Where The Whiteboards Are

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We've all heard the saying: opinions are like educational systems; everyone has been impacted by them and only some are good. Our hosts,277 Media's founder and former teacher Jacob Conklin along with educators Eric Schrantz, Samantha Ravens,Amanda Wood, and a season of phenomenal guests, hope to bridge the gap between educators and those that are invested in schools. A podcast by educators, for educators, about all things education.

Jacob Conklin


    • Jan 1, 1970 LATEST EPISODE
    • infrequent NEW EPISODES
    • 42m AVG DURATION
    • 53 EPISODES


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    Latest episodes from Where The Whiteboards Are

    Ep 48: Surviving 2nd Semester

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 1, 1970 35:58


    The WTWA gang share how they make it through the dark days of January and February, the craziness of spring sports, trip, and testing to get that miracle last day of school.

    Ep 47: Data. data. data

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 1, 1970 55:36


    The WTWA talk data, where they get, how they get, and what they do with it.

    Ep 46: Middle School and Elementary School

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 1, 1970 49:23


    Jacob flies solo and he takes WTWA on the road to meet with a group of experienced teachers to talk about teaching middle school and elementary school students.

    Ep 45: The Unexpected

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 1, 1970 36:12


    The WTWA gang chats about some the fun and unexpected things that have popped up in their teaching experiences.

    Ep 44: Late Work

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 1, 1970 33:56


    The WTWA gang (sans Eric) delves into the topic of late and the many approaches they have seen over their careers. They explore what works and what should never be tried ever again....but probably will.

    Ep 43: Grades

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 1, 1970 36:18


    The WTWA gang, sans Eric, chat about what grades are supposed to be and what they actually end up being.

    Ep 42: Don't Smile Before Christmas!

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 1, 1970 34:19


    The WTWA gang and Misty talk about the old teacher adage of "Not Smiling Before Christmas" and if there is any truth to it. Our answers might just surprise you!!

    Ep 41: Teacher / Parent

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 1, 1970 46:45


    The WTWA gang talk with Misty about what it like to be a teacher of your own children. She shares the many upsides of having your kids in your school and a few of the awkward disadvantages too. We have a great conversation the explores her role as mom to her kids and school-mom to many other students and novice teachers too,

    Ep 40: Business Educator Extraordinaire

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 1, 1970 48:48


    The WTWA gang sit down with an expert of business education and all around amazing colleague to talk about of business education, FBLA, GOCAPS, and Career and Technical Education (CTE).

    Ep 39: "Retired" Teachers Mentoring Student Teachers

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 1, 1970 58:00


    The WTWA gang sit back down with Kay and Mitzi, two of the most masterful teachers in the education field, to talk about their experiences in supporting people who are new to field of education.Be sure to check out our BONUS episode in which Eric chats with his cooperating teacher from his student teacher days that is also releasing.

    BONUS: Conversation with a Cooperating Teacher

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 1, 1970 37:34


    Eric took the WTWA podcast on the road to the annual MMEA (Missouri Music Educators Association) conference. Eric chats with Dan who served as his cooperating teacher during student teaching experience about the his role as a cooperating teacher cultivating the next generation of music educators.

    Ep 38: "Retired" Teachers

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 1, 1970 51:49


    The WTWA gang sits down with two retired teachers that are still actively serving as educators in some form in their communities. These masterful teachers share insights into how education has changed for better and worse. They also share heartfelt insights into what it takes to be successful in an industry where many people are leaving. This a great episode for education newcomers, the seasoned professional and everyone in between.

    BONUS: Eric takes on the Midwest Clinic: International Band and Orchestra Conference

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 1, 1970 51:10


    Eric takes WTWA on the road to Chicago, as he attends the 77th annual Midwest Clinic, THE international band and orchestra conference. He reflects on his strategies for getting the most of his experience at a massive conference and what he hopes to gain from the many offerings for professional development.

    Ep 37: Q and A Summer Session: Superlatives and Fluff

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 1, 1970 66:52


    This is the firth and final episode in the Summer Session Series where the WTWA gang answer questions about a plethora of topics. In this episode you can get to know the WTWA gang as they answer the fluffiest questions yet.

    Ep 36: Q and A Summer Session: Student Trends

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 1, 1970 42:07


    This is the third episode in the Summer Session Series where the WTWA gang answer questions about certain topics. In this episode you can get to know the WTWA gang (sans Eric) as they answer questions about student trends.

    Ep 35: Q and A Summer Session: Life Inside of School

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 1, 1970 48:56


    This is the second episode in the Summer Session Series where the WTWA gang answer questions about certain topics. In this episode you can get to know the WTWA gang (sans Eric) as they answer questions about their lives during the school day.

    Ep 34: Q and A Summer Session: Life Outside of School

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 1, 1970 57:35


    This is the first episode in the Summer Session Series where the WTWA gang answer questions about certain topics. In this episode you can get to know the WTWA gang (sans Eric) as they answer questions about their lives outside of school.

    Ep 33: 1 Year of WTWA

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 1, 1970 39:59


    The WTWA gang look back on their first year of podcasting together, going over the highs and lows of the past year of the podcast. They also discuss the future goals and plans for Where the Whiteboards Area.

    Ep 32: Teacher Hacks

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 1, 1970 50:47


    The WTWA share some teachers hacks to make your life as a teacher just a little bit easier but along the way they get sucked down funny rabbit-holes and topic detours that everyone has come to love.

    Ep 31: Summer Break

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 1, 1970 53:10


    Ah, the sweet sound of the final school bell, marking the start of summer break for teachers. But what really happens when the classroom doors close and the students head home for the summer? In this episode, we take you behind the scenes to uncover the truth about teachers' summer break.Join us as the WTWA gang explore the lesser-known aspects of teachers' lives during this seemingly endless stretch of free time. We dive into the realities of teacher duties that continue even during the break, such as lesson planning, curriculum development, and professional development. Discover how teachers invest their summer in honing their skills, attending workshops, and finding new and innovative ways to engage their students come fall.But it's not all work and no play. We also delve into the much-needed respite that summer break brings. Experience the joy of not having to set an early alarm, the freedom to explore personal hobbies and passions, and the ability to recharge and rejuvenate away from the demands of the classroom.

    Ep 30: Transforming Education: Game-Changing Ideas for a Better System

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 1, 1970 41:56


    Join the WTWA gang as they gather for an insightful discussion centered around a crucial question: "What single change would we make to improve the education system?" Prepare for an engaging and lively episode as the WTWA crew, known for their authentic, heartfelt humor, shares their candid perspectives. Not only will you be treated to their thought-provoking responses, but also enjoy some exciting bonus content along the way. Tune in to gain fresh insights and be entertained by the delightful banter of the WTWA gang.

    Ep 29: Bathrooms!

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 1, 1970 28:01


    The WTWA gang gets real in this requested episode! They discuss what it's like to be a teacher and not have free access to a bathroom. This hilarious episode heavily on TMI. Thanks to Jasmine Claros for the episode suggestion!!

    Ep 28: What's Next for the WTWA gang?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 1, 1970 40:56


    The WTWA discuss changes in their careers for for 23-34 school year along with why people are leaving the education industry.

    Ep 27: The Truth About Snow Days

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 1, 1970 48:11


    The WTWA gang discusses what teachers really think about snow days, their rituals to evoke a snow day, and how they spend those glorious days away from school.

    Ep 26: Life After High School: Reflections from Former Students

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 1, 1970 46:16


    Half of the WTWA gang sit down with four former students to discuss life outside of high school and share interesting happening we were unaware of during there days as students.

    Ep 25: Student Teaching

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 1, 1970 51:18


    The WTWA gang sits down with a recent music education graduate to discuss her takes on student teaching.

    Ep: 24 Neuroscience and Education

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 1, 1970 49:41


    Eric leads Amanda and Jacob in a thought provoking conversation regarding neuroscience and how we learn and approach education. We react to topics brought up in the Inquiring Minds podcast that references How We Learn: Why Brains Learn Better Than Any Machine . . . for Now by Stanislas Dehaene.

    Ep 23: Student Indoctrination

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 1, 1970 48:32


    In this episode Amanda, Eric and Jacob give their views on the idea of teachers and schools indoctrinating students. In this episode we also discuss "the incident" involving the music video from the song This Is America.

    Ep 22: Artificial Intelligence

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 1, 1970 54:50


    The WTWA gang addresses the use of ChatGPT and other AI's in the classroom.

    Ep 21: Parent Teacher Conferences

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 1, 1970 32:28


    The WTWA welcomes back guest Joey Stokes as they talk through what works and what doesn't work in the rite of passage between teachers and parents... the much bemoaned parent teacher conference.

    Ep 20: Ag. Education

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 1, 1970 47:59


    The WTWA gang sits down with two former agriculture teacher colleagues to get an overview of AgEd and why it's important to society. The hilarious duo offer great insights while also showing us their passion and dedication to their craft.

    Ep 19: We Answers Questions About Being Teachers

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 1, 1970 54:49


    The WTWA gang sits down to answer questions from strangers about being the field of public education and what is like to be a teacher.

    Ep 18: A Chat with Former Student (Matt)

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 1, 1970 37:23


    In this episode the WTWA sit down with a former student to gain his perspective on his high school years now that he has been graduated for 5 years.

    Ep 17: Phones!!!

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 1, 1970 34:02


    The WTWA gang discusses the role of the mobile phone in the classroom. From banning them to using them a tool of learning we dig into our thoughts and opinions surrounding this hot topic.

    BONUS: Unabridged Conversation with Dan and Taylor

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 1, 1970 53:08


    WTWA on the Road: In this bonus episode Jacob has the podcast on the road at the MASC (Missouri Association of Student Councils) Advisors Conference where he sits down with two longtime teacher friends. Jacob, Dan, and Taylor have all known each other since they were teenagers.In their long conversation they explore heart felt topics related to teaching but also humorous and sarcastic tangents of being friends.

    BONUS: Student Council Advisors

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 1, 1970 32:17


    WTWA On the Road: Jacob take the podcast on the road and has the chance to sit down with some interesting veteran teachers and student council advisors from a wide range of school demographics. They discuss a wide range of topics pertaining to schools, leadership, and student councils.

    Ep 16: Confidence

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 1, 1970 29:07


    The WTWA gang delves in the questions of how and when do teachers become confident in their profession.

    Ep 15: Our Best and Worst Teachers

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 1, 1970 37:40


    The WTWA gang explores their own experiences with teachers and describe the best and worst teachers they've had.

    Eq 14: Conversation with Librarians (01)

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 1, 1970 57:44


    The WTWA gang chat with three different librarians in our first of many conversations about libraries. We discuss a wide range of topics that are impacting public school and community libraries in the state of Missouri and beyond. We will be recording many more episodes about libraries in the future. Let us know what you think about the topics we address.

    Ep 13: Tips for Admin From Teachers

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 1, 1970 55:50


    The WTWA gang does another blind react episode from a list they found on the teachers subreddit. It is a long episode, we discuss a wide variety of topics all centered around admin (principals) being able to better serve their teachers. Let us know what you think of our responses or better yet drop us another list to blind react to.

    Ep 12: Conversations with a New(ish) Teacher

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 1, 1970 36:33


    The WTWA gang sits down with a former student teacher of Amanda to discuss the life and struggles of a new-ish teacher. Do you know a current student teacher or a new teacher that would want to share their experience with us? Share your stories of being a new(ish) teacher with us.

    Ep 11: The Best Teacher Supplies

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 1, 1970 28:05


    The WTWA gang debate the best teaching supplies needed to get the job done. They explore which ink pen is the best, paperclips vs. binder clips, and many other funny tangents.Do you have an ink pen that outshines our preferences? Are you a staunch paperclip supporter? Do you know where Jacob's 17 stapler disappeared to? If you have questions, comments, or episode ideas we would love for you to reach out to us at WTWA@277media.com.

    Ep 10: Reaction to “12 Wonderful Things about Being a Teacher”

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 1, 1970 49:22


    The WTWA gang reacts to an article stating "12 Wonderful Things about Being a Teacher".How would you respond to the list? If you have questions, comments, or episode ideas we would love for you to reach out to us at WTWA@277media.com.

    BONUS: Starting A New School Year

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 1, 1970 39:41


    The WTWA gang sits down for the first time in months to talk about the experience of starting a new school year. The four of them don't agree on the same approach but we get to give into how each one tackles that pivotal time of energy and anxiety.

    Ep 9: Every School Needs One: Q & A with an Instructional Coach

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 1, 1970 55:32


    Every school needs an instructional coach like this! The WTWA gang offers a longer episode by hosting a question and answer session with guest, Nicole Harrell, an instruction coach.Do you have a support staff position that has been a game changer? Do you want to know more about instructional coaches? If you have questions, comments, or episode ideas we would love for you to reach out to us at WTWA@277media.com.

    Ep 8: Positive Experiences from the Classroom

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 1, 1970 14:43


    The WTWA gang serves up a shorter episode exploring some of their positive experience as teachers and tips on how they maintain a positive mental attitude.How do you maintain your PMA while teaching or did you decide to leave the industry for greener pastures? If you have questions, comments, or episode ideas we would love for you to reach out to us at WTWA@277media.com.

    Ep 7: Teacher Pay

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 1, 1970 49:40


    The WTWA gang doesn't hold back as they explain the basics of teacher salary and also get passionate in their conversation about the lack of financial compensation for classroom teachers.Do you feel like teachers are overpaid and just a bunch of whiny, lazy babysitters? You can contact us with your questions, comments, or episode ideas at WTWA@277media.com.

    Ep 6: Successes and Joyful Moments

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 1, 1970 24:24


    The WTWA gang share a few of their most memorable success stories and moments that brought them joy through their time in the classroom.

    Ep 5: The Day in the Life of a Teacher

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 1, 1970 42:30


    The WTWA gang explores the in and outs of what it is like to live a day as a teacher with returning guest Dena Offerdahl. Dena is a librarian, former social studies teacher, great friend, and one of the best educators we have ever worked with.If you have questions, comments, or episode ideas we would love for you to reach out to us at WTWA@277media.com.

    Ep 4: What Has Surprised Us the Most as Teachers?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 1, 1970 32:27


    The WTWA gang talk about some of their many surprised they discovered in their journey as educators.What surprised you when you first started teaching? Has teaching post-Covid led to any interesting surprises? Let us know by reaching us at WTWA@277media.com.

    Ep 1: Why Start a Podcast About All Things Education?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 1, 1970 14:40


    This group of former colleagues starts off the series by introducing themselves and delving into the question of why they would start a podcast about all things education.If you have questions, comments, or episode ideas we would love for you to reach out to us at WTWA@277media.com.

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