ClassCast Podcast

Ep.085 -- Sonny Thadani -- Making Social-Emotional Learning Work for Everyone

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 2, 2022 70:47

ClassCast Podcast Ep.085 features Sonny Thadani, CEO & Co-Founder of Robin, discussing social-emotional learning, mindfulness, the value of personal/life coaching, and how we can serve students' and teachers' emotional needs as we strive to improve education. Sonny initially found success as a realtor and business consultant, but a series of important personal experiences compelled him to shift paths and seek opportunities to support students (and teachers). Initially, after forging relationships with families from Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, CT, Sonny became interested in social-emotional learning and supporting mental health; he then became a father and had a transformational experience with a personal life coach and saw the potential for coaching in schools. Now, in his role as CEO of Robin, a cutting-edge social-emotional learning and coaching program, Sonny is doing everything he can to promote mindfulness, peace, and productivity in schools across the country. If you are interested in making SEL work for students, teachers, and communities around you, don't miss Sonny's coaching-based approach.You can learn more about Robin at my-robin.com, on Twitter @robin_stories, on Instagram @robin_stories, or by contacting Sonny directly.Table of Contents (*highlights)0:00-7:12 -- Intro to Sonny Thadani, Robin, & Social-Emotional Learning (SEL)7:12-11:57 -- Making SEL Work for Students: Relationships & Voices *11:57-19:23 -- Making SEL Work for Teachers: Buy-In & Support ** 19:23-26:50 -- Flexible Curricula & Phasing-In Change26:50-35:50 -- Student & Faculty Input in SEL Implementation **35:50-41:31 -- Sonny as a Student & SEL as a Core Skill *41:31-54:07 -- The Purpose of School According to Sonny & Sonny's Ideal School54:07-58:19 -- Upcoming Goals for Robin58:19-1:03:44 -- SEL for Teachers **1:03:44-1:10:48 -- Final Wrap-Up & Sonny's Book RecsThe ClassCast Podcast streams on all major platforms, including iTunes/Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, Pandora, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, Audible, Stitcher, and more. You can also find us on YouTube and at www.ClassCastPodcast.com. Be sure to like, subscribe, follow, share, and comment wherever you listen. Leave a comment below to let us know what you think of the discussion and if you have any questions!Support the show (http://paypal.me/TibbensEST)! Donations -- large and small -- help keep this podcast independent!Support the show (http://paypal.me/TibbensEST)

Ep.084 -- Jeff Harris -- College, Career, & Future Readiness w/ the President & Co-Founder of Xello

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 31, 2022 79:24

ClassCast Podcast Ep.084 features Jeff Harris, President and Co-Founder of Xello, discussing college and career planning, supporting students' long-term goals, and the concept (and reality) of "future ready" students. Jeff and host Ryan Tibbens discuss their own experiences with past versions of "career planning," why talking about and structuring long-term planning is more important than ever, and how services like Xello can serve students without over-burdening teachers and counselors. This discussion goes beyond shallow platitudes about being "future ready" and digs into how local communities and students' experiences shape their goals and options, how classical/liberal/traditional schools may need college and career planning services even more than public and STEM schools, and even how school divisions go about testing and adopting cutting edge edtech like Xello. If you are a counselor, special education transition teacher, career/technical education teacher, parent, or community member concerned about how we're preparing students for their lives beyond high school, this episode is a must-listen. You can learn more about Jeff Harris and Xello at Xello.world and through their social media accounts, including on Twitter and YouTube. Table of Contents (*highlights)0:00-8:33 -- Intro to Xello, Jeff Harris, & Helping Students Find Their Futures8:33-16:11 -- Purpose & Relevance: Student Engagement in Edtech & Career Planning *16:11-24:35 -- Who Is Involved in Most Edtech Adoptions? 24:35-26:50 -- How to Implement Xello26:50-34:57 -- The Role of College/Career Readiness in Private & Public Schools *34:57-39:30 -- The Purpose of School According to Jeff Harris39:30-45:07 -- The Dangers of College/Career Advising & Advice **45:07-55:04 -- Jeff Harris, the Student Who Needed & Created College/Career Planning **55:04-1:07:16 -- Jeff's Ideal School & the Meaning of "Future Ready" *1:07:16-1:19:24 -- Final Wrap-Up & Jeff's Book/Movie RecsThe ClassCast Podcast streams on all major platforms, including iTunes/Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, Pandora, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, Audible, Stitcher, and more. You can also find us on YouTube and at www.ClassCastPodcast.com. Be sure to like, subscribe, follow, share, and comment wherever you listen. Leave a comment below to let us know what you think of the discussion and if you have any questions!Support the show (http://paypal.me/TibbensEST)! Donations -- large and small -- help keep this podcast independent!Support the show (http://paypal.me/TibbensEST)

Ep.083 -- Jessica Kirkland -- Keeping It Real with Your Favorite Teacher on Twitter

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 5, 2022 96:31

ClassCast Podcast Ep.083 features Jessica Kirkland, a high school English teacher in Loudoun County, Virginia (and Twitter superstar), talking shop and exchanging ideas about improving schools, building relationships, navigating the pandemic, and much more with host Ryan Tibbens. In this laidback, funny, yet insightful discussion, you'll hear Jess proclaim that she's "pro-nonsense," share her strategies for connecting with students, divulge her secret wish to indoctrinate students (with a love for trees), and much more. Part of what makes this discussion so refreshing is that Jess has nothing to promote, nothing to sell. She has amassed over 11,000 Twitter followers in around three years just by being honest, thoughtful, and likeable -- and it all shines through in this discussion. Whether you're looking for honest perspectives on the current state of schools, a funny conversation between coworkers, or ideas about how to scale your social media presence (Jess says, "All of my demons are in the drafts"), you will love this episode.You can learn more about Jess and follow her on Twitter @JKirk___ (three underscores, LOL). Table of Contents (*highlights)0:00-5:00 -- Intro to Jessica Kirkland (& Her Twitter Fame)5:00-14:20 -- Relationships & the Purpose of School According to Jess **14:20-20:13 -- Finding Our Places during the Pandemic * 20:13-27:08 -- Are Schools Still in Panic Mode?27:08-34:57 -- Forging Relationships through Masks & Screens **34:57-41:15 -- Jess Kirkland's Experience as a Student41:15-46:44 -- Should Teachers Love Their Students?46:44-54:33 -- Does Teaching Diverse Students Require Diverse Personas? *54:33-1:07:59 -- Jess's Ideal School: Specialization & Interdisciplinary Studies **1:07:59-1:15:29 -- Is Change Impossible in Public Education? *1:15:29-1:22:16 -- Jess's Outlook for 20221:22:16-1:36:31 -- Jess's Final Thoughts, Book/Movie Recs, & Wrap-Up *The ClassCast Podcast streams on all major platforms, including iTunes/Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, Pandora, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, Audible, Stitcher, and more. You can also find us on YouTube and at www.ClassCastPodcast.com. Be sure to like, subscribe, follow, share, and comment wherever you listen. Leave a comment below to let us know what you think of the discussion and if you have any questions!Support the show (http://paypal.me/TibbensEST)! Donations -- large and small -- help keep this podcast independent!Support the show (http://paypal.me/TibbensEST)

Ep.082 -- Tibbens -- Reflections on Distance Learning & 2021

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 22, 2021 38:56

ClassCast Podcast Ep.082 features host Ryan Tibbens reflecting on his experiences in an all-new distance learning program, challenges teachers faced in 2021, and how educators can move forward into 2022 with optimism and determination.In many ways, distance learning represents one of the most common forms of innovation in schools today. Teachers and students must leverage technology, plan and perform with increased precision, and traditional schooling must be reimagined to fit 21st century tools and incredibly diverse settings. Students enroll in distance learning because they prefer the online format, have physical or mental health concerns, desire greater flexibility in scheduling, or want to travel. Teachers face all the regular pressures of school, but now the technology is even more important, the students' environments and home lives are more diverse (and more important), and engagement becomes paramount to success. Nearly halfway through the first year of non-COVID caused distance learning, host Ryan Tibbens shares his experiences and goals for this great new opportunity.And, since early 2020, we've been talking about and fretting over the pandemic, delivering quality instruction through various formats, responding to diverse needs, ever-increasing administrative control, and even "culture wars," all of which have tested the creativity, ability, and determination of educators and students around the world. Shortly after returning to school for the 2021-2022 school year, unprecedented tales of teacher burnout, turnover, and anxiety surfaced that should concern all community stakeholders. How can we do better (and feel better) this year and beyond? How can we feel fulfillment in a job that is harder and more scrutinized than ever? The ClassCast Podcast streams on all major platforms, including iTunes/Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, Pandora, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, Audible, Stitcher, and more. You can also find us on YouTube and at www.ClassCastPodcast.com. Be sure to like, subscribe, follow, share, and comment wherever you listen. Leave a comment below to let us know what you think of the discussion and if you have any questions!Support the show (http://paypal.me/TibbensEST)! Donations -- large and small -- help keep this podcast independent!Support the show (http://paypal.me/TibbensEST)

Ep.081 -- Tyler Rablin -- Anti-Grading Crusader on Fixing Feedback

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 22, 2021 98:28

ClassCast Podcast Ep.081 features Mr. Tyler Rablin, an instructional technology coach, high school English teacher, and anti-grading crusader in Washington, sharing his perspectives and research on grading and assessment with host Ryan Tibbens. This is among the all-time best episodes of the ClassCast Podcast because Tyler offers insights and ideas that challenge conventional wisdom, that put students first, and that show listeners a path to better formal education. By reforming grading, we can increase learning, boost confidence, improve culture, and help teachers to handle the burden of feedback.This is an instant-classic. Listen on the podcast service of your choice, and be sure to like, follow, subscribe, write a review, and share with friends! You can hear more from Tyler Rablin on Twitter @Mr_Rablin, LinkedIn, and his website.Table of Contents (*highlights)0:00-11:31 -- Intro to Tyler Rablin & Crusading Against Grading *11:31-15:27 -- How Teachers & Parents React to Grading Innovation15:27-22:48 -- Ungrading: How It Works ** 22:48-29:38 -- Gender in Grading & Student Self-Assessment29:38-42:31 -- Grading's Impact on Confidence & Growth **42:31-55:59 -- Is Grading a Culture Problem? **55:59-1:10:12 -- The Purpose of School According to Tyler Rablin *1:10:12-1:17:32 -- Tyler's Ideal School1:17:32-1:28:14 -- Why Is 2021 So Hard? *1:28:14-1:38:29 -- Tyler's Book/Movie Recs & Final Wrap-UpThe ClassCast Podcast streams on all major platforms, including iTunes/Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, Pandora, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, Audible, Stitcher, and more. You can also find us on YouTube and at www.ClassCastPodcast.com. Be sure to like, subscribe, follow, share, and comment wherever you listen. Leave a comment below to let us know what you think of the discussion and if you have any questions!Support the show (http://paypal.me/TibbensEST)! Donations -- large and small -- help keep this podcast independent!Support the show (http://paypal.me/TibbensEST)

Ep.080 -- Doug Roberts -- Institute for Education Innovation (IEI) & Empowering Educators

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 8, 2021 66:08

ClassCast Podcast Ep.080 features Doug Roberts, the founder and CEO of the Institute for Education Innovation (IEI), speaking with host Ryan Tibbens about empowering educators, supporting superintendents, and connecting innovative education entrepreneurs with the schools and students they want to serve. After starting his career as a history/social studies teacher, Doug filled a variety of roles before launching IEI, which is a unique organization designed to support superintendents. Doug has strong feelings about empowering educators; hiring, training, and trusting great teachers; and giving excellent educational vendors, large and small, a level playing field to compete for contracts in a variety of school settings. Doug's recent work with superintendents has led to the creation of the Supes' Choice Awards, a contest and award program that is the first of its kind. Listeners will find Doug's focus on high quality service, pragmatism, and supporting students to be honest and refreshing. If you've ever been curious about how superintendents network, connect, and learn, or if you've ever wanted to better understand the complexities and difficulties facing the top educators in districts across the country, you'll love this discussion. You can find Doug on Twitter and LinkedIn; IEI is also on Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn. Table of Contents (*highlights)0:00-8:40 -- Intro to IEI & Doug Roberts/ Advice for Education Entrepreneurs8:40-10:44 -- The Value of Relationships w/ Students, Staff, & Vendors10:44-21:03 -- The Impact of Scale: Big vs Small Schools & Businesses * 21:03-29:26 -- 2021, Optics, & Scrutiny: The Impact of Politics in Schools **29:26-34:04 -- School Choice, Innovation, & Responsive Leadership34:04-45:05 -- Doug's Ideal School: Empowering Educators **45:05-50:44 -- The Purpose of School & Who Calls the Shots50:44-59:02 -- Supres' Choice Awards & Engaging with Superintendents *59:02-1:06:08 -- Wrap-Up & Doug's Book/Movie RecsThe ClassCast Podcast streams on all major platforms, including iTunes/Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, Pandora, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, Audible, Stitcher, and more. You can also find us on YouTube and at www.ClassCastPodcast.com. Be sure to like, subscribe, follow, share, and comment wherever you listen. Leave a comment below to let us know what you think of the discussion and if you have any questions!Support the show (http://paypal.me/TibbensEST)! Donations -- large and small -- help keep this podcast independent!Support the show (http://paypal.me/TibbensEST)

Ep.079 -- Tibbens -- Centralized Control, Centralized Complaints

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 26, 2021 43:13

ClassCast Podcast Ep.079 features host Ryan Tibbens talking about the correlation between centralized decision-making and the surge of superintendent and school board criticisms nationwide. Over the last few years, we've seen politicians, parents, and even teachers at school board meetings speak out, shout out, and even get thrown out. The complaints are as varied as Critical Race Theory, mask mandates, diverse reading lists, opening 5-days per week, gender/pronoun/bathroom policies, schools named after Confederate generals, social media use, and beyond. The one thing all these issues have in common is where the decisions are made -- at the top of the local (and sometimes state) public education hierarchy. As more and more decisions about curricular and pedagogical specifics are made at higher and higher levels, public concerns elevate, so what once would have been a quick meeting between a parent, teacher, and principal is now a loud diatribe in a public forum against bureaucrats who don't actually teach students. Too many teachers have lost autonomy in their work and faith in their systems. Here's one teacher's take on why centralized decision-making processes have partially caused the political debates over schools and why they hurt teachers and students. The ClassCast Podcast streams on all major platforms, including iTunes/Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, Pandora, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, Audible, Stitcher, and more. You can also find us on YouTube and at www.ClassCastPodcast.com. Be sure to like, subscribe, follow, share, and comment wherever you listen. Leave a comment below to let us know what you think of the discussion and if you have any questions!Support the show (http://paypal.me/TibbensEST)! Donations -- large and small -- help keep this podcast independent!Support the show (http://paypal.me/TibbensEST)

Ep.078 -- Kohila Sivas -- MathCodes: Coaching, Tutoring, & Serving Students

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 11, 2021 85:20

ClassCast Podcast Ep.078 features Kohila Sivas, the founder and lead coach at MathCodes, an innovative program designed to help students build their math skills, personal confidence, and executive functions. Kohila's amazing work builds on the idea that most students need more than just content help, so adults must be more than just tutors or teachers; instead, Kohila recommends serving as a "coach," one who works with the student, on the same team, to achieve mutual goals. In addition to her 22+ years in private tutoring and coaching, Kohila has worked as an advocate, teacher's assistant, teacher, and parent. Recently, she launched the MathCodes Certified Coach program to help other tutors and teachers around the world to better serve their students by demystifying math and helping the whole student. She's also the author of the upcoming book Escape the Tutoring Trap: Be an Agent of Change. If you are a tutor or teacher looking for some great ideas about serving all students or improving your practices, or if you are a parent interested in tutoring and coaching support (from Sivas, host Ryan Tibbens, or elsewhere), this episode is rich in great ideas and sound advice. Table of Contents (*highlights)0:00-9:03 -- Intro to Kohila Sivas & MathCodes9:03-14:23 -- Are You a "Math Person"? (They Don't Exist.) *14:23-22:30 -- The Importance of Purpose & the Purpose of Education According to Kohila 22:30-37:30 -- Kohila's Ideal School: Universal IEPs, Coaches, & Serving Individual Students **37:30-47:42 -- "Learning Loss," the Pandemic Tutoring Boom, & MathCodes Certification *47:42-56:15 -- The Power of Confidence in Education56:15-1:03:43 -- Kohila's Education & Preparation for Teaching & Coaching1:03:43-1:07:47 -- How Schools Limit Teacher Creativity & Enthusiasm *1:07:47-1:17:49 -- For Parents: Homework Help vs Tutoring vs Coaching **1:17:49-1:25:20 -- Kohila's Book/Movie Recs. & Wrap-Up The ClassCast Podcast streams on all major platforms, including iTunes/Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, Pandora, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, Audible, Stitcher, and more. You can also find us on YouTube and at www.ClassCastPodcast.com. Be sure to like, subscribe, follow, share, and comment wherever you listen. Leave a comment below to let us know what you think of the discussion and if you have any questions!Support the show (http://paypal.me/TibbensEST)! Donations -- large and small -- help keep this podcast independent!Support the show (http://paypal.me/TibbensEST)

Ep.077 -- Grant Schafer -- Connecting Communities & Schools

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 27, 2021 74:58

ClassCast Podcast Ep.077 features Grant Schafer, the Supervisor of Community Connections for Loudoun County Public Schools. Working closely with Career & Technical Education, Computer Science Experiential Learning, and a few other specialized programs in the school system, Grant strives to connect community resources with individual teachers, students, and classrooms to make school-based learning as authentic as possible. His hard work, power skills (soft skills), and ever-growing rolodex make him an asset to the whole community because he fosters relationships between local businesses, non-profits, and schools. Host Ryan Tibbens met Grant, a fellow JMU Duke, at the 2021 Loudoun 40 Under 40 celebration where he was being recognized for his amazing work connecting public schools with community resources. (Ashley Tibbens -- Ep.021 -- was also among the honorees this year!) If you are interested in project-based learning, making school more "authentic," getting involved in public education without becoming a teacher, or understanding how community members can work together to improve education, this discussion is for you. You can learn more about Grant's work by following @LCPSpartner and @CommunityLCPS on Twitter. Table of Contents (*highlights)0:00-5:38 -- Intro to Grant Schafer & Community Connections5:38-13:31 -- Project-Based Learning, "Authenticity," & Grant's Rolodex **13:31-20:53 -- Loudoun 40 Under 40, Networking, & Community Buy-In *20:53-28:26 -- Grant's Education: James Madison University & Outreach Services28:26-37:48 -- The Future of Community Connections in Schools **37:48-47:25 -- The Purpose of School According to Grant47:25-50:44 -- Equity & Social-Emotional Learning as Job Skills *50:44-57:04 -- Grant's Ideal School57:04-1:07:06 -- The Inflexibility of Education Bureaucracy **1:07:06-1:14:58 -- Grant's Book Recommendations & Wrap-Up The ClassCast Podcast streams on all major platforms, including iTunes/Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, Pandora, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, Audible, Stitcher, and more. You can also find us on YouTube and at www.ClassCastPodcast.com. Be sure to like, subscribe, follow, share, and comment wherever you listen. Leave a comment below to let us know what you think of the discussion and if you have any questions!Support the show (http://paypal.me/TibbensEST)! Donations -- large and small -- help keep this podcast independent!Support the show (http://paypal.me/TibbensEST)

Ep.076 -- Simon Tang -- Student, Semi-Staffer, School Critic, Sailor

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 12, 2021 112:32

ClassCast Podcast Ep.076 features Simon Tang, a former student of host Ryan Tibbens, sharing his thoughts on school improvement, student choice, dual enrollment programs, post-high school plans, Dick Wolf TV shows, and much, much more. Throughout his public school career, Simon distinguished himself from most students by serving as a technology support specialist/paraprofessional in the school, forming close bonds with faculty members, challenging the status quo, earning top grades and thousands of dollars in scholarships, and wearing a totally awesome pocket protector. Simon shares his student (and semi-staff) views on school improvement, joining the US Navy, and how COVID affected his education, post-high school plans, and personal outlook. If you're interested in serious student perspectives, challenges to tradition, or people with the quirks and confidence to change the world, don't miss Episode 076 and Mr. Simon Tang! Table of Contents (*highlights)0:00-11:03 -- Meet Simon Tang *11:03-17:00 -- Dual Enrollment, Rigorous Classes, & Scholarships **17:00-25:58 -- Simon'ns Start in the United States Navy25:58-30:02 -- The Purpose of School: Indoctrination or Self-Improvement? **30:02-35:13 -- I.T., Specialization, & Access to Education35:13-39:22 -- What's the Deal with Textbooks?39:22-53:50 -- The Importance of Student Choice & Engagement *53:50-58:01 -- The GED, Graduation, and Opportunity58:01-1:12:00 -- Simon's Ideal School: Choice & Specialization **1:12:00-1:17:00 -- Would You Send Your Kids to These Schools?1:17:00-1:27:24 -- Standardized Testing, Project-Based Learning, & Power Skills **1:27:24-1:32:00 -- Hot Topics, Hot Seat1:32:00-1:52:32 -- Simon's Book, Movie, & TV Recommendations; Final Thoughts; & Wrap-Up The ClassCast Podcast streams on all major platforms, including iTunes/Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, Pandora, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, Audible, Stitcher, and more. You can also find us on YouTube and at www.ClassCastPodcast.com. Be sure to like, subscribe, follow, share, and comment wherever you listen. Leave a comment below to let us know what you think of the discussion and if you have any questions!Support the show (http://paypal.me/TibbensEST)! Donations -- large and small -- help keep this podcast independent!Support the show (http://paypal.me/TibbensEST)

Ep.075 -- The Cookout (Cary Vipond & Kevin Cook) -- Anti-racism, CRT, and "The Conversation"

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 30, 2021 91:09

Classcast Podcast Ep.075 features Cary Vipond and Kevin Cook, members of "The Cookout," a discussion group focusing on race relations and making positive change in the Loudoun County, Virginia community. Along with host Ryan Tibbens, they discuss the recent debates (and hysteria?) over critical race theory, equity training for school staff, anti-racism, and politics in public schools. Given Fox News' new obsession with Loudoun County Public Schools as well as the parent and political groups seeking to influence them, Cary, Kevin, and Ryan agreed it was time for reasonable people with first-hand experience in these schools and communities to have a reasonable discussion.Cary Vipond, a long-time history and social science teacher, football coach, and father, launched "The Cookout" in the aftermath of George Floyd's murder. He assembled a group of Black and white men, including community leaders, entrepreneurs, clergy, teachers, and students, to share perspectives and ideas, first to help one another understand the racial dynamics at play in the country, and then to take actions to improve local government, business, and schools for Black people. ClassCast Podcast host Ryan Tibbens was invited by Cary to join the group when it was formed. Kevin Cook, a certified project manager, coach, and father, joined the group soon afterward and has been a thoughtful, vocal participant in the group's efforts. Camryn Thompson (Ep.031) has also participated in The Cookout. Table of Contents (*highlights)0:00-7:57 -- The Cookout & Local Efforts Against Racism7:57-9:55 -- Educate Ignorance; Punish Malice *9:55-26:36 -- Shifting Mindsets & Community Reactions to Anti-Racist Teaching **26:36-34:00 --Kevin's Experiences as a Black Father34:00-48:04 -- Race, Anti-racism, & "CRT" in the Classroom **48:04-54:21 -- Why We Must Have Tough Conversations54:21-59:18 -- Race Education: Completing the Thought *59:18-1:06:40 -- Seeking (& Silencing) Black Perspectives1:06:40-1:12:17 -- The Intersection of Mental Health, Racism, & Politics *1:12:17-1:20:25 -- What Can Schools Do to End Racsim?1:20:25-1:31:09 -- Final Wrap Up & Book RecommendationsThe ClassCast Podcast streams on all major platforms, including iTunes/Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, Pandora, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, Audible, Stitcher, and more. You can also find us on YouTube and at www.ClassCastPodcast.com. Be sure to like, subscribe, follow, share, and comment wherever you listen. Leave a comment below to let us know what you think of the discussion and if you have any questions!Support the show (http://paypal.me/TibbensEST)! Donations -- large and small -- help keep this podcast independent!Support the show (http://paypal.me/TibbensEST)

Ep.074 -- Al Kingsley -- My Secret #EdTech Diary

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 16, 2021 84:16

ClassCast Podcast Ep.074 features Al Kingsley -- CEO of NetSupport Inc., school leader & administrator in the United Kingdom, and author of the hit new book My Secret #EdTech Diary -- speaking with host Ryan Tibbens about his career in educational technology, what he's learned by leading his own schools, how the pandemic has changed education, why personal reflection is so important, why #EdTech really is for everyone, and more. Al's book "gives an insider's view of education technology historically and for the post-pandemic future." With a career in technology that spans over three decades, and with experiences launching and leading great schools, Al is uniquely positioned to help teachers and school administrators better understand the value of education technology, how to leverage it, and why common sense adoption and professional development practices ultimately lead to better education and happier teachers. From focusing on students to reflecting on professional practices, from digital citizenship to data security, Kingsley and Tibbens address the most important ideas behind #EdTech.Table of Contents (*highlights)0:00-3:15 -- Intro to Al Kingsley & My Secret #Edtech Diary3:15-12:15 -- Tech Adoption for Teachers and Districts **12:15-19:00 -- Improving #EdTech by Improving Professional Development & Relationships *19:00-31:02 --Pandemic Schooling, Innovation, & Reflection31:02-37:04 -- Al's Education & Entry into School Leadership37:04-50:35 -- Assessment, Reflection, & #EdTech for Success *50:35-1:03:57 -- Student Privacy & Data Security1:03:57-1:16:19 -- Al's Ideal School *1:16:19-1:24:16 -- Final Thoughts, Book/Movie Recs, & Wrap-UpThe ClassCast Podcast streams on all major platforms, including iTunes/Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, Pandora, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, Audible, Stitcher, and more. You can also find us on YouTube and at www.ClassCastPodcast.com. Be sure to like, subscribe, follow, share, and comment wherever you listen. Leave a comment below to let us know what you think of the discussion and if you have any questions!Support the show (http://paypal.me/TibbensEST)! Donations -- large and small -- help keep this podcast independent! Support the show (http://paypal.me/TibbensEST)

Ep.073 -- Tibbens -- Don't Dummy-Proof Teaching (#EduPodlooza Innovation Response)

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 2, 2021 39:00

ClassCast Podcast Ep.073 -- Host Ryan Tibbens ruminates on how efforts to standardize, scale, and reproduce great teaching ultimately lead to dummy-proofing, to treating teachers like dummies who need scripts and Choose-Your-Own-Adventure styled lesson plans. This solo talk was recorded in response to Ep.072, the #EduPodlooza Innovation Roundtable, in which participants addressed concerns with micromanagement, groupthink, mass appeal, and more. If you believe that great schooling requires great teaching, or if you believe that the key to improving education is to improve teacher quality, this talk is for you. National teacher shortage? The answer is here. Do teachers want more money? Yes. But would most good teachers be willing to accept a smaller raise if accompanied by greater autonomy? ALSO YES. Listen, then respond. Drop a comment below or email readthinkwritespeak@yahoo.com to get involved in the discussion. The ClassCast Podcast streams on all major platforms, YouTube, and at ClassCastPodcast.com! Support the show (http://paypal.me/TibbensEST)! Your $2.22 donation keeps this discussion alive! Support the show (http://paypal.me/TibbensEST)

Ep.072 -- Make School Less Like School (Edupodlooza Roundtable, Pt.2) -- Season 3 Launch!

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 19, 2021 41:27

WELCOME TO SEASON 3 OF THE CLASSCAST PODCAST! Since launching in July 2019, ClassCast Podcast episodes have been downloaded and streamed nearly 13,000 times! From discussions with former students to international authors and thought leaders, local community organizers to acclaimed educators and experts around the globe, host Ryan Tibbens has worked tirelessly to record and share purposeful conversations about the philosophies, policies, pedagogies, and people that can make formal education great. Season 3 will include a few shake-ups and new elements, most notably VIDEO. While all previous ClassCast episodes are available to stream on YouTube, they were just audio with an accompanying slideshow. From now on, nearly all episodes will be available with real video of participants engaging in discussion. Of course, audio-only streams will continue to be available on iTunes/Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Audible, Amazon Music, iHeartRadio, Pandora, Stitcher, Google Podcasts, and most other podcast services. Episode 072, the first of Season 3, features a great segment from the "Innovation" roundtable discussion of Edupodlooza, a great event hosted by the guys over at the Unprofessional Development Podcast. The full discussion will be available soon so that you can hear what innovative ideas (and hilarious exchanges) preceded this wrap-up, but the final parts of this discussion are the perfect way to launch Season 3. Host Ryan Tibbens asks participants about a unifying theme from their previous comments -- making school less like school -- and how we can use that concept to make meaningful improvements. You'll hear some great ideas from Mike Yates (Schoolish Podcast & Teach For America's Reinvention Lab), Gerardo Munoz (2021 Colorado Teacher of the Year & secondary social studies teacher), and other all-star teachers and podcasters on the panel, including Mealey & Tudisco (Unprofessional Development), Batsheva Frankel (Overthrowing Education), Toria Claire (Tiny Voice Talks), and Sandrine Hope (Step into Mondays). After a deep, critical discussion of changing school, this episode ends with a light-hearted game and plenty of laughs. Watch for the full roundtable discussion soon, and let us know what you think about this talk and how to make school less like school (and better overall)! Support the show (http://paypal.me/TibbensEST)

Ep.071 -- Cristina Groeger -- The Education Trap: Social Mobility & Public Schools

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 5, 2021 76:59

ClassCast Podcast Ep.071, the FINAL episode of Season 2, features college professor, education enthusiast, and author Christina (Tina) Groeger, whose new book -- The Education Trap: Schools and the Remaking of Inequality. Tina and host Ryan Tibbens discuss school's limited ability to affect social inequality, how quality education relates to social mobility, project-based learning, unschooling, and much, much more. Tina is a professor at Lake Forest College, a graduate of Harvard University, and a thoughtful, sincere student of American education and its social impacts. If you are interested in equality/inequality, opportunity, the American Dream, or improving our education system, then this episode is for you! Table of Contents (*highlights)0:00-4:03 -- Intro to Tina & The Education Trap 4:03-12:22 -- The Purpose of School According to Tina & "Defunding" Schools *12:22-21:08 -- Economic & Political Influences on Education, Inequality, & Social Mobility21:08-28:13 --Knowledge, Merit, & Mobility *28:13-36:33 -- Vocational vs Liberal Education & Local Control *36:33-47:41 -- Tina's Ideal School47:41-57:43 -- Unschooling, Project-Based Learning, & Organizing *57:43-1:10:31 -- School Choice, Unions, and Improving Schools1:10:31-1:16:59 -- Final Thoughts, Book/Movie Recs, & Wrap-UpThe ClassCast Podcast streams on all major platforms, including iTunes/Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, Pandora, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, Audible, Stitcher, and more. You can also find us on YouTube and at www.ClassCastPodcast.com. Be sure to like, subscribe, follow, share, and comment wherever you listen. Leave a comment below to let us know what you think of the discussion and if you have any questions!Support the show (http://paypal.me/TibbensEST)! If every listener made a one-time donation of $2-3, the podcast would be funded for the year! Support the show (http://paypal.me/TibbensEST)

Ep.070 -- Melinda Arnost -- Inclusion, Social-Emotional Learning, & Serving All Our Students

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 21, 2021 64:59

ClassCast Podcast Ep.070 features intervention specialist, special education teacher, and author Melinda Arnost discussion inclusion, social-emotional learning, differentiation, and how good relationships combine with common sense to create functional classrooms and effective teachers. Melinda recently published her first book, Empowering Inclusion: The Tool Teachers Need to Help All Students Succeed. In this talk with host Ryan Tibbens, Melinda shares tips for team-teaching, demands consistent scheduling, explains how relationships enable effective differentiation, talks about her great new book, and more. If you have any interest in special education, social-emotional learning, inclusion, differentiation, team-teaching, or making sure that all students are learning, you'll find TONS of useful ideas and perspectives here. If you're interested in hearing more from Melinda Arnost, follow her on Facebook and Instagram! If you're interested in hearing more about social-emotional learning on the ClassCast Podcast, check out Ep.035!Table of Contents (*highlights)0:00-0:39 -- #Edupodlooza Promo0:39-2:38 -- Intro to Melinda & the Role of "Inclusion Specialist")2:38-5:57 -- The Purpose of School According to Melinda *5:57-12:17 --Empowering Inclusion: The Tools Teacher Need to Help...12:17-19:11 -- Situational SEL & Inclusion Implementation **19:11-21:20 -- How Much SEL Is Enough?21:20-26:06 -- Formal vs Informal: Differentiation, SEL, & What Great Teachers Do **26:06-38:10 -- Differentiation and Inclusion: What Teachers Can Do *38:10-45:24 -- Melinda's Education & The Teachers We Need45:24-51:35 -- Melinda's Ideal School & Flexible Spaces51:35-57:44 -- Final Thoughts, Relationships, & SEL's Popularity57:44-1:05:00 -- Melinda's Book/Movie Recs & Wrap-UpThe ClassCast Podcast streams on all major platforms, including iTunes/Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, Pandora, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, Audible, Stitcher, and more. You can also find us on YouTube and at www.ClassCastPodcast.com. Be sure to like, subscribe, follow, share, and comment wherever you listen. Leave a comment below to let us know what you think of the discussion and if you have any questions!Support the show (http://paypal.me/TibbensEST)! If every listener made a one-time donation of $2-3, the podcast would be funded for the year! Support the show (http://paypal.me/TibbensEST)

Ep.069 -- Tibbens Goes Virtual: Pandemic, Purpose, & Progress

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 8, 2021 32:49

ClassCast Podcast Ep.069 features host Ryan Tibbens reflecting on the 2020-2021 school year, pandemic-related changes in schools, 4-day work weeks, and a HUGE career shift -- to 100% virtual instruction. The COVID-19 pandemic has affected everyone differently, but one thing is certain -- it is has affected everyone. Tibbens has experienced loss in his family, a massive shift at work, and a sea-change in education beliefs. This quick solo talk starts with a brief promo of #Edupodlooza (check it out June 27) and quickly gets into teachers' experiences in 2020-2021. A deep reflection on a pandemic mantra -- "If not now, why ever? If now, why not always?" -- follows and is accompanied by a quick justification of a 4-day school week. This episode ends with perhaps the most important part (bury the lead much?) -- Ryan Tibbens' shift to 100% synchronous virtual instruction in the 2021-2022 school year, the 16th year of his career. If you're interested in innovation, education trends, school choice, or a "return to normal" in schools, then spend a few minutes on this episode and the very real experiences it presents. Table of Contents (*highlights)0:00-0:52 -- #Edupodlooza Promo0:52-10:49 -- 2020-2021 Recap10:49-15:21 -- If not now, why ever? If now, why not always?*15:21-19:04 -- 4 Day Weeks or Bust19:04-32:49 -- Big Changes: Tibbens Goes Virtual***The ClassCast Podcast streams on all major platforms, including iTunes/Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, Pandora, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, Audible, Stitcher, and more. You can also find us on YouTube and at www.ClassCastPodcast.com. Be sure to like, subscribe, follow, share, and comment wherever you listen. Leave a comment below to let us know what you think of the discussion and if you have any questions!If every listener made a one-time donation of $2-3, the podcast would be funded for the year! Support the show (http://paypal.me/TibbensEST)

Ep.068 -- Chris Rader -- Higher Ed Abroad, STEM, & Making High School More Valuable

Play Episode Listen Later May 25, 2021 81:24

EP.068 -- CHRIS RADER -- HIGHER ED ABROAD, STEM, & MAKING HIGH SCHOOL MORE VALUABLE5/24/20210 Comments ClassCast Podcast Ep.068 features Chris Rader, a former student of host Ryan Tibbens, sharing his experiences and perspectives on education and how to better serve students. Since graduating from high school in 2012, Chris has found immense success in the fields of chemistry and material science at Virginia Tech and now as a Ph.D. student the Adolphe Merkle Institute in Switzerland. Aside from groundbreaking work with cellulose and creating environmentally friendly packaging, Chris also has some great ideas about how we can improve K12 education in the United States to better prepare young people for college, career, and the independent critical thinking we all aspire to. Chris's experiences in lab sciences have not only shaped his rare and valuable skill set; they've also helped him to better understand what education can -- and can't -- do for young people in the current paradigm. If you are interested in improving STEM in K12, learning more about chemistry and materials science, helping young people achieve more on their own, studying abroad for higher ed, or even the significance of athletics for high school students, this is a discussion you won't want to miss. For more information, leave a comment at www.ClassCastPodcast.com or contact Chris Rader directly via email, Facebook, Instagram, or LinkedIn. Table of Contents (*highlights)0:00-5:40 -- Intro to Chris Rader & His Unique Education Path5:40-14:18 -- Depth, Rigor, & Project-Based Learning in HS vs College *14:18-16:49 -- Why Get a Ph.D.?16:49-25:52 -- Patents, Saving the World, & Chris's Work in Material Science *25:52-45:25 -- Improving American High Schools, Career Prep, & Grading ** 45:25-59:32 -- Chris's Ideal School & Learning by Doing *59:32-1:07:04 -- The Value of Athletics in Human Development1:07:04-1:12:30 -- Study Abroad: Make It a Priority1:12:30-1:21:24 -- Chris's Book & Movie Recs/ Final Wrap-UpThe ClassCast Podcast streams on all major platforms, including iTunes/Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, Pandora, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, Audible, Stitcher, and more. You can also find us on YouTube and at www.ClassCastPodcast.com. Be sure to like, subscribe, follow, share, and comment wherever you listen. Leave a comment below to let us know what you think of the discussion and if you have any questions!Support the show (http://paypal.me/TibbensEST)

Ep.067 -- Peter Hubbell, CEO of Apply : you, on Students' Interview Skills & Personal Branding

Play Episode Listen Later May 17, 2021 66:08

ClassCast Podcast Ep.067 features Peter Hubbell, founder & CEO of Apply : you, discussing personal branding, storytelling, improving education, and helping recent college graduates to secure their first jobs through innovative interviewing techniques. Apply : you runs a series of practical workshops that apply Madison Avenue branding and storytelling techniques to help graduates market their way to their first job in any career. Peter forged an admirable career in advertising before shifting his focus to helping young people secure gainful employment. He shares his views on educating "the whole child," the importance of athletics, the value of boarding schools, and more. You can learn more about Peter Hubbell and Apply : you on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Instagram. Table of Contents (*highlights)0:00-3:53 -- Intro to Peter Hubbell & 'Apply : you'3:53-8:25 -- Applicants: Stand Out to Win **8:25-11:53 -- Peter's Education11:53-17:45 -- The Purpose of Education According to Peter: Potential *17:45-23:45 -- How to Own Your Interview & the Moses of College Hockey * 23:45-27:36 -- Apply : you: Why Focus on College Grads?27:36-47:14 -- Personal Discovery, Branding, & Rhetoric **47:14-55:00 -- Peter's Ideal School: Boarding Schools & the Whole Child55:00-58:56 -- Academics & Athletics: Developing the Whole Child58:56-1:06:08 -- Books & Final Wrap-UpThe ClassCast Podcast streams on all major platforms, including iTunes/Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, Pandora, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, Audible, Stitcher, and more. You can also find us on YouTube and at www.ClassCastPodcast.com. Be sure to like, subscribe, follow, share, and comment wherever you listen. Leave a comment below to let us know what you think of the discussion and if you have any questions!Support the show (http://paypal.me/TibbensEST)! If every listener made a one-time donation of $2-3, the podcast would be funded for the year! Support the show (http://paypal.me/TibbensEST)

Ep.066 -- Dr. Casey Jakubowski -- #ChangeTheNarrative & Better Schools for Better Communities

Play Episode Listen Later May 10, 2021 71:01

ClassCast Podcast Ep.066 features Dr. Casey Jakubowski, a professor, author, and teacher from upstate New York sharing his views on education in the United States, our need for greater civic education and engagement, as well as how we can "#ChangeTheNarrative" about our school system's successes and failures. Casey has worked in K12 and higher ed., in humanities and STEM, in the classroom and in leadership roles. Through his long and varied career, he has gained unique perspectives on what our schools do, how they function, and what we can do to improve how we serve students and communities. From standardized testing to specialization, from civics to community influences, we cover it all. Casey also shares a heartfelt story of family, loss, and students rising to the occasion and making change in the world. You can contact Casey on Twitter and LinkedIn or leave a comment below if you want to continue the conversation. Table of Contents (*highlights)0:00-4:29 -- Intro to Casey Jakubowski4:29-12:43 -- The Purpose of School According to Casey (#ChangeTheNarrative) **12:43-15:23 -- "Defunding" Schools15:23-33:37 -- Casey's Ideal School & How to Get There *33:37-44:34 -- Standardized Testing, Opportunity Data, & "Learning Loss" *44:34-54:43 -- Humanities, STEM, & Real Human Stories54:43-1:02:17 -- How Politics Limits Schools *1:02:17-1:11:01 -- Book/Movie Recs & Wrap-UpThe ClassCast Podcast streams on all major platforms, including iTunes/Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, Pandora, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, Audible, Stitcher, and more. You can also find us on YouTube and at www.ClassCastPodcast.com. Be sure to like, subscribe, follow, share, and comment wherever you listen. Leave a comment below to let us know what you think of the discussion and if you have any questions!Support the show (http://paypal.me/TibbensEST)

Ep.065 -- Dr. Sam Fecich -- Improving Education via Teacher Preparation

Play Episode Listen Later May 3, 2021 50:32

ClassCast Podcast Ep.065 features Dr. Sam Fecich, an education professor, author, speaker, and podcaster who works with pre-service teachers. She and host Ryan Tibbens discuss teacher preparation, how we can attract and train the best talent, why pedagogy and content both matter, and more. Sam's enthusiasm is infectious, so you're sure to find this episode both engaging and enlightening. Worried about the national teacher shortage? We cover it. Wondering how to help talented young people get into education? We cover that too. In addition to authoring two books designed to help pre-service and new teachers, Sam produces the Edumagic Podcast for pre-service teachers. She recently spoke with our host, Ryan Tibbens, on her show about purpose, priorities, and organization. Be sure to check out Edumagic! You can contact Dr. Fecich on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and via her website. Table of Contents (*highlights)0:00-6:45 -- Intro to Dr. Sam Fecich6:45-11:04 -- The Purpose of School According to Sam11:04-16:29 -- Working with Pre-Service Teachers *16:29-23:26 -- Is Content King? Learning & Professional Development Needs **23:26-36:13 -- Addressing the National Teacher Shortage & Attracting New Teachers **36:13-45:15 -- Sam's Ideal School *45:15-49:43 -- Sam's Book & Movie Recs49:43-50:33 -- Wrap UpThe ClassCast Podcast streams on all major platforms, including iTunes/Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, Pandora, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, Audible, Stitcher, and more. You can also find us on YouTube and at www.ClassCastPodcast.com. Be sure to like, subscribe, follow, share, and comment wherever you listen. Leave a comment below to let us know what you think of the discussion and if you have any questions!Support the show (http://paypal.me/TibbensEST)

Ep.064 -- Tibbens -- Thoughts on School Choice (Mini-Series Wrap-Up)

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 19, 2021 56:58

ClassCast Podcast Ep.064 features host Ryan Tibbens sharing his thoughts on school choice while concluding a five episode mini-series on school choice. After engaging, informative discussions with Citizen Stewart (pro-school choice), Jennifer Berkshire (pro-public school), Neal McCluskey (pro-school choice, and Jon Hale (pro-public school), Tibbens tries to connect the dots, share the learning, and make meaningful predictions about the future of school in the United States. Over half the episode focuses on the positive aspects of school choice -- freedom, specialization, individuality, and more -- but in the final 20 minutes, Tibbens explores the potential problems, including decreased community control, monopolies, reduced quality, and -- most importantly -- the abolition of publicly funded education. Whether you are pro-choice or pro-public schools, this episode includes a synthesis of ideas that is sure to make you second guess your biases. Support the show! If each listener donated just $2, we could fully fund the ClassCast Podcast! Please consider making a small donation to keep the discussion alive.Table of Contents (*highlights)0:00-4:32 -- Intro & Recap of School Choice Mini-Series4:32-9:51 -- Previous Connections to School Choice9:51-15:18 -- Is "Choice" Good? *15:18-24:26 -- Choice, M4A, Specializing, & Informing Parents *24:26-33:16 -- Racism & School Choice33:16-47:04 -- Tibbens' Problems with School Choice **47:04-54:04 -- The Best Path Forward: Choice and the Public System **54:04-56:58 -- Final Thoughts/Wrap-UpThe ClassCast Podcast streams on all major platforms, including iTunes/Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, Pandora, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, Audible, Stitcher, and more. You can also find us on YouTube and at www.ClassCastPodcast.com. Be sure to like, subscribe, follow, share, and comment wherever you listen. Leave a comment below to let us know what you think of the discussion and if you have any questions!Support the show (http://paypal.me/TibbensEST)

Ep.063 -- Jon Hale -- School Reform, Not School Choice (School Choice Mini-Series Pt.4)

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 12, 2021 64:04

ClassCast Podcast Ep.063 features education historian, professor at the University of Illinois, and author Jon Hale discussing school choice, its dark history, and the problems it may spawn in the future. Much of Jon's work focuses on past school choice movements and Civil Rights era freedom schools; he makes invaluable contributions to the on-going ClassCast discussion of school choice and freedom by provide clear historical context and common sense predictions about what the future may hold. Jon's upcoming book, The Choice We Face: How Segregation, Race, and Power Have Shaped America's Most Controversial Education Reform Movement, addresses the same topics in greater detail; he is also the author of The Freedom Schools: Student Activists in the Mississippi Civil Rights Movement and To Write in the Light of Freedom.Table of Contents (*highlights)0:00-5:37 -- The Purpose of Education According to Jon Hale5:37-10:51 -- The Appeal of School Choice10:51-21:12 -- The History of School Choice & Race **21:12-27:38 -- Freedom Schools27:38-36:26 -- Jon's Ideal School *36:26-39:34 -- Why School Choice Has Momentum & School Reform Doesn't39:34-46:23 -- Public Schools & Community Cohesion46:23-54:00 -- Are Public Schools Actually Failing? *54:00-1:04:04 -- Final Thoughts & Recommendations *Recent and upcoming ClassCast Podcast episodes feature public school advocates, school choice advocates, and the kind of thoughtful discourse that should inform our national conversation as well as individual listeners' opinions on school choice, public schools, funding, equity, justice, and opportunity. Let us know what you think about each part of this series and how you feel about school choice. - School Choice Series Part 1: Ep.060 -- Citizen Stewart -- School Choice & Educational Opportunity (3/21/21)- School Choice Series Part 2: Ep.061 -- Jennifer Berkshire -- The False Promises of School Choice (3/29/21)- School Choice Series Part 3: Ep.062 -- Neal McCluskey -- School Choice & Liberty (4/5/21)The ClassCast Podcast streams on all major platforms, including iTunes/Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, Pandora, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, Audible, Stitcher, and more. You can also find us on YouTube and at www.ClassCastPodcast.com. Be sure to like, subscribe, follow, share, and comment wherever you listen. Leave a comment below to let us know what you think of the discussion and if you have any questions!Support the show! If each listener donated just $2, we could fully fund the ClassCast Podcast! Please consider making a small donation to keep the discussion alive.Support the show (http://paypal.me/TibbensEST)

Ep.062 -- Neal McCluskey -- School Choice & Liberty (School Choice Mini-Series Pt.3)

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 5, 2021 86:41

ClassCast Podcast Ep.062 features Neal McCluskey PhD, the Director of the Center for Educational Freedom at the Cato Institute, discussing school choice, individual liberty, and the future of education with host Ryan Tibbens. Neal has spent most of his career studying public policy with a focus on education; he is a leader in the national school choice conversation, has written and edited three books on the subject, and explains his beliefs and goals through a lens of respect for individuals and their liberty. In this conversation, Neal explains how school choice will (and won't) affect community bonding, civil rights, and public funding. While he does concede that most school choice supporters would like to see lower taxes and/or educational costs, he doesn't agree with host Ryan Tibbens' concern that school choice legislation now will ultimately lead to the end of publicly funded education. Much as Jennifer Berkshire's (Ep.061) new book is leading the discussion against school choice, Neal McCluskey and Corey DeAngelis's new book, School Choice Myths: Setting the Record Straight on Education Freedom, is making waves in the education policy arena. This episode is Part 3 of the ClassCast Podcast mini-series on school choice; don't miss the others!Recent and upcoming ClassCast Podcast episodes will feature public school advocates, school choice advocates, and the kind of thoughtful discourse that should inform our national conversation as well as individual listeners' opinions on school choice, public schools, funding, equity, justice, and opportunity. Let us know what you think about each part of this series and how you feel about school choice. - School Choice Series Part 1: Ep.060 -- Citizen Stewart -- School Choice & Educational Opportunity (3/21/21)- School Choice Series Part 2: Ep.061 -- Jennifer Berkshire -- The False Promises of School Choice (3/29/21)Table of Contents (*highlights)0:00-5:05 -- Neal's Background & Entry into Education Policy5:05-10:47 -- School Choice's Effects on Communities *10:47-19:16 -- School Choice: Liberty & Respect for Individuals *19:16-30:38 -- The Purpose of School According to Neal30:38-54:46 -- Civil Rights, Diversity, & School Choice *54:46-1:08:38 -- Is School Choice a Step Toward Ending Public Funding for Education? **1:08:38-1:15:26 -- Compromise: Teachers' Unions & School Choice1:15:26-1:18:40 -- Neal's Ideal School1:18:40-1:26:40 -- Final Thoughts, Book/Movie Recs, & Wrap-UpThe ClassCast Podcast streams on all major platforms, including iTunes/Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, Pandora, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, Audible, Stitcher, and more. You can also find us on YouTube and at www.ClassCastPodcast.com. Be sure to like, subscribe, follow, share, and comment wherever you listen. Leave a comment below to let us know what you think of the discussion and if you have any questions!Support the show (http://paypal.me/TibbensEST)

Ep.061 -- Jennifer Berkshire -- The False Promises of School Choice

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 29, 2021 64:57

ClassCast Podcast Ep.061 features Jennifer Berkshire, an education journalist, podcaster, and co-author of a great new book about school choice, A Wolf at the Schoolhouse Door. She and host Ryan Tibbens discuss school choice, racial and economic inequality, the politics behind the choice movement, and problems that school choice is likely to cause. Throughout the discussion, Jennifer shares her own experience being bused across town to a public school, her concerns about how school choice may exacerbate current inequalities, and even asks a few questions of the host. This is the second installment of the ClassCast Podcast School Choice Mini-Series; you can listen to the first episode with Citizen Stewart here and watch for additional episodes coming soon. You can learn more about Jennifer and work by following her on Twitter, listening to the Have You Heard? Podcast, or visiting the website for A Wolf at the Schoolhouse Door. Upcoming ClassCast Podcast episodes will feature public school advocates, school choice advocates, and the kind of thoughtful discourse that should inform our national conversation as well as individual listeners' opinions on school choice, public schools, funding, equity, justice, and opportunity. Let us know what you think about each part of this series and how you feel about school choice. Support the show! If each listener donated just $2, we could fully fund the ClassCast Podcast! Please consider making a small donation to keep the discussion alive.Table of Contents (*highlights)0:00-2:14 -- Spacesedu.com (Check it out!)2:14-10:16 -- Introduction to Jennifer Berkshire & Her School Experiences10:16-17:59 -- Can Schools Fix Social Inequality & Meritocracy? *17:59-25:00 -- Reagan's Politics, Education History, & School Choice25:00-32:10 -- School Choice, Taxes, & "Poisoning the Well"32:10-35:01 -- The Purpose of School According to Jennifer35:01-40:49 -- Standardize Testing, School Choice, & Inequity *40:49-50:06 -- School Choice, Race, & Economics *50:06-59:25 -- Is Choice within the Public System Possible? *59:25-1:01:54 -- Jennifer's Ideal School1:01:54-1:04:57 -- Jennifer's Book & Movie RecommendationsThe ClassCast Podcast streams on all major platforms, including iTunes/Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, Pandora, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, Audible, Stitcher, and more. You can also find us on YouTube and at www.ClassCastPodcast.com. Be sure to like, subscribe, follow, share, and comment wherever you listen. Leave a comment below to let us know what you think of the discussion and if you have any questions!Support the show (http://paypal.me/TibbensEST)

Ep.060 -- Citizen Stewart -- School Choice & Educational Opportunity

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 21, 2021 74:29

ClassCast Podcast Ep.060 features Chris "Citizen" Stewart discussing school choice, educational opportunity, dismantling oppressive systems, and empowering individuals with host Ryan Tibbens. Citizen Stewart is CEO of the Brightbeam Network, founder of Citizen.Education, host of the UnPublic Podcast, co-host of the 8 Black Hands Podcast, a former school board member, father of five, and school choice advocate. In this episode, we discuss the value of choice, the significance of freedom for all citizens, why school choice appeals to many poor and minority families, and how great education should be tailored to individuals rather than aggregates. Stewart shares observations on school consolidation, economies of scale, parenting, and why school choice might be the future of education in America. Approach this episode with an open mind, curious intellect, and vision for what schools should be. If that "should be" is different from what currently exists, then various school choice models could be the path forward. On the other hand, a move to nationwide school choice could undermine our participation in local communities, dedication to serve others, and our long-term dedication to funding education for all students. You can learn more about Citizen Stewart at @citizenstewart on Twitter, @citizenstewart on Instagram, and @iamcitizenstewart on Facebook. You can also see his advocacy at Brightbeam Network and Citizen.Education. Upcoming ClassCast Podcast episodes will feature public school advocates, choice advocates, and the kind of discourse that should inform our national conversation as well as individual listeners' opinions on school choice, public schools, funding, equity, justice, and opportunity. Let us know what you think about each part of this series and how you feel about school choice. Support the show! If each listener donated just $2, we could fully fund the ClassCast Podcast for the entire year. Please consider making a small donation to keep the discussion alive.Table of Contents (*highlights)0:00-7:53 -- Intro to Citizen Stewart & Teacher Quality7:53-10:32 -- The Purpose of Education According to Citizen Stewart10:32-17:00 -- Parents' Responsibilities in Education *17:00-29:04 -- Can School Choice Become a Reality? **29:04-35:00 -- Equity, Funding & Other Elements of School Choice35:00-42:04 -- School Consolidation, Cultural Conformity, & Civic Education *42:04-48:13 -- Citizen Stewart's Ideal School *48:13-53:08 -- Citizen's Own School Experiences53:08-1:01:16 -- Race & Educational Opportunity1:01:16-1:07:55 -- Citizen Stewart's Entry to School Policy *1:07:55-1:14:29 -- Final Comments; Book/Movie Recommendations; Contact InfoThe ClassCast Podcast streams on all major platforms, including iTunes/Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, Amazon, and more. You can also find us on YouTube and at www.ClassCastPodcast.com. Be sure to like, subscribe, follow, share, and comment where you listen. Leave a comment to let us know what you think of the discussion and if you have questions!Support the show (http://paypal.me/TibbensEST)

Ep.059 -- Tibbens -- The Lies of Learning Loss

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 8, 2021 50:57

ClassCast Podcast Ep.059 features host Ryan Tibbens exploring the concept of "learning loss," how it's being applied during the COVID-19 pandemic, and why most of these discussions are biased, flawed, and misleading. If you pay attention to education-related news, then you know that politicians, state education boards, testing companies, university researchers, school choice advocates, and even some local school leaders have been ranting about "learning loss" for months. But you may not have considered how narrow and limited that discussion has been. Are students really 3-6 months behind? Are the disparities between racial and socioeconomic groups insurmountable? If we really want to promote top-quality education for all citizens, if we really want to create life-long learners, then shouldn't we all be concerned? The sky is not falling. Learning hasn't stopped. "Learning loss" is a talking point for those hoping to capitalize on the pandemic, but the situation isn't nearly as dire as they would have you believe. Tibbens takes the long view and points out why "learning loss" isn't going to cripple a generation. Don't panic (and carry a towel). The ClassCast Podcast streams on all major platforms, including iTunes/Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, Audible, Stitcher, and more. You can also find us on YouTube and at www.ClassCastPodcast.com. Be sure to like, subscribe, follow, share, and comment wherever you listen. Leave a comment below to let us know what you think of the discussion and if you have any questions!Support the show (http://paypal.me/TibbensEST)

Ep.058 -- Iman Ghanizada -- The Certs Guy: Google Certifications, Decentralizing Learning, & the Future of Education

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 1, 2021 74:16

ClassCast Podcast Ep.058 features Iman Ghanizada, aka "The Certs Guy," a young star at Google, newly published author, and former student of host Ryan Tibbens. Iman shares ideas about his new book, Google Cloud Certified Professional Cloud Architect: All in One Exam Guide, about how technology can improve education, and how people must maintain strong morals and respect if they truly want to live good lives and serve others. Tibbens taught Iman in 9th grade English during his first year as a teacher, so the episode begins with a little catching up but quickly moves on to focus on Iman's goals of mentorship, representation, and personal development. If you are interested in how technology is reshaping our world, how young leaders are building networks to support others, or even how to get certified as a Google Cloud Architect, this episode is for you. Table of Contents (highlights*) 0:00-5:13 -- 9th Grade English5:13-10:55 -- Why Write and Teach? *10:55-17:47 -- The Purpose of Education17:47-24:59 -- How the Internet Decentralizes Learning *24:59-31:25 -- Morality in Tech31:25-37:34 -- Blockchain: Decentralizing Education27:34-43:39 -- Certificates vs Degrees43:39-46:12 -- Communication: The Value of Schooling46:12-56:42 -- Iman's Ideal School *56:42-1:08:53 -- The Certs Guy: How to Think, Help Others, Increase Representation, & Advance Careers *1:08:53-1:15:23 -- Iman's Recommendations & Wrap-UpThe ClassCast Podcast streams on all major platforms, including iTunes/Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, Audible, Stitcher, and more. You can also find us on YouTube and at www.ClassCastPodcast.com. Be sure to like, subscribe, follow, share, and comment wherever you listen. Leave a comment below to let us know what you think of the discussion and if you have any questions! Support the show (http://paypal.me/TibbensEST)

Ep.057 -- Tibbens -- Returning to School: Money, Power, & Pandemic

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 21, 2021 19:19

ClassCast Podcast Ep.057 features host Ryan Tibbens examining the motivations behind returning to in-person schooling this spring. Many community members, particularly teachers, have been shocked by how rapidly local officials have shifted their positions on distance vs hybrid options this winter. What people often fail to realize is that the return to school is not motivated by infection rates, a few loud parents at school board meetings, or even the quality of education. Rather, there are financial and political interests at play, and government officials -- local, state, and federal -- see the writing on the wall. Don't forget to like, subscribe, follow, share, and leave a positive review. The ClassCast Podcast doesn't pay for promotion, so your support and referrals are vital. Get more commentary, innovation, news, occasional snark, and school memes by following the ClassCast Podcast on Facebook & Instagram @ClassCastPodcast and on Twitter @ClassCastPod. You can also access current and archival content at www. ClassCastPodcast.com. If you are interested in advertising on the ClassCast Podcast, please inquire via the contact forms on our website. Support the show (http://paypal.me/TibbensEST)

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Ep.056 -- Rachelle Dene Poth -- Virtual Reality in Schools & Evolving Education

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 14, 2021 56:50

ClassCast Podcast Ep.056 features teacher, innovator, author, lawyer, and speaker Rachelle Dene Poth discussing virtual reality and augmented reality in the classroom, accessing VR hardware for students, and preparing students and teachers alike for the technology of tomorrow. After speaking with Taylor Freeman, an AR/VR industry leader and Forbes 30 Under 30 winner, in ClassCast Podcast Ep.046, host Ryan Tibbens made exploration of VR in education a top priority for future podcasts. Crowdsourcing ideas for future interviews led to Rachelle, a talented foreign language and STEAM teacher who has presented at ISTE, ASCD, and professional development events and conferences across the country. In this episode, Rachelle describes her amateur beginnings in the AR/VR space, how she gradually incorporated the technology into her STEAM and foreign language classes, and offers ideas to help other teachers access the technology for their students. If you are interested in AR/VR, or if you are a teacher or parent who wants to bring learning to life for your students, check out this discussion with Rachelle Dene Poth (and then listen to Ep.046 with Taylor Freeman)! You can keep up with Rachelle at www.rdene915.com and follow her on Twitter @rdene915. Her books -- In Other Words: Quotes That Push Our Thinking, The Future Is Now: Looking Back to Move Ahead, Unconventional: Ways to Thrive in EDU, Chart a New Course: A Guide to Teaching Essential Skills for Tomorrow's World, and True Story: Lessons That One Kid Taught Us -- are available on Amazon.com, her website, and many education booksellers. The ClassCast Podcast streams on all major platforms, including iTunes/Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, Audible, Stitcher, and more. You can also find us on YouTube and right here at www.ClassCastPodcast.com. Be sure to like, subscribe, follow, share, and comment wherever you listen. Leave a comment below to let us know what you think of the discussion and if you have any questions! Table of Contents (Highlight clips*)3:19-8:40 -- Intro to Rachelle Dene Poth & Her Work with Virtual Reality/Augment Reality8:40-17:49 -- AR/VR Equipment in the Classroom *21:08-23:01 -- What VR Has in Store for Us **23:01-27:48 -- Why Isn't EdTech More Kid Friendly?27:48-38:37 -- Rachelle's Education & 9,000 Degrees38:37-45:39 -- Rachelle's Ideal School **45:39-53:42 -- Rachelle's Education Books & Being an Author53:42-55:42 -- Rachelle's Book/Movie Recs.55:42-56:58 -- Final Wrap-Up & Contact Info ~~ And be sure to check out Spaces, a great digital portfolio and collaboration software that empowers teachers and students to focus on learning and growth. They helped to make this episode possible. ~~Support the show (http://paypal.me/TibbensEST)

Ep.055 -- Clement Townsend -- Media Production & Broadcasting Career Mentor in Schools

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 7, 2021 65:32

ClassCast Podcast Ep.055 features Clement Townsend, the owner/operator of Broadcasting Career Mentor and VideoJournalismPro.com. Clement shares his views on improving education through project-based learning (PBL), particularly in regard to teaching students how to plan, write, record, and edit video projects that amplify their voices, build foundational academic skills, and prepare them for 21st century jobs. Prior to launching his own education company, Clement Townsend was a popular and successful sports journalist who broadcast in Texas, Alabama, Virginia, and Chicago, Illinois. Clement covered the Super Bowl, NBA All-Star Game, and several NCAA football national championship games. Now, he dedicates himself to empowering young people by teaching them the skills he's learned, by making their learning authentic and applicable, and by improving education through innovation and industry-expertise. Clement's enthusiasm is infectious, and if you have interests in PBL, media, or transitioning students from media consumers to media producers, this episode is for you. The ClassCast Podcast streams on all major services plus YouTube and at www.ClassCastPodcast.com. Contact host Ryan Tibbens via website comment/contact forms. Contact Clement Townsend at www.videojournalismpro.com, on LinkedIn, on Facebook, on Instagram, and on Twitter. Check out the table of contents below; highlights are marked with an asterisk (*). Table of Contents0:00-12:53 -- Intro to Clement Townsend & His Educational Journey12:53-23:04 -- Launching Broadcasting Career Mentor & Video Journalism Pro*23:04-37:46 -- Serving the Youth: Modern "Essays," Media Education, & More**37:46-44:26 -- Opportunities for Collaboration & Quick Practice44:26-50:43 -- Pandemic Pivots: Teaching Media Production Online50:43-56:04 -- Clement's Ideal School*56:04-1:00:37 -- Music, Art... Why Not Media?: Expanding Media Production in Schools*1:00:37-1:05:32 -- Clement's Book Recs & Final Wrap-UpSupport the show (http://paypal.me/TibbensEST)

Ep.054 -- Tibbens -- A Teachable Moment: Rethinking Policy to Abolish Factory Schooling

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 26, 2021 28:52

ClassCast Podcast Ep.054 features host Ryan Tibbens making unexpected connections between big ideas, from the Capitol attack on January 6 to grading policies to student scheduling to ending the factory model of public education. It sounds like a stretch, but trust me: It's all connected. If you've ever thought teachers should make time for "teachable moments" in class, or if you want to end "factory" or "industrial" schooling, then there's a lot to unpack in this content-rich 29 minutes. Buckle up!Remember: you can listen to the ClassCast Podcast at www.ClassCastPodcast.com, on YouTube, and on all major streaming services, including iTunes, Spotify, iHeartRadio, Pandora, Stitchr, Amazon Music, Audible, and more! If you like what you hear, please subscribe, leave a positive review, and share with your friends. If you want to get involved in the conversation, visit the website for more information about leaving comments or contacting the host. Enjoy!Support the show (http://paypal.me/TibbensEST)

Ep.053 -- Dr. Matthew Rhoads -- Pandemic & Beyond: The Toggled Term & The Future of EdTech

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 17, 2021 77:24

ClassCast Podcast Ep.053 features Dr. Matthew Rhoads, a leader in edtech, blended learning, data utilization, and pandemic responses; he's also the author of Navigating the Toggled Term: Preparing Secondary Education for Navigating Fall 2020 and Beyond. Matt shares insights into how teachers can leverage technology to adapt to ever-changing pandemic scenarios while also preparing themselves and their students for the future of education. From "moneyballing" school to "navigating the toggled term," from pandemic adjustments to the future of distance learning, this episode connects current contexts to on-going innovations in ways that will help listeners understand the effects on every student and teacher. If you have any interest in school now or in the next decade, Dr. Rhoads shares ideas and predictions that will cement the value of edtech and adaptability into your priority list. Don't miss Matt's second book, Navigating the Toggled Term: A Guide for K-12 Classroom and School Leaders, which will be released later in 2021. Contact Dr. Matthew Rhoads via Twitter @MattRhoads1990 and www.MatthewRhoads.com. Table of Contents (Highlights **)0:00-6:15 -- Intro to Pandemic Schooling*6:15-9:28 -- Dr. Rhoads' Education & Experiences9:28-17:49 -- Engines of Innovation & Pandemic Effects17:49-24:21 -- Matt's Preferred Edtech & Data Tools24:21-35:30 -- Moneyballing School: The Role of Data in Modern Schooling**35:30-55:44 -- Navigating the Toggled Term: In & Out of School during the Pandemic**55:44-58:26 -- Matt's Ideal School58:26-1:02:14 -- The Future of Online School1:02:53-1:08:51 -- Concerns about Concurrent Hybrid/HyFlex in K12** 1:08:51-1:12:05 -- Book #21:12:05-1:15:14 -- Matt's Book & Movie Recs1:15:14- End -- Wrap UpSupport the show (http://paypal.me/TibbensEST)

HIGHLIGHT -- Ep.053 -- Dr. Matthew Rhoads -- Concurrent Hybrid/HyFlex School Models

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 12, 2021 8:47

This quick highlight clip from ClassCast Podcast Ep.053 features Dr. Matthew Rhoads offering his thoughts on the concurrent hybrid and HyFlex models being implemented in some schools across the country. Dr. Rhoads is the author of Navigating the Toggled Term: Preparing Secondary Education for Navigating Fall 2020 and Beyond and has a second book dealing with blended learning, ed. tech., and pandemic responses that will be available later in 2021. Near the end of the full episode, Matt offered up his views on concurrent hybrid school. Every student, parent, teacher, and administrator involved in a concurrent hybrid or HyFlex model should consider the issues he addresses. The full audio of Ep.053 featuring Dr. Rhoads will be available on Sunday, 1/17/2021, on all major streaming platforms, YouTube, and at www.ClassCastPodcast.com. Be sure to subscribe, like, follow, review, and share the ClassCast Podcast wherever you listen! Support the show (http://paypal.me/TibbensEST)

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Ep.052 -- Sandy Sullivan -- LEA President on Unions, COVID, & Community Relations

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 3, 2021 67:19

Episode 052 of the ClassCast Podcast features Sandy Sullivan, president of the Loudoun Education Association (LEA), speaking with host Ryan Tibbens about the LEA, its short and long term goals, collective bargaining in Virginia, pandemic safety measures, community outreach, and more. This is Sandy's second (non-consecutive) term as LEA president; otherwise, she has spent her career teaching early elementary education in Loudoun and Montgomery (MD) counties. In this conversation, she explains the changes in Virginia's collective bargaining laws, the need for union representation, how education associations and unions function, as well as what is best for teachers and students. Whether you're for or against teachers' unions, this episode will help you better understand the issues and better contextualize their impacts in local communities. Contact Sandy Sullivan and/or the Loudoun Education association at their website, on Facebook, or by email. You might also check out the Virginia Education Association and National Education Association. Be sure to like, share, follow, subscribe, and leave a positive review wherever you get your podcasts. Table of Contents0:00-3:40 -- Sandy's LEA Involvement3:54-8:51 -- Sandy's Path through & to Education8:52-11:41 -- Member involvement in the Loudoun Education Association11:41-20:08 -- Political Climate in 202020:08-34:14 -- How LEA Works & Unionization/Collective Bargaining ***34:14-46:33 -- Short Term LEA Goals ***46:33-52:26 -- What's Best for Teachers? (And Students?)52:26-57:06 -- Sandy's Ideal School57:06-59:54 -- Final Thoughts on Teacher Motivations & Collective Bargaining ***59:55-1:07:19 -- Sandy's Book/Movie Recommendations & Wrap-UpSupport the show (http://paypal.me/TibbensEST)

Special -- Tibbens -- The Best of 2020

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 31, 2020 20:43

2020 has been a special year in many ways, most of them bad. But for the ClassCast Podcast, 2020 was a year of learning, development, and growth. These discussions about improving education reached thousands of listeners spread across six continents. In 38 episodes this calendar year, I spoke with passionate students, innovative teachers, reflective administrators, industry-leading CEOs, elected officials -- all kinds of smart, purposeful people who are challenging the status quo of education in the United States and abroad. This special episode offers a quick reflection on ClassCast Podcasts from 2020, goals for 2021, and an overview of all the content generated this year. Visit www.ClassCastPodcast.com to see the TOP TEN Most Downloaded episodes of the year as well as the ten HOST'S PICKS for most commented-upon and asked-about episodes. Support the show (http://paypal.me/TibbensEST)

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Ep.051 -- Devin Siebold -- America's Favorite Teacher-Comedian

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 20, 2020 58:20

ClassCast Podcast Ep.051 features Devin Siebold, America's favorite teacher-comedian, sharing his thoughts on education, school improvement, and why school can be so hilarious (and so tragic). Devin discusses his beginnings in comedy, his classroom experiences, and his ever-growing fanbase (up to 10 MILLION views per month). If you've ever laughed at Devin's YouTube videos (what teacher hasn't?) and wondered what kind of teacher makes those videos, or wondered how his administrators react, this episode will make it all clear. Throughout this conversation, Devin shares his personal career goals, sincere hopes for school improvement, and insights into comedy as an art form. You can learn more about Devin Siebold, his upcoming events, and his social media presence by checking out his website, DevinComedy.com. Be sure to like, share, follow, retweet, subscribe, leave a positive review, and send passenger pigeons to everyone in your region in support of the ClassCast Podcast!Table of Contents0:00-8:00 -- Intro to Devin Siebold, Teacher-Comedian*8:00-12:04 -- Devin's Favorite Comedian & Getting Started12:04-17:01 -- Being a Funny Teacher17:01-22:17 -- Becoming a Teacher22:19-27:31 -- Becoming the Teachers' Comedian*27:31-41:35 -- Avoiding Admin's Wrath & the Most Embarrassing All-Staff Ever**41:35-45:42 -- Favorite YouTube Clips & Coworker Conditions45:44-51:11 -- Devin's Ideal School: The Magic School Bus Meets Unschooling**51:14-53:11 -- A New Joke: Christmas Sweatshops53:12-56:29 -- Devin's Book/Movie Recommendations56:30-58:22 -- Upcoming Shows & Wrap-Up(*Highlights)Support the show (http://paypal.me/TibbensEST)

Ep.050 -- Tibbens -- In Defense of Snow Days

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 16, 2020 10:18

ClassCast Podcast Ep.050 features host Ryan Tibbens discussing the value of and need for snow days, despite our ability to conduct classes online. The shortest episode to date, just 10 minutes, this passionate defense of snow day school cancellations addresses parent concerns like falling behind, seat time, screen time, and learning as well as social-emotional learning, whole child development, and the sanctity of of snow days in American culture. Before you criticize the decisions to close schools for snow, or before you engage with someone who opposes snow days, listen to this episode, consider your values, and remember this timeless wisdom -- there is a special place in hell for people who oppose snow days. If you disagree with any of the ideas in the episode, or if you'd like to engage further, use the contact form at www.ClassCastPodcast.com or find us on Twitter @ClassCastPod as well as Facebook and Instagram @ClassCastPodcast. Be sure to like, subscribe, share, follow, retweet, leave a positive review, and whatever else might help spread the word about the great conversation occurring the ClassCast Podcast! Support the show (http://paypal.me/TibbensEST)

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Ep.049 -- Craig Randall -- Improving Education by Improving Teacher Evaluations

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 6, 2020 80:48

ClassCast Podcast Ep.049 features innovator, writer, and former principal Craig Randall sharing his ideas about improving teacher observation and evaluation processes to increase the quality of teaching and of school in general. Craig is the creator and author of Trust-Based Observations, a new framework for evaluating teachers while encouraging innovation, risk-taking, and growth. His system is, as the name indicates, based on building a trusting, growth-focused relationship between teachers and evaluators; it is the culmination of a long, successful career teaching, counseling, coaching, and administrating in schools on four continents. This episode offers food for thought AND practical solutions for anyone concerned with improving the quality of instruction of in schools, from teachers to students, from principals to parents. Listeners with less time should check out highlights in the starred sections below. The ClassCast Podcast is available on all major streaming platforms, plus YouTube and ClassCastPodcast.com. Be sure to like, subscribe, share, follow, and leave a positive review wherever you listen. Table of Contents0:00-6:18 -- Intro/Craig as a Student6:18-12:32 -- Craig as a Guidance Counselor, Coach, & Teacher12:33-16:49 -- Working in International Schools16:49-27:35 -- Becoming a Principal & Revolutionizing Teacher Observation w/ Trust-Based Observations**27:36-36:49 -- Can We Really Make a Good Teacher Great?36:49-47:41 -- The Evolution of Teacher Evolution Over Time47:42-52:47 -- The Reality of Teacher Observations & Evaluations, plus "Fantasy" Teachers**52:47-59:18 -- Craig's Ideal School**59:19-1:05:11 -- Action Research1:05:11-1:09:51 -- Students' Voices in Teacher Evaluations**1:09:51-1:20:48 -- Craig's Book/Movie Recommendations & Wrap-Up Contact Craig Randall at www.trustbased.com, on Twitter @trustbasedcraig, and via email @ craig @trustbased.com. Support the show (http://paypal.me/TibbensEST)

Ep.048 -- Tibbens -- Reserving Judgments

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 23, 2020 28:43

ClassCast Podcast Episode 048 features host Ryan Tibbens sharing insights and advice on reserving judgment (and passing it), building patience, and keeping an open mind. As a teacher, he has developed a deeper appreciation for patience, optimism, and open-mindedness than most people (and certainly more than he had earlier in life); this quick solo episode includes ideas to help teachers maintain strong relationships with students and coworkers as well as advice to help families and friends overcome personal, political, and moral differences as we head into the holiday season. Tibbens uses a line from F. Scott Fitzgerald's classic novel The Great Gatsby to anchor these insights: "Reservingjudgments is a matter of infinite hope." Before you give up on a student, "unfriend" an old friend, or uninvite someone from a holiday celebration, think long and hard about hope, possibility, and patience. You can find this and every other episode of the ClassCast Podcast on all major streaming platforms, including Apple Podcasts/iTunes, Spotify, iHeartRadio, Pandora, YouTube, and many more. Be sure to subscribe, like, follow, share, leave a positive review, and tell your friends. Happy holidays! Support the show (http://paypal.me/TibbensEST)

Ep.047 -- Shane Lawrence -- The Ed Podcast & Making School Better

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 12, 2020 75:26

ClassCast Podcast Ep.047 features Shane Lawrence, the host of The Ed Podcast and a middle school drama/film/computer/art/English/everything teacher from Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. Shane and host Ryan Tibbens discuss Shane's experiences in education, podcasting, how to make school better for students, great movie and book recommendations, and more. For over six years, The Ed Podcast has been among the most loved and respected education podcasts; using that background, Shane shares what he has learned about great teaching and about how to broadcast it. For the "ideal school" section of this episode, Shane showed up prepared -- he had notes about schedules, planning times, options, and more. And of course, as a film and drama teacher, Shane shares some excellent movie and book recommendations at the end. This episode has a little something for everyone, and it has a whole lot for teachers, administrators, and podcasters. You can contact Shane via TheEdPodcast.com and on Twitter @theedpodcast. Be sure to like, follow, subscribe, share, comment, review, and all that other good stuff wherever you get your podcasts. Streaming now on all major services. Table of Contents0:00-15:52 -- Intro to Shane Lawrence & Education Podcasting15:52-26:00 -- Shane's Education & Teaching Career26:00-31:13 -- How We Schedule a School Day31:13-1:06:04 -- The Ideal School1:06:38-1:14:25 -- Shane's Movie & Book Recommendations1:14:26-1:15:27 -- Wrap UpSupport the show (http://paypal.me/TibbensEST)

Ep.046 -- Taylor Freeman -- Virtual & Augmented Reality: Schools of Tomorrow, Today

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 1, 2020 97:10

ClassCast Podcast Ep.045 features Taylor Freeman (founder & CEO of Axon Park, co-founder of Upload, Forbes 30 Under 30, and VR industry leader) sharing knowledge and insights about the exciting field of XR (virtual reality, augmented reality, etc. -- we explore the names and functions in this episode), how it can impact and improve schools, and how the world may change as virtual reality technologies become better, cheaper, and more popular. Whether you know nothing about virtual reality or you have your own headset, this episode has something for you -- educational applications, business dynamics, technical details, recommended platforms, and more. Host Ryan Tibbens first gave serious consideration to virtual reality schooling in late September 2020 after teaching synchronous online classes all day. "It would be great if students could work from home but feel like they were around each other, if they could look around and see each other to improve class climate and discussion." From there, the idea took off: "If we had virtual reality capabilities to recreate the classroom, why stop there? Why not make every day a lab day, field trip, or hands-on activity?" Tibbens contacted Freeman, and the result is an exciting, interesting, truly outside-the-box discussion about how we can apply new technologies to improve nearly every aspect of both traditional and online schooling. Whether you're looking for educational innovation, information about a quickly advancing technology, what the future may hold, or even a great holiday gift idea, Ep.046's conversation with Taylor Freeman is rich in ideas and inspirations.Table of Contents 0:00-9:47 -- Intro to Taylor Freeman & VR in Schools9:47-13:31 -- The Inspiration for This Discussion 13:31-23:52 -- Taylor's Education 23:52-34:57 -- The Rise of Virtual Reality in School & Beyond34:57-42:19 -- VR, XR, AR, MR: What Are We Talking About?42:11-44:50 -- The State of XR/VR Today44:50-54:53 -- Axon Park: The School of the Future 54:53-1:01:02 -- How to Create a Virtual Setting1:01:03-1:13:56 -- Virtual Reality in Movies AND Taylor's Book/Movie Recs. 1:14:22-1:30:06 -- Final Thoughts: Video, Cyber Sickness, Oculus Quest 2, & AR in Class1:30:06-1:37:53 -- Taylor's Ideal SchoolContactsFind Taylor Freeman on Twitter @TaylorPFreeman, on Instagram @TaylorPFreeman, and on LinkedIn. Also follow @AxonPark and @UploadVR on Twitter and other social media outlets. Check out www.AxonPark.com and www. UploadVR.com for more information.Support the show (http://paypal.me/TibbensEST)

Ep.045 -- Tibbens -- DL, Hybrid, & Concurrent Models: Getting "Back to School"

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 26, 2020 19:19

In this sub-20 minute episode, host Ryan Tibbens discusses some of the less-talked-about aspects of the most common school models considered as school leaders across the country search for the best way to get students "back to school." In many districts that have used 100% district learning through the first quarter of the school year, public pressure is mounting to open hybrid options that allow students back into the school building on a part-time basis. A model that is growing in popularity -- concurrent hybrid schooling -- allows in-person and online students to participate in the same class. That option sounds great at first, but a closer look at the logistics quickly reveal it to be just as limited as other options. In the end, we may not have any good options, so we're all left to discuss and debate which is the least bad. No matter what your school division's leadership chooses, do your best to support students and the ultimate goal of school -- to empower individuals and uplift communities. Please read this great article about concurrent hybrid teaching from NBC News.Support the show (http://paypal.me/TibbensEST)

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Ep.044 -- Matt Bass -- Candidate for Clarke County Board of Supervisors on Life & School in a Small Town

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 16, 2020 96:23

ClassCast Podcast Ep.044 features Matt Bass, candidate for Board of Supervisors in Clarke County, VA, discussing life, school, politics, community, and planning in small town America. Clarke County, VA is located just over an hour west of Washington DC in the northern Shenandoah Valley. A small, rural county, it is home to just under 15,000 people, one high school, one grocery store, and a whole lot of genuine Virginia character. Situated just over the Blue Ridge Mountains from the booming DC suburbs of Loudoun, Fairfax, and Arlington, Clarke has managed to preserve thousands of acres of pristine farmland, beautiful mountain forests, and a small town charm that makes it unique in the northern Virginia region. In this episode, Matt shares his experiences growing up and going to school in Clarke County, attending the University of Virginia, becoming an attorney, starting a family, and future plans for the community he loves. Listeners from big cities or growing suburbs may be surprised to hear about the significance of schools in small communities; listeners from small towns will feel affirmed and reassured by Matt Bass's vision for the future. Table of Contents0:00-13:24 -- Matt's Education and Background13:25-26:11 -- Higher Education: Applicable Skills vs Academic Knowledge in Small Towns26:12-29:37 -- Expanding Opportunities in Schools29:37-39:04 -- Choice & Innovation in Smaller Rural Schools (like Clarke County, VA)39:04-50:37 -- How Schools Anchor Communities like Clarke County, VA (Clip 01)50:38-1:11:00 -- Local Politics & Bass's Vision for Clarke County1:11:31-1:15:15 -- Student Loan Debt1:15:16-1:21:01 -- Matt's Ideal School1:21:02-1:22:39 -- Choosing Home1:22:39-1:30:58 -- Matt's Book & Movie Recommendations1:30:59-1:36:23 -- Final ThoughtsBe sure to like, share, follow, subscribe, leave a positive review, and all that other good stuff wherever you get your podcasts! Learn more about Matt Bass's platform at https://www.facebook.com/Bass4Board. Support the show (http://paypal.me/TibbensEST)

Clip 044.2 -- Local Politics & Bass's Vision for Clarke County

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 16, 2020 19:58

In this highlight from ClassCast Podcast Ep.044, Clarke County, VA Board of Supervisors candidate Matt Bass and host Ryan Tibbens discuss politics, planning, and community preservation. Clarke County is situated approximately an hour west of Washington DC in the northern Shenandoah Valley. In many ways, Clarke County represents "genuine Virginia" -- small towns, agricultural economies, and traditional communities -- and its proximity to the booming, wealthy suburbs of northern Virginia present an unique situation, a bridge between two worlds in one of our nation's oldest and most historically rich regions. Listen to this clip to hear more about Matt Bass's vision for the county's future and how to maximize opportunities and resources without departing from local culture and tradition. Learn more about Matt Bass's platform at https://www.facebook.com/Bass4Board. Support the show (http://paypal.me/TibbensEST)

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Clip 044.1 -- Matt Bass -- How Schools Anchor Communities (Like Clarke County, VA)

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 16, 2020 11:35

In this highlight clip from ClassCast Podcast Ep.044, Matt Bass, a candidate for Clarke County, VA Board of Supervisors, talks about how public schools anchor communities, particularly in small towns and rural areas across the country. In this clip, Matt and host Ryan Tibbens talk about the many roles that schools play in a community and how a sense of belonging, common identity, and unity can be forged through a healthy public school system.Learn more about Matt Bass's platform at https://www.facebook.com/Bass4Board. Support the show (http://paypal.me/TibbensEST)

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Ep.043 -- Tibbens -- Censorship, Banned Books Week, Antiracism, & Huckleberry Finn

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 2, 2020 53:59

ClassCast Podcast Ep.043 features host Ryan Tibbens discussing wide-reaching, intrusive, and imperfect policy changes in his school division that are resulting in suppression of teachers' First Amendment rights, paranoia among employees, book banning, censorship, and more. Banned Books Week 2020 runs from September 27 through October 3 and, ironically, included Tibbens' first personal run-in with book banning during his 15 year teaching career. The new policy not only infringes upon employees' first amendment rights in hopes of protecting the division's public image and efficiency, but it declares a universal ban on racial slurs "regardless of intent" as well. That, of course, sounds great, but it results in a wide variety of high quality texts becoming unsafe -- or possibly banned -- for classroom use, rendering teachers' efforts to support national and local antiracist goals harder to achieve because teachers have fewer options for texts to inform and guide those discussions. In this episode, Tibbens addresses problematic aspects of the new policy, connects it to classroom realities, and defends The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, The Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass, The Autobiography of Malcolm X, Of Mice and Men, To Kill a Mockingbird, Just Mercy, and more. If you are serious about fighting racism and censorship while promoting critical thinking and intellectual freedom, this episode is not to be missed. Don't forget to like, share, follow, subscribe, and leave a positive review wherever you get your podcasts! ~~ Disclaimer: This recording includes ideas and opinions of the speaker, Ryan Tibbens, and do not reflect the views of his employer nor any other organization or agency. ~~Banned Books Week Links:- ALA's "Banned Books Week"- NCTE's "Guidelines for Dealing with Censorship of Instructional Materials"- NCTE's "The Students' Right to Read" - NCTE's "Statement on Academic Freedom"- NCTE's "Position Statement Regarding Rating or 'Red-Flagging' Books"- ACLU's "Banned Books"See Ryan Tibbens' written defense of The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn here. Table of Contents- Introduction & Conduct Policy -- 0:00-8:09- Racial Slurs -- 8:10-12:03- Huckleberry Finn -- 12:03-23:19- Banning Words, Banning Books -- 23:20-44:29- Banned Books Week -- 44:29-47:20- What's This All About? -- 47:20- endSupport the show (http://paypal.me/TibbensEST)

Ep.042 -- Joe Pizzo -- 47 Year Veteran Teacher & AMLE 2020 Educator of the Year

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 24, 2020 99:41

ClassCast Podcast Episode 042 features Joe Pizzo, the Association for Middle Level Education (AMLE) 2020 National Educator of the Year, sharing his thoughts about education, progress, project-based learning, classroom dynamics, and much, much more as he begins his remarkable 47th year teaching middle school English in Chester, New Jersey. Joe talks with host Ryan Tibbens about adjusting to pandemic conditions, supporting young teachers, creating "real world" and project-based opportunities for students, publishing, and more -- including why he hasn't retired yet! Joe is one of the busiest people we've met on the ClassCast Podcast, from winning multiple state and national level awards to serving on professional organizations' boards, from teaching middle school and college to volunteering with the Boy Scouts of America and at his local church. In this wide-ranging, intimate conversation, Joe shares what keeps him motivated, how to connect with students, and even why a comfort note or sincere consolation can help someone through personal tragedy and loss. Given that 50% of teachers leave the profession within five years and that the national average career length is currently around 14 years (and dropping steadily in recent decades), Joe Pizzo offers a refreshing look at what makes teaching great and why great teachers stick around. Table of Contents0:00 - 7:40 -- Intro/Why Not Retire?7:46 - 17:39 -- Changes during 47 Year Career?17:40 - 24:15 -- Pandemics & Tough Discussions in School24:30 - 32:25 -- Joseph Pizzo: the Student & Young Teacher32:26 - 36:15 -- Advice for Young Teachers (continued below)36:16 - 43:57 -- A Case Study in Patient, Persistent Education44:07 - 53:44 -- Pizzo's Ideal School (plus Standardized Testing & Accountability)53:45 - 1:01:12 -- 9/11 Ceremony & Project-Based Learning1:01:13 - 1:02:33 -- Advice for Young Teachers (continued)1:02:33 - 1:04:06 -- PBL & Real World Opportunities1:04:15 - 1:07:23 -- AMLE 2020 Educator of the Year1:07:24 - 1:11:54 -- Power Skills, Soft Skills, & Personal Development1:11:54 - 1:25:00 -- Book & Movie Recommendations1:25:00 - 1:32:18 -- Writing Can Change Everything & Comfort Notes1:32:18 - 1:39:40 -- Final ThoughtsBe sure to like, share, follow, subscribe, and leave a positive review wherever you get your podcasts. The ClassCast Podcast streams on all major services and aims to improve education by hosting thoughtful, critical discussions about how we can do school (and life) better -- an education podcast for everyone, not just teachers. Be sure to leave a comment or review and let us know what you think. Support the show (http://paypal.me/TibbensEST)

Ep.041 -- Tibbens -- Antiracism, Hypocrisy, Protests, & Education

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 14, 2020 44:14

ClassCast Podcast Ep.041 features host Ryan Tibbens discussing racism, antiracism, acts of protest (particularly in professional sports), reactions to those protests, as well as why and how teachers can facilitate these discussions in the classroom. If you have ever paid attention to debates about NFL players kneeling during the national anthem, or if you heard about players' moment of silence (and the crowd booing) during the first game of the season, this episode provides perspectives that might help people better understand both sides of the discussion. And for teachers and parents, the examination of those perspectives should serve as starting point for deep, honest discussions with our students and peers. For additional ideas on the subject, here's an article I wrote in 2016 about Colin Kaepernick's demonstrations. You can access the full, correct text of Martin Luther King's "Letter from Birmingham Jail" here; his speech to the APA, including discussion of "Urban Riots" is available here. Be sure to like, follow, share, subscribe, and leave a positive review to help spread the word about the ClassCast Podcast. If you want to share your own views on these protests or how to facilitate discussions about racism in school, join the discussions via www.facebook.com/ClassCastPodcast and www.twitter.com/ClassCastPod. Support the show (http://paypal.me/TibbensEST)

Ep.040 -- Garrett Pierce -- Distance Learning, Mental Health, Brewing, & Learning by Doing

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 10, 2020 100:01

ClassCast Podcast Ep.040 features Garrett Pierce, a recent online college graduate AND face-to-face college graduate, sharing insights into distance learning, the rigidity of high school, students' mental health struggles, improving schools, school choice, and learning by doing. Garrett, a former student of host Ryan Tibbens, also shares his passions for music, movies, brewing beer, baking bread and pizzas, and the finer things in life. If you're interested in a student and young professional's perspective on education and worthy reforms, look no further. Check out the Table of Contents below to identify clips and sections that fit your interests, or enjoy the whole conversation. Don't forget to like, follow, share, retweet, subscribe, and leave a positive review wherever you get your podcasts. Table of ContentsIntro/ Garrett as a Student/ Student Mental Health -- 0:00-11:41Hands-On Learning & VoTech -- 11:42-17:21Breweing Beer -- 17:25-22:152nd Degree Software Programmer -- 22:16-29:51Religion & Education -- 29:53-35:03School as Vocational Training -- 35:04-41:25The Ideal School, Learning Styles, & Choice -- 45:26-57:20Class Choice, Mental Health, & Student Loans -- 57:12-105:30Distance Learning -- 1:05:30-1:18:18Movie/Book Recs. -- 1:18:14-1:32:09The War on Normal People -- 1:25:39-1:30:17Cooking, Baking, & Brewing -- 1:32:10-1:37:53Support the show (http://paypal.me/TibbensEST)

Ep.039 -- Mike Bergin & Amy Seeley -- Standardized Tests & the Rest

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 23, 2020 54:59

ClassCast Podcast Ep.039 features Mike Bergin and Amy Seeley -- standardized test experts, tutors, entrepreneurs, networkers, and podcasters -- speaking with host Ryan Tibbens about high stakes testing, the evolution of tests, "good testers," equity, grade inflation, improving schools, and much more. This discussion covers it all -- from becoming standardized test experts to school curriculum, from Randy Moss to Leo Tolstoy.Table of Contents Intro/Changing Tests over Time -- 0:00-9:12Randy Moss: Do "Good Testers" Make Good Tutors? -- 9:15-17:37Leo Tolstoy: All about "Naturally Good Testers" -- 17:38-20:46Is the SAT Legit? -- 20:47-23:40Test Prep: Strategies vs Skills and Curriculum -- 23:49-33:28Don't Kill the Messenger: Grade Inflation & Equity -- 33:29-44:41Ideal Schools: More Reading, Smaller Classes, & Peer Teaching -- 44:53-49:48Recommendations: Books & Movies -- 49:50-53:03Wrap-Up/Final Wisdom -- 53:21-54:58Mike Bergin and Amy Seeley host the Tests & the Rest: The College Admissions Industry Podcast, which Ryan appeared on to talk about rhetoric and admissions essays; through their podcasting, they've spoken with well over 100 industry experts about different aspects of college admissions, testing, writing, research, and more. In addition to their podcast, Mike and Amy are the co-founders of the Test Prep Tribe private Facebook group for tutors and the National Test Prep Association, an all-new professional organization that connects and supports independent test prep tutors around the world. Mike Bergin is the president of Chariot Learning in Rochester, New York; he previously tutored and worked as testing expert for Princeton Review and Huntington Learning Center. Amy Seeley is the president of Seeley Test Pros in Cleveland, Ohio; she previously tutored and trained with Princeton Review. Between them, they have over 50 years of test prep tutoring experience. Be sure to check out their podcast, particularly the episode featuring our host Ryan Tibbens.Support the show (http://paypal.me/TibbensEST)