Teach in Ten

Guest: Steve Karlblom, Industry and Career Teacher at Prairie Ridge High School

Season 2, Episode 18 of Teach in Ten, Steve Karlblom discusses the evolution of internships, spotlighting the shift towards Micro-Internships. Highlighting the benefits of career exploration and skill acquisition, Karlblom reveals how these opportunities empower students to make informed decisions about their futures.

Guest: Andrea Miculinich, Nurse and Educator at Crystal Lake Central

Contact Information: amiculinich@d155.org

Episode Summary: In the latest episode of "Teach in Ten," CLC nurse and teacher Andrea Miculinich shares insights into nursing education at Crystal Lake Central High School. She discusses the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Program, which offers students district-wide the chance to enroll and gain valuable certifications and job opportunities in McHenry County. Thanks to a generous $1.5 million grant from Advance McHenry County, the school boasts a state-of-the-art facility equipped with four patient beds, a shower, and a restroom area, simulating real-world hospital and long-term care settings for hands-on learning experiences. Moreover, Andrea emphasizes the importance of simulation-based learning in nursing education, which helps students bridge the gap between theory and practice. She highlights her teaching approach, blending classroom instruction with practical lab sessions where students engage in role-play scenarios and practice procedures using basic models. Through these immersive experiences, students develop essential skills in a safe and supportive environment.

Guest: Shannon Levitt (AVID and English Teacher at Crystal Lake Central High School)

Contact Information: shannonlevitt@d155.org

In this episode, we sit down with Crystal Lake Central High School teacher Shannon Levitt to explore a unique program currently offered at CLC and CLS. AVID is a program aimed to inspire students from diverse backgrounds to achieve their college dreams. Shannon will share her journey piloting the program and highlight its impact on student success, including 100% graduation rates and numerous scholarships. Throughout the episode, Shannon will share the benefits of the AVID program and discuss the program's focus on WICOR (Writing, Inquiry, Collaboration, Organization, and Reading) strategies and their contribution to school improvement.

Guest: Kathy Gilbert, Director of Teaching & Learning, Curriculum & Pathways

Contact Information: Email: kgilbert@d155.org

Podcast Summary:

In this episode of Teach in Ten, we have the pleasure of sitting down with Kathy Gilbert, who serves as the Director of Teaching and Learning, Curriculum, and Pathways at D155. Dual credit programs are experiencing a surge in popularity nationwide. Last year, D155 witnessed over 2200 student enrollments in these classes, accounting for more than 7000 seats. These classes cover a wide array of subjects, ranging from psychology and world languages to composition, statistics, music, art, PE, and business. Kathy will delve into both the advantages and obstacles associated with the program. Whether your district is contemplating initiating a dual credit program or already boasts a flourishing one, this episode offers valuable insights.

Guest: Katie Hatters (Science Teacher at Cary-Grove High School and Crystal Lake Central High School)

In Season 2, Episode 14 of "Teach in Ten," Cori and Steph sit down with Katie Hatters, a dynamic science teacher from Cary-Grove High School and Crystal Lake Central High School, to delve into the innovative realm of using drones and robotics to enhance student engagement.

Throughout the episode, Hatters shares her wealth of experience and insights on integrating drones and robotics into the classroom environment. She discusses how these technologies can captivate students' interest and foster deeper learning experiences across various subjects, particularly science and technology.

Listeners will gain valuable takeaways as Hatters explores practical strategies for incorporating drones and robotics into lesson plans, highlighting hands-on activities, project-based learning approaches, and real-world applications. From programming drones to exploring their world through robotics, Hatters demonstrates how these tools can ignite students' curiosity and creativity while building essential STEM skills.

In this episode of "Teach in Ten," Shannon Podzimek shares her passion for integrating student interns into district communications. Starting in 2016, Shannon has hosted 12 interns, offering them a unique perspective on promoting the district through their eyes. She discusses the program's benefits, emphasizing the value of students discovering their career interests and the impact on their learning journey.Shannon highlights the success stories of former interns who attribute their achievements to the real-world experiences gained during their time with the district. In addition, she provides practical advice for those looking to implement such a program in their own schools. Join "Teach in Ten" to hear more about Shannon's journey and the positive impact of student interns in district communications.

In the latest episode of Teach in Ten, we sit down with Kristin Buttell, a Family and Consumer Sciences (FACS) teacher at Crystal Lake South High School. Episode 12 delves into the world of culinary education as Kristin shares insights into her innovative Culinary Program.Kristin walks listeners through the state-of-the-art commercial kitchen at Crystal Lake South, providing a vivid description of the facilities that contribute to an immersive learning experience. Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of how the program goes beyond traditional classroom teaching to create a hands-on environment that mirrors the professional culinary industry.The conversation also touches upon the unique dual credit opportunities that the Culinary Program offers in collaboration with McHenry County College. Kristin explains how students can earn college credits and earn food industry certifications while still in high school, providing a head start in their academic and professional journey. Throughout the episode, Kristin shares inspiring stories of students who have thrived in the Culinary Program, showcasing the tangible impact of experiential learning and industry collaboration. Whether you're a teacher, a student, or someone interested in the world of culinary arts, this episode of Teach in Ten provides an engaging and informative look into the innovative culinary education landscape at Crystal Lake South High School.

In this episode, we dive into the fascinating world of multilanguage learning with our guest, Steve Knope. As an educator and advocate for language learners, Steve shares valuable insights into the diverse needs of language learners and offers practical strategies for learners at all levels.

Guest: Dan Foster, Music and Band Teacher at Crystal Lake South High School

Contact Information

Email: dfoster@d155.org

Instagram: clsgators_band Facebook:

CLSGatorBandWebsite: https//sites.google.com/d155.org/cls-bands

Episode SummaryIn this episode, we sit down with the music maestro himself, Dan Foster, a rockstar music and band teacher at Crystal Lake South. As we wrap up our series on spicing up classroom engagement, Dan takes us on a wild ride through how he orchestrated the ultimate comeback for his program post-Covid. Dan spills the secrets of creating an engaging classroom culture. From purpose-driven activities to intentionally putting students in the spotlight, he flips the script to give students the reins and designs his lessons for maximum impact. Tune in for the lowdown on Dan's secret weapons: the Band Council, student reflection sessions, and the power of interrogative questioning. And what's a "WIN" session, you ask? You'll have to listen to find out! Dan spills the beans on how these sessions become the secret sauce for student success. So grab your headphones and get ready to march to the beat of Dan Foster's engaging wisdom!

In this episode, Joe Jauch unveils the secrets behind his transformative Incubator class, a program teaching entrepreneurship to high school students in over 100 schools nationwide. Through hands-on projects, students create their own products and services, guided by real entrepreneurs and business experts. The class culminates in Pitch Week, where student teams pitch their ideas to investors, potentially securing funding to turn their plans into reality. Join us to learn how this innovative approach is shaping the next generation of entrepreneurs.

Welcome to an exciting episode where Wendy takes us behind the scenes of her Design Production course, showcasing innovative ways to boost student engagement. Wendy reveals the secrets behind her job-centric class, where students collaborate with faculty members to craft one-of-a-kind products, spanning from captivating logos to eye-catching posters, trendy t-shirts, and compelling promotional materials. Tune in to discover the entire creative process, from inception to completion. Wendy's unique approach not only transforms classrooms into vibrant design studios but also empowers students with real-world skills and experiences. Join us to explore the transformative power of hands-on learning and get inspired to revolutionize engagement in your own classroom.

In this episode, join Danica as she unveils her innovative strategies for enhancing student engagement in her forensic science class. Through the power of hands-on labs, Danica immerses her students in the world of forensic science, encouraging them to actively interact with the material they are learning. Throughout the episode, she generously shares her favorite lessons, including exciting activities like creating a mock crime scene and diving deep into the intricacies of fingerprint analysis. Tune in to discover how these immersive, interactive experiences not only captivate students' interest but also foster a genuine passion for the subject matter. Get ready to be inspired and gain valuable insights into making learning a thrilling adventure for students in any classroom setting.

In this episode, Erika will share her love of board games and how she has transferred her love of games into the classroom. She often uses games to teach new content and review previously learned content. For example, she plays a poker-based game (see below) to teach financial literacy. She also uses games like Headbanz to review key vocabulary. She will also share some helpful hints if this is something that you would like to incorporate in your own classroom.

GuestKait Sanford (Instructional Coach and Special Education Teacher - Prairie Ridge High School)

Contact InformationEmail: ksanford@d155.org

Twitter: @kaitsanford

Episode SummaryIn this episode, we sit down with Kait Sanford an instructional coach and special education teacher. She will share her passionate about creating engaging lessons using gamification. Her lessons are purposefully designed to foster creativity and problem-solving. Take a listen to hear how she incorporates puzzles, escape rooms, and other adventures into her class.

In this episode, we will be chatting with Cary-Grove teacher Emily Schnacke. Emily will be sharing ways that she helps her FCS students connect with the real world. She is passionate about making learning engaging, fun, and meaningful. 

GuestDr. Neil Lesinski (Community High School District 155 Superintendent)

Contact Information

Email: Nlesinski@d155.org

Twitter: @NeilLesinski

Instagram: dr.neillesinski

Episode SummaryIn this episode, we sit down with D155 Superintendent Neil Lesinski to discuss his vision for the future of D155. He will share his "why" for why he is an educator as well as his hopes and plans for the future of our district.

In this episode, we will talk to District 155's current superintendent, Steve Olson. Tune in to hear Steve reflect on the changes in education, his time with the district, and his hopes moving forward.

The motto at D155 is "Enter with Promise. Leave with Purpose." In this episode, Justin will share how the career experiences program can help our students find their purpose. This includes increased internship opportunities, post-secondary certifications, and partnering with the community through guest speakers and field trip opportunities. In addition, Justin will share how we leverage SchoolLinks to foster communication between all stakeholders - from students to teachers, to community businesses.

In this episode, we discuss real-world relevance, guest speakers, and authentic learning experiences with business teacher, Theresa Miller. Listen to this episode to learn more about how to connect the community to classroom learning.

In this episode, we discuss real-world relevance and civic engagement in the classroom with Alia Bluemlein. Check out her strategies and approaches for authentic learning experiences as she challenges students to be positive and active citizens in the classroom and the community.

Listen to our latest podcast with autos teacher Dan Jegerski as he discusses bringing real-world relevance to the classroom through hands-on, lab-based lessons. 

Teach in Ten: Ep 06 with Lana Bachta

In this episode, Kerry Parrish will share strategies she uses to embed SEL skills into her art classroom. She purposefully structures her class to encourage building relationships between teacher and student and student from student to student. She emphasizes the real-world relevance of skills like communication for their future careers to increase student buy-in. She is a strong proponent of the CASEL-5 Framework and will share how she teaches self-awareness, self-management, and relationship skills both implicitly and explicitly in the classroom.

In this episode, Chris will share how she creates an empathetic classroom environment that encourages her students to be their authentic selves. Specifically, she will discuss her work with at-risk students and how she leverages the power of community-building, goal-setting and positive reinforcement to increase their sense of belonging and academic success.

In this episode, Maria will share her expertise in the field of Mindfulness. As a school social worker, she teaches students ways to practice mindfulness to better control their emotions. She also teaches a mindfulness class for the faculty at D155 called "Get Oxygen." Maria will share why she believes that teaching mindful practices benefit students and adults and specific ways to build mindfulness practices into any classroom.

In this episode, Sarah Dunker will share how she has embedded skills in leadership, empathy, grit, accountability, and communication into her class using a LEGACY rubric. She fosters self-awareness in her students by explicitly focusing on one skill in each lesson. This has built a strong classroom community where students feel free to take risks. Plus, she challenges her students to seek out ways to transfer these skills to other areas of their lives.

In this episode, Eric Chandler will share strategies he utilizes to build a strong classroom community. Eric is a firm believer in the adage that "students don't care what you know until they know that you care." He will share specific strategies that he uses to build strong relationships with his students and how he incorporates these strategies into his classroom routine.

Welcome to the Teach in Ten Podcast, hosted by Cori Schwarzrock (A teacher and DL at Cary-Grove High School) and Steph Sukow (A teacher and Instructional Coach at Cary-Grove High School). We are excited to share different strategies and best practices that are being used by teachers across D155 in ten minutes or less! Teach in Ten is all about celebrating great teaching and amplifying the voices of our amazing teachers in D155. Really, we are here to have a good conversation about good teaching. In our first series, we are focusing on social-emotional learning through a series of different lenses.

Thanks for listening!