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A Mile In My Shoes: The Walk & Talk Podcast

A Mile In My Shoes: The Walk & Talk Podcast

By Stacey James McAdoo

Grab your sneakers, walk a mile with your forever 2019 Arkansas Teacher of the Year, Stacey McAdoo, and esteemed guest educators from various disciplines, and ear hustle on engaging conversations about relationships, resources, and improving education.
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Walk & Talk With Veteran Educator Johnny Laine, Jr.

A Mile In My Shoes: The Walk & Talk PodcastJul 18, 2020

00:00
21:03
S3, Ep 2: A Quick Mindful Walk

S3, Ep 2: A Quick Mindful Walk

Get in tune with yourself and your surroundings in this special episode where we take a 5-minute or so mindful walk with our host Stacey McAdoo.

For More Info: This show is hosted by the forever 2019 Arkansas Teacher of the Year, Stacey McAdoo. Please direct all questions and/or scheduling inquiries to www.stillstacey.com. You may also email 2019atoy@gmail.com or message @2019atoy on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram.

Sep 19, 202207:24
S3: Walk & Talk With Teach Plus Arkansas Senior Fellows

S3: Walk & Talk With Teach Plus Arkansas Senior Fellows

Special Guests: Perla Andrade, Juanita Harris, Kendria Jones, Brandie Loomis, Cara Maxwell

Come walk a mile with the 2022-2023 Teach Plus Arkansas Senior Fellows and listen to their poetic and thoughtful responses that explain their experience as an inaugural Teach Plus Arkansas Policy Fellow and what they are most looking forward to this year. The Fellows also share personal and professional growth they attribute to the skills they gained or honed during the fellowship and offer advice to classroom practitioners interested in joining the Policy Fellowship. To learn more about Teach Plus Arkansas, visit www.teachplus.org/arkansas.  

This podcast is created and hosted by Stacey McAdoo. For scheduling inquiries or more information about the podcast, feel free to reach out to her at 501-350-5945 or 2019atoy@gmail.com. You can also follow her at @2019atoy on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.


Jul 22, 202218:03
S2, Ep15: Walk & Talk with Kendria Jones

S2, Ep15: Walk & Talk with Kendria Jones

Bio of Guest: Kendria Jones is a native of Pine Bluff, Arkansas. She teaches 7th grade ELA at Jack Robey Middle school. She has 2 handsome sons, Tay and KJ, 16, and recently became a Gammie to Kace. Her love of kids and talking led her to the education world and she doesn't regret it not one bit. Ms. Jones believes that teaching is an art, and those who do not love teaching should reconsider why they are in the classroom. Kendria is a Teach Plus Arkansas Policy Fellow and the author of “Motivated and Encouraged,” which is a 31-day interactive/self-reflection read. It can be purchased on Amazon.

For More Info: This show is hosted by the forever 2019 Arkansas Teacher of the Year, Stacey McAdoo. Please direct all questions and/or inquiries to www.stillstacey.com. You may also email 2019atoy@gmail.com or message @2019atoy on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram.

May 01, 202222:01
S2, Ep14: Walk & Talk With Susanna Post

S2, Ep14: Walk & Talk With Susanna Post

Apr 23, 202220:32
S2, Ep13: Walk & Talk With Nicholas Williams

S2, Ep13: Walk & Talk With Nicholas Williams

Guest Bio:

Nicolas D. Williams is an 8th grade English Teacher at J. A. Fair K-8 Preparatory School in the Little Rock School District. He states that his personal philosophy is serving others, providing for his family, and making the most of his opportunities. His professional philosophy, he insists, "is teaching children of yesterday, today, and tomorrow. This involves expanding my expertise as a professional educator and contributing to society by learning new skills that will ensure academic achievement and growth among students."

Mr. Williams is a Career Professional Educator (as designated by the Arkansas Department of Education) who was most recently named the 2022 Teacher of the Year at J. A. Fair K-8 Preparatory School. Previously, he was named the 2019 Teacher of the Year at Horace Mann Arts & Science Magnet Middle School, 2020 LifeChanger of the Year Spirit Award Winner, a 2020 Amazing Educator by Little Rock Family magazine, and was selected as one of the 40 Amazing Black Male Educators from across the country to be featured in the inaugural issue of the UpLIFT Legacy magazine.

To read more about him, you may check out the following features:

https://www.lifechangeroftheyear.com/201920-winners, https://www.littlerockfamily.com/post/129420/little-rock-family-presents-the-amazing-educators-of-2020, and https://www.amazon.com/UpLIFT-premier-visual-black-educators/dp/B08F6Y57NP

You can also follow him on social media at @nicdelane (Twitter), keyunta97 (Instagram), and https://ww.facebook.com/nicolasdw2(Facebook).

For More Information:

To learn more about this podcast or the host, reach out to Stacey McAdoo by visiting www.stillstacey.com. You may also email her at 2019atoy@gmail.com or direct message her at @2019atoy on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

Apr 16, 202217:33
S2, Ep12: Walk & Talk With Jessica Saum

S2, Ep12: Walk & Talk With Jessica Saum

Guest Bio:

Jessica Saum is a native of Columbia, South Carolina but calls Sherwood, Arkansas home. Currently, she is a self-contained special education teacher at Stagecoach Elementary School in Cabot, Arkansas teaching students in kindergarten through fourth grade. Jessica is an ASTA and AAEF Advocacy Fellow, and the 2022 Arkansas Teacher of the Year. Jessica is a proud military spouse and is passionate about advocating for the unique needs of military families. Follow her on Twitter at @JessicaSaum, jessicasaum on Instagram or Jessica Wheeler Saum on Facebook. You can also check out the following article to learn more about her https://educationpost.org/children-of-military-families-face-challenges-not-always-evident-in-school/.

For more information about the host, this podcast or scheduling inquires, contact Stacey McAdoo at www.stillstacey.com. You can also reach her via email at @2019atoy@gmail.com or on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter as @2019atoy.

Apr 09, 202213:27
S2, Ep11: Walk & Talk With Hillary McCree

S2, Ep11: Walk & Talk With Hillary McCree

Guest Bio:

Hillary McCree, affectionally referred to as "Hill" by those who know and love her, was born and raised in Little Rock. She is a Little Rock Central High School graduate and holds a BS in Health Science and a MEd in Adult Education. Prior to entering the teaching profession ten years ago through a non-traditional route, she was a Respiratory Therapist. Hillary is married and has two 2 sons.

For More Information:

To learn more about the host, this show or for scheduling inquiries, contact Stacey McAdoo at www.stillstacey.com or follow her at @2019atoy on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram.


Apr 02, 202226:37
S3, Ep10: Walk & Talk With Kayla Andrews

S3, Ep10: Walk & Talk With Kayla Andrews

Brief Guest Bio:

Kayla Andrews is self described as "a teacher who has done it all (almost)." She states, "I'm just a Millennial Filipina trying to make a difference." To learn more about her, search for @kandrews91 o TikTok.  

For More Information about this show or the host, contact Stacey McAdoo at www.stillstacey.com, via email at 2019atoy@gmail.com or on social media as @2019atoy (Facebook, Instragram or Twitter).

Mar 26, 202219:51
S2, Ep9: Walk & Talk With Nicole Smith

S2, Ep9: Walk & Talk With Nicole Smith

Guest Bio:

Nicole Smith is a National Board Certified English Teacher for grades 9-12. She holds two master's degrees--one in English and one in education with a specialization in English. She believes that all children are gifted and talented and that every child has the ability to learn although that learning may look different for each child. Nicole also believes that educators have a responsibility to teach all children no matter their background and that a child's background does not determine their lot in life.

For more information about this podcast or the host, contact Stacey McAdoo via www.stillstacey.com. She can also be reached by email (@2019atoy@gmail.com) or as @2019atoy on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

Mar 19, 202224:20
S2, Ep8: Walk & Talk W/Holly Howard

S2, Ep8: Walk & Talk W/Holly Howard

About this episode:

Walk a mile in northwest Arkansas with legacy educator Holly Howard. During this walk, Holly shares how and why teachers are the heart of the community. She also talks about the important (and urgent) need to develop strategies and a national teacher campaign to recruit and retain the best and the brightest educators. 

Guest Bio:

Holly Howard is a 16-year veteran, high-school English teacher. This native Arkansan has taught in 3 different district and is National Board certified and renewed. She has participated in several fellowships, some of which include: George Washington Teacher Institute, National Gallery of Art Teacher Institute, ARTeacher (Crystal Bridges, U of A, and Center for Children and Youth), and Teach Plus Arkansas Teacher Policy Fellowship. She is also a former department chair and after-school coordinator.

For More Information:

To learn more about Holly, follow her on social media: @hollyhowardar (Twitter), @mshowardreads (Instagram) or Holly Howard (Facebook). For inquiries about this show or the host, Stacey McAdoo, visit www.stillstacey.com or reach out to Stacey at @2019atoy on Twitter, Instagram or Facebook.

Mar 12, 202218:05
S2, Ep7: Walk & Talk With Chrystal Burkes

S2, Ep7: Walk & Talk With Chrystal Burkes

About This Episode: Take a walk through Bryant, Arkansas with Parkway Elementary's Library Media Specialist, Chrystal Burkes. In this episode we learn about some of the biggest misconceptions about libraries and how to make them an innovative, fun hub of learning for everyone.  

Guest Bio:

Chrystal Burkes started her journey to be an educator at the University of Central Arkansas in 2006. After graduating, Chrystal began teaching third and fourth grade while she completed her Master’s Degree in Educational Theory and Practice through Arkansas State University. She adopted cutting-edge teaching practices such as a flipped classroom teaching model and flexible seating ideology in your classes.        

Chrystal then completed her second Master’s Degree in Library and Media through Southern Arkansas University’s graduate program in August 2018.  Inspired by her graduate courses, Chrystal took on additional leadership roles in your school building such as coordinating a school-wide digital citizenship event and heading a weekly technology training program for teachers and staff.  This work earned her the honor of being named Bryant Teacher of the Year 2017-2018. Eventually, she progressed to being named Teacher of the Year for her co-op area, and later was named a top-four semifinalist for Arkansas Teacher of the Year. That same year, Burkes was also awarded Little Rock Family Magazine’s 2019 Amazing Educator Award.       

In August 2018, Chrystal became the Library Media Specialist at Parkway Elementary in Bryant. She was also  recently named Arkansas Association of Instructional Media’s (AAIM) Library Media Specialist of the Year 2020.       

She has continued to bring innovative and engaging lessons to her students every day by incorporating technology, real world examples, and student interest into her lessons. She isn’t afraid to step out of the norm and challenge herself and her students to new ways of thinking and learning. Her goal is to help all students and teachers become educated citizens and positive contributors not only in their classrooms, but ultimately in society.

Mar 05, 202220:25
S2, Ep6: Walk & Talk With Cade Vallee

S2, Ep6: Walk & Talk With Cade Vallee

About This Episode:

Walk with us through West Memphis, Arkansas and listen in as Cade shares ways to implement low-risk strategies to connect with students and shares why it's essential to listen to and learn from our students.

Guest Bio:

Cade is an Art Teacher at East Junior High in West Memphis, AR. Cade has been teaching for 2.5 years and is an Arkansas Teacher Corps fellow. "In my free time," Cade says, "I like to spend time on my own art practice, walk, go to the gym, and spend time with my girlfriend and two cats." Cade be found on Instagram via the handle: @_ar_cade.

For more information about A Mile In My Shoes: The Walk & Talk Podcast or the host, Stacey McAdoo, visit www.stillstacey.com or @2019atoy on most social media platforms.

Feb 26, 202220:38
S2, Ep5: Walk & Talk w/Patrick Bruce

S2, Ep5: Walk & Talk w/Patrick Bruce

In today's episode, we walk with a North Little Rock School District educator and discuss the impact of CTE, how to keep our profession relevant and specific ways to avoid having "unemployable graduates."

Guest Bio:

Patrick Bruce currently serves as Academy Coach and Perkins Coordinator for the NLRSD. Prior to his current positions, he was a Manufacturing teacher at NLRHS and NLR Academy (ALE). Before working in NLRSD, Mr. Bruce was an adjunct instructor and curriculum coordinator for Entrepreneurship programs at the University of the West Indies. He also worked in the construction industry before entering the education field. His passion is in all things Career and Technical Education/Workforce Development. Patrick is a firm believer that all students can succeed if they can see the goal and application of their education after graduation. Unfortunately, he believes that far too many students graduate high school and college without knowing how to apply what they have learned. The gap that has formed from the classroom to the workforce has created a generation of "unemployable graduates." Patrick believes it is a calling to bring awareness to this issue and provide solutions to industry and education alike to make learning relevant and real to the student in the classroom regardless of age, gender, race, socioeconomic status, location, disability, etc...

For more information about A Mile In My Shoes: The Walk & Talk Podcast, its host, or to be our next guest, visit Stacey McAdoo at www.stillstacey.com, 2019atoy@gmail.com or @2019atoy on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.

Feb 19, 202222:38
S2, Ep4: Walk & Talk with Ar'Jillian Gilmer

S2, Ep4: Walk & Talk with Ar'Jillian Gilmer

Take a walk with us through Mayflower, Arkansas, with 4th-8th grade ELA and Social Studies certified educator, Ar'Jillian Gilmer, as she discusses how witnessing so many kids in need of "extra, intensive, out of the box, I'll do whatever it takes kind of help," lead her to start her own business (Gilmer's Learning Solutions). During the walk and talk, Ms. Gilmer shares resources, discusses how cultures impact learning, and offers innovative suggestions on how to restructure the academic day to have a more positive impact on student success and teacher retention.
Mrs. Ar'Jillian Gilmer is from Camden, AR, and a graduate of Wynne High School in Wynne, AR. She has resided in Mayflower, AR, for the last 6+ years. Ar'Jillian graduated from the University of Arkansas Monticello with a BS in Education Studies and is currently enrolled as an MEd Leadership student at Arkansas Tech University. She is an English Language Arts/Social Studies Certified Teacher with LRSD and owner of Gilmer's Learning Solutions, LLC., an educational solutions company committed to high academic achievement and upward mobility. Ar'Jillian is the Little Rock Regional Chamber's first annual Next Level Pitch competition Judges' Choice winner. She is married to LR Fire Department Engineer, The Cajun Trouxth, and Martha's Bon Appetit Catering owner, Charles Gilmer. They have four amazing children: Channon, Aniah, Aeryn, and Charles, III. She regularly volunteers with Classy Lady Awareness Foundation, The Family Development Center at Catherine's House, is an active member of Little Rock PowerWomen, Women Gather AR, Women Influencers AR, and Abundant Love Ministry Children's and Youth Director.
Recommendations by Ar'Jillian: Zaretta Hammonds - Culturally Responsive Teaching and the Brain https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/culturally-responsive-teaching-and-the-brain-zaretta-l-lynn-hammond/1125300892, Cameisha Brewer Dickerson, LPCSW - Therapy and Thought-life coaching https://cameishabrewer.com/;
www.gilmerslearningsolutions.com - academic support, Student Success Strategies
To learn more about our guest, visit her website www.gilmerslearningsolutions.com or reach out to her on Instagram at @gilmerslearningsolutions or on at Gilmer's Learning Solutions, LLC. on Facebook.
For more information about the host or this podcast, contact Stacey McAdoo at www.stillstacey.com, 2019atoy@gmail.com, or @2019atoy on most social media platforms.
Feb 12, 202217:19
S2, Ep3: Walk & Talk w/Grover Welch

S2, Ep3: Walk & Talk w/Grover Welch

Join us for a few laps in Newport, Arkansas and listen as Grover discusses how/why he entered the teaching profession at the age of 40 and the importance of community, diversity and expanding your horizons.

Prior to becoming a teacher, Mr. Welch had careers in the military, furniture sales, truck driving, towing, and several other fields. At his core he has always been a writer and love reading and poetry. He states that he is a long way from Kentucky, where I grew up the oldest of three. Grover shared that he struggled after my father left and my mother became an alcoholic, but he found myself in band class and comic books. He firmly believes that everything that has been part of his life has contributes to his classroom and that mentoring students and building relationships are the keys to a great education. As he grows in his career, he's found himself moving in larger circles than just his school and that has helped him realize a few things -- namely that teachers are better together and we have to support one another. According to Mr. Welch, "It has been a trying time with the current problems in education and teachers need to foster better communication, and trust. We have to keep students at the center of everything, which is challenging in the rapid movement of reform, but necessary. We need to use technology wisely, and not as a bell or whistle. We need to remember that we are part of a community of educators and that community has a great future." To learn more about Grover, you can find him on
Medium.com or Twitter as @groverwelch.

For more information about the host or this podcast, contact Stacey McAdoo at www.stillstacey.com, 2019atoy@gmail.com or @2019atoy on most social media platforms.
Feb 05, 202220:38
S2, Ep2: Walk & Talk w/Rosie Valdez Block

S2, Ep2: Walk & Talk w/Rosie Valdez Block

In this episode award winning Debate Coach and Little Rock Central High School educator, Rosie Valdez Block, talks about what it was like growing up in a family of educators, why she values the process more than the outcome, offers advice on how teachers can "tap in" to join the  conversations, and shares why it's necessary to sometimes "buckle up and buck up to advocate for what you know is right". 

Rosie Valdez Block is a lifelong Little Rocker. She has been a public school educator for 11 years, and is currently the Director of Debate at Little Rock Central High School. Rosie comes from a family of teachers, and feels very lucky to share her my love of communication education with her mother. Before the pandemic, she spent nearly every weekend of her life traveling the country to tournaments with her nationally-ranked debate team. Though our competitions are all virtual now, you can still find her coaching and judging debate every weekend. Mrs. Block is very proud of the resiliency her debaters have shown as the activity they love has had to fundamentally change the last two years.   Rosie is a passionate advocate for public education. She was raised in the Little Rock School District, and is a proud alum of Booker Arts Magnet, Horace Mann Middle, and Parkview Arts/Science Magnet. Rosie Valdez Block has served on the executive council of the Arkansas Communication and Theatre Arts Association for five years, and is currently on the executive board of the National Debate Coaches' Association. She was also named National Coach of the Year in 2020 by the NDCA. (FYI - Rosie firmly believes all teachers should watch Ted Lasso AppleTV.) 

For questions about the podcast or the host, contact Stacey McAdoo at www.stillstacey.com, 2019atoy@gmail.com or @2019atoy on most social media platforms.

Jan 29, 202220:52
S2, EP1: Walk & Talk w/Iesha Green

S2, EP1: Walk & Talk w/Iesha Green

In this episode Iesha Green, a 5th grade classroom practitioner & Teach Plus Arkansas Policy Fellow, talks about the importance of dismantling systems in order to create change.  

Iesha Green is an Arkansas native. She has been in education for 10 years, 5 years in ECE & 5 years in 5th grade. She studied undergrad at the U of A where she triple majored in Psychology, Sociology, and African and African American Studies. She also holds a MAT from UCA & an M.Ed in Educational Equity. She is passionate about all things related to education and is currently working on a kid’s book series called “The Wolfpack,” which follows the adventures of 4 Black middle school boys. She can be reached via social media at @greeniesha6 (Twitter) or Iesha Green (Facebook). 

For more information about this podcast, the host or how to be our next guest contact Stacey McAdoo at 501-350-5945, www.stillstacey.com, 2019atoy@gmail.com or at @2019atoy on all social media platforms.

Jan 22, 202216:36
Walk & Talk With Veteran Educator Rosie Reid

Walk & Talk With Veteran Educator Rosie Reid

Guest Bio: Rosie Reid has been teaching English and English Language Development for 19 years. She was named 2019 California Teacher of the Year and received a 2020 Teaching Tolerance Excellence in Teaching award for her work promoting equity in and outside the classroom. Whether she is teaching ELD, grade level English, or IB English, social justice is at the heart of her lessons. Her experience as a mom of a multiracial family with a range of sexualities and academic abilities and affinities has heightened her awareness of issues of equity and justice.

About This Episode: Walk with California's 2019 Teacher of the Year and a 2020 recipient of Teaching Tolerance's Excellence in Teaching Award. Find out where in the educational setting that the magic really happens, the joys teaching about social justice, the Writing Project and lessons learned from being a mom of six very different children.

To learn More: Visit www.stillstacey.com for questions about this podcast, the host or scheduling inquiries. To learn more Rosie, follow her on Twitter (@msreidenglish).

Nov 19, 202016:36
Walk & Talk With Veteran Educator Rosetter E. Dirden

Walk & Talk With Veteran Educator Rosetter E. Dirden

Guest Bio: Rosetter E. Dirden began her wonderful journey in the field of education seventeen years ago, after an eighteen years  career in the Mortgage Banking industry. She began as a middle school teacher, but has been teaching on the high school level for thirteen years. In addition to teaching high school, Ms. Dirden is also a college professor at two prestigious universities in the city of Little Rock, AR. She has taught on the college level for eleven years. Ms. Dirden is very active on her school campus. She is a certified and credentialed Spirit Team Coach/Sponsor; Robotics Sponsor; Certified Teacher Mentor; Advanced Placement Certified; Senior Class Sponsor; and the 2019 - 2020 Teacher of The Year at the Beautiful , Historic Little Rock Central High. Ms. Dirden is the CEO of Essence Educational Services, which offers tutoring for all subjects and ages. She is the President of the Community Churches Alliance, which is a Non-Profit that provides food, clothing, and other necessities to those in need. A youth mentorship/leadership component is in the developmental stages.  She is Certified in Youth Mental Health First Aid, a Certified Wedding & Event Planner, Pageant Coach, and a National/Local Pageant Director. She uses her influence in these areas to mentor youth from all walks of life.  Ms. Dirden is the Proud Founder of the Arkansas Chapter of Black Educators Rock, Inc., and a proud member of the National BER Staff. Her Philosophy of Education is: Educators Who Develop Positive Relationships With Students And Their Families Create A Village. A Strong Village Ensures Positive Results. ALSO .. Being An Educator Is More Than Teaching A Lesson From A Book, It Encompasses Teaching From The Heart!

About This Episode: Today's episode is with an individual who transitioned from the banking industry into education and became one of the 2020 Teachers of the Year for the historic Little Rock Central High School. From teaching math, to coaching the Spirit Team, sponsoring the Robotics club, running the Arkansas Chapter of Black Educators Rock, Inc. and local pageants, this woman does it all! Walk with her to find out how and why. 

For More Information: visit www.stillstacey.com for questions about this podcast, the host or scheduling inquiries. To learn more about the guest, follow her on Twitter (@rosetterdirden), Instagram (msdirden) or Facebook (Rosetter E Dirden).

Nov 17, 202021:37
Walk & Talk With Veteran Educator Claudine Sanders James

Walk & Talk With Veteran Educator Claudine Sanders James

Guest Bio: Claudine Sanders James, NBCT, is in her 12th year of teaching 8th grade English at Malvern Middle School in Central Arkansas. James achieved Board Certification in Early Adolescence English Language Arts. She has awarded the 2020 James H. Atkinson Award for Excellence in the Teaching of Arkansas History. James has also received the 2018 Penguin Random House Teacher Award for Literacy, and the 2019 Sanford Teacher, Henry Ford Innovation Nation Innovative Teacher and WeTeacher awards. She also has an ESL endorsement and is a board member of the Arkansas Humanities Council. James was the 2019 HSC Community Service awardee and now serves as the district’s community liaison working within the district and community to highlight cultural awareness and to help other educators gain knowledge and skills related to building a platform for culturally responsive teaching.

About This Episode: Walk with an educator who always knew she wanted to be a teacher and find out about her defining moments, the power of community and the building of life-long relationships. 

For More Information: Visit www.stillstacey.com for questions about the podcast, host or scheduling inquiries. To learn more about the guest, visit her on social media at @MsClaudine1966 (Twitter) and @Claudine Sanders James on Facebook.

Nov 14, 202019:06
Walk & Talk With Veteran Educator Kelly D. Holstine

Walk & Talk With Veteran Educator Kelly D. Holstine

About the Guest: Kelly D. Holstine is the 2018/2019 MN State Teacher of the Year (the first out LGBTQ+ teacher and the second alternative educator in MN to be given that honor.) In addition to being an educator, speaker, writer/author, and advocate, Holstine is also an Adjunct Education Professor at Augsburg University and an Educational Equity Consultant. Holstine has nearly 30 years of experience working with youth and in 2012 she helped to design and open Tokata Learning Center (an alternative high school). She has worked and volunteered in the fields of education, media, team building, social services, animal rescue, and theatre. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Communication from the University of Massachusetts, a Communication Arts and Literature teaching license from Augsburg University, and a Master of Arts in Education from Augsburg University. About this Episode: Walk with the 2018/2019 Minnesota Teacher of the Year, Kelly Holstine, and hear about the gift of teaching and being able to see the transformation of others, designing & opening an alternative space for learners, and the lessons learned over the last 30 years.  To Learn More: visit www.stillstacey.com for questions about the podcast, host or scheduling inquiries. To learn more about the guest, visit her blog: https://www.kellydholstine.com/ or follow her on Twitter (@kellydholstine).
Nov 12, 202020:05
Walk & Talk With Veteran Educator Roy Vaughn

Walk & Talk With Veteran Educator Roy Vaughn

Guest Bio: I am entering my seventeenth year as an educator, military veteran, and man of God. As a career educator I have realized the best way to impact and change the world is by ensuring that the populous is educated. Growing up it wasn’t hard to find mentors and black males to look up to. I was asked who my first black male teacher was once and I can say I was blessed having grew up in Detroit until middle school. I always had black male teachers to look up to. My fourth grade teachers name was Ralph Carruthers- a poet, master of language, and someone even to this day I admire. Then in middle school my home room teacher was a black male Mr. Phillips, one of the toughest teachers I ever had, his expectations was always excellence. I could go on. These are the men I have shaped my career after.

About This Episode: ROTC. National Guard. Collegiate Debate Team. Take a walk with Roy Vaughn, an educator and man of God who’s passionate about education policy, and find out how these dots connected and landed him in the classroom.

For more information visit www.stillstacey.com for questions of the host, about the podcast or for scheduling inquiries. To learn more about the guest visit his blog at www.revolutionaryvisionphotography.com or check him out on Instagram (@revolutionaryvisionphotography) or Facebook (@Roy Vaughn).

Nov 10, 202019:39
Walk & Talk With Veteran Educator Jeff Hagerstrand

Walk & Talk With Veteran Educator Jeff Hagerstrand

Guest Bio: Oldest of two, rural then suburban new agey upbringing; took 7 1/2 years to get BA in English Lit; taught at my alma mater for 12 years in a project based 9-12  arts program; six years as drama teacher at high performing school for affluent kids; now the in third year as indecent study high school teacher. Raising six kids, some adopted, in a mixed race family with catoy 2019 Rosie Reid. #covidsux


About This Episode: Take a walk through the streets of California with a high school Independent Study educator who's been teaching for more than 20 years. Find out about his wanderlust, the scenic route he took before discovering the education bug and his love for teaching.


For More Information: visit www.stillstacey.com to questions about this podcast, the host or scheduling inquiries.  

Nov 07, 202028:06
Walk & Talk With Veteran Educator Sydney Jensen

Walk & Talk With Veteran Educator Sydney Jensen

Guest Bio: Sydney is a ninth-grade English teacher at Lincoln High School in Lincoln, Nebraska, and is also the 2019 Nebraska Teacher of the Year. Her TED talk, "How can we support the emotional well-being of teachers?" was released in November 2019 and has garnered more than two million views. Sydney continues to serve the education community in her classroom and as an advocate for teacher wellness.

About This Episode: Today we walk with Sydney Jenson who is an advocate for teacher wellness, a 9th grade English teacher and the 2019 Nebraska Teacher of the Year.  Find out how summer camp solidified her desire to teach, the power of storytelling and the inside scoop on how her Ted Talk  “How can we support the emotional well-being of teachers?" (which has been viewed more than 2 million times) came to be.

For more information: visit www.stillstacey.com for more information about the podcast, host or scheduling inquiries. To contact the guest please visit her blog at sydney-jensen.com or follow her on Twitter (@sydneycjensen) or Instagram (@lovemsjensen).

Nov 05, 202024:04
Walk & Talk With Veteran Educator Tami "TJ" Hendrix

Walk & Talk With Veteran Educator Tami "TJ" Hendrix

Guest Bio: I am an educator. I've taught high school, adult ed, and higher ed, but my heart belongs to middle school because those years are indeed the toughest in a child's educational development. I am a mother of two biological children and one bonus son and my husband is in the Army.

About This Episode: Listen to this educator, who comes from a line of educators and life long learners, as she discusses the need for systemic change in the educational system, 21st Century learners, and practical tips for current day classroom teachers.

For More Information: visit www.stillstacey.com for questions about the podcast, host or scheduling inquiries. To learn more about the guest, visit her blog at https://tjhendrixblog.wordpress.com/blog/.

Nov 03, 202027:57
Walk & Talk With Veteran Educator Joel Lookadoo

Walk & Talk With Veteran Educator Joel Lookadoo

Guest Bio: Joel Lookadoo is the 2020 Arkansas Teacher of the Year. He received his Bachelor’s Degree in Secondary Math Education from the University of Central Arkansas and his Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership from Arkansas State University. He received his National Board Certification in High School Mathematics. Joel is ESL certified and has taught 7 years in Springdale, Arkansas.

About This Episode: Walk with the 2020 Arkansas Teacher of the Year, Joel Lookadoo, and discover what he considers the most rewarding aspect of teaching and how PLCs helped him gain his stride in education.

For More Information: Visit www.stillstacey.com for more information on this podcast, the host or scheduling inquiries. To connect with the guest, follow him on Twitter (@CoachLookadoo) or Facebook (@2020ATOY)

Oct 31, 202020:16
Walk & Talk With Veteran Educator Lisa Huff

Walk & Talk With Veteran Educator Lisa Huff

Guest Bio: After graduating from Lyon College with a B.A. in English, Mrs. Huff began a lifelong  career in education  as a high school English teacher, continuing to teach 10-12 English and AP English for fifteen  years. After earning an M.S. in Curriculum and Instructional Technology, Mrs. Huff moved from instructing students to supporting educators as an Instructional Facilitator. Mrs. Huff continued her education, earning an  Ed. S. in Educational Administration and moved to an administrative position, serving as Secondary Curriculum Coordinator for Batesville School District. In 2017, she and her husband, Steve, relocated from Batesville to Central Arkansas. Mrs. Huff joined the Little Rock School District to help launch the EXCEL program, a program for juniors and seniors aimed at allowing them to test-drive careers while earning college credit, industry certifications, and internships. In 2020-21 Mrs. Huff will continue coordinating the LRSD EXCEL program and will support other CTE programs in the district.


About this Episode: Join CTE Specialist and Excel Coordinator, Lisa Huff, as she discusses transitions, change and taking advantage of all the opportunities within the educational system.


For more information: Visit www.stillstacey.com for questions about this podcast, the host or scheduling inquiries.


Oct 29, 202019:09
Walk & Talk With Veteran Educator Shay Loring

Walk & Talk With Veteran Educator Shay Loring

Guest Bio: I’ve been in education 20 years. I started as a middle school English teacher and currently serve as a principal at Taylor Elementary in Jacksonville AR.

About This Episode: Walk with an elementary principal who has held virtually every position available within the educational system (including a secretary, custodian and security officer). Find out how why she ran from her calling, what she loves the most about education, and what she believes makes a great teacher.

For More Information: visit www.stillstacey.com for questions about this podcast, the host or scheduling inquiries. Today's guest may be reached via Twitter (@LoringShay), Instagram (@conscious_classrooms) or Facebook (Shay Spriggs-Loring).

Oct 27, 202022:42
Walk & Talk With Veteran Educator Sheena Graham

Walk & Talk With Veteran Educator Sheena Graham

Guest Bio: Sheena Graham, began teaching in 1983. She offered workshops on music literacy and connecting parents and teachers, while writing original musicals and creating teaching tools for colleagues.  Her recording and writing experience is extensive. Sheena’s original works have been performed locally, at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. and twice at the White House. Her passion for reengaging disengaged students has led to her receiving the Beard Excellence in Teaching Award, among many others. She is Connecticut’s 2019 Teacher of the Year. Her advise to others is, “Do not let your image be designed by your inactivity.”

About This Episode: Find out how a classical pianist hopeful discovered her love her teaching and is now in her 38th year of teaching in the classroom! From White House invitations, to special needs camp, re-engaging the disengaged and the therapeutic aspects of the arts are discussed. Special Bonus: A sneak peak of an unreleased original song inspired by police brutality. 

For More Information: Visit www.stillstacey.com for questions about this podcast, the host or for scheduling inquiries. To learn more about the guest, visit her on Twitter (@ICMYGOALS), Instagram (@sheeniquek) or Facebook (Sheena Graham).

Oct 24, 202023:19
Walk & Talk With Veteran Educator Mindy Williams
Oct 22, 202019:52
Walk & Talk With Veteran Educator Shaily Mosby
Oct 20, 202021:18
Walk & Talk With Veteran Educator Kellie May
Oct 17, 202020:34
Walk& Talk With Veteran Educator Tracy Mason

Walk& Talk With Veteran Educator Tracy Mason

Guest Bio: Guest Bio: I grew up in Bald Knob, AR, and I'm starting my 36th year in education. I've been a classroom teacher the entire time, but I've also coached volleyball, basketball, and track. I have a Bachelor's and a Master's degree from the University of Central Arkansas, and I've been with the Little Rock School District for the past 22 years. For the past 15 years, I've been an AVID Coordinator at both Mabelvale Middle and Hall High School. At this point in my career, I'm blessed to still love what I do, and I'm looking forward to what comes in year 36 and beyond.

Episode Summary: Walk with us and learn about a 36 year veteran educator who was the first in her family to graduate high school (and then later college and graduate school) and who has for the last 16 years led college and career programming in the Little Rock School District.

For More Information: Visit www.stillstacey.com for questions about this podcast, the host or scheduling inquiries. 

Oct 15, 202029:55
Walk & Talk With Veteran Educator Phillicia Bell

Walk & Talk With Veteran Educator Phillicia Bell

Guest Bio: Philicia Bell is a 10-year educator who started at Mills University Studies High School in the Pulaski County Special School District teaching Oral Communication to ninth through twelfth grade students of all abilities. She transitioned to Parkview Arts/Science Magnet High in the Little Rock School District, where she is now a second year administrator. Her Bachelor of Arts in Speech Communication as obtained from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock and she also holds a Masters of Science in Educational Leadership from Arkansas State University. She spends her time with husband, Joseph Bell, and their 5 sons, who will be products of the Little Rock School District. She is a leader and volunteer at her church and kids' schools. Philicia is passionate about educating youth of diverse and difficult backgrounds and is determined to encourage mentorship and educating the whole-child within the classroom.


About This Episode: Walk a mile with Philicia Bell, a ten-year educator and novice administrator, who leads with love. Find out how a Gender studies class ultimately led her to the classroom and why mentoring, educating the whole child, and “Window Seats” are non-negotiables. 


Phillicia's Recommendations:

Supporting and Educating Traumatized Students by Eric Rossen

The Little Book of Restorative Justice in Education: Fostering Responsibility, Healing, and Hope in Schools by Katherine Evans and Dorothy Vaandering


For more information: Visit www.stillstacey.com for questions about this podcast, the host or scheduling inquiries.


Oct 13, 202022:39
Walk & Talk With Veteran Educator Jennifer Wahl

Walk & Talk With Veteran Educator Jennifer Wahl

Guest Bio: Jennifer R. Wahl has taught at Loyalsock Township High School since 2006 and the Pennsylvania College of Technology since 2015. She holds a bachelor’s degree from Cabrini University in history and a master’s degree in Educational Leadership from the Pennsylvania State University. At the high school and college level, Jennifer teaches history, psychology and sociology.

Jennifer has several professional affiliations, including The Japan Society, the National Consortium for Teaching about Asia, the International School for Jain Studies, College Board, the National and State Teacher of the Year Pennsylvania Chapter, and the Pennsylvania State Education Association.

Since 2012, Jennifer has received numerous awards related to her teaching. In 2016, she was chosen as the Lycoming County Chamber of Commerce Education of the Year. In 2018, she was awarded the Pennsylvania State Teacher of the Year, leading to many speaking engagements around Pennsylvania and the East Coast. She was also awarded the Luminary Award by her Alma Mater, Cabrini University, for a graduate in the last 20 years who has inspired others in their careers and communities. Additionally, Jennifer received the National Education Association Foundation Award for Teaching Excellence along with several other educators from around the country.

Throughout the last 14 years, Jennifer has engaged in multiple professional development opportunities that have taken her to some far off places. In 2011, she was selected by the National Consortium for Teaching about Asia to participate in a two-week study tour in China. Similarly, she was selected for a three-week study tour in Japan by the Japan Society in 2012. In 2013, Jennifer studied restorative justice and teaching for Peace in Delhi, India at the International School for Jain Studies. She also traveled with the American Institute for Historical Education, and has participated as an AP World History Reader for several years.


About This Episode: Walk a mile with a lifelong learner, history teacher, and traveler of 49 nations and 49 states as Pennsylvania’s 2018 Teacher of the Year, Jennifer Wahl, shares stories about artifacts, inspiration, and teaching in rural America.


For More Information: Visit www.stillstacey.com for questions about this podcast, the host or scheduling inquiries. To learn more about Jennifer, follow her on Twitter (@JenniferWahlEdu), Instagram (@Jbeck1411) and on Facebook (@JenniferWahlEdu).

Oct 10, 202024:16
Walk & Talk With Educator Wendell Scales, Jr.

Walk & Talk With Educator Wendell Scales, Jr.

Guest Bio: Wendell Scales Jr. is an educator, son, brother, friend, and community leader in central Arkansas. Since 2010, he has focused on initiatives in education, mentorship, equity, access, and college matriculation. He is a five-year member and current Vice President of the 100 Black Men of Greater Little Rock. He is a community organizer who understands the transformative impact an equitable education can play among our scholars, families and community stakeholders. As a member of Leadership Greater Little Rock Class XXXV, he continues to foster invaluable relationships to improve economic, organizational, and community outcomes in Arkansas.


About This Episode: Today we walk with a son, brother, friend, community leader and educator Wendell Scales, Jr. Learn about how this young man from a small town became a big time influencer of developing social capacity, networking and advocating for change.

Wendell's Recommendations:

Book: Advancing Black Male Student Success From Preschool Through Ph.D

Book: New Perspectives on Racial Identity Development

Book: The Enlightened College Applicant

Book: A Hope in the Unseen: An American Odyssey from the Inner City to the Ivy League

Organization: @100BlackMenofGreaterLittleRock


For More Information: Visit www.stillstacey.com for questions about the podcast, host or scheduling inquiries. To learn more about the guest, visit him on social media platforms: Instagram (@scalingtheworld) or Facebook (@Wendell Scales, Jr.)

Oct 08, 202022:11
Walk & Talk With Veteran Educator Crystal Green-Braswell

Walk & Talk With Veteran Educator Crystal Green-Braswell

Guest Bio:  Crystal Green-Braswell, a twenty- one year veteran educator, currently serves as a middle school assistant principal in the Little School District. Crystal earned a Specialist Degree in Education Leadership from Arkansas State University, a Master's Degree from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock and Bachelor's Degree from the University of Central Arkansas. During her 21 years in education, she has held a variety roles in elementary and middle schools throughout the state of Arkansas. She has been a Special Education and an English Language Arts educator, a Gifted & Talented Coordinator, a Literacy Facilitator and as already mentioned is now in Administration. Armed with the sincere belief that with the right climate and culture every school can succeed, she has successfully helped move a “C” school to an “A” school, facilitated arts integration sessions, mentored hundreds of teachers and has even created a coveted “Wellness Room” for her staff. About This Episode: Walk a mile with a self-care advocate, music-loving 21-year education veteran whose focus area is to help shape schools who serve students with the greatest needs to become a healing center for every stakeholder with wellness as the foundation of its work. Learn about how Crystal’s paying it forward because of the people who stood in the gaps for her during her years as a student and how she realized that the adults in a building have to be taken care just as much as the students do.  For More Information: Visit www.stillstacey.com for questions about the podcast, host or scheduling inquiries. To contact Crystal, visit her on Twitter (@crystalbraswe15) or on Instagram (@Cdlgb).
Oct 06, 202026:25
Walk & Talk With Veteran Educator Dr. Kareem Neal

Walk & Talk With Veteran Educator Dr. Kareem Neal

Guest Bio: Kareem has taught self-contained special education for 22 years. He has a master’s degree in special education from New Jersey City University. Kareem’s passion is social justice issues. He is a member of his district’s political engagement team, Black Alliance, and council of representatives for the union. He is the director of his school’s UNItown diversity club. He has been a restorative justice trainer for the district for the past 3 years. He was awarded an honorary doctorate from Northern Arizona University for his work in education and he is the 2019 Arizona Teacher of the Year.

About This Episode: Today we walk with a 22-year veteran educator, restorative justice trainer, and Arizona's 2019 Teacher of the Year. Find out why this 6'7" Special Education educator (who is afraid of heights) repelled off of Phoenix's highest building and how Kareem found his voice through the social justice club that he now sponsors at his school. Dr. Neal ends the walk & talk by taking us back to 1995 and dropping the science, wisdom, and brilliance of KRS-One.

Recommended Resource: Classdojo

For More Information: Visit www.stillstacey.com for questions about the podcast, host or scheduling inquiries. To learn more about the guest, visit his blog at kareemneal.com or follow him on social on social media (Twitter: @kareem_neal or Facebook: HB797 or Kareem Neal). You may also email him directly at kareemneal7@gmail.com 

Oct 03, 202023:55
Walk & Talk With Educator Chelsey Smith

Walk & Talk With Educator Chelsey Smith

Guest Bio: My name is Chelsey Smith. I currently teach English 10 and Pre-AP English 10 at Nettleton High School. In December of 2017, I received my BSE in English from Arkansas State University, and just one month later I began teaching at Nettleton High School. I am currently attending the University of Tennessee in Knoxville for my Master of Science in Information Sciences degree. My goal is to help every student reach their full academic potential while introducing students to a wide variety of diverse literature and voices.

About This Episode: Walk in Jonesboro with a graduate student who’s currently teaching 10th grade English and loves introducing students to a wide variety of diverse books. The importance of not shying away from challenges, reaching out for help and being around positive people are also discussed and excellent resources are shared.

Recommended Resources:

Facebook Page:

- The Brown Bookshelf: https://www.facebook.com/thebrownbookshelf/

Books:

- We Got This. Equity, Access, and the Quest to Be Who Our Students Need Us to Be by Cornelius Minor

- Teach Your Class Off by CJ Reynolds

Resources:

- Teaching Tolerance: https://tolerance.org/


For More Information: Visit www.stillstacey.com for information about this podcast, the host or scheduling inquiries. To contact the guest you can reach out to her on Twitter (@MrsChelseySmith).

Oct 01, 202020:51
Walk & Talk With Veteran Educator Dr. Carla F. Carter

Walk & Talk With Veteran Educator Dr. Carla F. Carter

Guest Bio: Dr. Carla F. Carter is a Visual, Literary and Performance Arts educator with over 30 years of teaching Middle, High school and college level students. She is a performance poet and writer originally from Chicago, by way of New York and now residing in Little Rock, Arkansas. She is the author of two collections of poetry, Body Language which won her a Lambda Literary Award Nomination for best poetry and Body Target (released in 2017). She has been a curator, producer and director of theater, particularly women's plays since early 2000's having garnered the Trailblazer Award for Women's theater in Chicago.  Her work has been published in several magazines, journals and anthologies.


About This Episode: Find out how this Chi-Town (by way of NY) aspiring Broadway star, dancer, performance poet, and published author ended up creating curriculum, designing courses, and teaching at an Arkansas HBCU. Learn about word processors, NSPDK, and Philander Smith College’s Creatives. Stay tuned until the end to get memorized by her original spoken word poetry! 


For More Information: Visit www.stillstacey.com for questions about the podcast, host or scheduling inquiries. To learn more about or contact the guest, reach out to Dr. Carter on Twitter (@NSPDKCFCarter), Instagram (@CFCarter8) or on Facebook (@CFCarterphd).  

Recommended Resources:

Literary Journal, The Educational Krinon - each published in the NSPDK Krinon:

Afrofuturism: For Colored Students Who Need to Believe in the Future When Teaching Black Lives Matter Is Not Enuf

The Charging Station

Sep 29, 202023:12
Walk & Talk With Veteran Educator Justin Minkel
Sep 26, 202016:28
Walk & Talk With Veteran Educator Chanda Lewis

Walk & Talk With Veteran Educator Chanda Lewis

Guest Bio: Chanda Lewis is a native of Little Rock, AR, with over 20 years in education in various roles from teaching to administration. Chanda received her Bachelors in Elementary Education from the University of Central Arkansas and her Masters in Educational Leadership from the University of Little Rock.

Chanda worked five years in the Little Rock School District where she served in the following roles: Pre-K/2nd Grade Teacher, Family Literacy Service Coordinator, and Consultant Teacher. She served 10 years in the Pulaski County Special School District where she served as an Asst. Principal and Federal Programs Coordinator (Title I Programs).

In 2015 Chanda and her family (her husband and three kids ranging from ages 17 to 4) relocated to Baton Rouge, Louisiana, and they later moved to the Shreveport area in 2019. Chanda most recently taught Pre-K for the Caddo Parish School District at Turner Elementary, in Shreveport, Louisiana

Chanda prides herself on the relationships she has developed with her parents and students. She believes this is her strength and has attributed to her success in education. *Update: Chanda recently resigned as a result of the pandemic, 


About This Episode: Join us for a walk with a Louisana pre-k teacher who as a college student switched from nursing to education. Listen as Ms. Lewis discusses the value of relationships, reaching kids where they are and working to level the playing field so that schools are more equitable.


For More Information: Visit www.stillstacey.com for questions about the podcast, the host or scheduling inquiries. You can reach the guest by via Instagram (@chandalatoria) or on Facebook (Chanda Lewis).

Sep 24, 202017:53
Walk & Talk With Veteran Educator Deborah Hansberry

Walk & Talk With Veteran Educator Deborah Hansberry

Guest Bio: I am in my 17th year as a teacher. I spent 13 years teaching math at McClellan High School. I am entering my 4th year teaching math at Central High.

About This Episode: Walk a country mile with a high school teacher who shed her lion's mane to earn her tiger stripes and became one of Little Rock Central High School's G.O.A.T. math teachers! Find out when and how math found Deborah, how she became addicted to watching kids defeat math, and why "The Show Goes On.'

For More Information: Visit www.stillstacey.com for questions about this podcast, the host or scheduling inquiries. To find out more about the guest, visit reach out to her on Instagram (@peteysmom1) or on Facebook (@DeborahHansberry).

Sep 22, 202019:25
Walk & Talk With Jennifer Ceasar

Walk & Talk With Jennifer Ceasar

Guest Bio: Proud mom of 2 daughters (19 & 15), Masters of Art in Teaching with an emphasis on Family & Consumer Science, and love teaching, Jesus, family & crocheting! Starting my life long dream of teaching in my early 40's has really allowed me to appreciate the privilege of working with students, and genuinely love what I do. 


Episode Summary: Travel with us today to a little town in Northwest Arkansas called Prairie Grove. Walk down a new trail with Jennifer Ceasar and learn about the life skills this Family & Consumer Science educators teaches her students. This “dedicated, empathic and fun” educator also discusses tools that bridge language and cultural divides, resources for novice teachers and shares why “You will never see me fall”. 


For More Information: Visit www.stillstacey.com for questions about the podcast, host or scheduling inquiries. 

Sep 19, 202016:33
Walk & Talk With Veteran Educator Dylan Huisken
Sep 17, 202020:28
Walk & Talk With Veteran Educator Zora Madison

Walk & Talk With Veteran Educator Zora Madison

Guest Bio: I have been teaching Kindergarten for 22 years. I received my B.A in Elementary education with an emphasis in Early Childhood from University of Arkansas at Little Rock. I have a Master's degree in Elementary Education from Pensacola Christian College in Pensacola, Florida. I got into education to change the world.

About This Episode: Walk with a 22 year veteran kindergarten teacher from the Little Rock School District. Find out how coronavirus has impacted instructional practice, projections for the future and how to plan for the unknown. Failure, effort and expectations are also discussed.

For More Information: Visit www.stillstacey.com for questions about this podcast, the host or scheduling. Reach out to the guest directly on Instagram (@madisonzora) or Facebook (Zora Madison).

Sep 14, 202023:20
Walk & Talk With Veteran Educator Lacey Jean-Pierre

Walk & Talk With Veteran Educator Lacey Jean-Pierre

Guest Bio: After having graduated college in the midst of the Great Recession, I went to work in corporate America. Desperately searching to find purpose while working in cubicles that sucked the life out of me, I decided to go to grad school for secondary education.  The rest is history! I have now been teaching for eight years, with my time split between Arkansas and Georgia.  I began my teaching career at Little Rock Central High School where I taught for four years before moving to Atlanta, Georgia.  I currently teach in the Atlanta Metro area at Gwinnett County Public Schools.  As a Social Studies teacher, I have taught US History, World History and Psychology.

About This Episode: Walk with Lacey Jean-Pierre, a Georgia history educator by way of Arkansas, who graduated in the midst of the Great Recession. Find out about understanding the historical value of an event, Teaching Tolerance and the essential skills educators need to be successful in the classroom.

For More Information: For questions about this podcast, for the host or about scheduling visit www.stillstacey.com.To learn more about the guest, visit her at lacelee42 on Instagram and at Lacey JP on Facebook. 

Sep 12, 202020:34
Walk & Talk With Veteran Educator Nanette Patino

Walk & Talk With Veteran Educator Nanette Patino

Guest Bio: I am a 26 yr elementary teacher. I taught most of my career as an NYC public school teacher. My area of expertise is in lower elementary /PreK-5. I have had the privilege of being a Bilingual and ESL teacher and will embark on my journey as a Spanish teacher this fall. I have participated in several leadership roles over the years as part of the School Leadership Committee, presenter at Columbia University Teachers College/Citywide PD in NYC, and ESL presentations in LRSD. I have been an LRSD Novice Teacher Mentor, LREA teacher representative, and currently an NEA Representative Assembly delegate. I am a graduate of the IMPACT Fellowship Program at the University of Arkansas, a member of the Teacher Leadership Institute, an LRSD Aspiring Leader and a Parent Facilitator. I am currently working on my ESL National Board Teacher Certification.

About This Episode: Join a 26 year veteran educator, Arkansas resident (by way of New York) and Little Rock School District educator tomorrow as she discusses her transition from being an elementary ESL newcomer educator to a high school Spanish teacher at the historic Little Rock Central High School. During the walk Nanette Patino shares the importance and impact of mentorship, aspiring leaders and validating the efforts of your colleagues when trying to build a cohesive and collective team.

For More Information: Visit www.stillstacey.com for questions about the podcast, host or scheduling. Reach out to the guest directly on Facebook (@Nanette Patino) to learn more about her.

Nanette's recommendated resources: Publication from Johns Hopkins University for the NNPS(National Network of Partnership Schools)Promising Partnership Practices 2018-2019

Sep 10, 202019:13
Walk & Talk With Veteran Educator Shelly Parks

Walk & Talk With Veteran Educator Shelly Parks

Guest Bio: Shelly Parks is a high school English teacher in St. Charles, MO at Francis Howell North High School. Her influence goes beyond her own classroom and even her own school, where she has spent years public speaking and offering training and professional development to staff and other educational leaders. Shelly considers her greatest teaching accomplishment when students decide to join her in the education profession. Shelly is a recruiter of future teachers, an advocate for equitable learning opportunities for all students, a lover of cooperative learning, and a proponent of teachers creating greater work-life balance. She is a National Board Certified teacher who has received numerous awards, including the Emerson Excellence in Teaching Award and Missouri’s Teacher of the Year for 2019


About This Episode: Walk with 2019 Missouri Teacher of the Year, Shelly Parks, and learn about her Alabama roots and Arkansas branches. Find out what she’s doing to dismantle unjust systems that disproportionately affect students of color and why she strongly believes “If we don’t take care of teachers, teachers can’t take care of students.”


For More Information: Visit www.stillstacey.com for questions about the podcast, host or scheduling inquiries. For questions of the guest, contact her directly via Twitter (@ShellyParks5), Instagram (@shellyparksteach) or Facebook (Shelly Parks-2019 Missouri Teacher of the Year).

Sep 08, 202022:35
Walk & Talk With Veteran Educator Juanita I. Harris

Walk & Talk With Veteran Educator Juanita I. Harris

Guest Bio: Juanita Inez Harris is a 32-year-old native of Texarkana, Arkansas. She has a decade of experience in the field of education. She is the daughter of Willie and Virginia Harris of Texarkana, Arkansas, In 2006, Juanita graduated from Arkansas Senior High School. In active pursuit of furthering her education, Juanita graduated from Southern Arkansas University with a Bachelors of Science degree in Early Childhood Education, followed by a Master's degree in Curriculum and Instruction. She began her professional educational career as a second grade teacher in Strong, Arkansas. Over the course of her career, she has written grants and received financial support for various classroom projects. Continuous enhancements of her Everyday Economics program earned her the Bessie B. Moore Economics Educator Award in 2017. Also, during that school year, Juanita was recognized as Campus Teacher of the Year. In May of 2018, she was awarded Texarkana Arkansas School District's Teacher of the Year, which afforded her the opportunity to apply for the 2019 Arkansas Teacher of the Year award. Juanita was selected as 1 of the 14 regional finalists. As a finalist, she was recognized at a special ceremony on August 16, 2018, at the Governor’s Mansion in Little Rock. Juanita’s passion for teaching does not stop in the classroom; she also tutors students in her district and community as well. She is also a member of St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church in Texarkana, Texas where she is a youth leader and Sunday School Teacher. Juanita will continue to be a lifelong learner and an advocate for all children. In light of all that God has allowed her to accomplish to date, there are only two words that she desires to hear at the end of her life, "Well done".

About This Episode: Join us for a lively walk in Texarkana, Arkansas with their 2019 Teacher of the Year. Juanita I. Harris, an early childhood education and curriculum & instruction SAU graduate, shares with us the importance of supporting fellow educators by “Encouraging the Hearts that Shape the Minds” and going beyond the curriculum in the classroom. Tune in to find out the two words she wants to hear at the end of her life and be blessed with a snippet of her favorite song.

For More Information: visit www.stillstacey.com for questions about the host, podcast or scheduling inquiries. To learn more about today’s guest, reach out to her directly via ms_fijiwaterstatus on Instagram or Juanita MsHarris Harris on Facebook. Please visit her business Facebook page  @TeachersSupportTeachers2019 and support her upcoming book, The Lesson Plan: How to Handle the Classroom that's Been Handling You!

Sep 05, 202021:14