#EdChat Radio

This conversation explores the evolution and implications of standardized testing in education, highlighting concerns about its effectiveness in measuring 21st century skills and the impact of government policies on educational standards. The speakers discuss the need for reform in assessment methods and the importance of preparing students for future challenges through collaborative learning and digital literacy @markwestonphd.bsky.social @lincoln1809.bsky.social Harvey Alvy served as a practicing principal for 14 years in both elementary and secondary schools. Harvey's international school leadership experiences ranged from New Delhi to Israel and Singapore. He was selected as an NAESP National Distinguished Principal and is a founding member of the Principals' Training Center for International Schools. Harvey is Professor Emeritus at Eastern Washington University, where he received the Faculty Achievement Award for Teaching Excellence and held the William C. Shreeve Endowed Professorship in School Leadership. His most recent book is Fighting for Change in Your School: How to Avoid Fads and Focus on Substance (ASCD, 2017). He has co-authored, with Pam Robbins, Learning From Lincoln: Leadership Practices for School Success, The Principal's Companion, The New Principal's Fieldbook, and If I Only Knew: Success Strategies for Navigating the Principalship. With Jane Liu, Harvey co-authored a Mandarin book for Chinese school principals, The Principal Management Handbook: The American Principal's Approach to Successful Administration.

The conversation discusses the increase in student absenteeism during the pandemic and its impact on teachers and teaching. It explores the reasons behind the absenteeism, such as the optional nature of school, emotional issues, and anxiety. The conversation also highlights the inability of the education system to address big issues and the fractured relationships among stakeholders. Possible solutions mentioned include improving communication with parents, offering tutoring and SEL support, and reestablishing connections with the community. The conversation concludes with the need for leadership and a change in perception about the value of education. Follow on Twitter: @AggieAshley @tomwhitby @ShiftParadigm @HarveyAlvy1 @danacoledares @bamradionetwork @jonHarper70bd Ed Chat Archive: http://edchat.pbworks.com/ Ashley Eberhart is in her 11th year of teaching as a Spanish Teacher at Round Rock High School in Round Rock, Texas. She serves as the Vice President for the Texas Foreign Language Association and the Austin Area Chairperson for the Texas A&M Hispanic Network. Ashley has presented from the campus level all the way to the national level on various topics such as SEL classroom strategies, building relationships in the virtual space, and implementing authentic resources for World Languages to advance interpretive proficiency. When she's not in teacher mode, she spends time with her husband and her teenage son and enjoys cooking, baking, traveling, blogging, and helping out in the Texas BBQ Community. Harvey Alvy served as a practicing principal for 14 years in both elementary and secondary schools. Harvey's international school leadership experiences ranged from New Delhi, to Israel, and Singapore. He was selected as an NAESP National Distinguished Principal and is a founding member of the Principals' Training Center for International Schools. Harvey is Professor Emeritus at Eastern Washington University, where he received the Faculty Achievement Award for Teaching Excellence and held the William C. Shreeve Endowed Professorship in School Leadership. His most recent book is Fighting for Change in Your School: How to Avoid Fads and Focus on Substance (ASCD, 2017). He has co-authored, with Pam Robbins, Learning From Lincoln: Leadership Practices for School Success, The Principal's Companion, The New Principal's Fieldbook, and If I Only Knew: Success Strategies for Navigating the Principalship. With Jane Liu, Harvey co-authored a Mandarin book for Chinese school principals, The Principal Management Handbook: The American Principal's Approach to Successful Administration. Mark Weston, Ph.D. has worked at all levels of the educational system — classroom, school, congress, US Department of Education, technology companies and universities. He's currently an Associate Dean at Georgia Tech.

We discuss the implications of cell phone usage in schools, exploring the evolution of technology in education, the debate surrounding cell phone bans, and the importance of engagement and responsibility in learning. We emphasize the need for teacher professionalism and trust and the necessity of addressing real-world issues rather than resorting to bans. The conversation highlights the importance of preparing students for a future where they must navigate technology responsibly. Follow on Twitter: @tomwhitby @ShiftParadigm @HarveyAlvy1 @danacoledares @bamradionetwork @jonHarper70bd Ed Chat Archive: http://edchat.pbworks.com/ Harvey Alvy served as a practicing principal for 14 years in both elementary and secondary schools. Harvey's international school leadership experiences ranged from New Delhi to Israel and Singapore. He was selected as an NAESP National Distinguished Principal and is a founding member of the Principals' Training Center for International Schools. Harvey is Professor Emeritus at Eastern Washington University, where he received the Faculty Achievement Award for Teaching Excellence and held the William C. Shreeve Endowed Professorship in School Leadership. His most recent book is (ASCD, 2017). He has co-authored, with Pam Robbins, Learning From Lincoln: Leadership Practices for School Success, The Principal's Companion, The New Principal's Fieldbook, and If I Only Knew: Success Strategies for Navigating the Principalship. With Jane Liu, Harvey co-authored a Mandarin book for Chinese school principals, The Principal Management Handbook: The American Principal's Approach to Successful Administration. Mark Weston Ph.D. has worked at all levels of the educational system — classroom, school, congress, US Department of Education, technology companies and universities. He's currently an Associate Dean at Georgia Tech.

This week, we search for a better professional development model in education. We begin by examining the outdated approaches and underscore the importance of respecting self-directed and active learning. The conversation emphasizes the need to capture the wisdom of teachers and provide them with choices in their professional development. It also highlights the challenges of implementing change and the role of coaches in supporting teachers. The use of technology, such as video recordings and asynchronous dialogue, is seen as a valuable tool for professional development. The conversation concludes with the idea that better-educating educators is essential for better educating students. Follow on Twitter: @HarveyAlvy1 @danacoledares @tomwhitby @bamradionetwork @jonHarper70bd @DRescigno Don Rescigno has been a leader in the education industry for 25 years. He has led marketing, sales, product, and technology teams and has spent roughly the last decade focused on using video-based technology to improve educators' professional learning. Don is currently the Managing Director of Teaching Channel. Harvey Alvy served as a practicing principal for 14 years in both elementary and secondary schools. Harvey's international school leadership experiences ranged from New Delhi to Israel, and Singapore. He was selected as a NAESP National Distinguished Principal and is a founding member of the Principals' Training Center for International Schools. Harvey is Professor Emeritus at Eastern Washington University, where he received the Faculty Achievement Award for Teaching Excellence and held the William C. Shreeve Endowed Professorship in School Leadership. His most recent book is Fighting for Change in Your School: How to Avoid Fads and Focus on Substance (ASCD, 2017). He has co-authored, with Pam Robbins, Learning From Lincoln: Leadership Practices for School Success, The Principal's Companion, The New Principal's Fieldbook, and If I Only Knew: Success Strategies for Navigating the Principalship. With Jane Liu, Harvey co-authored a Mandarin book for Chinese school principals, The Principal Management Handbook: The American Principal's Approach to Successful Administration.

Instructional coaches can play a crucial role in supporting teachers, particularly in implementing new strategies or technologies in the classroom. This episode highlights the importance of coaches being dedicated staff members who work solely with teachers, not students. The discussion acknowledged that while this model may require significant investment, it could lead to more effective professional development than traditional methods. It is emphasized that the success of instructional coaches can't be measured solely by test scores, but also by improvements in teacher confidence and skills. Follow on Twitter: @tomwhitby @curriculumblog @HarveyAlvy1 @danacoledares @bamradionetwork @jonHarper70bd Ed Chat Archive: http://edchat.pbworks.com Dr. Steven Weber is an Assistant Principal at Rogers Heritage High School (AR). He has spent over twenty-five years in education, serving as a teacher, administrator, and adjunct professor. His leadership experience includes serving as Associate Superintendent for Teaching and Learning with Fayetteville Public Schools (AR), Executive Director for Curriculum and Instruction with Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools (NC), and Director of Secondary Instruction for Orange County Schools (NC). Weber was a social studies curriculum specialist with the Arkansas Department of Education and North Carolina Department of Public Instruction. In 2019, Weber was named the AACIA (Arkansas Association of Curriculum & Instruction Administrators) Administrator of the Year. Weber is the past president of the Arkansas Association of Curriculum & Instruction Administrators, vice president of Arkansas ASCD, and has served on multiple state and national boards.

The conversation explores how generative artificial intelligence is moving from theory to practical application in classrooms. It highlights the initial resistance to AI tools like ChatGPT in schools, including fears of academic dishonesty and challenges of policy adaptation. However, the discourse has evolved to recognize AI's potential for enhancing personalized learning and providing opportunities for both teachers and students to learn collaboratively. The discussion also touches on the importance of flexible educational policies that can keep pace with technological advancements, ensuring AI is used ethically and effectively to prepare students for future careers. Follow on Twitter: @HarveyAlvy1 @danacoledares @bamradionetwork @TomWhitby @jonHarper70bd Ed Chat Archive: http://edchat.pbworks.com/ Harvey Alvy served as a practicing principal for 14 years in both elementary and secondary schools. Harvey's international school leadership experiences ranged from New Delhi to Israel and Singapore. He was selected as an NAESP National Distinguished Principal and is a founding member of the Principals' Training Center for International Schools. Harvey is Professor Emeritus at Eastern Washington University, where he received the Faculty Achievement Award for Teaching Excellence and held the William C. Shreeve Endowed Professorship in School Leadership. His most recent book is Fighting for Change in Your School: How to Avoid Fads and Focus on Substance. He has co-authored, with Pam Robbins, Learning From Lincoln: Leadership Practices for School Success, The Principal's Companion, The New Principal's Fieldbook, and If I Only Knew: Success Strategies for Navigating the Principalship. With Jane Liu, Harvey co-authored a Mandarin book for Chinese school principals, The Principal Management Handbook: The American Principal's Approach to Successful Administration.

Today's discussion centers on safety practices in the U.S. and New Zealand, touching on various methods like armed guards, metal detectors, and inclusive policies. We explored differences in safety perceptions, physical and psychological while highlighting the importance of feeling safe as a component of overall security. Ed Chat Archive: http://edchat.pbworks.com/ Lisa Harwood is an intermediate school teacher based in New Zealand. She teaches Year 8 (Grade 7) as a homeroom class, teaching all core curriculum areas.

College costs continue to rise, driving many families and students into decades of debt. Meanwhile, new career opportunities that pay well and don't require a college degree are emerging. How can teachers help students explore future-ready careers beyond traditional college? Follow on Twitter: @TechKnowMath@danacoledares @tomwhitby @bamradionetwork @jonHarper70bd Ed Chat Archive: http://edchat.pbworks.com/ Susan Carriker is a retired mathematics educator with 36 years of experience in secondary teaching, curriculum writing and technology training. She resides in Brantley, AL where she enjoys creating mathematics assessments and training videos for her TechKnowMath.com followers.

Public education is in a state of flux that some see as a wild, wild west moment rich with possibilities and potential peril. This week, discuss the changes educators see on the horizon and how they are preparing to respond. Follow on Twitter: @TheThinkingProj @danacoledares @tomwhitby @bamradionetwork @jonHarper70bd. Ed Chat Archive: http://edchat.pbworks.com/ Rachel Pickett strives to work with teachers, colleagues, students and herself to build classrooms where diverse perspectives are valued, learning is relevant to the lives all of us lead, and where students develop ways of thinking that support them in leading thoughtful, creative, contributing lives. Finding authentic and innovative ways to bring Inquiry-Based Stress Reduction (IBSR) to young people has been a living turnaround in Rachel's life since 2004. It ignited her passion for becoming a teacher and co-founding The Thinking Project.

Why does student curiosity decline as students progress through higher grade levels? How can we sustain students' desire to learn as they grow older? We explore the range of potential reasons, from peer pressure to narrow interest and share strategies we've found most effective at keeping the desire to learn burning intensely. Follow on Twitter: @TechKnowMath@danacoledares @tomwhitby @bamradionetwork @jonHarper70bd Ed Chat Archive: http://edchat.pbworks.com/ Susan Carriker is a retired mathematics educator with 36 years of experience in secondary teaching, curriculum writing and technology training. She currently resides in Brantley, AL where she enjoys creating mathematics assessments and training videos for her TechKnowMath.com followers.

As the practice of book banning in schools gains momentum, we discuss how we can honor parents' concerns while ensuring students can access diverse literature. One solution offered is relying more on certified school librarians who have specialized expertise in this area. Follow on Twitter: @PreK33@danacoledares @tomwhitby @bamradionetwork @jonHarper70bd. Ed Chat Archive: http://edchat.pbworks.com/ Kris Jenkins is an early childhood educator with over 40 years of experience teaching our youngest learners. She has extensive training in trauma-responsive teaching and is a trainer. She has written a book about the importance of family engagement, Teamwork Makes the Dream Work.

This week we talk about “teachable moments” when teachers stop the usual lessons to talk about things happening in the world that matter to students. The conversation shows how important these moments are for making students feel like they're part of their community and the bigger world. But it also looks at the tough parts, like figuring out what's okay to talk about in class and how to deal with wrong information on social media. Follow on Twitter: @TheThinkingProj @HarveyAlvy1 @danacoledares @tomwhitby @bamradionetwork @jonHarper70bd Ed Chat Archive: http://edchat.pbworks.com/ Rachel Pickett strives to work with teachers, colleagues, students and herself to build classrooms where diverse perspectives are valued, learning is relevant to the lives all of us lead, and where students develop ways of thinking that support them in leading thoughtful, creative, contributing lives. Finding authentic and innovative ways to bring Inquiry-Based Stress Reduction (IBSR) to young people has been a living turnaround in Rachel's life since 2004. It ignited her passion for becoming a teacher and co-founding The Thinking Project. Harvey Alvy has served as a teacher, principal, and university professor, and was honored to be a National Distinguished Principal. He is the author of Fighting for Change in Your School: How to Avoid Fads and Focus on Substance, and co-author of Learning From Lincoln: Leadership Practices for School Success.

Teacher observations can be beneficial and helpful, or intimidating and counterproductive. How can we make these experiences more meaningful and effective? Follow on Twitter: @tomwhitby @ShiftParadigm @HarveyAlvy1 @danacoledares @bamradionetwork @jonHarper70bd Ed Chat Archive: http://edchat.pbworks.com/ Harvey Alvy served as a practicing principal for 14 years in both elementary and secondary schools. Harvey's international school leadership experiences ranged from New Delhi, to Israel, and Singapore. He was selected as a NAESP National DistinguishedPrincipal and is a founding member of the Principals' Training Center for International Schools. Harvey is Professor Emeritus at Eastern Washington University, where he received the Faculty Achievement Award for Teaching Excellence and held the William C. Shreeve Endowed Professorship in School Leadership. His most recent book is Fighting for Change in Your School: How to Avoid Fads and Focus on Substance (ASCD, 2017). He has co-authored, with Pam Robbins, Learning From Lincoln: Leadership Practices for School Success, The Principal's Companion, The New Principal's Fieldbook, and If I Only Knew: Success Strategies for Navigating the Principalship. With Jane Liu, Harvey co-authored a Mandarin book for Chinese school principals, The Principal Management Handbook: The American Principal's Approach to Successful Administration. Mark Weston Ph.D. has worked at all levels of the educational system — classroom, school, congress, US Department of Education, technology companies and universities. He's currently an Associate Dean at Georgia Tech.

Education conference season has started. In this episode, we look at conferences and explore ways to get the most out of attending them. Follow on Twitter: @tomwhitby @HarveyAlvy1 @danacoledares @bamradionetwork @jonHarper70bd Ed Chat Archive: http://edchat.pbworks.com/ Harvey Alvy served as a practicing principal for 14 years in both elementary and secondary schools. Harvey's international school leadership experiences ranged from New Delhi, to Israel, and Singapore. He was selected as a NAESP National Distinguished Principal and is a founding member of the Principals' Training Center for International Schools. Harvey is Professor Emeritus at Eastern Washington University, where he received the Faculty Achievement Award for Teaching Excellence and held the William C. Shreeve Endowed Professorship in School Leadership. His most recent book is Fighting for Change in Your School: How to Avoid Fads and Focus on Substance (ASCD, 2017). He has co-authored, with Pam Robbins, Learning From Lincoln: Leadership Practices for School Success, The Principal's Companion, The New Principal's Fieldbook, and If I Only Knew: Success Strategies for Navigating the Principalship. With Jane Liu, Harvey co-authored a Mandarin book for Chinese school principals, The Principal Management Handbook: The American Principal's Approach to Successful Administration.

As we close this school year, most of us now see the pandemic in the rearview mirror.  How did the pandemic change education?  What evolved? What stuck? what faded?  What Worked? Follow on Twitter: @HarveyAlvy1 @danacoledares  @tomwhitby @bamradionetwork @jonHarper70bd. Ed Chat Archive: http://edchat.pbworks.com/Harvey Alvy has served as a teacher, principal, and university professor, and was honored to be a National Distinguished Principal. He is the author of Fighting for Change in Your School: How to Avoid Fads and Focus on Substance, and co-author of Learning From Lincoln: Leadership Practices for School Success.

The pandemic is technically behind us, and most schooling has returned to face-to-face instruction. What has not returned to normal is student attendance.  An NPR study of 21 school districts found widespread, chronic absenteeism nationwide, leaving many teachers wondering, "Where are my students?" Follow on Twitter: @MonteSyrie  @Robin H @danacoledares  @tomwhitby  @bamradionetwork @bamradionetwork @jonHarper70bd. Ed Chat Archive: http://edchat.pbworks.com/ Monte Syrie is a high school ELA teacher in Washington state. A 27-year veteran, he writes extensively about his experiences in the classroom on his blog (www.letschangeeducation.com) and in his recently published book, better: A Teacher's Journey. Robin Hicks is a teacher of students who are learning in confinement.

We know education is evolving, and professional development is necessary. So how can we make PD more relevant, practical, and useful? Follow on Twitter: @HarveyAlvy1 @ShiftParadigm @danacoledares @tomwhitby @bamradionetwork @jonHarper70bd. Ed Chat Archive: http://edchat.pbworks.com/ Mark Weston Ph.D. has worked at all levels of the educational system — classroom, school, congress, US Department of Education, technology companies and universities. He's currently an Associate Dean at Georgia Tech. Harvey Alvy has served as a teacher, principal, and university professor, and was honored to be a National Distinguished Principal. He is the author of Fighting for Change in Your School: How to Avoid Fads and Focus on Substance, and co-author of Learning From Lincoln: Leadership Practices for School Success.

Teaching, learning, and society have changed significantly over the last 20-40 years. In this discussion, we look at how we adapted to these changes and how we they altered our profession and practices. Follow on Twitter: @HarveyAlvy1 @danacoledares @tomwhitby @bamradionetwork @jonHarper70bd. Ed Chat Archive: http://edchat.pbworks.com/ Harvey Alvy has served as a teacher, principal, and university professor, and was honored to be a National Distinguished Principal. He is the author of Fighting for Change in Your School: How to Avoid Fads and Focus on Substance, and co-author of Learning From Lincoln: Leadership Practices for School Success.

We've been conditioned to believe that if we wait long enough, any new trend in education will eventually pass. But What if ChatGPT and Generative Artificial Intelligence are here to stay? Follow on Twitter: @shiftparadigm @HarveyAlvy1 @tomwhitby @bamradionetwork @jonHarper70bd Ed Chat Archive: http://edchat.pbworks.com/ Mark Weston Ph.D. has worked at all levels of the educational system — classroom, school, congress, US Dept of education, technology companies and universities. He's currently an Associate Dean at Georgia Tech. Harvey Alvy has served as a teacher, principal, and university professor, and was honored to be a National Distinguished Principal. He is the author of Fighting for Change in Your School: How to Avoid Fads and Focus on Substance, and co-author of Learning From Lincoln: Leadership Practices for School Success.

The chasm between education research and practice is long-standing and persistent.  Why is the gap so difficult to close, and what can be done to change this dynamic? Follow on Twitter: @ShiftParadigm @danacoledares  @tomwhitby @bamradionetwork @jonHarper70bd. Ed Chat Archive: http://edchat.pbworks.com/ Mark Weston Ph.D. has worked at all levels of the educational system — classroom, school, congress, US Dept of education, technology companies and universities. He's currently an Associate Dean at Georgia Tech.

The term ‘woke' is a label increasingly used to describe educators and education policies, but what does it really mean? Who created the term? How did this slang become a label used to disparage educators and education? Does it matter, and if so, why? Follow on Twitter: @HarveyAlvy1 @danacoledares @tomwhitby @bamradionetwork @jonHarper70bd. Ed Chat Archive: http://edchat.pbworks.com/ Harvey Alvy has served as a teacher, principal, and university professor, and was honored to be a National Distinguished Principal. He is the author of Fighting for Change in Your School: How to Avoid Fads and Focus on Substance, and co-author of Learning From Lincoln: Leadership Practices for School Success.

In this discussion, we look back at how we've responded to innovations in education to get some perspective on what we can likely expect about the road ahead for ChatGPT. Follow on Twitter: @HarveyAlvy1 @danacoledares @tomwhitby @bamradionetwork @jonHarper70bd. Ed Chat Archive: http://edchat.pbworks.com/ Harvey Alvy has served as a teacher, principal, and university professor, and was honored to be a National Distinguished Principal. He is the author of Fighting for Change in Your School: How to Avoid Fads and Focus on Substance, and co-author of Learning From Lincoln: Leadership Practices for School Success.

How can we best determine that students are authentically grasping the lessons we're teaching? How can we best confirm that learning objectives are met? This week we discuss the best measures of actual learning and the shifts required to embrace them. Follow on Twitter: @HarveyAlvy1 @danacoledares @tomwhitby @bamradionetwork @jonHarper70bd. Ed Chat Archive: http://edchat.pbworks.com/ Harvey Alvy has served as a teacher, principal, and university professor, and was honored to be a National Distinguished Principal. He is the author of Fighting for Change in Your School: How to Avoid Fads and Focus on Substance, and co-author of Learning From Lincoln: Leadership Practices for School Success.

In this episode, we discuss the challenges of co-teaching special needs students and what works when collaborating with special needs teachers. Follow on Twitter: @HarveyAlvy1 @danacoledares @tomwhitby @bamradionetwork @jonHarper70bd. Ed Chat Archive: http://edchat.pbworks.com/ Harvey Alvy has served as a teacher, principal, and university professor and was honored to be a National Distinguished Principal. He is the author of Fighting for Change in Your School: How to Avoid Fads and Focus on Substance and co-author of Learning From Lincoln: Leadership Practices for School Success

Teachers, students, and parents often need and want different things from a school principal. In this episode, we summarize the edchat discussion where participants shared what they believe are the qualities of a great principal. Follow on Twitter: @HarveyAlvy1 @danacoledares @tomwhitby @bamradionetwork @jonHarper70bd. Ed Chat Archive: http://edchat.pbworks.com/ Harvey Alvy has served as a teacher, principal, and university professor, and was honored to be a National Distinguished Principal. He is the author of Fighting for Change in Your School: How to Avoid Fads and Focus on Substance, and co-author of Learning From Lincoln: Leadership Practices for School Success.

So many of us have connected on Twitter and used the tool for collaboration, support, and professional development. The platform opened myriad new possibilities for us, but now that Twitter's future is uncertain, many are wondering what we'll do if Twitter goes away. Follow on Twitter: @HarveyAlvy1 @danacoledares @tomwhitby @bamradionetwork @jonHarper70bd. Harvey Alvy has served as a teacher, principal, and university professor, and was honored to be a National Distinguished Principal. He is the author of Fighting for Change in Your School: How to Avoid Fads and Focus on Substance, and co-author of Learning From Lincoln: Leadership Practices for School Success.

The volume of big and small decisions we make in our classrooms daily is surprising when examined closely. Which decisions and tasks could be passed to support staff, and what is required to begin freeing teachers of these distracting and draining activities? Follow on Twitter: @ItsAMrY @DrRobinERuiz1 @HarveyAlvy1 @danacoledares @tomwhitby @bamradionetwork @jonHarper70bd. Ed Chat Archive: http://edchat.pbworks.com/ Dr. Robin Ruizi is an Education Visionary, Researcher, PhD in Ed, Learning, Instruction, Innovation. Recent Contributions include published Chapter on Resources in XR, AR, VR for the secondary students with Trauma. Artist, Chef, and love social sciences. Adam Yankay has 20 years of teaching experience, 13 of which are in boarding schools. His students learn AP Statistics, various sports, and hopefully even more about themselves. He believes his most valuable work in schools is to help the most vulnerable math students develop confidence and joy in the learning process. He currently lives in Hudson, Ohio with his wife and three children.

EdChat started out as a safe and supportive platform to connect teachers and school leaders and exchange ideas. Online educator chats have evolved and so has #edchat. Today we look back, then forward, and say goodbye to one of our most valued hosts. Follow on Twitter: @HarveyAlvy1 @danacoledares @ShiftParadigm @tomwhitby @sgthomas1973 @bamradionetwork @jonHarper70bd. Ed Chat Archive: http://edchat.pbworks.com/ Mark Weston Ph.D. has worked at all levels of the educational system — classroom, school, congress, US Dept of education, technology companies and universities. He's currently an Associate Dean at Georgia Tech. Harvey Alvy has served as a teacher, principal, and university professor, and was honored to be a National Distinguished Principal. He is the author of Fighting for Change in Your School: How to Avoid Fads and Focus on Substance, and co-author of Learning From Lincoln: Leadership Practices for School Success.

As sensitive topics increasingly seep into our classrooms, how do we approach discussions with integrity, fidelity, and respect? Follow on Twitter: @HarveyAlvy1 @danacoledares @tomwhitby @AggieAshley @sgthomas1973 @bamradionetwork @bamradionetwork @jonHarper70bd. Ed Chat Archive: http://edchat.pbworks.com/ Ashley Eberhart is in her 11th year of teaching as a Spanish Teacher at Round Rock High School in Round Rock, Texas. She serves as the Vice President for the Texas Foreign Language Association and the Austin Area Chairperson for the Texas A&M Hispanic Network. Ashley has presented from the campus level all the way to the national level on various topics such as SEL classroom strategies, building relationships in the virtual space, and implementing authentic resources for World Languages to advance interpretive proficiency. When she's not in teacher mode, she spends time with her husband and her teenage son and enjoys cooking, baking, traveling, blogging, and helping out in the Texas BBQ Community.

Substitute teachers do their best to fill gaps and ensure the continuity of learning. In this discussion, we look for better ways to help subs help us. Follow on Twitter: @HarveyAlvy1 @tomwhitby @AggieAshley @sgthomas1973 @bamradionetwork @jonHarper70bd Ed Chat Archive: http://edchat.pbworks.com/ Ashley Eberhart is in her 11th year of teaching as a Spanish Teacher at Round Rock High School in Round Rock, Texas. She serves as the Vice President for the Texas Foreign Language Association and the Austin Area Chairperson for the Texas A&M Hispanic Network. Ashley has presented from the campus level all the way to the national level on various topics such as SEL classroom strategies, building relationships in the virtual space, and implementing authentic resources for World Languages to advance interpretive proficiency. When she's not in teacher mode, she spends time with her husband and her teenage son and enjoys cooking, baking, traveling, blogging, and helping out in the Texas BBQ Community.

Substitute teachers do their best to fill gaps and ensure the continuity of learning.  In this discussion, we look for betters ways to help subs help us. Follow on Twitter: @HarveyAlvy1 @tomwhitby @AggieAshley @sgthomas1973 @bamradionetwork @jonHarper70bd Ed Chat Archive: http://edchat.pbworks.com/ Ashley Eberhart is in her 11th year of teaching as a Spanish Teacher at Round Rock High School in Round Rock, Texas. She serves as the Vice President for the Texas Foreign Language Association and the Austin Area Chairperson for the Texas A&M Hispanic Network.  Ashley has presented from the campus level all the way to the national level on various topics such as SEL classroom strategies, building relationships in the virtual space, and implementing authentic resources for World Languages to advance interpretive proficiency. When she's not in teacher mode, she spends time with her husband and her teenage son and enjoys cooking, baking, traveling, blogging, and helping out in the Texas BBQ Community.https://www.bamradionetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/WEDC.Chat82322SubstituteE.mp3

The impact of the pandemic on student learning is now well supported and schools are immersed in rolling out plans and programs to accelerate learning.  At this point, what do we know about learning recovery and what matters most? Follow on Twitter: @HarveyAlvy1 @danacoledares @tomwhitby @sgthomas1973 @bamradionetwork @jonHarper70bd. Ed Chat Archive: http://edchat.pbworks.com/ Dana Cole teaches language arts at a high school in northwest Georgia, just across the state line from Chattanooga, Tennessee. On evenings, weekends, and holidays, she divides her time between her family, the theater, the library, and the internet.

One way that teachers routinely show how much we care is by spending personal funds on school supplies. With inflation rising, the cost of this habit is increasing as well. Today we discuss alternatives and quickly discovered there are options, some simple, some complicated. Follow on Twitter: @HarveyAlvy1 @Beth_Heidemann @danacoledares @tomwhitby @sgthomas1973 @bamradionetwork @jonHarper70bd. Ed Chat Archive: http://edchat.pbworks.com/ Beth Heidemann taught Kindergarten in a small, rural school on the coast of Maine for 25 years. She received the Presidential Award for Excellence in Math and Science Teaching, achieved National Board Certification, and was honored as county teacher of the year, a PBS Digital Innovator, and National Semiconductor Innovative Educator. She co-founded Go2Science in 2017 and now works with PreK-5 students internationally. Dana Cole teaches language arts at a high school in northwest Georgia, just across the state line from Chattanooga, Tennessee. On evenings, weekends, and holidays, she divides her time between her family, the theater, the library, and the internet.

In this episode, we recap a recent #edchat discussion on the many ways social media has changed education for the better along with some of the challenges it has introduced along the way. Follow on Twitter: @HarveyAlvy1 @tomwhitby @sgthomas1973 @bamradionetwork @jonHarper70bd Ed Chat Archive: http://edchat.pbworks.com/ Harvey Alvy has served as a teacher, principal, and university professor, and was honored to be a National Distinguished Principal. He is the author of Fighting for Change in Your School: How to Avoid Fads and Focus on Substance, and co-author of Learning From Lincoln: Leadership Practices for School Success.

This week we discussed the growing constellation of issues that have legal implications for educators.  The ground beneath our feet is shifting, and there are many new state laws across the nation that teachers need to know. Follow on Twitter: @HarveyAlvy1 @tomwhitby @sgthomas1973 @bamradionetwork @jonHarper70bd. Ed Chat Archive: http://edchat.pbworks.com/ Harvey Alvy has served as a teacher, principal, and university professor, and was honored to be a National Distinguished Principal. He is the author of Fighting for Change in Your School: How to Avoid Fads and Focus on Substance, and co-author of Learning From Lincoln: Leadership Practices for School Success.

In this episode, we look beyond the mission statement, obligatory activities, and social veneer to identify some authentic measures of a healthy school culture. How many exist at your school? Follow on Twitter: @DennisDill @tomwhitby @sgthomas1973 @jonHarper70bd  @bamradionetwork Ed Chat Archive: http://edchat.pbworks.com Dennis Dill is a Technology and Social Studies teacher at Jewett School of the Arts, a STEAM PreK - 8th-grade school, in Winter Haven, Florida. He manages the Fabrication Lab where technology enhances the making process, but the kids still get their hands dirty. Dennis earned a BA in Interdisciplinary Social Sciences from the University of South Florida and an MS in Education Media Design and Technology from FullSail University. Dennis has been teaching for 17 years.

How should we respond when the facts we are responsible for teaching conflict with community values and beliefs? It's a fine line that teachers increasingly need to walk as we balance what's in the best interest of students with what's required to keep our jobs. Follow on Twitter: @HarveyAlvy1 @danacoledares @tomwhitby @sgthomas1973 @bamradionetwork @jonHarper70bd. Dana Cole teaches language arts at a high school in northwest Georgia, just across the state line from Chattanooga, Tennessee. On evenings, weekends, and holidays, she divides her time between her family, the theater, the library, and the internet.

As many of us return to school this year, we will encounter a new and growing resistance to social-emotional learning. In this episode, we discuss what increasing numbers of non-educators misunderstand about SEL, how it's impacting student learning, and what every educator needs to know about this emerging trend. Follow on Twitter: @HarveyAlvy1 @tomwhitby @sgthomas1973 @bamradionetwork @jonHarper70bd Ed Chat Archive: http://edchat.pbworks.com/ Harvey Alvy has served as a teacher, principal, and university professor, and was honored to be a National Distinguished Principal. He is the author of Fighting for Change in Your School: How to Avoid Fads and Focus on Substance, and co-author of Learning From Lincoln: Leadership Practices for School Success.

Join us as we consider, compare, and contrast student assessments through the lens of how well they reflect how our teaching impacts student learning. Follow on Twitter: @HarveyAlvy1 @danacoledare @tomwhitby @sgthomas1973 @bamradionetwork @jonHarper70bd. Ed Chat Archive: http://edchat.pbworks.com/ Dana Cole teaches language arts at a high school in northwest Georgia, just across the state line from Chattanooga, Tennessee. On evenings, weekends, and holidays, she divides her time between her family, the theater, the library, and the internet.

In this episode, we take a fresh look at student teachers.  What has changed over the years, what has not and what works in the current educational climate? Follow on Twitter: @HarveyAlvy1 @tomwhitby @sgthomas1973 @bamradionetwork @jonHarper70bd Ed Chat Archive: http://edchat.pbworks.com/ Harvey Alvy has served as a teacher, principal, and university professor, and was honored to be a National Distinguished Principal. He is the author of Fighting for Change in Your School: How to Avoid Fads and Focus on Substance, and co-author of Learning From Lincoln: Leadership Practices for School Success.

In this episode, we talk about the three types of parent-teacher conferences and strategies to confidently and comfortably communicate with parents that lead to a positive and productive experience. Follow on Twitter: @HarveyAlvy1 @danacoledare @tomwhitby @sgthomas1973 @bamradionetwork @jonHarper70bd Ed Chat Archive: http://edchat.pbworks.com/ Harvey Alvy has served as a teacher, principal, and university professor, and was honored to be a National Distinguished Principal. He is the author of Fighting for Change in Your School: How to Avoid Fads and Focus on Substance, and co-author of Learning From Lincoln: Leadership Practices for School Success.

Assigning general academic teachers to special education inclusion classes is now a well-established practice. Some receive training and certification, some don't. What are the implications for students and teachers? In practice, what works and what doesn't? Follow on Twitter: @AveryOwlStars @HarveyAlvy1 @tomwhitby @sgthomas1973 @bamradionetwork @jonHarper70bd Ed Chat Archive: http://edchat.pbworks.com/ Danielle “Dani” Foster lives in St. Louis with her daughter and son. She has been teaching for 14 years and in that time she's taught ECE, 4th and 3rd grade. When she's not teaching she loves being active outdoors, reading and watching movies.

In theory, we're committed to reaching all students and leaving none behind. In practice, structural incentives define our priorities and focus. In this episode, we look at some of the strategies we're considering and reconsidering. Follow on Twitter: @HarveyAlvy1 @danacoledare @tomwhitby @sgthomas1973 @bamradionetwork @jonHarper70bd Ed Chat Archive: http://edchat.pbworks.com/ Dana Cole teaches language arts at a high school in northwest Georgia, just across the state line from Chattanooga, Tennessee. On evenings, weekends, and holidays, she divides her time between her family, the theater, the library, and the internet.

Many of us look forward to the summer education conferences, learning new strategies, discovering new tools, and meeting with old colleagues. In this episode, we talk about making the most of conferences and bringing those insights back to our schools. Follow on Twitter: @HarveyAlvy1 @tomwhitby @sgthomas1973 @bamradionetwork @jonHarper70bd Ed Chat Archive: http://edchat.pbworks.com/ Harvey Alvy has served as a teacher, principal, and university professor, and was honored to be a National Distinguished Principal. He is the author of Fighting for Change in Your School: How to Avoid Fads and Focus on Substance, and co-author of Learning From Lincoln: Leadership Practices for School Success.

It's grading season and we took a dive into the rationale for including or excluding formative assessments in our students' grades. Follow on Twitter: @HarveyAlvy1 @tomwhitby @sgthomas1973 @bamradionetwork @jonHarper70bd Ed Chat Archive: http://edchat.pbworks.com/ Harvey Alvy has served as a teacher, principal, and university professor, and was honored to be a National Distinguished Principal. He is the author of Fighting for Change in Your School: How to Avoid Fads and Focus on Substance, and co-author of Learning From Lincoln: Leadership Practices for School Success.

Barring another surprise, it's beginning to look like pandemic teaching and learning is behind us. As the memory of what we did fades, let's remember what worked very well for some students. Follow on Twitter: @tomwhitby @sgthomas1973 @HarveyAlvy1 @bamradionetwork @jonharper70bd Ed Chat Archive: http://edchat.pbworks.com/ Thomas D. Whitby is co-author of The Relevant Educator: How Connectedness Empowers Learning. Tom retired from public education after serving 34 years as a secondary English teacher and spent an additional six years as an adjunct professor at St Joseph's College in NY. He is a co-creator of #Edchat, an award-winning education discussion group on Twitter, blogger of My Island View: Educational, Disconnected Utterances, and recipient of the ISTE “Making IT Happen Award.” He hosts the weekly EdChat Radio. Shawn Thomas is in her 23rd year of teaching in the largest county in Georgia. She has taught Kindergarten, Second and Third Grade, and ESOL (English to Speakers of Other Languages) K-5.

School leaders have spent the year working to provide the support teachers need to navigate another demanding school year. In this episode, we explore why many teachers still feel insufficiently supported and what we need in the moment. Follow on Twitter: @HarveyAlvy1 @danacoledare @tomwhitby @sgthomas1973 @bamradionetwork @jonHarper70bd Ed Chat Archive: http://edchat.pbworks.com Dana Cole teaches language arts at a high school in northwest Georgia, just across the state line from Chattanooga, Tennessee. On evenings, weekends, and holidays, she divides her time between her family, the theater, the library, and the internet. Harvey Alvy has served as a teacher, principal, and university professor, and was honored to be a National Distinguished Principal. He is the author of Fighting for Change in Your School: How to Avoid Fads and Focus on Substance, and co-author of Learning From Lincoln: Leadership Practices for School Success.

There is a quiet, narrative out there that it's the lame, whiny teachers — who should be fired anyway — who are leaving teaching. In fact, some of our most passionate, committed, talented colleagues are hitting the ejector button and bailing out of a field they love. What is the message in the walkout, and are the right people listening? Follow on Twitter: @danacoledare @tomwhitby @sgthomas1973 @bamradionetwork @jonHarper70bd Ed Chat Archive: http://edchat.pbworks.com/ Dana Cole teaches language arts at a high school in northwest Georgia, just across the state line from Chattanooga, Tennessee. On evenings, weekends, and holidays, she divides her time between her family, the theater, the library, and the internet.

What happens to teachers and students when our commitment to teaching facts and higher-order thinking becomes unpopular and even unnecessary to succeed in our world? Follow on Twitter: @shiftparadigm @HarveyAlvy1 @tomwhitby @sgthomas1973 @bamradionetwork @jonHarper70bd Ed Chat Archive: http://edchat.pbworks.com/ Mark Weston Ph.D. has worked at all levels of the educational system — classroom, school, congress, US Dept of education, technology companies and universities. He's currently an Associate Dean at Georgia Tech. Harvey Alvy has served as a teacher, principal, and university professor, and was honored to be a National Distinguished Principal. He is the author of Fighting for Change in Your School: How to Avoid Fads and Focus on Substance, and co-author of Learning From Lincoln: Leadership Practices for School Success.

Virtually everyone is talking about Ukraine which makes it a bit curious that we're even asking whether we should talk about the Russian – Soviet conflict in our classroom. This week we posed the question on #Edchat. Follow on Twitter: @shiftparadigm @HarveyAlvy1 @tomwhitby @sgthomas1973 @bamradionetwork @jonHarper70bd Ed Chat Archive: http://edchat.pbworks.com/ Mark Weston Ph.D. has worked at all levels of the educational system — classroom, school, congress, US Dept of education, technology companies and universities. He's currently an Associate Dean at Georgia Tech. Harvey Alvy has served as a teacher, principal, and university professor, and was honored to be a National Distinguished Principal. He is the author of Fighting for Change in Your School: How to Avoid Fads and Focus on Substance, and co-author of Learning From Lincoln: Leadership Practices for School Success.

As the list of new laws rains down on our classrooms, we pause to look at a campaign to put video cameras in the classroom that's gaining momentum. Is there any good rationale for this? Are there any benefits to students and teachers? Are these policies about improving education? Follow on Twitter: @shiftparadigm @HarveyAlvy1 @tomwhitby @sgthomas1973 @bamradionetwork @jonHarper70bd Ed Chat Archive: http://edchat.pbworks.com/ Mark Weston Ph.D. has worked at all levels of the educational system — classroom, school, congress, US Dept of education, technology companies and universities. He's currently an Associate Dean at Georgia Tech. Harvey Alvy has served as a teacher, principal, and university professor, and was honored to be a National Distinguished Principal. He is the author of Fighting for Change in Your School: How to Avoid Fads and Focus on Substance, and co-author of Learning From Lincoln: Leadership Practices for School Success.