SPS Digital Learning Hour

In this special finale, join me as I sit down with two remarkable educators: Fay Dolson and Anna Meyerhoff. These passionate Pre-K and Kindergarten teachers share their insights, experiences, and challenges in teaching Computer Science (CS) to students who are just embarking on their educational journey.

Remember, every journey begins with a single step, and these young learners are taking their first steps into the world of technology.

This is my final episode of the SPS Digital Learning hour and I will be turning it over the SPS Digital Learning and SIS department. By the time this episode is available I will no longer be working for the Springfield Public Schools system.

Tools Available in Springfield:

In this podcast episode, we conclude our journey through “Power Up Your Classroom” by Lindsay Blass and Cate Tolnai. We delve into the final two levels, exploring strategies to build a vibrant community and take the leap into Game-Based Learning (GBL) and Gamification. Tune in for practical insights and inspiration! Don’t miss the valuable resources linked in this episode for further exploration. 🎙️📚🔗

Tools Available in Springfield:

Do if you want to power up your assessment practices and help students genuinely enjoy the journey of demonstrating mastery?

In this episode we talk about starting small by integrating one or two engaging tools like Quizziz, Quizlet Live, Blooket or more into your everyday instruction. By leveraging game mechanics, you can provide feedback effectively with your students so you can spend more time coaching students through the learning process. To learn more, check out my deep dive into Level 5 of Power Up Your Learning; Who’s Winning? Power Up Your Assessment & Feedback. 

Tools Available in Springfield:

In this week's episode, I delved into the world of student-led game design within the classroom. As we examine Level 4 of Power Up Your Classroom, we'll learn how empowering students to become creators, rather than mere consumers of content, can ignite a white-hot passion inside of the students and spur growth at an untold pace. 

Tools Available in Springfield:

In this episode of the SPS Digital Learning Hour, we dive into the theme ‘Choose Your Own Adventure.’ Discover how offering choices in the classroom can empower and engage students, create a safe space for exploration and failure, and enhance learning experiences. We’ll discuss the significance of audience, purpose, design, and relationships, and share how you can infuse more fun into your interactions with learners. Don’t miss out on these valuable insights!

Tools Available in Springfield:

We've got an exciting interview lined up with Melissa Zeitz from Zanetti Montessori School. She's doing some amazing work in Computer Science with her Pre K to 8th graders. In this interview we cover a wide range of CS curriculum and tools ranging from robots like Kibo to cool audio tools projects with Audacity. Tune in to get inspired and learn something new!

Tools Melissa Discusses:

In Level 1 of Power Up Your Classroom we delve into the why of the game. By understanding the unique characteristics of gamification and game-based learning, we will be prepared to integrate both types into our classrooms. My goal for today’s episode is to give you a greater understanding of the why behind Gamification and Game-Based Learning and the what they are. You might even begin to see how you are already doing some of these inside your classroom with your students and you don't even know it.

Tools Available in Springfield:

Have you ever wondered how games can make learning more fun and effective? How can you use game elements like points, badges, leaderboards, or stories to motivate and engage your students?  

If these questions perk your curiosity, then you are in the right place. During this podcast season we will be doing a book study of Power Up Your Classroom by Lindsey Blass & Cate Tolnai. This book is a practical guide for educators who want to reimagine learning through gameplay and we will be diving deep into it. In this book study, we will explore the difference between gamification and game-based learning, the pedagogical value of various game features, and the steps to design and implement gamified and game-based learning experiences into your classroom. Whether you teach elementary or higher education, in math or music, this book study will help you discover how games can transform your teaching practice. I hope you have your copy of the book ready, because we are about to embark on an exciting adventure. Let the games begin (hehe)! 

Tools Available in Springfield:

Welcome to the highly anticipated season premiere of the SPS Digital Learning Hour! In this episode, join me, Mike Thomas, as I provide an update on the latest happenings within the Springfield Public School district. Get ready for an engaging season filled with insightful book talks, the possibility of venturing into vodcasts, and a sneak peek into some captivating interviews. I wanted to sound exciting as this is just the kick off episode but A.I. changed my words to this, which I find hilarious: Buckle up for a journey into the world of digital learning, where education meets innovation. Don't miss out on the exciting updates and future plans that promise to make this season a memorable one! Can't you hear movie guy's voice in that!

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Join us in this episode as we delve into the finale of The Distance Learning Playbook Module 9: Learning, Distance or Otherwise. In a world that is upside down, maintaining a positive learning environment takes center stage. But what exactly does that mean?

In this episode, we uncover the essence of a positive learning environment — one where students feel safe, respected, and motivated to give their best, even from a distance.

Whether you're an educator navigating the world of virtual classrooms or simply curious about the evolving landscape of education, this episode has something for you. So, join us as we unlock the secrets to creating a positive virtual learning environment that truly makes a difference.

Why is it crucial, you ask? Well, tune in as we explore the three pivotal reasons.

Links:

Welcome to Module 8 The Distance Learning Playbook! In this enlightening episode, we delve into a topic that lies at the heart of effective learning: the pivotal roles of feedback, assessment, and grading. Join me as we explore the profound impact these elements have on the educational journey.

In the digital realm of education, where physical presence is replaced by virtual connections, the significance of feedback and assessment cannot be overstated. We present a compelling case for how these elements serve as the compass guiding students toward enhanced learning and continuous growth.

Our discussions center around the core principle that feedback isn't just a checkbox on the educational to-do list; it's the cornerstone of improvement. Discover how the power of timely feedback empowers students to gauge their progress, recognize their strengths, and pinpoint areas ripe for development.

But it's not just about the frequency; it's about the diversity of feedback methods that truly make a difference. We unravel the strategies and techniques that educators employ to provide a rich tapestry of feedback. From personalized assessments to constructive critiques, we explore how this varied feedback landscape creates a more holistic learning experience.

Join us on this thought-provoking journey as we unpack the ways in which feedback, assessment, and grading interlace to form the scaffolding of successful distance learning. As we navigate through Module 8, you'll come away with a deeper appreciation for the symbiotic relationship between student progression and these essential educational components. Tune in to discover how the power of feedback illuminates the path to knowledge and growth in the digital age.

Links:

Welcome to the latest episode of the SPS Digital Learning Hour! In this week's installment, I explore the content of Modules 6 & 7 from the Distance Learning Playbook.

Join me as we navigate through the pages of the Distance Learning Playbook and dissect the strategies it offers for creating tasks that truly captivate students' attention.

But that's not all – we won't just be confined to the virtual realm. In this episode, I'll share my reflections on how these concepts and methods can seamlessly bridge the gap between digital and in-person learning experiences. We'll explore the versatile nature of these techniques and how they can be harnessed to enhance the educational journey, whether in the classroom or beyond.

Tune in as I share my insights, anecdotes, and practical tips for harnessing the power of engaging tasks and transformative unit planning.

Grab your headphones and join me on this podcast journey.

Links:

Welcome to The SPS Digital Learning Hour, where I invite you to join me on a deep dive into the ever-evolving landscape of education. In this episode, we delve into Module 5 of The Distance Learning Playbook, titled "Teacher Clarity at a Distance," authored by Doug Fisher, Nancy Frey, and John Hattie. Together, we'll uncover the critical role of clarity in creating meaningful learning experiences for students, whether in a virtual or in-person setting.

Throughout this episode, we'll explore the essential elements of teacher clarity and discuss practical strategies that foster student learning and success, no matter the learning environment. This podcast will be an insightful journey, where I contemplate how clarity can transform education and elevate the learning experience.

So, grab your headphones, settle into a comfortable space, and join me on The SPS Digital Learning Hour to explore the power of clarity in education and unlock the potential for growth and success in any setting. Let's embark on this educational adventure together!

Links:

In today's enlightening installment, our focus is on a crucial topic: Teacher Credibility at a Distance. But don't be fooled! This module isn't just for remote learning situations; it applies to in-person education as well.

In a traditional classroom, teachers have an array of tools to establish credibility with their students. However, in a distance learning environment, the game changes. Physical presence and body language are no longer at play. Instead, we must concentrate on our words and actions to build trust and credibility. Surprisingly, many of the principles discussed in this module are equally applicable when teaching in person.

Why is teacher credibility so vital, you may ask? It directly impacts student engagement. When students perceive their teacher as knowledgeable and competent, they become more interested in the lessons and actively engage with the material. Trust plays a crucial role too. Students are more likely to trust a teacher they perceive as credible, leading to open-mindedness in receiving feedback and a willingness to invest effort in learning. Ultimately, teacher credibility enhances students' academic success, motivating them to give their best effort and achieve their goals.

Join us in this episode as we delve into all aspects of teacher credibility and its profound impact on student learning. I explore practical strategies and insightful tips to establish and maintain credibility in a distance learning environment. If you missed our previous episodes, you can find them in the feed.

Don't miss out on this enlightening episode of the SPS Digital Learning Hour! Tune in now and unlock the power of teacher credibility for successful education.

Links:

I'm excited to dive into module three of the highly acclaimed book, "The Distance Learning Playbook, Grades K-12: Teaching for Engagement and Impact in Any Setting" by Douglas Fisher, Nancy Frey, and John Hattie. Join me as we explore the fascinating world of distance learning and how it applies to our experiences in the classroom, both in-person and virtually. 

If you haven't had a chance to grab a copy of this indispensable book, I highly recommend doing so. This podcast is all about sharing our learning out loud, and I'm thrilled to hear your thoughts and insights as we navigate through the pages of this incredible book. 

In this week's episode, we're going to focus on module three, which delves into the crucial relationships between teachers and students. It's a topic that lies at the very heart of effective teaching. We'll be diving into various themes, such as the importance of setting clear learning intentions, understanding the characteristics of impactful teacher-student relationships, and recognizing the significance of judgment and will in the learning process. It's not just about knowledge and ability; there's so much more to fostering a positive and engaging classroom environment. 

Throughout the episode, I'll be sharing my personal reflections and experiences as a teacher. I'll be discussing some of my own faults and moments of growth that I've encountered during my teaching journey. I'm curious to know if you've had similar experiences or if you've gained different insights from this chapter. It's a great opportunity for us to compare our takeaways and learn from one another. 

Make sure to leave your thoughts and comments in the section below. I genuinely value your perspectives and can't wait to engage with you on this thought-provoking topic. So, grab your favorite beverage, find a cozy spot, and let's dive deep into the intricate dynamics between teachers and students in the context of distance learning and beyond. Together, we'll uncover valuable insights and discover new ways to make a lasting impact on our students' lives.

Links:

Welcome to this special replay episode of the SPS Digital Learning Hour podcast, originally aired in February 2021. In this episode, I dive into module two of the highly popular book, "The Distance Learning Playbook," by Douglas Fisher, Nancy Frey, and John Hattie.

This time around, I revisit the episode with some fresh thoughts and reflections, providing you with new insights and perspectives. If you missed it the first time or if you're looking to reinforce your knowledge, this is the perfect opportunity to join me on this captivating learning journey.

I'll be sharing my candid thoughts and takeaways from each module, giving you a renewed understanding of the valuable content within "The Distance Learning Playbook." Whether you're an educator, or future educator, this episode offers something for everyone.

While this episode is a replay, the addition of new thoughts and reflections adds a layer of depth and relevance to the discussion. So, get ready to immerse yourself in the world of distance learning, as we explore routines, norms, procedures, classroom set-up, and how these concepts apply not only to remote education but also to in-person teaching.

Join me on this exciting journey as we bridge the gap between theory and practice, and uncover innovative strategies for teaching and engaging students in any learning environment.

Do we have some of the same takeaway? Is there something else that you got out of the chapter? Follow us on this journey. Leave your thoughts in the comments or the future blog post.

Links:

Prepare yourself for an exciting new episode as I delve into the book, "The Distance Learning Playbook, Grades K-12: Teaching for Engagement and Impact in Any Setting" authored by the esteemed Douglas Fisher, Nancy Frey, and John Hattie. 

In this series of episodes, I will personally guide you through a profound exploration of each chapter, offering candid insights, personal takeaways, and reflective perspectives. This episode marks the beginning of an engaging summer series, where we will thoroughly review this exceptional book. 

Looking back at the past few years, we realize the significant influence this book had on educators as they navigated the challenges of remote teaching. Now, as we find ourselves a few years removed from that experience, I believe it is the perfect time to revisit the book and reevaluate its relevance. Surprisingly, I have discovered that the wisdom it imparts applies not only to remote teaching but also holds true for in-person instruction. 

Welcome to another exciting episode of SPS Digital Learning Hour! In this episode, we gather insights from five esteemed teachers representing kindergarten to twelfth grade in Springfield as we delve into the fascinating world of Chat GPT. Join us as we engage in a thought-provoking discussion on this hot new topic. 

Our panel of teachers shares their perspectives on generative text programs, exploring both the positive aspects and potential drawbacks they bring to the educational landscape. We explore the ways in which Chat GPT can enhance the learning experience, empower students' creativity, and foster critical thinking skills. We also address plagiarism and ethical questions arising from generative text. 

Tune in to this enlightening episode as we unravel the complexities of generative text and its impact on education. You’ll gain valuable insights from experienced teachers as they shed light on the benefits, concerns, and potential strategies for effectively incorporating generative text programs in the classroom. 

Don't miss out on this engaging discussion which is the first of many that we will have. Join us on the SPS Digital Learning Hour as we dive deep into the world of Chat GPT and uncover its implications for teaching and learning in the 21st century. 

Our Teachers Include:

Caity Welz

Michelle Sawyer

Josh Farber

Melissa Zeitz

Bram Moreinis

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Join us this week for a special episode of our podcast as we sit down with some incredible interns from Putnam. These students have a unique story to tell as they transition from being students at Putnam to becoming future college students. We'll hear all about their journey, from their early days in elementary school to their current experiences as interns.

Throughout the episode, we'll dive deep into the valuable lessons and skills that they're learning and applying in their internships. One exciting topic we'll explore is how they are teaching teachers to use computer science tools in the classroom. From coding to problem-solving, these interns are gaining invaluable experiences that will serve them well in the future.

Tune in to hear their inspiring stories and learn from their experiences. Whether you're a student, teacher, or just curious about what it takes to become a successful intern, this episode is not to be missed!

You can find me at:

Join us in this episode as we chat with Matt, a former 9th grade teacher from NYC who now works with us at SPS in Western Mass. Matt shares his journey from being a young teacher with computer skills to running and organizing technology for schools. He talks about his experience using Chromebooks and Google Classroom and how he encouraged his students to create podcasts to showcase their knowledge.

Since Matt has joined our department, his work has focused on Performance Matters, organizing the Technology Coordinators and a few other projects. Listen as he shares some valuable insights into his latest project, working with Discovery School for using Standards Based Grade Book. As always, we round out our interviews by asking what our interviewees do to take care of themselves, and Matt doesn’t disappoint. Learn how he balances his work and personal life.

If you're a teacher looking for great tips on teaching with technology in the upper grades, then this episode is for you. We are thrilled that Matt has joined our department, and we can't wait for you to hear his story. So tune in now!

You can find me at:

In this podcast, Victoria Ellis shares her journey of 15 years in education, starting as a paraeducator. She is now working as a Middle School math teacher at the Springfield Virtual School for Springfield Public Schools. She talks about how she found her calling as a teacher and the challenges she has faced in her journey.

Victoria emphasizes the importance of striking a balance between using physical and virtual tools to teach Middle School Math. She shares her experiences of integrating technology into her teaching methods and how it has helped her reach more students and make learning more interactive and engaging.

Victoria also talks about her current work at the Virtual School and the challenges of teaching in a virtual environment. She shares how she has adapted to this new way of teaching and how technology has helped her create a more dynamic and interactive learning environment for her students.

Overall, Victoria's story is an inspiring one for anyone considering a career in education. Her passion for teaching and her commitment to finding new and innovative ways to reach her students is a testament to the important role that teachers play in shaping the lives of our future generations.

You can find me at:

At the SPS Digital Learning Hour, we take great pride in highlighting the diverse experiences of teachers at various stages of their careers. This week, we had the pleasure of interviewing David Steinberg from German Gerena Community School. David, who previously worked as a consultant in the private sector, made the decision to switch to a career in education after substitute teaching in his free time.

He shared with us how he leverages the extensive professional development opportunities offered by Springfield Public Schools to continually improve his teaching skills. David's passion for education is evident in the way he inspires his students and we are fortunate to have him as part of our community.

You can find me at:

For this week’s podcast we are going back to the summer and learning all about what Barbara Cheney from Indian Orchard.  Barbara’s experiences range from kindergarten all the way through 12th grade. We discussed teaching early in her career through Covid to now. I have always loved teaching Summer School, and Barbara is part of a cool program during summer school through the Inventor’s Hall of Fame. I even got the chance to visit her class and we made a pretty awesome video, along with this podcast I think you’ll get insight into what English Language Learning is like here in Springfield. You’ll also learn about what technology in the classroom looks like for Barbara near the end.

This week I am bringing you an incredibly special episode. Over the summer I met Karen Toro and Courtney Ciras from Alice B. Beal Elementary School.  During the summer, as teachers, we can really develop new practices in a low-pressure environment. This also means that we get to try new things.  With close to 25 years teaching experience combined and Karen coming up through the Springfield School system, these two were ready to try something new!

This is where Courtney and Karen come in, over the summer they signed up to learn more about Computer Science in the classroom. They took a week’s course over in Boston and it spurred them to really invest into Computer Science in their classrooms. In this episode you’ll hear all about their stories and how they ended up wanting to teach CS in their respective classrooms. It’s important to note that they are not Computer Science teachers but they learned that even if they are not teaching CS they are Computer Scientists.

This week's podcast we interviewed Denise Cote, a Middle School English Teacher from Springfield’s Conservatory of the Arts. Mike and Denise talked all about the use of technology in the district for the last 17 years! During the interview you will learn how Denise first adopted technology in her classrooms and how that technology continues to enhance her teaching. Denise has also been a proponent of Professional Development and has taken on the 22 Tools Challenge head on. When the challenge started in January of 2022, Denise has been consistently near the top of the leaderboard. You only have a couple more months to catch her!

You can find me at:

Welcome to the start of a new school year. For the first episode of the year we spoke with Sarah DeFeo. This interview was recorded near the end of last year and we thought it would be a great way to start this year. Sarah teaches at White Street Elementary School and has been there for the last eight years. Sarah came to teaching 2nd grade as a career change. Throughout the interview we discussed how technology has been used with her students. Learn about her favorite tools and tools she is looking forward to integrating into her classroom. Also, you need to listen all the way to the end to hear how she takes care of herself.

You can find me at:

We here at the SPS Digital Learning Hour love to spotlight teachers and this week’s episode is no different. I met Desiree Robinson from Glenwood Elementary. Desiree is a true homegrown teacher here in Springfield. You can hear her love for the city of Springfield in the way she talks about her job. She is a shining example of how you can go from being a para-educator to a teacher to a Math Instructional Leader. Her experience spans Kindergarten all the way up to Middle School. There is a wealth of knowledge to be gained from this interview. You can also hear her solid advice on how to take care of yourself as a teacher.

You can find me at:

Here at the SPS Digital Learning Hour we are excited to bring you this week’s episode featuring Kathryn Runyan from White Street Elementary. Having taught various grade levels throughout the last 22 years, Kathryn has used a wide variety of technology tools that we get into in this episode. Back in 2002 schools were still using floppy discs!!!!

Throughout this episode we learn about what technology was like back in 2002 in the classroom (hint: there wasn’t as much as you would think). One of the great things that we discussed is how technology has changed and how her teaching style has shifted during that time. Plus. I tell one of my favorite sequencing assignments which made a complete mess of my classroom!

You can find me at:

Here at the SPS Digital Learning Hour we are excited to bring you this week’s episode featuring KatieAnne DeMars from Springfield Virtual School. Having taught various grade levels throughout the last 22 years, which included time as a School Administrator KatieAnne brings a wealth of knowledge to Springfield’s Newest School. 

Throughout this episode we learn about what technology was like back in 2000 in the classroom (hint: there wasn’t as much as you would think). You can also hear how, as an Administrator she led during the last two years of Covid and what led to going back in the classroom at a Virtual School. We also talked a little about one of the things that she does to take care of herself that you won't want to miss! I know I picked upped up a few tips. 

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When it comes to interviews I hit the jackpot. I met with NJ Rivilis from the Springfield Conservatory of the Arts. NJ is a new teacher to our district, but I think that we are the lucky ones. As an Electrical Engineer Graduate, NJ has an interesting path to the classroom. NJ has a lot of experience outside of the classroom working at Mass General in a research role and now they are in the classroom. I can’t wait for you to hear NJ’s story through education. We touch upon high school robotics to applying technology to various Art classes.

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This is the final week for our series on Computer Science in Middle School. In the previous weeks we heard from principals and teachers, this week we will hear from their students. I met with students from Zanetti, Kiley Prep and STEM Academy. Listen to these students' experiences as they discuss their favorite parts of computer science in their classrooms. These students are just a small representative of the students who are loving Computer Science in their schools. If you are a potential future middle school educator or have students that will be entering Middle School, this is a great episode for you.

A little background on our DL Now program.

Computer Science has changed the way we think, the way we communicate, the way we work, and the way we live. Computer Science (or CS as it is affectionately known as) is more than just coding and using a computer to complete a given task. It involves critical thinking, collaboration, and the ability to creatively solve problems.  And there are many ways to engage in computer science without even using a computer.  For example, students can write instructions for making a peanut butter sandwich, then work with another student to complete the task by following the instructions exactly as written.  Students will soon realize the importance of being precise in their step-by-step instructions and no doubt, will see where some key steps were missed. A fun activity!

Here in Springfield, we believe every student should have opportunities and access to a high-quality computer science education.  Students need to think of the world from different perspectives and to value each other as they work together to solve problems and become critical thinkers.  We believe that students can be more than consumers.  They can be active creators and problem-solvers, tackling some of the biggest challenges affecting our world today.  Indeed, computer science is the foundational skill necessary for all students to succeed in reaching their personal and professional goals as active contributors in our world.

Tools mentioned:

For this weeks episode we dive into a three part series featuring our Middle School Computer Science Students, Teachers, and Principals. I met with a few of our teachers for this episode. I talked with Melissa Zeitz of Alfred G Zanetti Montessori School, Alva Laster, Jamie Carens and Gary Burgess of STEM Middle Academy and Lia Ashe Simmer of Kiley Prep Middle School. These teachers are are leading the way in bringing a great computer science curriculum to our great middle schools, these interviews are ones to not miss. If you are a potential future middle school educator or have students that will be entering Middle School, this is a great episode for you.

A little background on our DL Now program.

Computer Science has changed the way we think, the way we communicate, the way we work, and the way we live. Computer Science (or CS as it is affectionately known as) is more than just coding and using a computer to complete a given task. It involves critical thinking, collaboration, and the ability to creatively solve problems.  And there are many ways to engage in computer science without even using a computer.  For example, students can write instructions for making a peanut butter sandwich, then work with another student to complete the task by following the instructions exactly as written.  Students will soon realize the importance of being precise in their step-by-step instructions and no doubt, will see where some key steps were missed. A fun activity!

Here in Springfield, we believe every student should have opportunities and access to a high-quality computer science education.  Students need to think of the world from different perspectives and to value each other as they work together to solve problems and become critical thinkers.  We believe that students can be more than consumers.  They can be active creators and problem-solvers, tackling some of the biggest challenges affecting our world today.  Indeed, computer science is the foundational skill necessary for all students to succeed in reaching their personal and professional goals as active contributors in our world.

Tools mentioned:

For this weeks episode we dive into a three part series featuring our Middle School Computer Science Students, Teachers, and Principals. I met with three of our principals for this episode. I talked with Principals Tara Clark of Alfred G Zanetti Montessori School, Luis Martinez of STEM Middle Academy and Julia St. Martin of Kiley Prep Middle School. These principals are are leading the way in bringing a unified computer science curriculum to our great middle schools, these interviews are ones to not miss. If you are a potential future middle school educator, this is a great episode for you.

A little background on our DL Now program.

Computer Science has changed the way we think, the way we communicate, the way we work, and the way we live. Computer Science (or CS as it is affectionately known as) is more than just coding and using a computer to complete a given task. It involves critical thinking, collaboration, and the ability to creatively solve problems.  And there are many ways to engage in computer science without even using a computer.  For example, students can write instructions for making a peanut butter sandwich, then work with another student to complete the task by following the instructions exactly as written.  Students will soon realize the importance of being precise in their step-by-step instructions and no doubt, will see where some key steps were missed. A fun activity!

Here in Springfield, we believe every student should have opportunities and access to a high-quality computer science education.  Students need to think of the world from different perspectives and to value each other as they work together to solve problems and become critical thinkers.  We believe that students can be more than consumers.  They can be active creators and problem-solvers, tackling some of the biggest challenges affecting our world today.  Indeed, computer science is the foundational skill necessary for all students to succeed in reaching their personal and professional goals as active contributors in our world.

Tools mentioned:

For our latest episode I met with Dr. T. Alan Bush, the Dean of Student at Kiley Prep, and former Middle School Science Teacher at John F. Kennedy Middle School. We had an enjoyable conversation on how Science and Math are connected and how that can help your students. You’ll also hear my dad joke about math, feel free to adjust and use it. I was thinking about summer when I came up with it. You’ll also hear a great perspective on how to move from classroom teacher to administrator. We also discussed some of the successes and challenges that happened with the move from the classroom to admin during remote learning.

Tools mentioned:

In this week’s podcast episode, I met with Joanna Mineo from Brightwood Elementary School here in Springfield. Joanna is a newish to the teaching world, having graduated a few years ago and now she is doing a fantastic job teaching. Check out to hear all about her experiences as a new teacher and learning how to teach during COVID. Plus, you’ll have to check out how Joanna likes to take care of herself.

Tools mentioned:

For this weeks podcast we meet with Lori Spiro from Alice B. Beal Elementary School here in Springfield. During our conversation Lori spoke about teaching at various schools and various grade levels. Lori is another one of our teachers who have moved from their classroom position to the brand new CS/TC teacher position. This position was created this school year to ensure that Computer Science is taught at all grade levels here in Springfield. Also, at the end of the interview we discuss one way that Teachers can take care of themselves that you should absolutely do, plus some great Breakfast talk!

Tools mentioned:

Welcome Back to the 2021-2022 School Year. To kick off this year's podcast we meet with Erin Demarest from Milton Bradley Elementary School here in Springfield. During our conversation you can hear all about what it was like to teach 2nd grade and then how she made the move to Springfield's new CS/TC teacher position. This position was created this school year to ensure that Computer Science is taught at all grade levels here in Springfield. 

Tools mentioned:

In the penultimate episodes of the 2020-2021 school year, I interviewed Kathryn Chace from Springfield Conservatory of the Arts Middle and High School. She is an Instructional Leader and an AP Statistics teacher. Throughout many of her years teaching Kathryn always seemed to be a step ahead with Technology, you might even say she was an EdTech DIYer (not sure if that's a thing but it's a great way to explain her mindset). Being a part of the school leadership, you can also hear about how they planned for the 2020-2021 school year, along with Concurrent Learning strategies that I had a hard time understanding since I wasn't the one doing it.

Tools mentioned:

In the latest episode of the SPS Digital Learning Hour I met with Alex Freedman from John J Duggan Academy. This award-winning teacher is doing exceptional work in his school. Pre-COVID-19 he was already preparing the teachers he works with for Digital Learning. Microsoft Teams was the tool of choice at his school. Come and learn all about everything he's doing at his school, along with some awesome tech advances at his school. COVID-19 has been difficult for everyone but even in tough times, some great things can come out of it. This was a great interview with a fantastic Middle School teacher.

Tools mentioned:

We're back! In the latest episode of the SPS Digital Learning Hour I met with Alyson Santerre from Milton Bradley Elementary School. Come and learn all about her journey with technology in the classroom and her growth as a classroom teacher to be a leader in her building with the use of technology. Hear some great ideas for teaching reading remotely and ways that you can continue to use best practices developed through COVID that you can use even when you are back. I loved chatting with Alyson and I think you'll love the conversation too.

Tools mentioned:

With this week's episode we jump into module three of the very popular book, The Distance Learning Playbook, Grades K-12: Teaching for Engagement and Impact in Any Setting by Douglas Fisher, Nancy Frey, John Hattie. With the SPS Digital Learning Hour podcast, we are talking our learning out loud. If you do not own this book, get it now and join us on the journey of discovery. You will also hear my thoughts and takeaways from each module. 

This week's module was all about the relationships between Teachers and Students. We discuss each of the sections in this part of the book including Learning Intentions, Characteristics of Teacher–Student Relationships, Judgment and Will, Not Just Knowledge and Ability, Peer-to-Peer Relationships Are Influenced, Too, A “Chilly” Classroom, A View From the Early Years, Reaching the Hard to Teach, and Increase Your Touchpoints With All Students. Check out all my thoughts and admitted faults I felt I had in reflecting on my time teaching.

Do we have some of the same takeaway? Is there something else that you got out of the chapter? Follow us on this journey. Leave your thoughts in the comments below or the future blog post.  

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If you missed it in Episode 103 we meet with various teachers, students and parents from Liberty Elementary School in Springfield to discuss Minecraft in the classroom. When I was talking with everyone I quickly realized that I needed to share the whole interview with the teachers, as they gave me so much good stuff but I didn't want to make a 2 hour episode, I'm not Joe Rogan. So I am producing two separate podcasts with the full interviews of the teachers.

This first episode features three teachers, Katie Peterson, Colleen Kutz and Elizabeth Walsh. What I loved about these interviews is that we hit the range of grades for K-5 and all levels of ability. In this episode you will hear each teacher's journey with Minecraft and how they are applying it in the classroom. If you are looking for some ideas on how to use Minecraft in the Classroom, then check out this podcasts.

I will say that for parts of the interviews the audio is a little tough to hear but it was a great time anyways.

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In this week's episode we visit with Teachers, Students and even Parents at Liberty Elementary School to discuss how, as an entire community, they have adopted Minecraft Education. As a Microsoft district we provide Minecraft for Education for all schools, at a district level, we are thrilled with Liberty that they have taken advantage of our Microsoft Partnership. Liberty Elementary is also a Showcase School for Microsoft, so they are all well versed in all the tools Microsoft offers. When you are listening to this episode, you will hear about a lot of different ways to use Minecraft: Education Edition within your classroom! You'll probably need to listen to it at least twice.

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In the latest episode of the SPS Digital Learning Hour I met with Kristyn Brannigan, classroom teacher from Beal Elementary. Come and learn all about her journey, which took her from teaching in Springfield to all around the world and back again. Hear some great ideas for teaching reading remotely to younger students and ways that you can take care of yourself. I loved chatting with Kristyn and I think you'll love the conversation too.

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In this week’s episode we met with Catherine Murphy, a Kindergarten Teacher from Arthur T. Talmadge Elementary School. Catherine is doing some amazing work in the classroom. During this magical year, she introduces many students to what school is all about. As a CSForAll teacher, she integrates a lot of technology into her class pre-COVID, which excites her students throughout the year. If you have ever wondered how to teach Kindergarten remotely, this is an episode not to be missed.

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