The Growth Over Grades Podcast
By SpacesEDU
This is the Education podcast that highlights student learning and practice BEYOND report cards and grades.
Hosted by educator, author, and Spacesedu.com Community Advocate, Melody McAllister - the Growth Over Grades podcast will host conversations with forward-thinking and inspiring educators who are leading the charge on assessment, classroom experience, social-emotional learning, and more!
The Growth Over Grades PodcastOct 14, 2022
Growth Over Grades: LIVE from IDEAcon Episode 4
In our very last episode of LIVE from IDEAcon, we feature three amazing women educators and leaders: Kit Jenkins, Sarah Said, and Mandy Froehlich.
Kit Jenkins is a retired teacher and professor emeritus who still teaches one class a semester at Webster University. Her story of attending IDEAcon might just blow you away. She came to find out more about AI and has new goals as she leaves. Kit encourages us to meet our students where they are before we can help them move forward in a genuine way.
Sarah Said is an educator, author, and speaker. The day we recorded this was after her first Keynote and it was extremely powerful. Sarah is also a board member of IDEA and loved playing with all the edtech. When facing new edtech, she said, “Don’t be afraid, dive in, get stuck, and push through.” Sarah also hopes her message helps others to allow the people in their lives, or students in their classrooms, to be their authentic selves.
This episode is chock full of practical advice and beautiful stories of three educators who are making impactful changes in their current roles.
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Growth Over Grades: LIVE From IDEAcon Episode 3
Listen to our third LIVE episode from IDEAcon in Schaumburg, IL. This exciting episode features Victoria Thompson, Becky Keene, and Andre Daughty.
Victoria Thompson a.k.a. "Victoria the Tech" is an educator, author, speaker and Education Strategist at CDW. She shares about her sessions, which highlight cross-curricular teachers working together, interdisciplinary learning and planning, and a Women of Color in EdTech Panel. Victoria is also known for sharing that "IDEAcon is the Disney World of conferences." You can regularly find her at Disney World, so she knows what's she's talking about!
Becky Keene is an author, speaker, and Director of Operations at insight2execution. She shares about her sessions and gives meaningful insight on using AI that we often don't want to think about. Becky is also an esports champion and shares about how it lends itself to students to find belonging. Becky is known for telling it like it is and you can trust the advice and wisdom she shares. The advice she shares in this episode will change your life!
Andre Daughty, educator, speaker, and creative genius also joined us. Andre was an IDEAcon Featured Speaker. He's the one with the bow-tie if you Google him! Andre shares about his sessions and the climate and culture surrounding this conference. Andre also reminded us that we can never go back to pre-pandemic teaching. We have to find a way to go beyond "learning loss" and move forward. This was such an inspirational episode. These three leaders are experts in their fields and the wisdom they share is valuable. And...it was just a good time to be with good people.
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Growth Over Grades: LIVE from IDEAcon Episode 2
Listen to our second LIVE IDEAcon featuring IL educator, Carrie Baughcum, and Featured Speaker, Jed Dearybury, who returns to the Growth Over Grades Podcast.
Carrie Baughcum has been an educator for 26 years and specializes in teaching students with IEPs. Her new session was about helping create a strong foundation for educators to help them throughout their careers. She has her own Doodle & Chat YouTube Series with Dr. Mandy Tolen, and shares her take on creativity in the classroom.
Jed Dearybury started his education career in 2001. He was an early childhood teacher until 2010 and now focuses on Professional Development and teaching Higher Education to future teachers. He shares about his new sessions on "Destroying The Box" and how creativity and play can change our classroom learning and culture.
We are three friends who have embraced creativity in the classroom and enjoy sharing our experiences. We hope you will be inspired and find a way to add more creativity and play to your teaching and learning experiences. Sometimes it's about modeling this through discomfort and inviting our students to do the same.
Follow these Educators:
Books:
Stanley and the Very Messy Desk
The Playful Classroom: The Power of Play For All
Growth Over Grades: LIVE From IDEAcon Episode 1
Listen to our first LIVE From IDEAcon Episode featuring Illinois Educators Don Sturm, Tyler Hunt, and Dr. Rachael Mahmood. This LIVE episode is uncut and super fun!
Don Sturm has been an educator for three decades and is the President-Elect of IDEA. We talk about the importance of adapting to change in education and edtech and the importance of helping our students become creators when we use technology with purpose.
We also talk with the dynamic duo from George Town Elementary, Tyler Hunt & Dr. Rachael Mahmood. Tyler shares about the importance of leveraging AI in the classroom. Dr. Mahmood shares how she uses social justice as the driver for culturally responsive ELA lessons.
Make sure to give these educators a follow:
Don Sturm: Technology Integration Specialist
X: https://twitter.com/SturmDon
Through the Educational Looking Glass Podcast Tyler Hunt, Senior Policy Fellow, studying AI in k12 Senior Education Policy Fellow, 5th Grade Teacher Dr. Rachael Mahmood, TOY Aurora, IL 2024 Far West Suburbs- Illinois Teacher of the Year, 5th Grade Teacher
equityteacherleader.com https://www.tiktok.com/@equityteacherleader
S2 Episode 12 | Growth Over Grades: Adam Watson "The Impact of Game-Based Learning"
In this episode, we speak with Adam Watson, Deeper Learning Design Specialist of Ohio Valley Educational Cooperative.
Adam is an award-winning educator who was named KySTE Outstanding Leader of the Year in 2018-19. Before his current role he served as an English teacher and Shelby County’s first Technology Integration Coach.
Adam has MANY accomplishments in his field, but it’s definitely worth noting that he was the writer and adapter of a digital citizenship district curriculum, which was featured in Mike Ribble and Marty Park’s 2019 ISTE book The Digital Citizenship Handbook for School Leaders.
Need something to boost engagement? Adam Watson shares how Game-Based Learning (GBL) can change everything, even though you can start small. He offers practical advice for the novice or veteran educator. He also shares how Game-Based Learning is different than gamified learning.
Adam also shares how GBL intersects with Portrait of a Graduate/Learner. There is intersection in SEL and higher order thinking. It's an in to help your students prepare for the rest of their lives. Find out more about Adam’s work on Kentucky Educators for Role Playing Games site https://sites.google.com/view/kyedrpg
Follow Adam Watson on LinkedIN.
Follow Adam Watson on X (Twitter).
S2 Episode 11 | Growth Over Grades: Seth Fleischauer & Allyson Mitchell "Leveraging Live Video in Distance Learning & Face-To-Face Classrooms"
In this episode, we speak with Seth Fleischauer and Allyson Mitchell.
Seth is the president of Banyan Global Learning, which he founded in 2008 after teaching elementary school via NYC Teaching Fellows.
Banyan provides unique live virtual teacher training in AI Literacy and mindful tech adoption. With Banyan he first pioneered a unique daily distance learning English program, offering IRL and interactive video conferencing and English as a foreign language instruction to elementary and middle school students in Taiwan.
Since then, Seth has developed a broad range of programs that deliver curricula over video conferencing focusing on the mindful and empathic adoption of technology.
Seth's programs have reached more than 10,000 students on three continents and touched the lives of teachers globally. He is a frequent presenter at elite edtech conferences and the host of two podcasts: "Make It Mindful: An Education Podcast" and "Why Distance Learning?"
Allyson Mitchell is Seth’s cohost in Why Distance Learning and serves as the Director of Partnership & Engagement for the Center for Interactive Learning and Collaboration.
Before joining CILC, Allyson held a variety of leadership positions within departments of learning in art, history, and university museums. In these roles, she supervised the design of multiple Distance Learning studios as well as the development of the supporting Interactive Virtual Learning programming and training of affiliated staff or experts.
Allyson has presented in a series of national and international conferences to discuss the implications of integrating distance learning in museum settings and diverse learning environments. Mitchell has actively published scholarship on this topic in academic Journals, she also co-authored and was a contributing artist of the book Museums & Interactive Virtual Learning.
Get ready to hear the benefits of leveraging LIVE video in virtual and face-to-face school settings. Seth & Allyson share how this can help experiential learning. Most importantly, LIVE video allows classrooms all over the world to interact, which means students learn the importance of global community. They share that this will actually help our students learn even more about themselves.
Seth and Allyson offer advice and wisdom for using technology in the classroom for novice and veteran teachers. Their passion for LIVE Video Conferencing is contagious and this might just change your teaching practices!
Follow Seth Fleischauer on LinkedIn.
Follow Allyson Mitchell on LinkedIn.
S2 Episode 10 | Growth Over Grades: David Cook "A New Vision: Portrait of a Learner"
In episode 10, we speak with David Cook, Kentucky Department of Education Director of Innovative Learning. David has helped bring to life a new vision from United We Learn, that involves community stakeholders and an adoption of a Portrait of a Learner.
David Cook and his team have an important role with the Kentucky Department of Education. From their website, it says “The Division of Innovation is charged with incubating learning innovations to promote personalized learning for each and every student, with the hope that these new approaches to learning could be scaled in the future.”
They are on a mission to bring about vibrant student experiences, accelerating innovation, and collaboration with communities. They call this the Big 3!
Listen in and learn about the importance of bringing in community stakeholders, including students, the importance of a Portrait of a Learner, and how this kind of measurement of student growth is superior and more equitable than state-mandated tests.
Follow David Cook on X: https://twitter.com/davidneilcook
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-cook-5829424/
Find out more about United We Learn's Portrait of a Learner: https://www.education.ky.gov/school/innov/Pages/Portrait-of-a-Learner.aspx
S2 Episode 9 | Growth Over Grades: Thomas D'Amico "Leadership in Deeper Learning"
In episode 9 of the Growth Over Grades podcast by SpacesEDU, we spoke with Thomas D'Amico, educator, leader, and Director of Education at Ottawa Catholic School Board. Tom has helped bring a “Deeper Learning” movement into his district. We are going to dive into what that means, what it looks like, and its impact on learning and teaching.
Tom is a servant leader with a heart for his community. He is an edtech leader and always looking for ways to enhance education in a way that is safe and beneficial for learners.
In this episode, Tom shares the catalyst and need for the Deeper Learning movement, the framework his district designed for their teachers and students, and anecdotal observations that show the reality of change and what it means for their school communities.
Listen & learn about the Deeper Learning Movement and what it could mean for your classroom, school, and/or district!
Follow on X: https://twitter.com/TDOttawa
https://www.scoop.it/topic/igeneration-21st-century-education
S2 Episode 8 | Growth Over Grades: Coach William Jeffery "Leadership That Inspires Growth"
In episode 8 of the Growth Over Grades podcast by SpacesEDU, we spoke with Coach William Jeffery, Director of Assistant Principals Leadership Academy in Houston ISD, author, podcaster, and speaker. Coach has visited our SpacesEDU booths at ISTE interviewing us for his own podcast, the award-winning FlipboardEDU Podcast. He has been a regular of our #CoffeePLNTalks and never ceased to amaze our educator community with his wisdom for whatever we, meaning our group, were going through.
There is nothing phony or fake about Coach William Jeffery. He’s trustworthy, encouraging, and an incredible leader. He’s a 2023 ISTE Ambassador. He’s also an author of the Beyond the Status Quo : : A School Principal's Blueprint for Organizational Change!
In this episode, Coach shares about "leadership posture" what it means and what it looks like. He also shares how it can feel unpopular in moments, but when done well, leads to student and teacher growth.
Listen & learn how to implement leadership strategies that will increase community, culture, and growth.
Follow on X https://twitter.com/TheCoachJeffery
Follow on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/coachjeffery/
S2 Episode 7 | Growth Over Grades: Starr Sackstein "Student-Led Assessment Through Portfolios & Conferences"
In episode 7 of the Growth Over Grades podcast by SpacesEDU, we spoke with Starr Sackstein, Chief Operating Officer at Mastery Portfolio, LLC, Author, Speaker, Educator, and Assessment Reformer.
Starr has written numerous books and articles about ways to help students and teachers learn or teach in a more natural way that respects the agency of both. She is an expert in the field of assessment and is always learning, growing, and helping all of us to learn and grow as well.
In this episode, Starr shares about the importance of relationships, how to foster student agency, and healthy assessment that amplifies the voices that matter most--students' voices. She also addresses inequities and the importance of growing and changing practices to be more inclusive to all students.
Listen & learn how to implement strategies you can begin today that will help your classroom or school become more student-led.
Follow Starr Sackstein on X https://twitter.com/mssackstein and on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/starrsackstein/
Starr's Latest Book: Student-Led Assessment: Promoting Agency and Achievement Through Portfolios and Conferences
Mentions:
Ross Cooper (PBL): https://twitter.com/RossCoops31
Dr. Erin Murphy (PBL): https://twitter.com/MurphysMusings5
Dr. Christopher Emdin, Ratchetdemic: https://twitter.com/ChrisEmdin
S2 Episode 6 | Growth Over Grades: Dr. James Neihof "Competency-Based Education & Student Agency"
In episode 6 of the Growth Over Grades podcast by SpacesEDU, we spoke with Dr. James Neihof, Co-Director of Deeper Learning for the Green River Regional Educational Cooperative (GRREC), Education Consultant, and former Superintendent. Dr. Neihof is on a mission to encourage public school educators and provide leadership coaching.
In this episode, Dr. Neihof shares some of the work he's done in Kentucky that has helped build the foundation for competency-based education (CBE), which leads to teacher and student agency.
Listen to learn about building a foundation for CBE, the role CBE plays in student agency, and how standardized testing can help or harm students.
Follow Dr. James Neihof on X https://twitter.com/JamesNeihof
Read Dr. Neihof's Work
- The Virtuous Cycle of Student Agency https://aurora-institute.org/cw_post/the-virtuous-cycle-of-student-agency/
- The Learning Sciences: How the Brain Was Built to Learn https://aurora-institute.org/cw_post/the-learning-sciences-how-the-brain-was-built-to-learn/
S2 Episode 5: Stefanie Crawford "The Big IDEAs in EdTech"
In Episode 5 of the Growth Over Grades Podcast, we hosted a conversation with Stefanie Crawford, who has served as classroom teacher, instructional coach, and has recently become the Executive Director for IDEA the IL ISTE affiliate, who also hosts an annual educator conference right outside of Chicago called IDEAcon. As part of her role, Stefanie stays on top of edtech trends and what teachers and districts are looking for to help them meet their student's needs. Stefanie advocates for students and teachers and is able to look at edtech through this special lens. As a leader in her public school system, she wasn’t afraid to pursue change that meant better classroom learning even knowing she had to change her own practices. She is a strong voice and advocate in her local community and globally. She carries that courage and leadership in her newest role, too.
In this conversation, we talk about how tech is helping students' needs, the switch to standards-based grading, and the importance of SEL in schools. We also talk about IDEAcon!
Follow Stefanie Crawford on Twitter X at https://twitter.com/MrsCford_tweets
Learn more about Illinois Digital Educator Alliance & IDEAcon at https://www.ideaillinois.org/
[Special Episode] Empowering Tomorrow's Workforce: Strategies for K-12 School Districts to Enhance Student Career Readiness
In a rapidly evolving job landscape, equipping K-12 students with the skills and knowledge to succeed in their future careers has never been more crucial.
Join Sierra Holtzheuser, VP of SpacesEDU, and three K-12 career readiness experts as they share strategies and best practices that district and school administrators can implement to ensure students are prepared to excel after graduation.
Guests
- Mike Duncan, President, Battelle for Kids
- Sean Jones, Career Pathways Consultant, Edmonton Public Schools
- Mike Lang, Chief Innovation Program Officer, ed.Xtraordinary
S2 Episode 4: Tara Desiderio "Portrait of an Elementary Learner"
In Episode 4 of the Growth Over Grades Podcast, we hosted a conversation with Tara Desiderio, who has served her elementary school community as Principal for the past 14 years. Before this, she was also a kindergarten teacher and leader.
Tara is dedicated to helping educators & students embrace a love of learning & happiness. She recently received the Paul Rinaldi Principal Award based on her leadership and commitment to student achievement and work to break barriers for students and their families in school systems.
In this conversation, we talk about how Tara adapted her district's Portrait of a Graduate goals and program into a Portrait of a Learner at the elementary level. She and her staff meet together regularly to ensure all 500+ students in their school grow with a personalized education plan. Listeners will find that this successful approach begins with a supportive school culture.
Follow Tara Desiderio on all the socials at @Tara_Desiderio.
S2 Episode 3: Yaritza Villalba "Leadership: Bringing Out the Best In Your Students"
In Episode 3 of the Growth Over Grades Podcast, we hosted a conversation with Yaritza Villalba, who has served as a teacher and principal in public education. She is also a Keynote Speaker, author, and DEI Consultant.
Yaritza Villalba has a passion for connecting globally with students and educators. She is known internationally and uses her creativity to design lessons that are rich in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI).
In this conversation, we talk about ways that leaders can bring out the best in their students. We also talk about the importance of digital portfolios for both students and teachers. Listeners will also leave with ways to celebrate DEI in their classrooms.
Follow Yartiza Villalba on X at https://twitter.com/inc_yv
Learn more about her work at https://www.mckenziesadventures.com/
S2 Episode 2: Dr. Henry Turner “DEI: Change The Narrative”
In Episode 2 of the Growth Over Grades podcast we hosted a conversation with Dr. Henry Turner, an exceptional leader and co-author of "Change the Narrative: How to Foster an Antiracist Culture in Your School" with Kathy Lopes.
Dr. Turner's passion for community, inclusion, and amplifying young voices defined his 12 years as a high school principal, rooted in his earlier days as a history teacher and high school student. Despite facing opposition and public pushback, he remained dedicated to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI).
In this conversation, he shared practical actions for creating inclusive educational communities, making this episode an invaluable resource for those seeking positive change in education.
S2 Episode 1: Danelle Alamaraz “Leading From the Middle”
Join us for the Season 2 premiere of the Growth Over Grades Podcast, with an inspiring conversation with Danelle Almaraz, an educational trailblazer with decades of experience.
Almaraz introduces the revolutionary concept of "Leading From the Middle," challenging traditional top-down education systems by fostering a culture of collaboration and shared innovation among teachers and stakeholders.
Dive into this episode to uncover Almaraz's insights on continuous improvement cycles, the "Most Valuable Point" technique, and a powerful mantra—"Is this best for kids?"
Ep. 17 | ISTELive23 Review Panel
Welcome to "Growth Over Grades," where we present an extraordinary panel of guests, all seasoned attendees of the ISTE (International Society for Technology in Education) conference.
Host Melody McAllister, joins other esteemed educators and innovators who are tirelessly changing education on a larger scale. These personal friends of the show share their inspiring journeys of transformation, revealing the power of embracing change and creating ripples of impact. From groundbreaking tech implementations to innovative classroom strategies, this episode unveils the true essence of growth in education – a continuous journey of exploration, collaboration, and unwavering determination.
Tune in and be empowered by the stories of these exceptional education visionaries, leaving you with a fresh perspective on the future of learning.
Ep. 16 | Michele Jones “Finding Focus With Formative Assessment"
In this episode of the Growth Over Grades Podcast, we explore the transformative power of formative assessment with Michele Jones, the Executive Director for the Alberta Assessment Consortium. Michele's insights emphasize the importance of confident assessment practices for teachers without overwhelming workloads.
Discover various formative assessment routines and the 25% Rule for allocating assessment feedback. Learn practical techniques like thumbs up and classroom debates to engage students and activate prior knowledge. Simplify your workload by selecting a few well-crafted artifacts that truly showcase student knowledge.
Follow Michele Jones (@michelejones38) and SpacesEDU (@spaces_edu) on Twitter for valuable resources and updates. Don't miss out on empowering your teaching and supporting student growth through formative assessment.
Ep. 15 | Dr. Randall Sampson “The Champion Culture”
Join us on the "Growth Over Grades" podcast as we sit down with Dr. Sampson, a dedicated education leader and author of "Welcome To The Grind: How Educators Achieve Exponential Results." Based in Columbus, OH, Dr. Sampson has a wealth of experience as an educator and administrator at all levels. Through his consulting business, Liberty Leadership Development, he amplifies the work of educators while pushing them to reach new heights.
In this episode, we explore Dr. Sampson's powerful message of focusing on the process rather than the end goal. Discover how this mindset not only transforms educators but also impacts students, creating a growth-oriented environment. We'll share inspiring moments from the Teq Roadshow, where Dr. Sampson empowered educators to reflect on their strengths while fostering a sense of community.
Join us as we dive deep into Dr. Sampson's wisdom and personal experiences, and gain practical strategies to unleash your inner champion. Tune in to the "Growth Over Grades" podcast and embark on a transformative journey of embracing the process, empowering yourself, and becoming the educator you are meant to be.
Ep. 14 | Adam Mokelke “Fostering a Culture of Growth”
This Growth Over Grades Podcast Guest is my friend and award-winning Principal Adam Mokelke. I’ve been wanting to have Adam as a guest for this past year. But that was when he was just part of my PLN. Now I have seen him in the role of principal to my two middle school children at Anchorage STrEaM Academy and he is now my administrator.
Adam Mokelke is a lifelong, born and raised Alaskan. He was raised in rural Alaska, often referred to as the “bush.” He and his siblings were homeschooled by his mother. He has been in education for 23 years. He served as a teacher and high school principal before helping open Anchorage STrEaM Academy seven years ago.
Ep. 13 | Katie McNamara & Dr. Alec Couros "Empowering Educators: Using Chat GPT"
In this episode, we delve into the topic of ChatGPT and its impact on education. Our guests, Katie McNamara and Dr. Alec Couros, share their insights on using this AI platform to help educators reclaim time, plan instruction, and even assess student learning. While some educators may be hesitant to use ChatGPT, our guests highlight its potential benefits and how it can be used as a tool to enhance education. Join us as we explore the world of ChatGPT and its role in the future of education.
Ep. 12 | Jamilla Fort, Nicole Biscotti, and Barbara Bray: Women of Purpose in Education
Welcome to the Growth Over Grades Podcast where we talk about education ideas and topics that matter most to our SpacesEDU Educator Community.
Join Melody McAllister as she sits down with Jamilla Fort, Nicole Biscotti, and Barbara Bray to discuss all things education through each of their unique perspectives. Although each educator is in a different location, in different seasons of their lives, and has different entryways into education (and serves in different roles), as women with purpose in education, they have even more similarities.
Ep. 11 | Jed Dearybury: "The Importance of Play in the Classroom"
Welcome to the Growth Over Grades Podcast where we talk about education ideas and topics that matter most to our SpacesEDU Educator Community.
Jed is an educator who has taught early child elementary and post-secondary education in training future educators. He models culturally responsive teaching while infusing his lessons with play and has co-authored two books focused on play, The Playful Classroom and the Playful Life. And he doesn’t just teach this, but lives it, too. I had the honor of meeting Jed at the Teach Better Conference this past fall and his support of educators with my own eyes.
Jed Dearybury is a joy to be around and if you are not already following him, make sure to start today! As a member of the LGBTQIAplus community, Jed is also vocal and a leader in ensuring teachers and students are represented, especially those whom have been historically marginalized in our schools and society. He has also co-authored a book called The Courageous Classroom and shares the importance of creating a safe space for his students.
[VIDEO] Ep. 10 | Tom Schimmer “Assessment: What’s Hope Got To Do With it?”
In this episode, we meet and discuss assessment with Tom Schimmer. Tom Schimmer is a recognized voice when it comes to learning about assessment and grading. He’s an award-winning author and has at least 8 published books and I know more are coming. He’s been an educator for over 30 years. Schimmer advocates for change in both assessment and grading but he does it in a humane way. He is not out to make anyone feel dumb. Tom believes in teachers and knows they are doing their absolute best for their students. His mission is to help change the system in a way that honors our humanity and when I say “our”, I mean teachers, students, family, administrators, and all those in our school communities. Everything he does and teaches adults is an example of how we can relate that back to the young people we serve.
Ep. 10 | Tom Schimmer “Assessment: What’s Hope Got To Do With it?”
In this episode, we meet and discuss assessment with Tom Schimmer. Tom Schimmer is a recognized voice when it comes to learning about assessment and grading. He’s an award-winning author and has at least 8 published books and I know more are coming. He’s been an educator for over 30 years. Schimmer advocates for change in both assessment and grading but he does it in a humane way. He is not out to make anyone feel dumb. Tom believes in teachers and knows they are doing their absolute best for their students. His mission is to help change the system in a way that honors our humanity and when I say “our”, I mean teachers, students, family, administrators, and all those in our school communities. Everything he does and teaches adults is an example of how we can relate that back to the young people we serve.
[VIDEO] Ep. 9 | Tim Cavey “Protecting Teachers’ Boundaries”
Ep. 9 | Tim Cavey “Protecting Teachers’ Boundaries”
Welcome to the Growth Over Grades Podcast where we talk about education ideas and topics that matter most to our SpacesEDU Educator Community. Another educator who regularly shares with his PLN is Tim Cavey, our podcast guest today. Tim is the leader behind Teachers On Fire. He is someone who has inspired me and countless others to continue to grow and share in our learning and expertise in content creation. He has over 20 years of experience as an educator and is now also in an administration role.
Ep. 8 | Growth Over Grades: Claire Romzek "Is This For A Grade?" @ClaireRomzek
Episode 8 involves a conversation with educator and leader Claire Romzek. I met her at the NVSide Silver State Technology Conference in Las Vegas this past September. We immediately clicked when she came into my session which was focused on teaching the whole child/student. It was just a few people so we ended up having an amazing conversation and sharing what we have learned and observed throughout our teaching careers. I’m so glad she is going to talk with me today about how we can move our students away from the mindset of “Is this for a grade?” and to growing through digging into the process of learning as a whole person.
[VIDEO] Ep. 8 | Growth Over Grades: Claire Romzek "Is This For A Grade?" @ClaireRomzek
Episode 8 involves a conversation with educator and leader Claire Romzek. I met her at the NVSide Silver State Technology Conference in Las Vegas this past September. We immediately clicked when she came into my session which was focused on teaching the whole child/student. It was just a few people so we ended up having an amazing conversation and sharing what we have learned and observed throughout our teaching careers. I’m so glad she is going to talk with me today about how we can move our students away from the mindset of “Is this for a grade?” and to growing through digging into the process of learning as a whole person.
Ep. 7 | Marialice Curran, Ph.D. & Eugenia Tamez “Digital Citizenship & SDGs”
Welcome to the Growth Over Grades Podcast where we talk about education ideas and topics that matter most to our Spaces Educator Community. Episode 7 involves a conversation with two global giants bringing people together: students, educators, and families in a way that empowers them when using digital citizenship to advocate for the Sustainable Development Goals, also known as SDGs.
[VIDEO] Ep. 7 | Marialice Curran, Ph.D. & Eugenia Tamez “Digital Citizenship & SDGs”
Welcome to the Growth Over Grades Podcast where we talk about education ideas and topics that matter most to our Spaces Educator Community. Episode 7 involves a conversation with two global giants bringing people together: students, educators, and families in a way that empowers them when using digital citizenship to advocate for the Sustainable Development Goals, also known as SDGs.
[VIDEO] Ep 6. | Allison Curry - Exploring Competency Based Education
Welcome to the Growth Over Grades Podcast where we talk about education ideas and topics that matter most to our Spaces Educator Community Episode six involves a conversation with fellow Alaskan educator and leader Allison Curry. On this episode, Allison shares her expertise in competency based education and how it can help students in middle school or junior high. By the end, you will also have actionable steps to get started if competency based education aligns to your goal as an educator, and you’ll have a new person to add to your professional learning network.
Ep 6. | Allison Curry - Exploring Competency Based Education
Welcome to the Growth Over Grades Podcast where we talk about education ideas and topics that matter most to our Spaces Educator Community Episode six involves a conversation with fellow Alaskan educator and leader Allison Curry. On this episode, Allison shares her expertise in competency based education and how it can help students in middle school or junior high. By the end, you will also have actionable steps to get started if competency based education aligns to your goal as an educator, and you’ll have a new person to add to your professional learning network.
[VIDEO] Ep 5. | Stephanie Morgan-Harris - The Portrait Of A Learner
Welcome to the Growth Over Grades Podcast where we talk about education ideas and topics that matter most to our Spaces Educator Community. Episode five involves a conversation with educator and leader, Stephanie Morgan-Harris, who has fulfilled many roles in education and life. Serving in her 20th year in education, her current role is principal and she is always a champion for all students! We recently met her at the Global IB Conference in San Diego. Leaders like Morgan-Harris inspire us to form stronger bonds and understand student learning profiles. If we don’t navigate this with cultural competence, we do more harm than good and big ideas such as the Portrait of a Learner won’t truly represent our students.
Ep 5. | Stephanie Morgan-Harris - The Portrait Of A Learner
Welcome to the Growth Over Grades Podcast where we talk about education ideas and topics that matter most to our Spaces Educator Community. Episode five involves a conversation with educator and leader, Stephanie Morgan-Harris, who has fulfilled many roles in education and life. Serving in her 20th year in education, her current role is principal and she is always a champion for all students! We recently met her at the Global IB Conference in San Diego. Leaders like Morgan-Harris inspire us to form stronger bonds and understand student learning profiles. If we don’t navigate this with cultural competence, we do more harm than good and big ideas such as the Portrait of a Learner won’t truly represent our students.
[VIDEO] Ep 4. | Natalie Vardabasso - Assessment Through Story
Thank you for tuning into our Growth Over Grades Podcast where we talk about education ideas and topics that matter most to our Spaces Educator Community. Episode four involves a conversation with veteran educator and consultant, Natalie Vardabasso, whom I’ve been following for a while. Her ability to reflect, make changes, share, and grow is something that resonates with me and many other educators. Natalie is authoring a book that is about rehumanizing assessment through story. Not sure what this means? Awesome, you’re about to find out!
Ep 4. | Natalie Vardabasso - Assessment Through Story
Thank you for tuning into our Growth Over Grades Podcast where we talk about education ideas and topics that matter most to our Spaces Educator Community. Episode four involves a conversation with veteran educator and consultant, Natalie Vardabasso, whom I’ve been following for a while. Her ability to reflect, make changes, share, and grow is something that resonates with me and many other educators. Natalie is authoring a book that is about rehumanizing assessment through the story. Not sure what this means? Awesome, you’re about to find out!
![[VIDEO] Ep 3. | Todd Scholls - Assessment Matters](https://d3t3ozftmdmh3i.cloudfront.net/production/podcast_uploaded400/25208774/25208774-1654097074440-73eddbad7bf61.jpg)
[VIDEO] Ep 3. | Todd Scholls - Assessment Matters
Thank you for tuning into our Growth Over Grades Podcast where we talk about education ideas and topics that matter most to our Spaces Educator Community. Episode three involves a conversation with veteran educator and consultant, Todd Scholl. Todd shared that he comes from a family of educators as well as spending 27 years in education himself. He’s been a classroom teacher, worked on a state program to retain educators, and currently is Lead Learner for the Center for Educator Wellness & Learning (CEWL). Todd is an extremely vocal leader and advocate for school and teacher wellness. His messages keep the “whole person” in mind, whether that’s students or teachers.
Ep 3. | Todd Scholls - Assessment Matters
Thank you for tuning into our Growth Over Grades Podcast where we talk about education ideas and topics that matter most to our Spaces Educator Community. Episode three involves a conversation with veteran educator and consultant, Todd Scholl. Todd shared that he comes from a family of educators as well as spending 27 years in education himself. He’s been a classroom teacher, worked on a state program to retain educators, and currently is Lead Learner for the Center for Educator Wellness & Learning (CEWL). Todd is an extremely vocal leader and advocate for school and teacher wellness. His messages keep the “whole person” in mind, whether that’s students or teachers.
[VIDEO] Ep 2. | Dr. Sarah Thomas - Building Community
Welcome to the SECOND episode of the Growth Over Grades podcast!
This is the Education podcast that highlights student learning and practice BEYOND report cards and grades.
Hosted by educator, author, and Spacesedu.com Community Advocate, Melody McAllister - the Growth Over Grades podcast will host conversations with forward-thinking and inspiring educators who are leading the charge on assessment, classroom experience, social-emotional learning, and more!
Our guest today is educator, and Founder or EduMatch - Dr. Sarah Thomas!
Ep 2. | Dr. Sarah Thomas - Building Community
Welcome to the SECOND episode of the Growth Over Grades podcast!
This is the Education podcast that highlights student learning and practice BEYOND report cards and grades.
Hosted by educator, author, and Spacesedu.com Community Advocate, Melody McAllister - the Growth Over Grades podcast will host conversations with forward-thinking and inspiring educators who are leading the charge on assessment, classroom experience, social-emotional learning, and more!
Our guest today is educator, and Founder or EduMatch - Dr. Sarah Thomas!
[VIDEO] Ep 1. | Dene Gainey - What Keeps Teachers Going?
Welcome to the FIRST episode of the Growth Over Grades podcast!
This is the Education podcast that highlights student learning and practice BEYOND report cards and grades.
Hosted by educator, author, and Spacesedu.com Community Advocate, Melody McAllister - the Growth Over Grades podcast will host conversations with forward-thinking and inspiring educators who are leading the charge on assessment, classroom experience, social-emotional learning, and more!
Our first guest is educator, veteran, and author — Dene Gainey!
Ep 1. | Dene Gainey - What Keeps Teachers Going?
Welcome to the FIRST episode of the Growth Over Grades podcast!
This is the Education podcast that highlights student learning and practice BEYOND report cards and grades.
Hosted by educator, author, and Spacesedu.com Community Advocate, Melody McAllister - the Growth Over Grades podcast will host conversations with forward-thinking and inspiring educators who are leading the charge on assessment, classroom experience, social-emotional learning, and more!
Our first guest is educator, veteran, and author — Dene Gainey!