifelong learning mindset and constantly seek new teaching strategies and methods.

  • Spreading Fred Rogers' teaching methods can have a transformative impact on classrooms and students.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background

00:49 Catalyst for Writing the Book

05:02 Mr. Rogers' Impact on Pittsburgh

09:17 The Importance of Relationships in Education

11:15 The Role of Teachers in Fostering Curiosity

14:25 Bringing Personal Passions into the Classroom

16:36 The Impact of Relationships on Student Learning

19:56 The Importance of Inviting Students into Teachers' Lives

22:20 The Continuing Relevance of Mr. Rogers' Concepts

23:04 The Alignment of Mr. Rogers' Methods with Learning Sciences

25:26 The Need for Changes in Teacher Training

29:13 Balancing Relationships and Curriculum

31:31 The Challenge of Implementing Innovative Approaches

37:29 The Fear of Permission and Control in Education

41:09 Shifting Perspectives on Education and Standardized Testing

47:05 The Importance of a Positive Classroom Environment

48:02 Teaching Subjects Students Don't Enjoy

49:01 The Impact of Teacher Enthusiasm

50:46 Building Relationships with Students

52:27 The Power of Deep Listening

55:21 Finding Strength in Moments of Struggle

58:39 Teachers as Lifelong Learners

01:02:08 Spreading Fred Rogers' Teaching Methods


Website: whenyouwonder.org

Twitter: @ryanrydzewski @greggbehr @when_you_wonder


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Feb 22, 202401:12:01
158: The Experience of Neurodiversity for Our Students

158: The Experience of Neurodiversity for Our Students

Summary

In this conversation, Christopher Scott Wyatt discusses his experience with being diagnosed with autism later in life and the shifting nature of diagnostic labels. He emphasizes the importance of individualized approaches in education and the need to focus on students' strengths and weaknesses rather than their labels. Wyatt also discusses the benefits and limitations of labels and the impact of discrimination. He shares strategies for supporting students with diverse needs and highlights the importance of teacher creativity and experimentation. The conversation concludes with a discussion on student-centered learning and challenging students outside of their comfort zones. In this conversation, Ken Ehrmann and Christopher Scott Wyatt discuss the importance of understanding and supporting students' needs. They emphasize the need for teachers to listen to their students and show empathy and compassion. They also explore rethinking traditional testing methods and the benefits of project-based learning. Additionally, they discuss how teachers can navigate moments of struggle and the importance of lifelong learning in teaching. Overall, the conversation highlights the importance of creating inclusive and supportive learning environments for all students.

Takeaways

  • Teachers should take the time to understand and support each student's individual needs.

  • Listening to students is crucial for creating a positive school experience.

  • Rethinking traditional testing methods can lead to more meaningful and authentic assessments.

  • Teachers should embrace lifelong learning and be open to trying new teaching strategies.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and the Importance of Names

01:40 Christopher Scott Wyatt's Background in Education

04:00 Christopher Scott Wyatt's Diagnosis of Autism

09:03 The Shifting Nature of Diagnostic Labels

11:16 The Impact of Labels on Discrimination

14:25 The Benefits and Limitations of Labels

17:44 The Importance of Individualized Approaches in Education

24:14 Christopher Scott Wyatt's Role as a Communications Teacher

26:44 Supporting Students with Diverse Needs

36:11 The Role of Good Teaching in Accommodations

39:44 The Importance of Teacher Creativity and Experimentation

44:23 Student-Centered Learning and Involving Learners in Accommodations

48:25 Challenging Students Outside of Their Comfort Zones

52:05 Understanding and Supporting Students' Individual Needs

58:33 The Importance of Listening to Students

59:11 Rethinking Traditional Testing Methods

01:00:55 Navigating Moments of Struggle

01:03:08 The Role of Lifelong Learning in Teaching

01:05:36 Connecting with Scott Wyatt

Website: https://www.tameri.com/autisticme/ 

Twitter: https://twitter.com/autisticme 


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Feb 15, 202401:12:44
157: SEL was Here, is Here, and will be Here

157: SEL was Here, is Here, and will be Here

Summary

In this conversation, Kathy discusses the importance of social-emotional learning (SEL) and its impact on teaching. She shares her experience in incorporating SEL into the classroom and emphasizes the need for teachers to set clear boundaries for communication and grading. The conversation also explores the challenges faced by teachers and strategies for self-reflection and personal well-being. The episode concludes with a discussion on enhancing lessons and continuing the conversation on SEL.

Takeaways

  • Social-emotional learning (SEL) is important for creating a positive and supportive classroom environment.

  • Teachers should incorporate SEL into their teaching practices and set clear boundaries for communication and grading.

  • Self-reflection and personal well-being are crucial for teachers to navigate the challenges of the profession.

  • Continuing the conversation on SEL and seeking change and innovation in teaching can lead to improved student experiences.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction

01:59 Discussion about snow

03:05 Importance of social emotional learning

06:10 Impact of social emotional learning on teaching

09:38 Reflection on emotional intelligence

12:03 Encouraging self-reflection

14:35 Challenges of being a teacher

19:42 Incorporating social emotional learning into the classroom

23:32 Setting boundaries for teachers

26:34 Balancing personal well-being and teaching responsibilities

35:23 Importance of regulating students' emotions

36:46 Lesson Lens: Exploring a specific lesson

43:03 Enhancing the connection in lessons

46:31 Exit Ticket: Making students' school experience better

47:17 Exit Ticket: Dealing with challenging moments

48:48 Seeking change and innovation in teaching

50:25 Continuing the conversation

51:41 Conclusion

Website: www.wildewoodlearning.com  

LinkedIn: Kathy Magnuson 


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Feb 08, 202401:01:44
156: When We Focus on the Needs of Our Students, We Focus on Success

156: When We Focus on the Needs of Our Students, We Focus on Success

Summary

In this episode, Matt Rogers discusses his career in education, with a focus on special education. He shares his passion for working with students with special needs and the challenges and rewards of teaching in special education classrooms. Matt emphasizes the importance of collaboration and stakeholder involvement in supporting students with special needs to be included in regular education classrooms. He also discusses the benefits of inclusion for all students and the role of empathy in education. Matt shares his experiences as an advocate for students with special needs and provides insights into the work of the California Collaborative for Education Excellence.

Takeaways

  • Collaboration and stakeholder involvement are crucial for supporting students with special needs to be included in regular education classrooms.

  • Inclusion benefits all students by fostering empathy, developing soft skills, and creating a sense of belonging.

  • Approaching education with empathy and understanding is essential for building positive relationships with students and their families.

  • Teachers should constantly seek to innovate and adapt their teaching strategies to meet the diverse needs of their students.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background

02:35 Passion for Special Education

06:17 Understanding Special Education Classrooms

11:36 Strategies for Inclusion

14:18 Importance of Collaboration and Stakeholder Involvement

15:23 Benefits of Inclusion for All Students

18:50 Challenges of Advocacy in Special Education

25:25 Importance of Empathy and Understanding

27:08 The Power of Collaboration and Breaking Stereotypes

30:42 Creating Collaborative Opportunities for Teachers

33:28 Balancing Advocacy and Legal Requirements in Special Education

39:32 Approaching Education with Empathy

43:34 Role of California Collaborative for Education Excellence

47:17 Working with Upper-Level Administrators to Improve Education Systems

49:39 Making a Difference in Students' Lives

52:15 The Importance of Collaboration and Systems in Education

53:41 Exit Ticket: Best Thing a Teacher Can Do

55:45 Exit Ticket: Best Piece of Advice Received

57:24 Exit Ticket: Message for Educators in Moments of Struggle

01:00:30 Exit Ticket: Overcoming Resistance to Change

01:08:36 Exit Ticket: Seeking Innovation and Change

01:09:30 Continuing to Follow Matt Rogers' Work

Website: ccee-ca.org

Twitter: @MatthewNavo


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Feb 01, 202401:18:15
155: Teach Happier

155: Teach Happier

Summary

In this conversation, Suzanne Dailey, an instructional coach, shares her experiences and insights on creating a positive classroom environment, supporting multilingual learners, promoting teacher wellness, and practicing happiness as a discipline. She emphasizes the importance of validation and asking questions in coaching conversations and staying in touch with the classroom as an instructional coach. Suzanne also discusses her work in teaching happiness and the impact it has on teaching and learning. Overall, the conversation highlights the significance of creating a nurturing and empowering environment for both students and teachers. In this conversation, Suzanne Dailey shares insights and experiences from her teaching career. She discusses the importance of reflection and improvement in teaching math, gaining perspective and experience, and the value of observing other teachers. Suzanne also talks about the benefits of filming oneself for teaching and the rigorous process of National Board Certification. She highlights the cost and benefits of certification and its recognition across different states. Additionally, Suzanne emphasizes the importance of utilizing positive psychology, surrounding oneself with good people, and modeling emotional wellness. She concludes by discussing the significance of reflective practice and innovation in teaching.

Takeaways

  • Creating a positive classroom environment involves greeting students, setting high expectations, and nurturing relationships.

  • Supporting multilingual learners requires empathy, cultural sensitivity, and personalized approaches.

  • Promoting teacher wellness involves practicing self-care, gratitude, and maintaining healthy relationships.

  • Asking questions and providing validation are essential in coaching conversations to empower teachers and promote problem-solving. Reflection and improvement are essential in teaching math effectively.

  • Gaining perspective and experience from observing other teachers can enhance teaching practices.

  • Filming oneself for teaching can provide valuable insights and opportunities for growth.

  • National Board Certification is a rigorous process that offers professional development and recognition.

  • Utilizing positive psychology and surrounding oneself with good people can improve well-being and teaching effectiveness.

  • Modeling emotional wellness is important for creating a positive classroom environment.

  • Reflective practice and innovation are key to continuous improvement in teaching.

Chapters

  • 00:00 Introduction and Background

  • 01:20 Mrs. Daley, the Fourth Grade Teacher

  • 03:18 Creating a Positive Classroom Environment

  • 04:48 Challenges in Teaching

  • 06:14 Supporting Multilingual Learners

  • 08:32 Promoting Teacher Wellness

  • 10:46 Teach Happier and Impact on Teaching

  • 12:38 Practicing Happiness as a Discipline

  • 15:00 Recognizing the Need for Self-Care

  • 17:26 Influencing the Energy in the Room

  • 21:44 Blending Happiness Practices into Instructional Coaching

  • 23:46 The Importance of Validation and Asking Questions

  • 30:48 Staying in Touch with the Classroom

  • 36:18 Ideal Administrator Position

  • 40:35 Teaching Math: Reflection and Improvement

  • 41:24 Gaining Perspective and Experience

  • 42:20 The Value of Observing Other Teachers

  • 43:19 Filming Yourself for Teaching

  • 45:33 National Board Certification

  • 48:19 The Rigorous Process of National Board Certification

  • 51:46 Cost and Benefits of National Board Certification

  • 51:58 National Certification and Teaching in Different States

  • 53:41 Utilizing Positive Psychology

  • 55:24 Surrounding Yourself with Good People

  • 57:30 Modeling Emotional Wellness

  • 59:06 Reflective Practice and Innovation

Website: https://suzannedailey.com

Twitter: @suzannedailey

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Jan 25, 202401:07:21
154: Creativity Lives in the Craft of Writing

154: Creativity Lives in the Craft of Writing

Summary

In this conversation, Ken Ehrmann and Gary Whitehead discuss the changes in high school English education, including the impact of technology and online teaching. They also explore the influence of being a poet on teaching and the importance of analyzing poetry with students. Gary shares his experience as the advisor of the school newspaper, discussing its history and transformation, as well as the integration of media platforms in the journalism class. They also touch on the influence of the journalism class on students' future career paths. In this conversation, Gary Whitehead discusses his experiences as a teacher and his impact on his students. He shares how he inspires passion and mentorship, explores different paths for students, and balances teaching with his writing. Gary also provides financial advice for teachers, emphasizes the importance of self-preservation and mental health, and discusses the role of creativity and innovation in teaching. He concludes by sharing ways to continue learning alongside him.

Takeaways

  • Technology has significantly changed high school English education, with the Internet and online teaching becoming more prevalent.

  • Being a poet can positively impact teaching, as it allows for sharing personal experiences and a deeper understanding of language and literature.

  • Analyzing poetry requires attention and multiple readings, but it can be a powerful form of writing to teach and learn.

  • School newspapers provide authentic opportunities for students to explore journalism and media and can have a lasting impact on their future career paths. Teachers can inspire students by providing opportunities for them to become passionate about something and by listening to and guiding them.

  • Taking a creative writing class can enrich students' lives, even if they pursue other careers.

  • Self-preservation and taking care of one's mental health are essential for teachers.

  • Creativity is vital in being an effective teacher and can help keep learning enjoyable for both students and teachers.

  • Teachers should start investing in retirement plans, such as a 403B, as early as possible.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Upload

00:46 Introducing Gary Whitehead

02:04 Changes in High School English

06:17 Teaching Online

08:30 Adapting to Technology in Education

10:28 Benefits and Challenges of Online Learning

13:33 Influence of Online Teaching on Face-to-Face Instruction

19:41 Impact of Being a Poet on Teaching

25:01 Analyzing Poetry with Students

35:05 The History and Transformation of the School Newspaper

40:24 Integration of Media Platforms in Journalism Class

45:34 Influence of Journalism Class on Students' Future Paths

47:24 Inspiring Passion and Mentorship

49:13 Exploring Different Paths

51:15 Balancing Teaching and Writing

54:35 Making Learning Fun and Purposeful

55:01 Financial Advice for Teachers

57:33 Self-Preservation and Mental Health

59:23 Fostering Creativity and Innovation

01:01:57 Continuing to Learn with Gary

Website: https://www.garyjwhitehead.com/ 

Instagram: @gwhiteheadgeoy

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Jan 18, 202401:08:28
153: The Leader's Algorithm

153: The Leader's Algorithm

Summary

In this conversation, Pablo Munoz, a former superintendent of schools, shares his personal and professional journey in education. He discusses the importance of personal stories in education and how his background influenced his leadership style. Munoz also introduces the concept of the leader's algorithm and the personal theory of action, which he used to guide his work as a superintendent. He emphasizes the significance of policy and setting clear expectations for student achievement. In this conversation, Pablo Munoz shares his insights on improving teaching and learning. He emphasizes the importance of focusing on the instructional core, which is the relationship between the teacher, the student, and the content. Munoz highlights the need for cognitively challenging tasks and the impact they have on student performance. He also discusses the importance of leading with love and providing unconditional support to students. Munoz encourages educators to reflect on their teaching practices and constantly seek ways to innovate and adopt new strategies. He concludes by reminding educators of their power to improve the lives of children and shape the future of the country.

Takeaways

  • Personal stories can be powerful tools in education, helping students and teachers connect and understand each other better.

  • The leader's algorithm and personal theory of action provide frameworks for effective leadership and decision-making in education.

  • Policy plays a crucial role in shaping the direction and goals of a school district.

  • Improving student achievement requires a focus on rigorous instruction, professional development, and high expectations.

Chapters

  • 00:00 Introduction and Background

  • 11:14 The Importance of Personal Story in Education

  • 30:50 The Leader's Algorithm and Personal Theory of Action

  • 49:40 Improving Student Achievement

  • 56:04 The Instructional Core

  • 59:26 Task Predicts Performance

  • 01:03:43 Improving the School Experience

  • 01:06:12 Listen and Learn

  • 01:09:35 The Power to Improve Lives

  • 01:11:42 Reflective Teachers

Website: https://www.themunozcompany.com/ 

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Jan 11, 202401:21:25
152: How to Inspire Writers in your Classroom

152: How to Inspire Writers in your Classroom

In this conversation, Meghan Sheriff and Gretchen Gales discuss various aspects of teaching writing, including engagement, balancing content and writing skills, providing feedback and revisions, the value of writing conferences, and peer editing strategies. In this conversation, Meghan Sheriff and Gretchen Gales discuss their experiences teaching writing and running a tutoring business. They highlight the challenges of sharing personal narratives in writing assignments and the importance of creating a safe and supportive student environment. They also discuss time efficiency in writing instruction and their strategies to maximize their time with students in small group settings. Meghan and Gretchen share insights into their tutoring business, including the types of students they work with and the benefits of personalized attention. They emphasize the importance of building confidence and soft skills in students and the impact that teachers can have on their students' lives. 

Takeaways

  • Engagement is crucial in teaching writing, and building relationships with students can help foster their excitement and investment in writing.

  • Balancing content and writing skills is essential, and gradual progression in teaching grammar and other writing elements can be more effective than overwhelming students with too much information at once.

  • Providing feedback and revisions is a challenging but essential part of teaching writing, and using conferences and written comments can help students improve their writing and build confidence.

  • Writing conferences are valuable opportunities for one-on-one conversations with students about their writing, addressing their questions and concerns, and providing personalized feedback.

  • Peer editing can be effective when students are given specific tasks and guidelines, such as using a PQP (praise, question, polish) format, to ensure meaningful feedback and avoid superficial editing. Creating a safe and supportive environment is crucial for students to feel comfortable sharing personal narratives in writing assignments.

  • Efficiency of time is essential in writing instruction, and teachers need to find ways to maximize their time with students in small group settings.

  • Tutoring businesses can provide personalized attention and support for students' writing and academic pursuits.

  • Building confidence and soft skills in students is an important aspect of teaching writing.

  • Teachers should continuously seek new ideas and strategies to stay innovative in their teaching and meet the changing needs of students.

Highlights:

00:00 Introductions and Background

03:02 Importance of Engagement in Writing

11:02 Balancing Content and Writing Skills

18:03 Providing Feedback and Revisions

25:06 The Value of Writing Conferences

28:53 Peer Editing and Revision Strategies

40:31 Challenges of Sharing Personal Narratives

41:20 Efficiency of Time in Writing Instruction

42:30 Maximizing Time in Small Group Settings

46:17 Overview of the Tutoring Business

47:52 Reasons to Work with the Tutors

50:44 Building Confidence and Soft Skills

51:06 Making Students Feel Seen

53:08 Best Piece of Advice Received

55:22 Powering Through Moments of Struggle

57:50 Staying Innovative and Adopting New Teaching Strategies

01:03:39 Connecting with the Guests

Website: https://www.smartsolutionsva.com/ 


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Jan 04, 202401:11:18
151: When Outdoor Experiences Can Inspire a Love for Learning
Dec 21, 202359:39
150: Cracking the Coaching Code
Dec 14, 202301:22:12
149: Balance Your Teacher Life
Dec 07, 202301:08:22
148: Mentoring Students and New Teachers to Take Flight
Nov 30, 202301:14:48
147: Reaching the Students Who Need It Most

147: Reaching the Students Who Need It Most

Dani is the 2023 Massachusetts Teacher of the Year and clarified why in this conversation. She is dedicated to the quality education for every child she interacts with daily.  She spends most of her time supporting the students who need it most. Dani acknowledges her strengths and weaknesses as a teacher and how that helped her find her best position in alternative education.

  • Bias is all around us, even in the situation of handedness.  Scissors were made for right-handed people, not left-handed.

  • The students in alternative education have failed at every “traditional” educational opportunity and need to have opportunities created for them.

  • Educators of all geographic areas have challenges; we must support each other.

  • Our students face challenges, and we need to acknowledge them before we can teach them.

  • It’s not healthy for educators to negatively compare one position or district to another.  We need to encourage each other and acknowledge we all face challenges positively.

  • Teachers cannot be the only audience for their work.  We need to create authentic audiences for our students, and we legitimately need to set up that to be real.

  • Ask them if we want to evaluate student interest in an authentic project.  They may think your idea is the best, or the worst.  We must engage with our students and let them bring their ideas.

Website: http://idontteachenglish.weebly.com/ 

Twitter: @CharbonneauDani

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Nov 16, 202301:14:37
146: Instructional Upgrades with Quizizz
Nov 09, 202301:10:44
145: AP Calculus Turns Student-Centered Learning
Nov 02, 202356:51
144: When “Just Differentiate” Just Doesn’t Cut It
Oct 26, 202356:35
143: A Foundation of Literacy as a Foundation of Success

143: A Foundation of Literacy as a Foundation of Success

Leana Malinowsky is a passionate, qualified, and impactful educator who is changing readers' lives. She shares key instructional strategies to help support young readers and allow their learning to thrive.

Oct 19, 202301:00:38
142: Students Thrive When We Teach Intentionally
Oct 12, 202301:07:30
141: STRIVE for Happiness

141: STRIVE for Happiness

Robert Dunlop is a quality educator, speaker, and author. He has had such a diverse experience in education that offers our audience a quality listen. Our conversation rolls from pedagogy to classroom management to feedback, the focus of his book, striving for happiness.

Website: https://www.motivatedu.com/ 

Twitter: https://twitter.com/robdunlopEDU 

Email: robdunlopedu@gmail.com 

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Oct 05, 202301:33:24
140: Train the Brain through Cognitive Development
Sep 28, 202301:19:47
139: Worldly Education Focused on Home and Dreams
Sep 21, 202301:00:09
138: Enhancing Instruction and Student Engagement with PearDeck

138: Enhancing Instruction and Student Engagement with PearDeck

Amber Trout is an experienced educator who navigated her career through different experiences and leveraged her expertise to support her colleagues and teachers best. She gravitated towards educational technology to create the best learning experiences for her students.

PearDeck Promotion: 

  • Website: www.peardeck.com 
  • Twitter: AmberPearDeck
  • Instagram: AmerberPearDeck
  • 90-day free trial and SWAG: https://bit.ly/3Gx6jnz


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Sep 14, 202301:17:11
137: Learning Foundational Math with the Abacus
Sep 07, 202301:11:28
136: Teach to the Person in Your Room, Not the Content in Your Book

136: Teach to the Person in Your Room, Not the Content in Your Book

 Mark Housel is a passionate, dedicated, experienced educator.  His career has been in physical education, but his wisdom will impact all teachers.  He provides a thorough analysis of strategies he utilizes in his classroom that each and every teacher can take and apply.

  • Physical education is the only subject that has the ability to affect how people feel each and every day for the rest of their lives.

  • Connection is the content.  If we are not connected to our students, they are not connected to the content.

  • If people think I’m here for exercise, I miss my mark.  I’m here to make better humans who like to move.

  • We need to have an insatiable need to improve and make it better for our students constantly.

  • Take the time to talk to each child, no matter how long it takes.  It is worth it, necessary, and will improve the quality of your instruction.  Most of all, students feel better when they feel it.

  • As colleagues, we can support each other with the relationships we build with each other.

  • Challenge the students to handle situations appropriately and maturely, considering the age level they are at. If we want students to handle more and more on their own.

  • Mark breaks down how he made the transition into teaching health full-time and the pedagogical strategies he brought to the classroom.

Website: www.houselfitness.com

Twitter: @HouselPhysEd

Book: 

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Apple Podcast Review

Aug 31, 202301:04:41
135: Real Stories, Real Life, Real Teachers
Aug 24, 202301:13:40
134: Inspiration from Former Guests to Start the School Year

134: Inspiration from Former Guests to Start the School Year

This week is short and simple; we have quick messages from many former guests to share words of inspiration to start the school year right!

Aug 17, 202338:17
133, Summer PD Series 8: The Future of Education
Aug 10, 202301:04:37
132, Summer PD Series 7: Student Centered Learning
Aug 03, 202301:15:22
131, Summer PD Series 6: Science of Goal Setting
Jul 27, 202356:10
130, Summer PD Series 5: Digging Deep on Relationships
Jul 20, 202301:06:10
129, Summer PD Series 4: Restorative Practices

129, Summer PD Series 4: Restorative Practices

According to the International Institute for Restorative Practices, “ We believe that human beings are instilled with the need to connect and grow with each other, but not the methods. Here at the International Institute for Restorative Practices (IIRP), we provide our students with the tools they need to effect change within their own lives as well as their schools, their organizations, and their communities. Through intimate learning communities of faculty and students, we teach together, we learn together, and we strive to effect real change. Together.”

Connect with Mike on Twitter: @MikeAzzalina

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Jul 13, 202358:05
128: Summer PD Series 3: Empowering Struggling Students
Jul 06, 202301:09:46
127 Summer PD Series 2: Adjusting to Change
Jun 29, 202351:13
126 Summer PD Series 1: Balancing Professional Responsibilities

126 Summer PD Series 1: Balancing Professional Responsibilities

As teachers, there is more than a basic job description to detail all we do.  Jessica Saum and Autumn Rivera come back as guest co-hosts to enrich this conversation.  We all get emotional and personal and talk deeply to make it as meaningful as possible for our listeners. Teaching is exhausting but incredibly rewarding when we make the best efforts in the right ways.

Jun 22, 202358:11
125: Summer Send Off 2023

125: Summer Send Off 2023

It is summertime! Ken and Matt take a few minutes to reflect on the year and discuss summer plans and goals. Most importantly, they preview the 2023 summer series. Be sure to come back each week this summer for an amazing in-depth professional development episode. We bring back our top guests to join the conversation as co-hosts!

Jun 15, 202333:60
124: Creating Engagement through Sound, Quality Instruction

124: Creating Engagement through Sound, Quality Instruction

Jun 08, 202301:10:55
123: Systems from School Board Down to the Teacher All Focused on Learning
Jun 01, 202301:27:02
122: Empower your Students through Opportunity to Shine
May 25, 202301:21:58
121: The Flipped Classroom Turned Mastery Learning

121: The Flipped Classroom Turned Mastery Learning

Jon Bergman is an amazing educator, pioneer of the Flipped Classroom, presenter, author, and influential educator. His passion and ability to change education have profoundly affected how learning occurs worldwide. Jon has been teaching since the mid-80s, and for him, it’s simple to define; kids are kids. We need to support our children with best practices and support structures for them to grow. Mastery learning is Jon’s newest project and pursuit.

  • The flipped classroom was born out of necessity and became a movement.
  • Flipping a classroom is not the end all be all, it is the master key to open all opportunities for mastery learning.
  • A flipped classroom allows teachers to increase quality time in higher levels of Bloom’s Taxonomy and accomplish it with high support.
  • Flipping does not pertain to high school classes to replace lectures; all teachers and coaches can do it.  Start with the end goal of how it will transform the learning time together.
  • Mastery learning can sound overwhelming; Jon explains how it can be simplified and achievable.
  • We scaffold individual lessons; Jon is scaffolding tests for students to choose their difficulty level.  All students still work towards the expected outcomes, but the level of each skill is different.
  • Establish all of your standards as “critical to know, good to know, nice to know”
  • Use your experience and expertise to identify exactly what students need to know.
  • Do not overcomplicate using flipped video lessons; use them to further differentiate your classroom.
May 18, 202301:14:33
120: Breaking Down Reading to be Simplified for Students to Learn
May 11, 202301:06:39
119: Let's Stop Teaching and Start Designing Learning

119: Let's Stop Teaching and Start Designing Learning

Jason has had the experience worth listening to, K-12, from teacher to administrator.  He encourages teachers to start to look at the classroom as a learning atmosphere, not a teaching stage. Stop planning lessons and start designing lessons.

Website: https://letsquitteaching.com/

Twitter: @Letsquitteachin 

Jason’s Book: Let’s Stop Teaching and Start Designing Learning


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May 04, 202301:25:40
118: The Process of Learning Truly is the Most Valuable Aspect of Teaching

118: The Process of Learning Truly is the Most Valuable Aspect of Teaching

Apr 27, 202301:28:58
117: Serving the Community and Differentiating in a Multi-Age Classroom
Apr 20, 202301:18:28
116: Creativity and Mindfulness to Benefit Student Learning
Apr 13, 202352:51
115: Increasing Rigor and Engagement in Chemistry

115: Increasing Rigor and Engagement in Chemistry

Ty White is the 2023 Arizona Teacher of the Year and was an amazing guest. He teaches Chemistry 1 and Chemistry 2 to high school students.  The class is focused on experiences, phenomena, and observing the world around them.  He backs those experiences up with the math second. His approach is increasing retention and enrollment in Chemistry 2.

Twitter:  @RoperCowboyinAZ

Podcast Co-host of the Rural Scoop

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Apr 07, 202301:20:03
114: The Science in Understanding Learning How to Learn
Mar 30, 202301:15:52
The Why of Technology Integration Before the What
Mar 23, 202301:10:32