Teach Me, Teacher

Hello everyone! In this closing episode of Season 9, host Jacob Chastain takes a heartfelt look back at the journey so far. We get real about where the show stands today, the challenges and growth behind the scenes, and the exciting direction we're headed. Looking ahead to Season 10, big changes are on the horizon—new formats, fresh perspectives, and deeper conversations that push the boundaries of what Teach Me, Teacher has always been about: real talk for real educators. If you've been with us since the beginning, or just found us this season, this finale sets the stage for an evolution you won't want to miss. The best is yet to come. Subscribe now and stay tuned—Season 10 launches soon.

In this episode of Teach Me, Teacher, we delve into the transformative power of sports in shaping young minds. Joining us are Coach Alex Compton and Coach Kevin Dalafu, authors of Wisest Learners: Guiding Your Child's Athletic Journey.With over a decade of experience in coaching, parenting, and education, they offer invaluable insights into how sports can be a powerful tool for teaching young people morals, work ethic, and resilience. Drawing from their extensive backgrounds, Compton and Dalafu discuss how youth sports go beyond physical development, serving as a platform for instilling essential life skills. They share practical strategies for parents and coaches to foster environments where young athletes can thrive both on and off the field. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone involved in the development of young athletes, offering a fresh perspective on the integral role sports play in holistic education. Tune in to explore how guiding young athletes through their sports journey can lead to the cultivation of wisdom, resilience, and character. SPONSOR LINK: The School Me Podcast from NEA  

In this episode of Teach Me, Teacher, we delve into the transformative power of sports in shaping young minds. Joining us are Coach Alex Compton and Coach Kevin Dalafu, authors of Wisest Learners: Guiding Your Child's Athletic Journey.With over a decade of experience in coaching, parenting, and education, they offer invaluable insights into how sports can be a powerful tool for teaching young people morals, work ethic, and resilience. Drawing from their extensive backgrounds, Compton and Dalafu discuss how youth sports go beyond physical development, serving as a platform for instilling essential life skills. They share practical strategies for parents and coaches to foster environments where young athletes can thrive both on and off the field. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone involved in the development of young athletes, offering a fresh perspective on the integral role sports play in holistic education. Tune in to explore how guiding young athletes through their sports journey can lead to the cultivation of wisdom, resilience, and character.   SPONSOR LINK: The School Me Podcast from NEA  

In part 2 of this powerful episode, host Jacob Chastain sits down with Dr. John B. King Jr., the 10th U.S. Secretary of Education under President Obama, to discuss his new book Teacher by Teacher. They explore Dr. King's journey from classroom teacher to national education leader, offering a rare insider's perspective on the state of American education. Together, they unpack the challenges educators face today, including the growing politicization of the profession and its impact on schools and communities. A must-listen for anyone passionate about teaching, policy, and the future of education. John B. King Jr. served in President Barack Obama's cabinet as the tenth U.S. Secretary of Education. Over the course of his extensive and influential career in public education, he has been a high school social studies teacher, a middle school principal, the first African American and Puerto Rican to serve as New York State Education Commissioner, a college professor, and the president and CEO of the Education Trust, a national education civil rights organization. King is currently the chancellor of the State University of New York (SUNY), the nation's largest comprehensive system of public higher education. Both of King's parents were career New York City public school educators.   SPONSOR LINK: The School Me Podcast from NEA

In this powerful episode, host Jacob Chastain sits down with Dr. John B. King Jr., the 10th U.S. Secretary of Education under President Obama, to discuss his new book Teacher by Teacher. They explore Dr. King's journey from classroom teacher to national education leader, offering a rare insider's perspective on the state of American education. Together, they unpack the challenges educators face today, including the growing politicization of the profession and its impact on schools and communities. A must-listen for anyone passionate about teaching, policy, and the future of education. John B. King Jr. served in President Barack Obama's cabinet as the tenth U.S. Secretary of Education. Over the course of his extensive and influential career in public education, he has been a high school social studies teacher, a middle school principal, the first African American and Puerto Rican to serve as New York State Education Commissioner, a college professor, and the president and CEO of the Education Trust, a national education civil rights organization. King is currently the chancellor of the State University of New York (SUNY), the nation's largest comprehensive system of public higher education. Both of King's parents were career New York City public school educators. SPONSOR LINK: The School Me Podcast from NEA

Hello everyone! In this episode of Teach Me, Teacher, we dive into one of the most vital—and often overlooked—elements of teaching success: building genuine, lasting partnerships with parents. Whether you're a first-year teacher or a seasoned educator, gaining parent support can transform your classroom culture, student outcomes, and your overall teaching experience. Join us as we explore five actionable steps to connect with parents on a deeper level: Invite, Communicate, Extend, Follow-Up, and Educate. These steps go beyond surface-level interactions and help foster real trust, meaningful collaboration, and shared investment in student success. Tune in to learn how to move from parent contact to true parent partnership—and why this shift is essential for modern educators. Are you currently working on building parent relationships or preparing for future connections?

Hello everyone! What a title for a podcast. But, this is a real one. No guest, just me (Jacob Chastain,) the reality of changes in my life, and my continued frustration with the discussions around education.  For followers of the show, you have seen a lot of "Greatest Hits" episodes dropping. This is due for a lot of reasons that I go into, but the short of it is that life has thrown some major curveballs my way and it has been hard to balance everything. I am slowly getting there, but some things take time.  This episode details changes in my life and where I am finding it hard to navigate the changing landscape of discourse in education. Come along and dialogue with me! 

Hello everyone! Literacy Essentials by Regie Routman (Stenhouse 2018) is by far one of the most influential books I've read in my teaching career. It's a book I turn to weekly for advice, insight, and encouragement in my work to bring authentic literacy to my students.  So when I was given a chance to talk to Regie herself, I knew I couldn't pass up the opportunity. In part 1 of the podcast, we dove deep into the increasingly alarming practice of talking about students as if they are data points and not children. We discussed why we need to humanize our classrooms, and how to think about our school culture in a way that fosters equitable practices. In part 2, we took a look at some practices we are letting happen in our classes and schools that are hurting students, and what to do about them. And now in part 3, we are wrapping it all together in a discussion about why learning should be joyful—for teachers and students—and should drive us into the beauty and gift that is TEACHING. Do not miss it!  Enjoy!

Hello everyone! Literacy Essentials by Regie Routman (Stenhouse 2018) is by far one of the most influential books I've read in my teaching career. It's a book I turn to weekly for advice, insight, and encouragement in my work to bring authentic literacy to my students.  So when I was given a chance to talk to Regie herself, I knew I couldn't pass up the opportunity. In part 1 of the podcast, we dove deep into the increasingly alarming practice of talking about students as if they are data points and not children. We discussed why we need to humanize our classrooms, and how to think about our school culture in a way that fosters equitable practices. Today, we take a look at some practices we are letting happen in our classes and schools that are hurting students, and what to do about them. Among other topics, we hit on: Why breaking everything into parts makes learning harder for students Why “training” is not professional learning How modeling can elevate your lessons What it takes to begin innovating as a teacher, and as a student Do not miss it!  Enjoy!

This episode previously aired in another season. Hello everyone! Literacy Essentials by Regie Routman is by far one of the most influential books I've read in my teaching career. It's a book I turn to weekly for advice, insight, and encouragement in my work to bring authentic literacy to my students.  So when I was given a chance to talk to Regie herself, I knew I couldn't pass up the opportunity. To my delight, Regie is just as honest and passionate in person as she is in her many books. She doesn't waste time in our talk About Regie: REGIE ROUTMAN has more than forty-five years of experience working in diverse, under-performing schools across the U.S. and Canada as an educational leader, mentor teacher, literacy coach, classroom teacher, and teacher of students with learning differences. Her current work involves on-site demonstrations of highly effective literacy and leadership practices and side-by-side mentoring and coaching of principals, administrators, and lead teachers in order to improve reading and writing engagement, achievement, and enjoyment—across the curriculum–for all learners. Her many research-based books and resources have supported hundreds of thousands of teachers, principals, and educators at all levels to create and sustain trusting, intellectual school cultures where hearing all the voices and ongoing, professional learning are priorities. Regie's most recent book is Literacy Essentials: Engagement, Excellence, and Equity for All Learners. (Stenhouse, 2018) For full information on Regie's publications including her Transforming Our Teaching video-based, online literacy series, her PD offerings, and blogs, see www. regieroutman.org  

Hello everyone! Today, I am releasing what I believe is the most important podcast in the history of the show. Not only is it filled with honest and real world talk, it is filled with research based advice and insight from one of the premier thinkers on education today. In this episode, I sit down with Alfie Kohn and discuss a range of topics, such as why grading hurts more than it helps, why rewards do more harm than good, and why the testing obsession leads to bad teaching. I consider these the three pillars of what holds up an outdated educational model, and Alfie Kohn is the main reason for that perspective. Without a doubt, Alfie has influenced my teaching in such fundamental ways, and I know his thinking, research, and expertise will encourage you to question some of the norms of our educational climate. Alfie Kohn writes and speaks widely on human behavior, education, and parenting. The most recent of his 14 books are SCHOOLING BEYOND MEASURE…And Other Unorthodox Essays About Education (2015) and THE MYTH OF THE SPOILED CHILD: Challenging the Conventional Wisdom About Children and Parenting (2014).  Of his earlier titles, the best known are PUNISHED BY REWARDS (1993), NO CONTEST: The Case Against Competition (1986), UNCONDITIONAL PARENTING (2005), and THE SCHOOLS OUR CHILDREN DESERVE (1999).  

In this episode of Teach Me, Teacher, we're diving deep into the misconceptions about student behavior and how traditional behavior management approaches are falling short. Part 1 can be heard here.  I had the privilege of interviewing the authors of The Language of Behavior: A Framework to Elevate Student Support, a book that challenges the old paradigms and offers a new way to understand and address student needs. We discuss how shifting our perspective on behavior can lead to more effective and empathetic support for our students, helping to create a more positive and productive school environment. Tune in to hear how this approach can revolutionize the way we manage behavior and elevate student success! The authors of the book are Joshua Stamper and Dr. Kayla L. Lannin. Joshua is an educator and behavior specialist with years of experience in shaping school culture and supporting student development. Dr. Lannin is an expert in educational leadership, behavior science, and teacher training, with a focus on creating inclusive learning environments that foster success for all students.

In this episode of Teach Me, Teacher, we're diving deep into the misconceptions about student behavior and how traditional behavior management approaches are falling short. I had the privilege of interviewing the authors of The Language of Behavior: A Framework to Elevate Student Support, a book that challenges the old paradigms and offers a new way to understand and address student needs. We discuss how shifting our perspective on behavior can lead to more effective and empathetic support for our students, helping to create a more positive and productive school environment. Tune in to hear how this approach can revolutionize the way we manage behavior and elevate student success! The authors of the book are Joshua Stamper and Dr. Kayla L. Lannin. Joshua is an educator and behavior specialist with years of experience in shaping school culture and supporting student development. Dr. Lannin is an expert in educational leadership, behavior science, and teacher training, with a focus on creating inclusive learning environments that foster success for all students.

Far too often educators give up teaching the love of reading and writing during instruction.  They feel pressure from the curriculum developed due a need to perform on high stakes testing. In this episode, Jacob and Pam discuss how to help students develop a love for reading and writing while maintaining a high level of learning that will meet the rigorous requirements necessary for high stakes testing. Pam explains how she never shirks self selected reading and writing time.  She shares how she ties that time to her lessons.  Jacob remembers how he designed his lessons so the students would create their own learning goals and set a purpose for the reading and writing. Join Jacob and Pam as they talk about how to keep the joy in the reading and writing instruction and more! Part 2 can be found by clicking here and heading to the Craft & Draft podcast.

This episode was previously published as episode 93 of the podcast. __ Hello everyone! In a world where too many educators want the short and easy answers to literacy education, Evan and Laura Robb are here to help us see the value and purpose for putting in the real work and time it takes to learn our craft, and support kids the way they need to be supported. I couldn't be more excited for part two of this conversation! In part two, we discuss where public education is going wrong in how we judge quality literacy teaching, why teachers should be learners along side their students, and how modeling from coaches and leaders is powerful for both the teachers and students to see. As far as I'm concerned, this is one of the most important episodes Teach Me, Teacher has to offer. Do not miss it. Enjoy! Don't forget to subscribe and review the show on iTunes!  If you enjoyed this conversation, I highly recommend my discussion with Dr. Mary Howard (who we mention in this episode.)

This episode previously aired several years ago. While I am out at a conference, I wanted to bring this one back for those who may have missed it. Enjoy!  Original blurb:  In a world where too many educators want the short and easy answers to literacy education, Evan and Laura Robb are here to help us see the value and purpose for putting in the real work and time it takes to learn our craft, and support kids the way they need to be supported. I couldn't be more excited for this one.  Evan, Laura, and I discuss what balanced literacy education is, why kids need books and time to read them, and why reading programs are often the worst thing you can sit a struggling child in front of. As far as I'm concerned, this is one of the most important episodes Teach Me, Teacher has to offer. Do not miss it. Enjoy!

In this episode of Teach Me, Teacher, we sit down with Tal Thompson, a National Board Certified teacher with over 20 years of experience, to dive deep into the essential principles of classroom engagement. Tal, a finalist for America's Top Teacher on Live with Kelly and Michael and recipient of numerous teaching accolades—including the Golden Apple Award—shares his expertise on pushing the status quo in education. If you missed part one, click here.  From transforming middle school classrooms in Charlottesville, Virginia, to advocating for what truly works for students, Tal discusses strategies that ignite passion, creativity, and real connection in the classroom. We explore how educators can break away from outdated systems, focus on what's truly effective, and, most importantly, meet the diverse needs of students. Whether you're a teacher, a coach, or just passionate about the future of education, this episode is packed with practical insights and inspiring ideas to create a classroom where every student thrives. Tune in for a conversation you won't want to miss!

In this episode of Teach Me, Teacher, we sit down with Tal Thompson, a National Board Certified teacher with over 20 years of experience, to dive deep into the essential principles of classroom engagement. Tal, a finalist for America's Top Teacher on Live with Kelly and Michael and recipient of numerous teaching accolades—including the Golden Apple Award—shares his expertise on pushing the status quo in education. From transforming middle school classrooms in Charlottesville, Virginia, to advocating for what truly works for students, Tal discusses strategies that ignite passion, creativity, and real connection in the classroom. We explore how educators can break away from outdated systems, focus on what's truly effective, and, most importantly, meet the diverse needs of students. Whether you're a teacher, a coach, or just passionate about the future of education, this episode is packed with practical insights and inspiring ideas to create a classroom where every student thrives. Tune in for a conversation you won't want to miss!

Hello everyone! I am back from my small break and ready to dive back into all things education.  This episode provides some behind the scenes insights into where I was, my thinking of the podcast, and where the show could be headed in the next few months.  Enjoy! 

Hey everyone! Just wanted to make this quick post. All will be well. Just lots of changes coming and I need some time.  Thank you.  -Jacob 

Doing an episode like this is tricky. I didn't want it to be one sided. I didn't want it to have a political agenda. Instead, I wanted it to be an episode for ALL educators, whether you're public or private, or something in between. To do that, I invited Kathy Edwards of The Novus Academy on the show to discuss everything from vouchers, to accountability in schools, the A-F system, a bloated educational system, private school vs public, and yes, Betsy DeVos and the role the Trump administration is choosing to play in the future of American education. Kathy Edwards is the founder and Principal of The Novus Academy and has too many accomplishments to list here. After Richland visiting with her, I knew I had to get her on the show. She did not disappoint. Enjoy!    

Doing an episode like this is tricky. I didn't want it to be one sided. I didn't want it to have a political agenda. Instead, I wanted it to be an episode for ALL educators, whether you're public or private, or something in between. To do that, I invited Kathy Edwards of The Novus Academy on the show to discuss everything from vouchers, to accountability in schools, the A-F system, a bloated educational system, private school vs public, and yes, Betsy DeVos and the role the Trump administration is choosing to play in the future of American education. Kathy Edwards is the founder and Principal of The Novus Academy and has too many accomplishments to list here. After Richland visiting with her, I knew I had to get her on the show. She did not disappoint. Enjoy!    

Join us in this powerful episode of Teach Me Teacher as we welcome Stephanie Edmonds, also known as TeachingLiberty on Instagram and YouTube. After losing her teaching position in New York due to Covid vaccine mandates, Stephanie transformed her experience into a platform for advocacy and education. She passionately discusses the importance of healthy dialogue and political activism in the teaching community, shedding light on the real-world consequences educators face amid political battles. Tune in to hear her inspiring story, insights on fostering constructive conversations, and how teachers can stand strong in the face of adversity. Agree, disagree, or land somewhere in the middle, this talk will ignite your thinking.

Join us in this powerful episode of Teach Me Teacher as we welcome Stephanie Edmonds, also known as TeachingLiberty on Instagram and YouTube. After losing her teaching position in New York due to Covid vaccine mandates, Stephanie transformed her experience into a platform for advocacy and education. She passionately discusses the importance of healthy dialogue and political activism in the teaching community, shedding light on the real-world consequences educators face amid political battles. Tune in to hear her inspiring story, insights on fostering constructive conversations, and how teachers can stand strong in the face of adversity. Agree, disagree, or land somewhere in the middle, this talk will ignite your thinking. 

Hello everyone! This episode was previously published on the Craft & Draft podcast—my second show all about literacy! If you enjoy this one, go subscribe and support the show so you can be in line for all the bonus content coming soon!  Jacob and Pam begin the episode with a segment regarding the best way to communicate in order to have difficult conversations.  This leads into a conversation about how communication styles impact education. Pam shares how teachers need to approach students with a countenance that says, ‘I'm glad you are here!”  She uses examples from her own life as well as from her experiences in the classroom to illustrate how to make this happen.  Jacob brings his insight and examples of how conversations and approaches to teaching impacts learning and classroom environment. Join Jacob and Pam as they share the importance of framing conversations in a manner that is best for students!

In this episode, we're thrilled to welcome Lauren Horn, author of This Is Not a Sketchbook: It's a Class. Join us as Lauren dives into the transformative power of creativity in education and shares insights from her innovative approach to teaching. Discover how she encourages students to express themselves beyond traditional methods, and learn practical tips to foster a more engaging classroom environment. Whether you're an educator or simply passionate about learning, this conversation will inspire you to rethink how creativity can shape our educational experiences. Tune in and get ready to be inspired! Make sure to use code TeachMe at check out for 15% off your purchase of Lauren's book! 

In this episode, we're thrilled to welcome Lauren Horn, author of This Is Not a Sketchbook: It's a Class. Join us as Lauren dives into the transformative power of creativity in education and shares insights from her innovative approach to teaching. Discover how she encourages students to express themselves beyond traditional methods, and learn practical tips to foster a more engaging classroom environment. Whether you're an educator or simply passionate about learning, this conversation will inspire you to rethink how creativity can shape our educational experiences. Tune in and get ready to be inspired! Make sure to use code TeachMe at check out for 15% off your purchase of Lauren's book! 

Hello everyone!  Join us for an inspiring episode featuring the one and only Kari Byron from Mythbusters! We dive into the exciting world of STEM education and its profound impact on creativity and innovation. Kari shares her insights on the upcoming National STEM Festival and discusses how hands-on experiences can ignite a passion for science in students of all ages. Discover how to foster curiosity in the classroom, the importance of integrating creativity into STEM subjects, and Kari's personal journey in breaking down barriers in science education. Whether you're a teacher, parent, or simply a science enthusiast, this episode is packed with ideas to spark imagination and learning. Tune in and let's explore how to make science more engaging and accessible for everyone! For over a decade Kari Byron has been a strong presence in the world of science adventure and travel television. She is best known as a host on Discovery Channel's Mythbusters but has gone on to host and produce shows spanning several networks. Today you will find her continuing her mission to inspire, empower, entertain and educate through the digital storytelling of EXPLR. Fostering her curious nature, she spent a lifetime acquiring odd skills and interests. After graduating college and traveling the world she decided to settle in San Francisco and pursue a career as a sculptor. Special effects and prop making seemed like a perfect fit. Trying to break into the field, she got an internship at M5 industries with Jamie Hyneman. Her first day turned out to be the beginning of Mythbusters, and a career in television. Though her dream was to be a working artist somehow handling poop, eating bugs, wiring explosives and scraping chicken guts off the ceiling turned out to be the catalyst of her real dream job as a science communicator., STEM advocate, and Cofounder of the National STEM Festival.

Welcome to Teach Me, Teacher! In today's episode, we're thrilled to have Sierra Bohamera, also known as @thattrendyteacher on Instagram. Join us as we explore the art of making teaching fun and engaging, connecting authentically with students, and infusing that all-important math energy into the classroom. Sierra shares her insights on being open to growth and learning in this ever-evolving profession. Get ready for a lively conversation packed with inspiration and practical tips to elevate your teaching game! Let's dive in!

Welcome to Teach Me, Teacher! In today's episode, we're thrilled to have Sierra Bohamera, also known as @thattrendyteacher on Instagram. Join us as we explore the art of making teaching fun and engaging, connecting authentically with students, and infusing that all-important math energy into the classroom. Sierra shares her insights on being open to growth and learning in this ever-evolving profession.  Get ready for a lively conversation packed with inspiration and practical tips to elevate your teaching game! Let's dive in!

Hello everyone! In this episode of Teach Me, Teacher, we're thrilled to welcome Molly Dugan, a dynamic educator whose journey from novice to seasoned teacher is nothing short of inspiring. Join us as Molly delves into her personal and professional history, sharing how her passion for teaching evolved and what she's learned along the way. If you missed part one, catch it here.  Discover the moments that shaped her approach to education and how her experiences with students and the teaching community have influenced her work. Molly also opens up about her use of humor online—why she integrates it into her teaching persona and the impact it has on her audience. We'll explore the lessons she's learned from building a growing social media presence and reflect on what she wishes her younger self had known about the teaching profession. Whether you're an educator or simply passionate about the world of teaching, Molly's insights are sure to inspire and enlighten. Tune in to get a behind-the-scenes look at a teacher's journey and the power of humor and social media in education. Don't miss it!

Hello everyone! In this episode of Teach Me, Teacher, we're thrilled to welcome Molly Dugan, a dynamic educator whose journey from novice to seasoned teacher is nothing short of inspiring. Join us as Molly delves into her personal and professional history, sharing how her passion for teaching evolved and what she's learned along the way. Discover the moments that shaped her approach to education and how her experiences with students and the teaching community have influenced her work. Molly also opens up about her use of humor online—why she integrates it into her teaching persona and the impact it has on her audience. We'll explore the lessons she's learned from building a growing social media presence and reflect on what she wishes her younger self had known about the teaching profession. Whether you're an educator or simply passionate about the world of teaching, Molly's insights are sure to inspire and enlighten. Tune in to get a behind-the-scenes look at a teacher's journey and the power of humor and social media in education. Don't miss it!

Hello everyone! In our previous episode, we touched on the many facets of engagement in teaching, from lesson design and teaching style to the content itself. But let's dive deeper. If you're seeking ways to make engagement more actionable and less of a mystery, you're in for a treat! This week, we're thrilled to have Dave Burgess—author of the bestselling book Teach Like a Pirate, publisher, and internationally acclaimed speaker—joining us. Dave brings a fresh perspective on engagement, one that's accessible to every educator, regardless of their teaching style or experience level. In our conversation, Dave will share his insights on how to break down engagement into practical, manageable components. He'll offer strategies for analyzing and refining your lessons to ensure you're maximizing their impact. Whether you're a seasoned teacher looking to inject some new energy into your classroom or someone just starting out, Dave's approach promises to offer valuable, actionable advice. Tune in to get inspired and discover how you can make engagement work for you in your teaching practice. Enjoy the episode!

Hello everyone! Engagement can come in many forms. It can be the lesson design. It can be the teacher's style. It can be the content itself...But what if there was a way to think about engagement that demystified it a bit? What if there was a way to analyze each lesson to make sure you were getting the most out of it? Dave Burgess, author of Teach Like a Pirate, publisher, and world renowned speaker, joins us this week to discuss his vision of engagement and why it applies to ALL teachers—not just the most over the top educators. Whether you are needing ideas or just want to be encouraged to try something new, this episode is for you! Enjoy. (NOTE: Due to a special and TIMED announcement in part 2, if you are a Patreon supporter or are subscribed to the Youtube channel, the video is delayed until the announcement is closer. Stay tuned!)

Hello everyone! Teach Me, Teacher is back and I cannot believe we are at season 9 of the podcast... For those that have been along for this journey, can you believe it? Truly, this has been a ride of a lifetime.  But, we aren't done yet.  In this intro, we debut the new theme of the season, and detail what's to come, including guests, ideas, and goals for the coming months (such as posting every podcast video on the Teach Me, Teacher Youtube channel.) I want this season to be bigger, smarter, and more helpful to education as a whole. The only way I can do this is with your support and time. For those that continue to support the show, thank you! Reviews, shares, and support on Patreon really do mean the difference.  Enjoy! 

Join us on Teach Me, Teacher as we delve into the critical topic of teaching reading across all subjects with Jennifer Seravallo, author of the groundbreaking book “Teaching Reading Across the Curriculum“. In this episode, we explore the research-backed strategies that truly enhance literacy skills, contrasting them with the flood of ineffective programs schools often invest in. Together, we uncover why these programs fail to deliver and discuss practical solutions for educators feeling overwhelmed. If you missed part one, listen here.  Tune in for an insightful conversation that promises to empower teachers with actionable insights to foster a culture of reading in every classroom. If you enjoyed this episode, check out my other talks with Jen here and here.

Join us on Teach Me, Teacher as we delve into the critical topic of teaching reading across all subjects with Jennifer Seravallo, author of the groundbreaking book "Teaching Reading Across the Curriculum". In this episode, we explore the research-backed strategies that truly enhance literacy skills, contrasting them with the flood of ineffective programs schools often invest in. Together, we uncover why these programs fail to deliver and discuss practical solutions for educators feeling overwhelmed. Tune in for an insightful conversation that promises to empower teachers with actionable insights to foster a culture of reading in every classroom. If you enjoyed this episode, check out my other talks with Jen here and here. 

Hello everyone! Leadership is challenging. Everyone has an opinion and many think they can do it better than whoever is currently in a leadership role. In a way, it's just like what teachers face in many circles of the public. Regardless, leadership is essential to any healthy organization. It can make or break the focus of a campus, at times, and it can be the change agent many teachers and families need. But what makes a good leader? What are pitfalls to avoid and perspectives to shift? More importantly, what does it take to be a leader that supports students and staff and also create a highly effective learning environment? To answer these questions and whole lot more, we have brought on Rhonda Roos, author of The Deliberate and Courages Principal.  Part one aired last week here.  Rhonda is an educational speaker who coaches principals, district leaders, and administrative teams in the complex and ever-challenging work of leading schools. She is a former director of middle schools in New Albany, Indiana, where she led curricular improvement, aligning those efforts with the district's progress in becoming a professional learning community. Rhonda serves on the leadership team of the Indiana Principal Leadership Institute and is a regular keynote speaker. Her honors include the 2009 Indiana Middle School Principal of the Year, the 2011 Solution Tree Redefining Excellence District Award, and the 2015 Indiana University Southeast Educator of the Year.

Hello everyone! Leadership is challenging. Everyone has an opinion and many think they can do it better than whoever is currently in a leadership role. In a way, it's just like what teachers face in many circles of the public.  Regardless, leadership is essential to any healthy organization. It can make or break the focus of a campus, at times, and it can be the change agent many teachers and families need.  But what makes a good leader? What are pitfalls to avoid and perspectives to shift? More importantly, what does it take to be a leader that supports students and staff and also create a highly effective learning environment?  To answer these questions and whole lot more, we have brought on Rhonda Roos, author of The Deliberate and Courages Principal.  Rhonda is an educational speaker who coaches principals, district leaders, and administrative teams in the complex and ever-challenging work of leading schools. She is a former director of middle schools in New Albany, Indiana, where she led curricular improvement, aligning those efforts with the district's progress in becoming a professional learning community.  Rhonda serves on the leadership team of the Indiana Principal Leadership Institute and is a regular keynote speaker. Her honors include the 2009 Indiana Middle School Principal of the Year, the 2011 Solution Tree Redefining Excellence District Award, and the 2015 Indiana University Southeast Educator of the Year. 

Hello everyone! The world of education is changing. Teachers are leaving. Administrators are retiring. Politicians are running on entire campaigns centered around the "failing public school system" and being supported by parents who are frustrated their kids can't read—or worse—are being convinced to believe radical ideas.  Of course, this sounds like the sky is falling... but is it? Is all of the above black and white, or is their nuance to the complex problems surrounding education in America?  To unpack a lot of these topics and present solutions and visions for the future, I have brought on the wonderful and thoughtful Will Reusch.  Will is a thinker, educator, and someone who finds meaning in modeling how to think, learn, and question some of the biggest ideas out there. Listen to our full hour long discussion about education, where we fail, why it's so hard to change, and how to bridge gaps so that we can move forward.  Be sure to check out Will's newest project, Patterdox. He has a Masterclass this Saturday at 9am PST.  @willreusch @Patterdox

Hello everyone! In this episode of Teach Me, Teacher, host Jacob Chastain sits down with the brilliant Elliot Seif, author of the groundbreaking book Teaching for Lifelong Learning: How to Prepare Students for a Changing World. Join Jacob and Elliot as they delve into the essential strategies for fostering curiosity, independence, and a growth mindset in students. Elliot shares insights from his book, offering practical methods to enhance instruction, assessment, and curriculum design. Discover the transformative power of a four-phase instructional framework, and learn how diagnostic, formative, and summative assessments work together to cultivate lifelong learners. Elliot unpacks the importance of selecting or crafting curricula that prioritize adaptability and critical thinking, equipping students to navigate the complexities of our ever-changing world. From elementary to high school classrooms, this episode is packed with real-world examples and actionable advice to inspire educators at every level. Tune in and learn how to empower your students not just for academic success, but for a lifetime of meaningful learning and growth.     The pressure on school leaders to effectively navigate change, implement new programs, and keep teachers motivated can be intense. Solution Tree has the tools you need to rise to any challenge. Our curated library of resources features new titles like The Emerging Teacher Leader, a guide to equip new leaders, Groups at Work to foster productive teamwork, and Implement with IMPACT to ensure initiatives hit the mark. Titles like Grading Reform That Lasts and Competency-Based Education Ignited offer methods to address critical school issues while Navigating the Unexpected provides essential strategies for facing unforeseen challenges. Be sure to stream Passion and Persistence, a motivational video designed to inspire a collaborative team environment in your school or district. Elevate your leadership skills and discover how these powerful resources can help you lead with confidence at SolutionTree.com/LeadershipResources

Hello everyone! In this episode of Teach Me, Teacher, host Jacob Chastain sits down with the brilliant Elliot Seif, author of the groundbreaking book Teaching for Lifelong Learning: How to Prepare Students for a Changing World. Join Jacob and Elliot as they delve into the essential strategies for fostering curiosity, independence, and a growth mindset in students. Elliot shares insights from his book, offering practical methods to enhance instruction, assessment, and curriculum design. Discover the transformative power of a four-phase instructional framework, and learn how diagnostic, formative, and summative assessments work together to cultivate lifelong learners. Elliot unpacks the importance of selecting or crafting curricula that prioritize adaptability and critical thinking, equipping students to navigate the complexities of our ever-changing world. From elementary to high school classrooms, this episode is packed with real-world examples and actionable advice to inspire educators at every level. Tune in and learn how to empower your students not just for academic success, but for a lifetime of meaningful learning and growth.     The pressure on school leaders to effectively navigate change, implement new programs, and keep teachers motivated can be intense. Solution Tree has the tools you need to rise to any challenge. Our curated library of resources features new titles like The Emerging Teacher Leader, a guide to equip new leaders, Groups at Work to foster productive teamwork, and Implement with IMPACT to ensure initiatives hit the mark. Titles like Grading Reform That Lasts and Competency-Based Education Ignited offer methods to address critical school issues while Navigating the Unexpected provides essential strategies for facing unforeseen challenges. Be sure to stream Passion and Persistence, a motivational video designed to inspire a collaborative team environment in your school or district. Elevate your leadership skills and discover how these powerful resources can help you lead with confidence at SolutionTree.com/LeadershipResources  

Hello everyone! Join us in this episode of Teach Me, Teacher as we delve into the core principles of professional learning communities (PLCs) with insights from the book “Simplifying the Journey: Six Steps to Schoolwide Collaboration, Consistency, and Clarity in a PLC at Work” by authors Bob Sonju, Maren Powers, and Sheline Miller. If you missed part one, you can catch it here.  Together, we explore the essential roles within PLCs, the transformative power of data-driven decision-making, and the indispensable nature of collaboration in fostering a culture of continuous improvement. Whether you're a seasoned educator or just beginning your journey, this episode offers invaluable guidance for building a collaborative community dedicated to student success. Tune in to discover practical strategies for streamlining your school's journey towards collaboration, consistency, and clarity.     The pressure on school leaders to effectively navigate change, implement new programs, and keep teachers motivated can be intense. Solution Tree has the tools you need to rise to any challenge. Our curated library of resources features new titles like The Emerging Teacher Leader, a guide to equip new leaders, Groups at Work to foster productive teamwork, and Implement with IMPACT to ensure initiatives hit the mark. Titles like Grading Reform That Lasts and Competency-Based Education Ignited offer methods to address critical school issues while Navigating the Unexpected provides essential strategies for facing unforeseen challenges. Be sure to stream Passion and Persistence, a motivational video designed to inspire a collaborative team environment in your school or district. Elevate your leadership skills and discover how these powerful resources can help you lead with confidence at SolutionTree.com/LeadershipResources

Hello everyone! Join us in this episode of Teach Me, Teacher as we delve into the core principles of professional learning communities (PLCs) with insights from the book "Simplifying the Journey: Six Steps to Schoolwide Collaboration, Consistency, and Clarity in a PLC at Work" by authors Bob Sonju, Maren Powers, and Sheline Miller. Together, we explore the essential roles within PLCs, the transformative power of data-driven decision-making, and the indispensable nature of collaboration in fostering a culture of continuous improvement. Whether you're a seasoned educator or just beginning your journey, this episode offers invaluable guidance for building a collaborative community dedicated to student success. Tune in to discover practical strategies for streamlining your school's journey towards collaboration, consistency, and clarity.   The pressure on school leaders to effectively navigate change, implement new programs, and keep teachers motivated can be intense. Solution Tree has the tools you need to rise to any challenge. Our curated library of resources features new titles like The Emerging Teacher Leader, a guide to equip new leaders, Groups at Work to foster productive teamwork, and Implement with IMPACT to ensure initiatives hit the mark. Titles like Grading Reform That Lasts and Competency-Based Education Ignited offer methods to address critical school issues while Navigating the Unexpected provides essential strategies for facing unforeseen challenges. Be sure to stream Passion and Persistence, a motivational video designed to inspire a collaborative team environment in your school or district. Elevate your leadership skills and discover how these powerful resources can help you lead with confidence at SolutionTree.com/LeadershipResources

Hello everyone! Tune in to Teach Me, Teacher for a deep dive into strategies from Triage Your School on preventing teacher burnout. If you miss part 1, click here.  Author Christopher Jenson unpacks how traditional self-care approaches fall short and explores practical solutions rooted in healthcare practices. Discover how to effectively manage workload, share responsibilities, and establish emotional boundaries to reignite passion and resilience in teaching. Whether you're an administrator or educator, this episode equips you with actionable steps to navigate challenges and foster a healthier school environment. Join the conversation and reclaim joy in education. Enjoy!   Transform learning in your school or district with PLC at Work® from Solution Tree. Our resources are designed to empower educators so all students learn at high levels. We have an abundant library of resources from bestsellers like Learning by Doing, which has seen over one million copies sold and provides a practical guide to establishing effective PLCs, to The Foundation for Change, Beyond PLCLite, The Way Forward, Training Teacher Leaders in a PLC at Work® and The 15-Day Challenge. Looking to develop a PD workshop that allows your teams to witness the power of PLC through the eyes of a struggling student? Stream the video Through New Eyes, and experience one student's journey through four years in a traditional school compared to four years in a PLC. All these resources and more can be found at SolutionTree.com/PLCAtWorkResources.

Hello everyone! Tune in to Teach Me, Teacher for a deep dive into strategies from Triage Your School on preventing teacher burnout. Author Christopher Jenson unpacks how traditional self-care approaches fall short and explores practical solutions rooted in healthcare practices. Discover how to effectively manage workload, share responsibilities, and establish emotional boundaries to reignite passion and resilience in teaching. Whether you're an administrator or educator, this episode equips you with actionable steps to navigate challenges and foster a healthier school environment. Join the conversation and reclaim joy in education. Enjoy!   Transform learning in your school or district with PLC at Work® from Solution Tree. Our resources are designed to empower educators so all students learn at high levels. We have an abundant library of resources from bestsellers like Learning by Doing, which has seen over one million copies sold and provides a practical guide to establishing effective PLCs, to The Foundation for Change, Beyond PLCLite, The Way Forward, Training Teacher Leaders in a PLC at Work® and The 15-Day Challenge. Looking to develop a PD workshop that allows your teams to witness the power of PLC through the eyes of a struggling student? Stream the video Through New Eyes, and experience one student's journey through four years in a traditional school compared to four years in a PLC. All these resources and more can be found at SolutionTree.com/PLCAtWorkResources.

Hello everyone! Welcome to Teach Me, Teacher. This episode is a version of one of my favorite keynotes I do. It's my favorite because it's filled with real world stories about my life and the teachers that saved me growing up.  Now, I don't mean "saved" in the religious sense. I mean "saved" as in BEING THE DIFFERENCE.  What did that look like to me? What did it sound like as I navigated growing up around drugs and violence? All of that and more in this talk. If you want to see the digital presentation, click here to support the show.       Transform learning in your school or district with PLC at Work® from Solution Tree. Our resources are designed to empower educators so all students learn at high levels. We have an abundant library of resources from bestsellers like Learning by Doing, which has seen over one million copies sold and provides a practical guide to establishing effective PLCs, to The Foundation for Change, Beyond PLCLite, The Way Forward, Training Teacher Leaders in a PLC at Work® and The 15-Day Challenge. Looking to develop a PD workshop that allows your teams to witness the power of PLC through the eyes of a struggling student? Stream the video Through New Eyes, and experience one student's journey through four years in a traditional school compared to four years in a PLC. All these resources and more can be found at SolutionTree.com/PLCAtWorkResources.  

Hello everyone! Being in the teacher podcast space for over 8 years has shown me a lot about the state of education and how it has changed. Mainly, professional development is dying. If you missed part 1 of this talk, find it here.  Conferences are filled with sessions that appeal to ideology instead of quality pedagogy. District PD's are all about how to log in to the latest tool and assign work to kids. Books are expensive and not worth reading when state laws restrict what resources teachers can use. So, what's the deal? Why is teaching PD in such a state of despair? To think and talk through this (and maybe have some hope at the end of the tunnel), I brought on Pam Ochoa, my co-host on the Craft & Draft podcast. Pam is an Abydos Learning International Diamond level trainer and has trained teachers in the teaching of writing and reading for 26 years. She provides professional development for those who want to become more student centered in their instructional approach. She was an Instructional Coach where she worked with Jacob Chastain and collaborated on the Craft and Draft Notebook system.     Transform learning in your school or district with PLC at Work® from Solution Tree. Our resources are designed to empower educators so all students learn at high levels. We have an abundant library of resources from bestsellers like Learning by Doing, which has seen over one million copies sold and provides a practical guide to establishing effective PLCs, to The Foundation for Change, Beyond PLCLite, The Way Forward, Training Teacher Leaders in a PLC at Work® and The 15-Day Challenge. Looking to develop a PD workshop that allows your teams to witness the power of PLC through the eyes of a struggling student? Stream the video Through New Eyes, and experience one student's journey through four years in a traditional school compared to four years in a PLC. All these resources and more can be found at SolutionTree.com/PLCAtWorkResources.  

Hello everyone! Being in the teacher podcast space for over 8 years has shown me a lot about the state of education and how it has changed. Mainly, professional development is dying.  Conferences are filled with sessions that appeal to ideology instead of quality pedagogy. District PD's are all about how to log in to the latest tool and assign work to kids. Books are expensive and not worth reading when state laws restrict what resources teachers can use.  So, what's the deal? Why is teaching PD in such a state of despair?  To think and talk through this (and maybe have some hope at the end of the tunnel), I brought on Pam Ochoa, my co-host on the Craft & Draft podcast. Pam is an Abydos Learning International Diamond level trainer and has trained teachers in the teaching of writing and reading for 26 years. She provides professional development for those who want to become more student centered in their instructional approach. She was an Instructional Coach where she worked with Jacob Chastain and collaborated on the Craft and Draft Notebook system.      Transform learning in your school or district with PLC at Work® from Solution Tree. Our resources are designed to empower educators so all students learn at high levels. We have an abundant library of resources from bestsellers like Learning by Doing, which has seen over one million copies sold and provides a practical guide to establishing effective PLCs, to The Foundation for Change, Beyond PLCLite, The Way Forward, Training Teacher Leaders in a PLC at Work® and The 15-Day Challenge. Looking to develop a PD workshop that allows your teams to witness the power of PLC through the eyes of a struggling student? Stream the video Through New Eyes, and experience one student's journey through four years in a traditional school compared to four years in a PLC. All these resources and more can be found at SolutionTree.com/PLCAtWorkResources.

Hello everyone! The reading wars carry on, believe it or not. In nearly every corner of the internet—even outside of education—people are concerned about literacy in America. This has resulted in some dynamic, and at times volatile, discussion about how to teach reading to children. In part 1, we discussed curriculum expectations, the expertise of teachers, and the misuse of computer programs.  In part 2, we discuss providing authentic reading experiences for students, tasks around reading, and creating an environment kids want to be in.  Jennifer McCarty Plucker, author of Inspiring Lifelong Readers, has her own thoughts on the matter. Jennifer McCarty Plucker is the director of learning and development and a literacy consultant at Mackin Educational Resources in Burnsville, Minnesota.Dr. Plucker has spent more than twenty years in public education as an English teacher, reading specialist, speech coach, teaching and learning specialist, and district administrator. Her doctoral research focused on student engagement and motivation in literacy. Her current work with educators is grounded in an inquiry approach that puts students in the driver's seat of their learning.           This episode is sponsored by Solution Tree:   As a new teacher, your first year is sure to come with unexpected challenges. Solution Tree's resources give you the tools and knowledge to lay the groundwork for a lifelong career as an educator. Go to SolutionTree.com/NewTeacherToolkitfor must-read books and free resources. Since 1998, Solution Tree has worked to transform education worldwide by empowering educators to raise student achievement.

Hello everyone! The reading wars carry on, believe it or not. In nearly every corner of the internet—even outside of education—people are concerned about literacy in America. This has resulted in some dynamic, and at times volatile, discussion about how to teach reading to children.  Jennifer McCarty Plucker, author of Inspiring Lifelong Readers, has her own thoughts on the matter. Jennifer McCarty Plucker is the director of learning and development and a literacy consultant at Mackin Educational Resources in Burnsville, Minnesota.Dr. Plucker has spent more than twenty years in public education as an English teacher, reading specialist, speech coach, teaching and learning specialist, and district administrator. Her doctoral research focused on student engagement and motivation in literacy. Her current work with educators is grounded in an inquiry approach that puts students in the driver's seat of their learning. In this discussion, we cover curriculum expectations, the expertise of teachers, and the misuse of computer programs to teach struggling readers.          This episode is sponsored by Solution Tree:   As a new teacher, your first year is sure to come with unexpected challenges. Solution Tree's resources give you the tools and knowledge to lay the groundwork for a lifelong career as an educator. Go to SolutionTree.com/NewTeacherToolkitfor must-read books and free resources. Since 1998, Solution Tree has worked to transform education worldwide by empowering educators to raise student achievement.