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Multilingual learners are the fastest-growing student group in the U.S., and their success depends on how well schools support language development alongside grade-level instruction. In this episode, Dr. Wendy Amato is joined by Katherine Hamilton, Vice President of Programs at Ensemble Learning, to share how educators can better support these students—whether they're new to the country or born in the U.S. but still developing academic English. Katherine draws from classroom experience and district-level partnerships to break down key instructional strategies, the power of student talk, and what meaningful walkthroughs look like. She also shares the importance of aligning classroom practices with school and district priorities to keep support focused and manageable.Resources for Continued LearningLearn More About Ensemble LearningEnsemble Learning is a nonprofit that partners with schools, districts, and state agencies to support equity for multilingual learners. Their work includes professional learning, coaching, and systems-level alignment to ensure that students learning English receive the instruction and support they need to thrive. Professional Learning with Teaching ChannelLooking to strengthen your support for multilingual learners? Teaching Channel's graduate-level courses offer practical strategies to help educators create welcoming, language-rich classrooms for newcomer students.5308: Empowering Multilingual Newcomers with Language and SEL SupportLearn how to create a Newcomer Kit, build a family resource guide, and plan meaningful opportunities for language development using multi-cue and comprehensible input approaches. The course also addresses ways to support newcomer students with learning disabilities.
What if strong parent engagement was the key to happier teachers and more successful students?In this episode of Teaching Channel Talks, Dr. Wendy Amato is joined by education consultant, coach, and speaker Peyten Williams to explore how schools can foster meaningful partnerships with parents. Peyten shares why parent education shouldn't stop after orientation and how ongoing communication and support can make a real difference for students. From strengthening communication to facilitating supportive school communities, Peyten and Wendy discuss practical ways schools can connect with families, improve conversations, and build a stronger school community for students, teachers, and parents alike.Resources for Continued LearningFood for Thought Parent DiscussionsJoin Food for Thought, a weekly Zoom session hosted by Peyten Williams and Becky McKnight, a former school administrator. These free discussions cover common parenting concerns, including friendships, technology, and discipline. Watch past recordings on Peyten's YouTube Channel.Bowbend Consulting Best Practices for Parent Engagement EventsPeyten Williams developed the Best Practices Checklist for Parent Engagement Events to help schools improve parent participation. This resource includes:Grouping parents by grade level for more relevant discussions.Converting lectures into podcasts or recorded videos for flexible access.Scheduling events at convenient times, such as after drop-off or before pick-up. By using these strategies, schools can create events that encourage meaningful engagement.Professional Learning with Teaching ChannelLooking to boost your teaching skills and advance your career? Teaching Channel's graduate-level courses are designed to help educators build strong partnerships with families and enhance student success.5844: Engaging Parents for Student SuccessThis course explores effective ways to foster parent, caregiver, and community engagement. Learn how to strengthen family-school relationships, encourage participation, and improve communication between teachers and families to create a more supportive learning environment.Stay ConnectedSubscribe to Teaching Channel Talks on your favorite podcast platform for more insights, resources, and professional learning opportunities.Have feedback or ideas for future episodes? Contact us at K12Hub@teachingchannel.com
Kwame Sarfo-Mensah is the founder of Identity Talk Consulting, LLC, a global educational consulting firm that specializes in developing K-12 teachers into identity-affirming educators. Additionally, Identity Talk Consulting, LLC is licensed as a DESE-approved professional development provider and a Minority Owned Enterprise within the Commonwealth for Massachusetts. Prior to starting his firm, he served as a middle school math teacher in Philadelphia, PA and Boston, MA for nine years. Mr. Sarfo-Mensah holds a Bachelor's Degree in Mathematics and a Master's Degree in Elementary Education from Temple University. Throughout his 17-year education career as a classroom teacher, author, and consultant, Mr. Sarfo-Mensah has earned numerous accolades for this work, which include being honored as the 2019 National Member of the Year by Black Educators Rock, Inc. and being recognized as a Top Education Influencer by brightbeam, Inc. in 2021 and 2022. His work has been featured in Education Week, WGBH News, Edutopia, Ed Post, The International Educator (TIE), Teaching Channel, and The Tavis Smiley Show. His latest book, "Learning to Relearn: Supporting Identity in a Culturally Affirming Classroom", is out now.Social Media Links:WEBSITE - https://identitytalk4educators.comINSTAGRAM - @kwam_the_identity_shaperLINKEDIN - https://linkedin.com/in/kwame-sarfo-mensahPATREON - https://patreon.com/kwamesarfomensahYOUTUBE - https://www.youtube.com/@kwamesarfo-mensah5785PODCAST - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/identity-talk-4-educators-live/id1509599570TakeawaysKwame Sarfo Mensah transitioned from sports to education.He emphasizes the lack of Black teachers in schools.'Learning to Relearn' focuses on capacity building in education.Names are an important part of identity in the classroom.Consulting started as a response to inquiries about his book.Podcasting helped him build an international network.Networking is more important than a resume in consulting.Collaboration is key in professional development.His understanding of identity has evolved over time.Authenticity is crucial in teaching and consulting. Identity is multifaceted and can create feelings of not belonging.Engaging with diverse backgrounds enhances understanding and awareness.The political climate significantly influences DEI initiatives in organizations.Community support is crucial for those working towards social change.Adapting strategies is necessary in response to political and social shifts.Consultants face unique challenges in client engagement due to geographical constraints.Outsourcing tasks can alleviate the burden of running a business.Professional development is essential for consultants to stay relevant.Multiple income streams can provide financial stability for consultants.Networking with other professionals can lead to shared resources and opportunities.Chapters00:00Introduction to Kwame Sarfo Mensah02:02Journey into Education and Teaching Philosophy09:47Cultural Identity and Experiences in Boston12:54Insights from 'Learning to Relearn' Book18:05Starting Identity Talk Consulting26:08The Role of Podcasting in Networking and Growth35:51Bringing Authenticity into Teaching and Consulting38:35Navigating Identity and Cultural Complexity42:11The Impact of Political Climate on DEI Initiatives47:33Building Community for Collective Action52:52Adapting Strategies in a Changing Landscape53:57Overcoming Challenges in Business Development01:00:40Prioritizing Professional Development as a Consultant Go get your copy of The Edupreneur: Your Blueprint To Jumpstart And Scale Your Education Business. The book goes beyond the conventional business literature, providing a comprehensive roadmap from the initial idea to the successful launch and expansion of an education business.
How can a single image spark rich mathematical discussions?In this episode of Teaching Channel Talks, Dr. Wendy Amato welcomes Sarah Larison from Northwestern to explore Multiplicity, a platform designed to transform math instruction through rich images and meaningful discussions. Sarah shares how this innovative approach, born during the pandemic, continues to engage students and empower teachers by making math more accessible and collaborative. Learn how Multiplicity fosters deep mathematical thinking, supports multilingual learners, and builds teacher confidence—one image at a time.Resources for Continued LearningExplore the tools and resources mentioned in the episode to enhance math instruction in your classroom:Get Started with Multiplicity. Engage students in meaningful mathematical discussions using carefully curated images and inquiry-based tasks. Multiplicity provides a low-floor, high-ceiling approach that encourages flexible thinking and collaborative problem-solving. Try discussing Multiplicity at your next PLC meeting and collaborate with colleagues to curate images that align with key math concepts in your curriculum! New to the platform? Follow this step-by-step guide to select tasks, facilitate discussions, and integrate Multiplicity into your instruction with confidence.Advance Your Math Instruction with Teaching Channel: Looking to boost your teaching skills and advance your salary? Teaching Channel's 3-credit math courses are designed to help educators grow professionally while making a greater impact in their classrooms.
In this episode of Teaching Channel Talks, guest host Keely Keller steps in for Dr. Wendy Amato to explore the critical topic of multi-tiered systems of support (MTSS) with Dr. Stephanie Stollar, an expert in reading science and educational frameworks. Stephanie highlights the essential role of effective Tier 1 instruction in improving literacy outcomes and aligning with the science of reading.The conversation dives into evidence-based practices for universal instruction, emphasizing the importance of addressing diverse student needs through data-informed decision-making, small-group instruction, and early interventions. Stephanie also sheds light on the barriers educators face, such as limited resources, data literacy challenges, and entrenched practices, while offering actionable strategies to overcome them.Resources for Continued LearningIn this episode of Teaching Channel Talks, Keely Keller and Dr. Stephanie Stollar discuss how the science of reading and data-informed decision-making can help educators create equitable and effective literacy instruction for all students. To support and expand on the ideas discussed in the episode, Stephanie has shared several invaluable resources to help educators take actionable steps toward improving literacy outcomes in their schools:Reading Science AcademyFounded by Stephanie Stollar, the Reading Science Academy focuses on advancing literacy education through evidence-based practices and professional development. Explore resources and training opportunities to enhance your teaching and improve student literacy outcomes.MTSS Implementation GuideThis guide, created by Stephanie Stollar, provides a structured framework for schools and districts implementing multi-tiered systems of support. It offers strategies for collaborative problem-solving, tiered instruction, and professional learning to improve student outcomes. Fundamentals of Reading AssessmentGain insights into the four key purposes of assessment within MTSS: screening, diagnostics, progress monitoring, and outcome evaluation. This resource outlines how to use assessments effectively to identify and address student needs. Looking to advance your skills and knowledge in teaching literacy? Teaching Channel's graduate-level courses offer research-based strategies to help you grow as an educator while impacting your students' success.
Join Dr. Wendy Amato in this episode of Teaching Channel Talks for an inspiring conversation with Brandon Cardet-Hernandez, President of Mrs. Wordsmith. Discover how Mrs. Wordsmith is revolutionizing literacy education with tools like Word Tag and Readdiculous, blending explicit instruction with gamified learning. Brandon shares his passion for addressing the literacy crisis, unpacking the impact of reading proficiency on health, economic success, and personal growth. Learn how innovative solutions and bold strategies can empower educators and families to close literacy gaps and create brighter futures for all students.Resources for Continued LearningIn this episode, Dr. Wendy Amato speaks with Brandon Cardet-Hernandez about the critical state of literacy in the United States. They discuss the importance of explicit instruction, phonics-based learning, and innovative tools that educators can use to bridge literacy gaps.Explore the tools and resources mentioned in the episode to support literacy in your classroom or at home:Word Tag: Boost vocabulary skills with this engaging game that combines spaced repetition and game-based learning. Ideal for classroom and at-home use, Word Tag has been shown to increase vocabulary scores by 43% in just one month. Learn more and try it free for three months!Readiculous: Strengthen foundational reading skills with this Science of Reading-backed phonics game. With just 10 minutes of gameplay daily, Readiculous helps young learners master phonemes and sight words in a fun and interactive way. Discover more and claim your free trial!Looking to boost your teaching skills and advance your salary? Teaching Channel's graduate-level courses are designed to help educators grow professionally while making a greater impact in their classrooms.5274: Explicit Writing Instruction with the Science of Reading in Mind: This course offers actionable strategies to align your writing instruction with the Science of Reading. It's perfect for educators who want to enhance their teaching practices while working toward career advancement.
How can drama transform learning beyond the stage? In this episode of Teaching Channel Talks, our host Dr. Wendy Amato welcomes Sam Marsden, drama instructor and author of Drama Games for Early Years, to explore drama as a powerful interdisciplinary tool for every classroom. Sam opens up about her personal journey with dyslexia and how drama helped her overcome learning challenges, while also explaining how it fosters safe spaces for authentic self-expression. Tune in to discover practical strategies to harness drama's power to boost student engagement and confidence in your classroom!Resources for Continued LearningSam Marden has many resources for Teaching Drama to Empower Your Students, including her latest book, Drama Games for Early Years: (4-7 Years), mentioned in this episode. She has also written books on acting games for 8-18 year-olds, improv, and creative writing.Even if yoou're not a drama instructor, these games can help your students express themselves and get out oof your comfort zone. Sam has provided a free sample from one of her books to get you started.
Join Dr. Wendy Amato in this episode of Teaching Channel Talks as she explores the intersection of artificial intelligence and ethics in education with Mark Atkinson, CEO of Mursion. Learn how Mursion's AI-powered simulation platform is revolutionizing teacher training by offering educators a safe space to practice under pressure, receive real-time coaching, and improve rapidly—without posing risks to real students. This discussion dives into how these simulations enhance teaching skills, support classroom management, and foster emotionally intelligent teaching practices.Resources for Continued LearningThis conversation focuses on how early career teachers are using Mursion to enhance their teaching. If you'd like to learn more about how you or your district can harness the power of Mursion for teacher training, request a demo.You can also download an overview of Mursion, to learn more about the impact of using simulations in training.During this conversation, Mike and Wendy noted that a tool like Mursion can be a great pairing to using video in the classroom. Teaching Channel's Empower Platform has the tools you need to get started using video for professional coaching and feedback.
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.
This edWeb podcast is sponsored by Teaching Channel.The webinar recording can be accessed here.As we plan for the next school year, education leaders are faced with many competing priorities, including supporting, retaining, and developing their teachers. School districts across the country successfully tackle these common challenges by embracing and investing in effective instructional coaching practices and we are excited to share tangible steps on how your district can, too. In this edWeb podcast, you learn from Gainesville ISD's Executive Director of Curriculum & Instruction Dana Dudenhoeffer about proven strategies for supporting, empowering, and retaining your teachers. The conversation is facilitated by Teaching Channel's Chief Academic Officer Dr. Wendy Amato.Listen to this edWeb podcast to learn best practices for coaching teachers through mentorship and PLCs, important considerations for the professional development of teachers, methods for elevating new teachers, opportunities to improve the retention of teachers throughout their programs, and how utilizing video can support these efforts. The presenters share specific examples and walk-through techniques.This session specifies high-impact instructional practices and explores criteria that help schools and leaders prioritize the use of their resources. School and district leaders walk away with actionable ideas for implementation and an understanding of how to use video-based self-reflection, peer feedback via PLCs, exemplar videos, and coaching support to improve teacher practice.This edWeb podcast is of interest to K-12 school leaders, district leaders, and education technology leaders.Teaching ChannelWe help teachers thrive and be their best in the classroom so their students can too.Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Learn more about viewing live edWeb presentations and on-demand recordings, earning CE certificates, and using accessibility features.
In this episode of Teaching Channel Talks, Dr. Elizabeth Wilkins, alongside our host Dr. Wendy Amato, discusses the impact of book bans. Wendy and Elizabeth explore how these bans hinder authentic learning by omitting essential themes like violence, mental health, and race. Emphasizing the need for inclusive reading materials, they urge educators to involve students and parents in book selection and foster open discussions despite challenges.Resources for Continued LearningIn this episode, Dr. Elizabeth Wilkins references book ban data from Pen America, you can learn more about the trend of banning books in America and see the full data here.Check out the book Dreamland Burning, by Jennifer Latham, which Dr. Wilkins lists as one of the banned books she has used in class. For our Teaching Channel listeners, Dr. Wilkins has provided downloadable "Banned Bookmarks" for you to print and share with other teachers or your students.
This episode of Teaching Channel Talks features a conversation between Dr. Wendy Amato and Dr. Greg King, the Director of Research from Mindprint Learning, discussing how different cognitive skills in students impact how they process information. They delve into the importance of leveraging cognitive skills for personalized learning, the impact of Mindprint assessments on student growth, and the practical application of data in educational settings to empower students and improve teaching strategies.Resources for Continued LearningIf you enjoyed this episode, you can learn more about how MindPrint Learning's cognitive assessment is helping students identify their strengths and reach their highest potential by visiting their website.Teaching Channel is proud to partner with MindPrint Learning with a new course that helps teachers who have access to the MindPrint Learning Assessment engage every learner in their classroom. If you're a part of the MindPrint community, you can check out course 5298: Science of Learning: A Practical Approach to Engaging Every Learner.
In this episode of Teaching Channel Talks, we're taking a closer look at the middle grades with Jennifer Rose, the Director for Professional Programs at the Association for Middle Level Education (AMLE). From the importance of differentiated professional development to understanding the complex changes students go through during this phase of adolescence, Jennifer and Wendy's discussion centers around the niche of middle level education and how AMLE is working to support the teachers within it.Resources for Continued LearningThe Association for Middle Level Education (AMLE) is an international organization specifically for middle school educators. As the go-to resource for research, best practices, and professional development, AMLE is a community of over 350,000 middle level educators connecting and supporting each other.Learn more and join the community!During this episode, Jennifer mentions AMLE's The Successful Middle School: This We Believe. Teaching Channel is proud to partner with the Association of Middle Level Education in upholding the 18 characteristics listed and offering professional development created specifically for middle school teachers.AMLE also offers several books focused on the education of young adolescents aged 10-15, which Jennifer mentions in the episode. AMLE members receive a 20% discount on all titles, but these texts are available to all educators.
This week on Teaching Channel Talks, we are joined by Dr. Tim Schigur, a distinguished educator with a multifaceted career in school leadership. As a seasoned educational leader, Dr. Schigur brings a wealth of experience and insight to our discussion, centering on the intricate dynamics of school leadership, organizational strategies, and the nuanced decision-making processes that shape the educational landscape at the highest levels. Tune in as Dr. Schigur shares his wisdom and sheds light on the multifaceted challenges of educational leadership.Resources for Continued LearningDr. Tim Schigur is the co-author of the book, Successful Middle School Instructional Technology, a companion guide to The Successful Middle School that provides a framework to develop a common language and approach to instructional technology in middle school.Dr. Schigur's book is one of the many resources offered by the Association for Middle Level Education (AMLE). AMLE is an international organization for middle school educators offering a strong community of over 3500 educators, and high-level content and resources for teachers and leaders working with young adolescents. Teaching Channel is offering special discounts and offers for AMLE members, learn more and become a part of AMLE here.
So much happens in our classrooms at any given moment, and as teachers, we often have to choose where to place our focus. Video gives us a chance to take a closer look with a different lens!In this episode of Teaching Channel Talks, we're joined by Dr. Miriam Sherin, professor and Associate Provost at Northwestern University, to talk about how she uses video to help both prospective and current educators improve their teaching and learning. In this conversation, Wendy and Miriam talk about how the use of video has changed over time, caution against its evaluative use, and explain why "learning to notice" can positively impact our teaching practice.In this episode, Dr. Sherin talks about some of the annotation tools she and her students use. One of these tools is the new Teaching Channel platform! Learn how we're harnessing the power of video to bring professional learning and support for educators all in one place.Miriam and Wendy also stress the importance of not using video as a "Gotcha" tool. Learn how to use video to build a growth-based evaluation system in From “Gotcha” to Growth: Teacher Evaluation Systems That Work, a free eBook from the K12 Hub.
Are you looking at your students through a strength-based lens? This week on Teaching Channel Talks, Wendy is joined by Sarah Larison, from Northwestern University, to discuss her work in advancing teacher preparation, particularly through the use of video. While mathematical argumentation is at the focal point of this insightful conversation, Sarah's research helps educators of all content areas go beyond filing gaps in student learning and instead, notice student thinking. Resources for Continued LearningLooking to bring Mathematical Thinking into your own math classroom? Teaching Channel offers several graduate-level continuing education courses, including 5154: Deep Thinking Practices for the Math Classroom, to help you get started.Ready to start using video to improve your teaching? Explore the new Teaching Channel Video Platform!
The further away administrators get from their roots as teachers, the more they forget what it's like to be in the trenches. The result is often either a real or perceived lack of empathy for teachers. Both teachers and administrators have vital roles in the school, and it's important for both to have mutual respect for one another. To achieve this, administrators need to take a step back and really listen to teachers. How? By being more visible, asking questions, and seeking out teachers as the answers to the challenges in their buildings. This week on the podcast, we're welcoming back author and educator Miriam Plotinsky. She's sharing about her latest book, Lead Like a Teacher, and talking about what school leaders can do to build more trust and a more collaborative school environment. Of course, there's an element for teachers in there too, and how they can look at school, teacher, and student needs through a different lens. About Miriam Plotinsky: Miriam Plotinsky is an author and instructional specialist who addresses challenges in both teaching and leading across schools with a wide range of differentiated needs. A strong advocate for student-centered learning, she provides coaching and professional development for teachers and administrators. She has written Teach More, Hover Less: How to Stop Micromanaging Your Secondary Classroom and Lead Like a Teacher: How to Elevate Expertise in Your School (W.W. Norton, 2022 & 2023). Miriam is widely published in education publications such as Education Week, Edutopia, ASCD Express, Middleweb, The Teaching Channel, EdSurge, K-12 Talk and Education World and is a frequent guest on education podcasts internationally. She is also a National Board-Certified Teacher with additional certification in administration and supervision. She can be found on her website or on Twitter: @MirPloMCPS. Miriam's third book, Writing Their Future Selves, releases in November. Jump in the Conversation: [1:48] - Miriam's empathy framework [3:27] - Miriam's unique background in education [6:15] - There's a complicated relationship between teachers and administrators [8:19] - There's a need for empathy on both sides [9:12] - How Lead Like a Teacher addresses empathy [13:15] - How to foster mutual understanding and respect between teachers and administrators [15:45] - There's a balance between toxic positivity and and miring yourself in the negativity that exists [17:00] - Unpacking teacher observations and evaluations [21:51] - Most school leaders feel attached to instruction but there's so much happening that they can't always participate [23:41] - A teacher observation that goes wrong [25:08] - Everything you see is data [27:55] - Leadership positions are often lonely [30:47] - Make what you do really transparent [32:12] - Steps school leaders can do to start building trust and a collaborative environment [33:56] - A sneak preview of Miriam's third book [36:55] - Turbo Time [39:30] - What people need to know about closing the teacher-administrator empathy gap [41:32] - Miriam's Magic Wand [42:31] - Maureen's Takeaways Links & Resources Episode 132: The Heart of Learning is Intentional Teaching Author of Teach More, Hover Less, Lead Like a Teacher & Writing Their Future Selves Twitter: @MirPloMCPS Visit Miriam's website Email Maureen Maureen's TEDx: Changing My Mind to Change Our Schools The Education Evolution Facebook: Follow Education Evolution Twitter: Follow Education Evolution LinkedIn: Follow Education Evolution EdActive Collective Maureen's book: Creating Micro-Schools for Colorful Mismatched Kids Micro-school feature on Good Morning America The Micro-School Coalition Facebook: The Micro-School Coalition LEADPrep
This edWeb podcast is sponsored by Teaching Channel.The webinar recording can be accessed here.This back-to-school season, district and school leaders are faced with serious challenges. Staffing shortages, supporting new teachers and retaining them, improving practice, raising student achievement—it's a lot.The team at the Metropolitan School District of Decatur Township has successfully tackled these challenges over the past six years by embracing video-based professional learning and they are excited to share tangible steps on how your district can too. Join us to learn how to use video-based self-reflection, peer feedback via PLCs, exemplar videos, and video coaching support to:Improve practice for teachers and instructional coachesRetain more teachers and coachesRaise student achievementListeners can also look forward to learning how these methods can change the districtwide vocabulary, support experienced, high-achieving teachers, and improve culture in their school buildings. The presenters share high-impact practices and explore ways to help school and district leaders prioritize supporting teachers in effective and realistic ways.This edWeb podcast is of interest to K-12 teachers, school and district leaders, and education technology leaders.Teaching Channel We help teachers thrive and be their best in the classroom so their students can too.Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Learn more about viewing live edWeb presentations and on-demand recordings, earning CE certificates, and using accessibility features.
Scilla Andreen, accomplished film director and CEO of iMPACTFUL has returned for another episode of Teaching Channel Talks! The last time Scilla joined the podcast, she and Wendy focused on her journey as a filmmaker, exploring Scilla's experiences and the inspiration behind her films. This time, we're measuring the impact these films have had as schools and organizations across the country host screenings of Angst, Like, Race to be Human, and Upstanders, and address the destigmatization around mental health as a result.Resources for Continued LearningIn this episode, Scilla and Wendy talk about iMPACTFUL's mental health film collection and the accompanying resources designed to bring about deeper learning, engagement, and impact. These films are available for schools, businesses, and non-profits. Find out about how you can host your own screening of Angst, Like, Race to be Human, or The Upstanders here.Be sure to follow iMPACTFUL on social media to hear about their latest films and programs, and check out Teaching Channel's free teacher resources to hear about our quarterly free screenings of IMPACTFUL films and accompanying panel discussions.iMPACTUL: Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | LinkedIn
This edWeb podcast is sponsored by Teaching Channel.The webinar recording can be accessed here.As students, school staff, and families approach back-to-school time, nervousness mixes with anticipation and excitement with anxiety. Students wonder about their new teachers. Educators plan and prepare for beginning-of-the-year lessons. Leaders communicate with stakeholders, transportation companies, and last-minute hires. Families begin to prepare their children and themselves for the impending return-to-school schedules. All are faced with the stress of trying to balance their school/work lives with their home lives.Listen to this edWeb podcast with Dr. Wendy Amato, K12 Coalition's Chief Academic Officer, Scilla Andreen, CEO of iMPACTFUL and Film Producer of the documentary Angst, and Keely Keller, Teaching Channel's Director of Professional Programs, for an authentic conversation about back-to-school anxiety. With the goal of providing information, resources, and strategies for students, educators, and family members, they discuss reasons for back-to-school anxiety, observable indicators, and coping methods. This session provides resources, strategies, and tools, as well as inspiration, solutions, and hope for those experiencing or navigating back-to-school anxiety.This edWeb podcast is of interest to PreK-12 teachers, paraprofessionals, and school leaders.Teaching Channel We help teachers thrive and be their best in the classroom so their students can too.Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Learn more about viewing live edWeb presentations and on-demand recordings, earning CE certificates, and using accessibility features.
This edWeb podcast is Sponsored by Teaching Channel.The webinar recording can be accessed here. Recruitment, new teacher attrition, and teacher retention are major issues for districts and organizations across the country. This edWeb podcast provides information and support to school and district leaders on their quest to find a solution to new teacher retention challenges. The presenters discuss the best ways to support, develop, elevate, and retain new teachers, improving outcomes for all educational stakeholders.Listeners hear about best practices for supporting new teachers, programmatic considerations for the development of new teachers, methods for elevating new teachers, and opportunities to improve the retention of new teachers throughout their programs. The presenters specify high-impact practices and explore criteria that help schools prioritize how to use their resources. School and district leaders walk away with actionable ideas for implementation.Listen to this session to:Discover best practices for supporting new teachersConnect programmatic considerations for the development of new teachersGain methods for elevating new teachersIdentify opportunities to improve retention of new teachersThis edWeb podcast is of interest to K-12 school and district leaders.Teaching Channel We help teachers thrive and be their best in the classroom so their students can too.Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Learn more about viewing live edWeb presentations and on-demand recordings, earning CE certificates, and using accessibility features.
Kwame Sarfo-Mensah holds a Bachelor's in Mathematics and a Master's in Elementary Education from Temple University. He served as a middle school math teacher for nine years in Philadelphia, PA, and Boston, MA. He is the founder & CEO of Identity Talk Consulting, providing professional development and consulting to K-12 schools and educators globally. He also authorizes two books: "Shaping the Teacher Identity: 8 Lessons That Will Help Define the Teacher in You" and "From Inaction to 'In Action': Creating a New Normal for Urban Educators." Outside of teaching and consulting, Kwame hosts the Identity Talk 4 Educators LIVE and the Radical Math Talk podcasts, which highlight the educators who are reshaping, redefining, and decolonizing the way education is taught in our schools. Throughout his 15-year career as a math educator, author, and consultant, Kwame has earned numerous accolades for this work, which include being honored as the 2019 National Member of the Year by Black Educators Rock, Inc. and is recognized as a Top Education Influencer by brightbeam, Inc. in 2021 and 2022. Kwame's work has been featured on The Tavis Smiley Show, Edutopia, Ed Post, Teaching Channel, WGBH News, The Educators' Room, LLC., and Medium. How to Connect Twitter: https://twitter.com/identityshaper Instagram: https://instagram.com/kwam_the_identity_shaper Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kwamesm YouTube: https://youtube.com/@kwamesarfo-mensah5785 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kwame-sarfo-mensah-76142482 How to Connect with Benita G. Email: theeduconciergepodcast@gmail.com Website: https://justteachbasics.wixsite.com/globaled Twitter: https://twitter.com/educonciergebg Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theeduconcierge Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theeducationconciergepodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/compnay/global-education-concierge-bg/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theeduconcierge?+t=8dSONI0fRv8&_r=1 --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/educationconcierge/message
In this episode of Teaching Channel Talks, we welcome Scilla Andreen, an accomplished film director, and CEO of Impactful. Just in time for Mental Health Awareness month, she and Dr. Wendy Amato delve into Scilla's journey as a filmmaker, exploring her experiences and the inspiration behind her films Angst, Like, Race to be Human, and Upstanders. But what sets Scilla apart from other filmmakers is her unique approach to tough topics.Scilla has gamified difficult subjects, creating creative coping toolkits to help people navigate through the challenges of mental health and other critical issues. She has also been instrumental in bringing mental health to the forefront of conversations in education, providing a platform for young people to share their stories and break down the stigma surrounding mental illness. In this podcast, we explore Scilla's incredible journey, her approach to filmmaking, and her impact on the world around her. So, grab a coffee, sit back, and join us for an insightful and inspiring conversation with Scilla Andreen.Resources for Continued LearningIn this episode, Scilla and Wendy talk about the Creative Coping Toolkit (CCT), an online learning platform built around IMPACTFUL's mental health film collection and designed to bring about deeper learning, engagement, and impact through expanded programming and support services. The CCT is available for schools, businesses, and non-profits. Find out about how you can bring the Creative Coping Toolkit to your organization here.Be sure to follow IMPACTFUL on social media to hear about their latest films and programs, and check out Teaching Channel's free teacher resources to hear about our quarterly free screenings of IMPACTFUL films and accompanying panel discussions.IMPACTUL: Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | LinkedIn
The Counter Narrative: Changing the Way We Talk (and think) About Education
In this episode, I chat with Sarah Said, an educator who has served in various roles including Teacher, Assistant Principal, Dean, Curriculum Coordinator, and Multilingual Coordinator. Sarah is an advocate for the students she serves and is a strong voice in education. She has been published in various publications such as Learning for Justice, EdWeek Teacher, The Teaching Channel and Edutopia During our conversation, we talk about how Sarah got her groove back by examining her journey from classroom to administration and then back again. We focused on mental health and questioned how much we are truly doing despite talking a lot about the need for shifts in this area. We reflected on the often unnecessary burdens we carry with us and the impact that has not only on ourselves but those around us. Sarah also pointed out that we could benefit from shifting from our standardized approaches to Norway's more fluid practices. Ready to hear more? Let's go! Facebook - Sarah Dollah-Said Twitter - @MrsSaid17 Instagram - @dollahsaid Linked In - Sarah Dollah-Said --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thecounternarrative/support
Order the Leading Equity Book Today! Sarah Said Sarah Said is an educator who has served in various roles: Teacher, Assistant Principal, Dean, Curriculum Coordinator and Multilingual Coordinator. Sarah is an advocate for the students she serves and is a strong voice in education. She has been published in various publications such as Learning for Justice, EdWeek Teacher, The Teaching Channel and Edutopia. Show Highlights Integrating Yoga in the classroom SEL for multilingual learners Trauma informed practices SEL strategies Connect with Sarah Twitter 4 Ways to Reduce Smartphone Distractions Additional Resources Book Dr. Eakins Watch The Art of Advocacy Show Learn more about our Student Affinity Groups Free Course on Implicit Bias 20 Diversity Equity and Inclusion Activities
On this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Shawnee Caruthers is joined by author and instructional specialist Miriam Plotinsky to discuss her new book Teach More, Hover Less. Miriam is a strong advocate for student-centered learning, she provides coaching and professional development for teachers and administrators. Plotinsky is widely published in Education Week, Edutopia, ASCD Express, The Teaching Channel, EdSurge, K–12 Talk, and Education World. She is also a National Board Certified Teacher with additional certification in administration and supervision. Links: Author website Teach More, Hover Less List of articles by Miriam Miriam Plotinsky Twitter Catlin Tucker - Take Learning Sideways Rachel Portman - Chocolat Soundtrack
Sarah Said is an educator who has served in various roles: Teacher, Assistant Principal, Dean, Curriculum Coordinator and Multilingual Coordinator. Sarah is an advocate for the students she serves and is a strong voice in education. She has been published in various publications such as Edutopia,Learning for Justice, EdWeek Teacher, The Teaching Channel and on Confianza.
Teachers are taught to differentiate their instruction to meet the needs of all students. But what does that even mean? It's not about lowering standards and expectations so one person's mastery is different from another's. Instead it's about adding more supports for students who need it while keeping targets the same. The only way to do this is to be more intentional about teaching, more learner-centered. We need to talk to our students more and truly listen to the feedback we receive from them. And then act on that feedback. This week on the podcast I'm talking to author and instructional specialist Miriam Plotinsky about the challenges that exist in classrooms today and how we can navigate this new high-tech, post-Covid world our youth are coming of age in. Listen in as we discuss the importance of leading schools from a teacher's perspective, how to make student interactions more valuable, what's going on with youth mental health, how to give students voice, and so much more. About Miriam Plotinsky: Miriam Plotinsky is an author and instructional specialist who addresses challenges in both teaching and leading across schools with a wide range of differentiated needs. A strong advocate for student-centered learning, she provides coaching and professional development for teachers and administrators. She has written Teach More, Hover Less: How to Stop Micromanaging Your Secondary Classroom and Lead Like a Teacher: How to Elevate Expertise in Your School (W.W. Norton, 2022 & 2023). Miriam is widely published in education publications such as Education Week, Edutopia, ASCD Express, Middleweb, The Teaching Channel, EdSurge, K-12 Talk and Education World and is a frequent guest on education podcasts internationally. She is also a National Board-Certified Teacher with additional certification in administration and supervision. She can be found on her website or on Twitter: @MirPloMCPS. Jump in the Conversation: [1:40] - Evolving school transformation for Miriam [3:04] - Where in the world can you start with differentiating learning and teaching [4:49] - It's not about lowering expectations; it's about giving students the supports they need [5:30] - How to let learning be more learner-centered [7:15] - Where do we have structure to offer more choice [8:46] - Why student voice is more than choice [9:30] - Student voice is something we need to empower them to express by building a level of trust that goes beyond personal relationships [11:20] - What to focus on to help kids develop a sense of identity [14:55] - Youth mental health: what's going on and what can we do about it in our schools [18:35] - Student learning and voice are important tools in supporting well being of youth [19:01] - Safe classroom space is even more important [20:07] - Grades should be based on how they are in relation to a learning outcome [22:40] - Lead schools from a teacher perspective [24:08] - Turbo Time [26:32] - What people need to know about how teens learn [27:38] - Something positive that's come out of Covid [29:34] - Miriam's Magic Wand [31:01] - Maureen's Takeaways Links & Resources Miriam Plotinsky's website Connect with Miriam on LinkedIn Follow Miriam on Facebook and Twitter Teach More, Hover Less: How to Stop Micromanaging Your Secondary Classroom by Miriam Plotinsky Lead Like a Teacher: How to Elevate Expertise in Your School by Miriam Plotinsky The Power of Belief Mindset Email Maureen Maureen's TEDx: Changing My Mind to Change Our Schools The Education Evolution Facebook: Follow Education Evolution Twitter: Follow Education Evolution LinkedIn: Follow Education Evolution EdActive Collective Maureen's book: Creating Micro-Schools for Colorful Mismatched Kids Micro-school feature on Good Morning America The Micro-School Coalition Facebook: The Micro-School Coalition LEADPrep
In this episode of the Teaching Champions Podcast I have a conversation with Sarah Said. We discuss listening to your intuition, student check ins, educator wellness, creating boundaries, the power of saying no, and so much more.Sarah Said has spent 17 years in public education. She has served in the roles of teacher, Director of ELL, Director of Language and Equity, Dean and Assistant Principal. Sarah has been published on numerous educational sites including Learning for Justice, The Teaching Channel, and EdWeek Teacher. Sarah stands strong when it comes to ensuring an equitable school community for all stakeholders. She is an advocate for Multilingual Learners and their families. Twitter: @MrsSaid17Road to Awesome Courses: https://roadtoawesome.net/uup-on-the-rta
Ask The Tech Coach: A Podcast For Instructional Technology Coaches and EdTech Specialists
Welcome to "Ask the Tech Coach," a podcast for Instructional Coaches and Technology Integration Specialists. In this episode of “https://www.teachercast.net/episodes/ask-the-tech-coach/ (Ask the Tech Coach),” Jeff welcomes Instructional Specialist and author Miriam Plotinsky on the podcast to discuss … If you would like to be a part of future podcasts and share your thoughts, https://www.teachercast.net/podcastguestform (please contact the podcast). We would love to have you join the show. Question of the Week Our favorite part of recording a live podcast each week is participating in the great conversations that happen on our live chat, on social media, and in our comments section. This week's question is: Question Topic: How can Caoches support high quality teaching in the classroom? Weekly Topic Why are teachers micromanaging their classrooms? Whose fault is it? I might be a micromanager if … Is “non-hover” teaching the same as Flipping your Classroom? Students can learn and take responsibility for their learning Choice-based instruction How do you shift the mindset in the classroom? The importance of relationship building Engagement vs Investment What is Choice-Based Instruction? Should teaching and learning be “hands-off”? About our Guest: Miriam Plotinsky Miriam Plotinsky is an author and instructional specialist who addresses challenges in both teaching and leading across schools with a wide range of differentiated needs. A strong advocate for student-centered learning, she provides coaching and professional development for teachers and administrators. Her first book, Teach More, Hover Less: How to Stop Micromanaging Your Secondary Classroom (W.W. Norton & Company, 2022), is a practical guide to a student-centered instructional approach that removes the necessity of teacher micromanagement. Miriam is widely published in Education Week, Edutopia, ASCD Express, The Teaching Channel, EdSurge, K-12 Talk and Education World. She is also a National Board-Certified Teacher with additional certification in administration and supervision. Links of Interest Website: http://www.miriamplotinsky.com (http://www.miriamplotinsky.com) Twitter: https://twitter.com/mirplomcps (@MirPloMCPS) About the Book: Teach More, Hover Less A hover-free classroom starts with a dynamic class community. Our image of a classroom community in secondary education is rapidly evolving. The experience of remote learning during a pandemic has altered our mental picture of students occupying rows of desks with a teacher nearby, closely monitoring their activities. But even when teachers are able to be in physical proximity to their students, the research is clear that students need to be empowered to take ownership of their learning in order to be fully engaged. The question this book explores is: How can teachers step back, stop micromanaging, and allow students more agency? In this engaging guide, instructional specialist Miriam Plotinsky breaks hover-free teaching down into four sequential stages: mindset, deeper relationships, planning for engagement, and choice-based instruction. Her book shows how teachers can free themselves from helicopter habits and allow students greater control of their own learning, while still managing and maximizing classroom time effectively. https://wwnorton.com/books/9781324019879 (https://wwnorton.com/books/9781324019879) Join the TeacherCast Instructional Coaches Network! Are you a Tech Coach or looking to become one this year? Are you searching for support in your position? The TeacherCast Tech Coaches Network, is a dynamic Professional Learning Network designed specifically for Tech Coaches and designed to provide weekly support for all Instructional Coaches. 3 Distinct Professional Learning Networks designed to help you grow for network other Coaches and Digital...
Today's episode of the Making After-School Cool Podcast focuses on current issues appearing in education. As Educational practices continue to evolve, there remains the question of “are the methods we now use to educate our youth keeping pace with the educational evolution?” Research has shown that when students actively participate in lessons, they are more engaged and their academic performance increase. To discuss a few of these issues is my guest, Miriam Plotinsky. During this podcast you will learn the following: How much should outside influences alter what is being taught in schools? What are some lessons educators learned during remote teaching that could help them today? What are some insight school administrators gain when they also teach a class? What are some advantages for teachers as well as students when the simple term “What do you think” is used to discuss lessons? A brief description of the book, “Teach More, Hover Less: How to Stop Micromanaging Your Secondary Classroom” Guest Miriam Plotinsky is an author and instructional specialist who addresses challenges in both teaching and leading schools with differentiated needs. A strong advocate for student-centered learning, Miriam is widely published in Education Week, Edutopia, ASCD Express, The Teaching Channel, EdSurge, K-12 Talk and Education World. She is also a National Board-Certified Teacher with additional certification in administration and supervision. Her first book, Teach More, Hover Less: How to Stop Micromanaging Your Secondary Classroom (W.W. Norton & Company, 2022), is a practical guide to a student-centered instructional approach that removes the necessity of teacher micromanagement. Resources Miriam Plotinsky Miriamplotinsky.com Teach More, Hover Less How to Stop Micromanaging Your Secondary Classroom https://wwnorton.com/books/9781324019879 Mike Wilson mwilson@hcde-texas.org Harris County Department of Education https://hcde-texas.org CASE for Kids https://hcde-texas.org/afterschool-zone
Welcome to Our Classroom! In this brief episode, Math Educator and Consultant Kwame Sarfo-Mensah wraps up our conversation about math including talking about supporting bilingual learners. Kwame Sarfo-Mensah is a 15-year veteran urban educator and the founder & CEO of Identity Talk Consulting, LLC., an independent educational consulting firm that provides professional development and consulting services to K-12 school districts, educators, colleges & universities and educational non-profit organizations. He is also the author of two books: "Shaping the Teacher Identity: 8 Lessons That Will Help Define the Teacher in You" and "From Inaction to 'In Action': Creating a New Normal for Urban Educators". A proud graduate of Temple University, Kwame holds a Bachelor's Degree in Mathematics and a Master's Degree in Elementary Education. He was honored as the 2019 National Member of the Year by Black Educators Rock, Inc. for his unwavering commitment to the advancement of the teacher profession. Kwame's work has also been featured on The Tavis Smiley Show, Edutopia, Education Post, Teaching Channel, WGBH News, The Educators' Room, LLC., and Medium. Follow Kwame Sarfo-Mensah-Mensah @kwam_the_identity_shaper, @radicalmathtalk and the Identity Talk Website This episode is sponsored by Heinemann --- a publisher of professional resources and a provider of educational services for teachers, kindergarten through college. Start Here Start Now by Liz Kleinrock is a practical guide to antibias and antiracist work in schools. “There is no ‘one and done' lesson or book when it comes to social justice and culturally reflective teaching. This book is meant to help educators break habits that are holding them back from this work, as well as build positive, sustainable teaching for the future.” Learn more and purchase Start, Here, Start Now at Heinemann.com For more education resources subscribe to multiculturalclassroom.com #matheducation #culturallyresponsiveteaching #mathteacher #teacherssupportteachers #mathteachersofinstagram #teacherauthor #teachergoals #edupreneur #education #school #educators #teaching #consulting #mathematics #teacher #multiculturalclassroom #ourclassroom #Ghana #ABAR #socialjusticeeducation
As we proceed (P. Diddy voice) with the math strategies you need! In part 2 of Mathin' It Up w/ Kwame Sarfo-Mensah, we discuss Math & Hip Hop, creating a STEM Speaker Series, Culturally Responsive Teaching in math, standardized testing, and the difference between math in the USA and math in Western African countries. Kwame Sarfo-Mensah is a 15-year veteran urban educator and the founder & CEO of Identity Talk Consulting, LLC., an independent educational consulting firm that provides professional development and consulting services to K-12 school districts, educators, colleges & universities and educational non-profit organizations. He is also the author of two books: "Shaping the Teacher Identity: 8 Lessons That Will Help Define the Teacher in You" and "From Inaction to 'In Action': Creating a New Normal for Urban Educators". A proud graduate of Temple University, Kwame holds a Bachelor's Degree in Mathematics and a Master's Degree in Elementary Education. He was honored as the 2019 National Member of the Year by Black Educators Rock, Inc. for his unwavering commitment to the advancement of the teacher profession. Kwame's work has also been featured on The Tavis Smiley Show, Edutopia, Education Post, Teaching Channel, WGBH News, The Educators' Room, LLC., and Medium. Follow Kwame Sarfo-Mensah-Mensah @kwam_the_identity_shaper, @radicalmathtalk and the Identity Talk Website This episode is sponsored by Heinemann --- a publisher of professional resources and a provider of educational services for teachers, kindergarten through college. Start Here Start Now by Liz Kleinrock is a practical guide to antibias and antiracist work in schools. “There is no ‘one and done' lesson or book when it comes to social justice and culturally reflective teaching. This book is meant to help educators break habits that are holding them back from this work, as well as build positive, sustainable teaching for the future.” Learn more and purchase Start, Here, Start Now at Heinemann.com For more education resources subscribe to multiculturalclassroom.com For more education resources subscribe to multiculturalclassroom.com #matheducation #culturallyresponsiveteaching #mathteacher #teacherssupportteachers #mathteachersofinstagram #teacherauthor #teachergoals #edupreneur #education #school #educators #teaching #consulting #mathematics #teacher #multiculturalclassroom #ourclassroom #Ghana #ABAR #socialjusticeeducation
I don't even like math like that but this was fun!
About Kwame Sarfo-Mensah Kwame Sarfo-Mensah is a 15-year veteran urban educator and the founder of Identity Talk Consulting, an educational consulting firm that provides professional development and consulting services to K-12 school districts, educators, colleges, universities, and educational non-profit organizations. He is also the author of two books: "Shaping the Teacher Identity: 8 Lessons That Will Help Define the Teacher in You" and "From Inaction to 'In Action': Creating a New Normal for Urban Educators". A proud graduate of Temple University, Kwame holds a Bachelor's Degree in Mathematics and a Master's Degree in Elementary Education. He was honored as the 2019 National Member of the Year by Black Educators Rock, Inc. for his unwavering commitment to the advancement of the teacher profession. Kwame's work has also been featured on the Tavis Smiley Radio Show, Teaching Channel, Edutopia, Education Post, Citizen Ed, WGBH News, The Educators' Room, and Medium. Show Highlights Looking at your next five years Considering starting a side hustle Other options to consulting Blogging Podcasting YouTube channel Getting started with sharing your knowledge Connect with Kwame Website Instagram Twitter Facebook LinkedIn Learn more about the Advocacy Room Free Course on Implicit Bias 20 Diversity Equity and Inclusion Activities Equity Leaders Accelerator 2.0 Annihilating Racial Injustice in School Course FREE AUDIO COURSE: Race, Advocacy, and Social Justice Studies
Charlotte Danielson's Framework for Teaching is changing soon! Hear from Dr. Jim Furman, Executive Director of the Danielson Group, and Wendy Amato as they discuss those upcoming changes and how they'll help support the individual and collective efforts of teachers and administrators in positively impacting student learning. You'll also hear instructional coaching strategies that will educators grow at every stage of their careers. Continue LearningProfessional Learning Learn more about how you can use The Framework for Teaching and Teaching Channel to support teachers at your school or district Videos Watch a webinar with education experts from the Danielson Group and Teaching Channel https://learn.teachingchannel.com/video/coaching-for-equity (Coaching for Equity) https://learn.teachingchannel.com/video/district-wide-coaching-system (Effective Coaching Systems) Articles https://www.teachingchannel.com/_hcms/analytics/search/conversion?redirect=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cudGVhY2hpbmdjaGFubmVsLmNvbS9ibG9nL3Byb2Zlc3Npb25hbC1sZWFybmluZy1jb21tdW5pdHk%3D&ct=SEARCH&pid=4849119&cid=54389782370&t=ZGFuaWVsc29u&d=www.teachingchannel.com&c=2&c=3&c=6&rp=2&ab=true&opcid=&rs=UNKNOWN&hs-expires=1663701047&hs-version=1&hs-signature=APUk-v5AtLIgQ5BwVE2pejFEGD0ZJu-X1w (How to Build a Professional Learning Community With the Framework for Teaching)
In this episode, Franchesca interviews Kwame Sarfo-Mensah from Identity Talk for Educators to discuss how toxic school cultures weigh on the mental health of educators. Kwame Sarfo-Mensah is a 14-year veteran urban educator and the founder of Identity Talk Consulting, an independent educational consulting firm that provides professional development and consulting services to K-12 school districts, educators, colleges & universities and educational non-profit organizations. He is also the author of two books: "Shaping the Teacher Identity: 8 Lessons That Will Help Define the Teacher in You" and "From Inaction to 'In Action': Creating a New Normal for Urban Educators". As a staunch ambassador and advocate for teacher empowerment, Kwame has spoken at numerous national education conferences and worked diligently to support the recruitment and retention of teachers of color in the education system. In January 2019, he was selected to be in the inaugural cohort of the InSPIRED (In-Service Professionals Increasing Racial and Ethnic Diversity) Fellowship, an initiative organized by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary & Secondary Education for veteran teachers of color to recruit students of color to teach in Massachusetts. As an InSPIRED Teaching Fellow, Kwame facilitated professional development workshops for aspiring teachers at universities such as Boston College, UMass Boston, and Worcester State University and has served as a guest speaker for non-profit teacher pipeline programs such as Generation Teach and Worcester Public Schools' Future Teachers Academy. A proud graduate of Temple University, Kwame holds a Bachelor's Degree in Mathematics and a Master's Degree in Elementary Education. He was honored as the 2019 National Member of the Year by Black Educators Rock, Inc. for his unwavering commitment to the advancement of the teacher profession. Kwame's work has also been featured in Teaching Channel, Edutopia, Education Post, WGBH News, The Educators' Room, and Medium. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/teacher-self-care/support
Lynn McGonagill is the Founder and Teaching Channel of the Lightworkers Healing Method™. To date, she has invested twenty-three years in training with higher-dimension Avatars. For the past thirteen years, she has maintained a full time Lightworkers Healing Method™ practice working with thousands of clients. And for the past six years, she has taught this unique and powerful Angelically guided energy healing art through a progressive series of experiential weekend workshops at various locations including Kripalu and the Institute of Noetic Sciences. Her first book, The Lightworkers Healing Method: BE Who Your Soul Wants You To Be, is a how-to manual of the Lightworkers Healing Method™ core curriculum. Yes, she channels Higher Dimension teachers like Esther Hicks channels Abraham. Yes, she heals people just like John of God. But the most amazing thing about her is that she teaches other people to do the same thing. She is creating a WAVE of Esther Hicks/John of God healer-channelers. Her mission? To help everyone to live their own missions, their own soul plans. To help everyone BE who their souls came here to be, and become part of the transformation. Prior to dedicating herself to her work with the higher-dimension Avatars to channel this healing method, Lynn had a successful 20-year career in business. She began that career at the prestigious Price Waterhouse Accounting firm, was the Controller with a $200 million manufacturing company, and was a partner in another CPA (Accounting) firm. Lynn has been heard on Wall Street Journal Radio's "The Daily Wrap with Michael Kastner," WPKZ-FM Boston's "The Daily Pulse," KHHT-FM Los Angeles, WLW Cincinnati, Michigan Talk Network's "Michigan's Morning Show," WIOD Miami, "Talk of Connecticut," KTOK Oklahoma City's "Oklahoma's First News," KKNW Seattle, KROI-FM Houston, KSL Salt Lake City, the Dreamvisions 7 Radio Network, "The Sheila Show," "Sheila Show Celebrate," "Seeing Beyond," "Planetary Spirit," "Good Vibrations," and "You Wealth Revolution." Her own radio show, BE Who Your Soul Wants You To Be, is featured on the Dreamvisions 7 Radio Network, which reaches over 1 million listeners in 125 countries. Lynn's Story: Before Lynn's brother Allen died, she was living a "normal" life as a CPA with her own firm. Allen had experienced a death and revival experience in his final weeks. Back in his body afterward, he promised Lynn that if he died, and if he could, he would come back to tell her about it. Two weeks after his death, in February 1990, Allen kept that promise. Over the next 16 months, Lynn gradually followed her brother into the higher dimensions. By requiring that she reach higher to meet him each time, Allen was teaching Lynn inter-dimensional travel. One day in June of 1991, the breakthrough occurred. Lynn was asking Allen for help about a particular issue when he exclaimed, "You're just missing it! You're missing the whole thing!" He then turned sideways and disappeared. Behind where he had been, she could see many beings, all out-of-body, just like him. Eventually, Lynn realized there were Guides in that group: wise, loving beings absolutely determined to support those of us who are in bodies. At that point, the Guides, Angels and Lightbeings took over Lynn's training. They started showing her ways to work with the energy of the Universe. The Guides opened doors to other times, other dimensions, other vibrations, to the endless healing power and loving force of Divine flow. The Lightworkers Healing Method™ was born. In 1994, the messages began: "You aren't doing your work in the world. Sell your accounting practice." As so many of us so often do, she ignored her guidance. Almost five years later, the Universe pushed her out of the nest: she got ill. Disabled with fibromyalgia, she could no longer work. She was forced to walk away from the business world.
Learn from the research of the Teach Like a Champion team as Wendy Amato interviews Doug Lemov and Hilary Lewis about the most important lessons from the 20/21 school year. In this asynchronous conversation, you'll hear specific, actionable strategies that teachers are using to build connections with their students through lesson content and classroom routines. You'll also hear Doug and Hilary's recommendations for how to use the lessons learned from this year to come back stronger in the fall. Continue Learning Articles Read an excerpt from Teach Like a Champion 3.0 - "https://teachlikeachampion.com/blog/phrasing-fundamentals-for-question-a-tlac-3-0-excerpt/ (Phrasing Fundamentals for Questioning)" Get ideas from the TLAC team on https://teachlikeachampion.com/blog/the-first-steps-back-what-id-do-first-for-summer-school/ (what students can do this summer) to reduce learning loss Events https://twitter.com/Doug_Lemov (Follow Doug on Twitter) to join the next Teach Like a Champion Twitter chat Videos Watch all of Teaching Channel's Teach Like a Champion webinars Watch a https://teachlikeachampion.com/blog/monitoring-two-settings-at-once-notes-on-allison-dungeys-hybrid-lesson-from-jasmine-lane/ (7th-grade English teacher's hybrid lesson) and read observations from the TLAC team
What's the most important thing for teachers and parents to prioritize during hybrid learning? Continue learning from Doug Lemov and Wendy Amato in part 2 of their conversation (listen to part 1 here!). In this episode, Doug outlines his strategies for routines that help connect your "Room-ers" and "Zoom-ers" and how to make hybrid lessons feel more purposeful. Want to hear more from Doug and Teaching Channel? Sign up for a 15-hour professional development course to watch real lessons from online and hybrid classrooms. Continue Learning Watch a free webinar series with the Teach Like a Champion team and Wendy Sign up for a 15-hour professional development course from Doug and Teaching Channel https://teachlikeachampion.com/ (Learn more) about Teach Like a Champion Other ResourcesArticles https://teachlikeachampion.com/blog/double-bonus-video-of-jill-mattis-hybrid-lesson-her-insights-from-a-follow-up-interview/ (Jill Mattis' Hybrid Classroom [VIDEO]) Cultivate a Culture of Error https://teachlikeachampion.com/blog/making-hybrid-work-mika-salazar-on-setting-up-your-classroom/ (Making Hybrid Work: Mika Salazar on Setting up Your Classroom [VIDEO]) Videos https://learn.teachingchannel.com/video/checking-understanding-virtual-world (Checking for Understanding in a Virtual World) (webinar) https://learn.teachingchannel.com/video/boosting-engagement-rigor-and-connection-online-part-1 (Boosting Engagement, Rigor, and Connection Online Part 1 )(webinar) https://learn.teachingchannel.com/video/boosting-engagement-rigor-and-connection-online-part-2 (Boosting Engagement, Rigor, and Connection Online Part 2 )(webinar)
For over a year now we all have been teaching with video. Quite frankly, teaching with video is a craft that needs to be developed, especially if you want to get your point across. I can honestly say that I believe video in education is here to stay. I’ll go further and say that in education, COVID-19 will be remembered as a catalyst for improving instruction. Former high school teacher Rob Bayuk understands how important video is to education. He has worked with the Microsoft Innovative Experts and served as general manager of the Teaching Channel. Rob is currently senior education marketing lead at Prezi, where he and his team develop innovative ways to support the “flipped classroom” model, virtual teaching, virtual assignments, test preparations, and school-to-home communication. In this episode, we speak with Rob about how the pandemic has changed the use of video in classrooms. We also discuss creativity tools like Prezi Design, a Canva-like platform that allows teachers to create interactive graphs, presentations, and video templates that enhance student understanding. Bonus to our listeners: Rob offers an exclusive incentive to try Prezi Premium Plus. Sign up for the Prezi Basic first, then you can be upgraded to Prezi Premium Plus, for a limited time. To sign up for an upgraded account. Complete this short form. Flipboard EDU Magazine Flipboard Educators Blog
Writing Matters with Dr. Troy Hicks is a Writable podcast. Learn how to grow great writers at https://www.writable.com/ Like and subscribe to Writing Matters on: ∙ Spotify: https://spoti.fi/2HcOcaP ∙ Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/2XA5wwl ∙ Soundcloud: bit.ly/2SFbrwr ∙ Google Play: https://bit.ly/2SOrUOM ∙ Stitcher: https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/writable/writing-matters Learn more about Dr. Troy Hicks at hickstro.org and follow him on Twitter: https://twitter.com/hickstro About Christopher Bronke: Christopher Bronke has been teaching English for 15 years and is in his 8th year as English Department Chair at Downers Grove North. In this role, he teaches 9th-grade honors, evaluates teachers, plans and implements PD, and works with other district leaders on integration/implementation of standards as well as common assessments and rubrics. He has presented nationally on CCSS integration across all subject areas, creating a teacher brand, blogging to empower teacher voice, collaborative leadership, teacher blogging, teacher leadership, literacy leadership, as well as social media in the classroom. Christopher’s work with social media has been featured in the Atlantic, with the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, on EduTalk Radio, and on the social media platforms MightyBell and Celebrate Teaching. Additionally, he has presented at the state level on close reading strategies for fiction and nonfiction, 21st-century writing, teacher leadership, and innovative creative writing instruction. From 2014-2016, Christopher was a member of the Teacher Advisory Council for the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and is currently on the Executive Committee as Associate Chair for the Conference on English Leadership. He has served as a Community Manager and Innovation Coach for the Redesign Challenge, and as the Community Manager Lead for Sevenzo. Because of his passion for teacher voice, Chris co-founded and is a director of the National Blogging Collaborative, an organization dedicated to helping teachers blog. In this role, he worked one-on-one with teacher-writers from across the country, served as the editorial lead, and delivered training to organizations in order to help infuse the national narrative with authentic teacher voice. A champion of teacher voice, Chris has been on the Executive Planning Committee for three Elevating and Celebrating Effective Teachers and Teaching (ECET2) national convenings as well as the planning lead for two ECET2 regional events in Chicago.As a passionate writer, Christopher had his educational blogs/articles featured by a wide range of platforms including Teaching Channel, Conference on English Leadership, National Council of Teachers of English, the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, the Chicago Sun-Times, Language Arts Journal of Michigan, Let's Recap and more. For more information on Christopher Bronke: Blog: https://medium.com/@mrbronke Twitter: https://twitter.com/MrBronke **************************************************** Join the Writable community: ∙ Twitter: https://twitter.com/getwritable ∙ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/getwritable/ ∙ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/writ... ∙ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/getwritable/ ∙ Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/getwritable/ ∙ Medium: https://medium.com/writable
Key to accelerating influence is honestly assessing both your internal and external environments, which is not easy to do. Sarah does not hold back in opening up the hard truths of really exploring “What Is” sharing “It means being vulnerable to ourselves”, “It gets into the fear of being fully influential”, and “Really good things or really bad things just highlight or illuminate the reality of what’s already there.” This podcast will inspire you to take a hard look at your own “What Is”, setting the stage to become even more influential.Sarah is a 21-year veteran of the high school English classroom. While a member of the faculty at Johnston High School in Johnston, Iowa she has taught courses ranging from at-risk to Advanced Placement and has served the department and district in a variety of leadership roles. Sarah is a National Board Certified Teacher since 2005 and in 2010 was selected as the National Teacher of the Year. In that capacity she worked as an ambassador for education, giving over 250 talks and workshops in 39 different states as well as internationally.As of mom of three, she currently maintains a hybrid teaching position which keeps her in the classroom and allows her to write, speak and work on teacher leadership initiatives around the country. Sarah is Laureate Emeritus for the non-profit Teaching Channel. She is an author of Supporting Students in a Time of Core Standards and maintains a blog with the column “Ask Sarah” at sarahbrownwessling.com
This #TeacherFeature with Nicole Mancini (a.k.a.- Miss Nikki), My Messy Muse's official Educator Collaborator, discusses book clubs in the classroom! What is a book club? How to organize a book club? How to get the kids excited to do book clubs? Lots of great tips in this #TeacherFeature! Book clubs are another great way to build relationships between authors and educators. Miss Nikki teaches fifth grade English Language Arts at Bedminster Township School District. She graduated from Washington College in 2002 as a triple major in English, education, and gender studies. She earned a Masters of Science in Education from Monmouth University and has a Reading Specialist certification. Nicole has served as a member of Bedminster Township School's Gifted & Talented Advisory Council, Technology Committee, Teacher of the Year Committee, and English & Language Arts Literacy Curriculum Committee; she also led the faculty's professional book club. Nicole has presented various workshops both in and out of New Jersey on technology, building students' passion for reading, motivating reluctant readers, battling mental health stigmas through books, and engagement. She has been an advocate for using diverse and neurodiverse books in the classroom for several years and has worked with authors from around the country to help educators learn more about this topic. In addition, Nicole is a freelance writer, a member of the International Literacy Association, National Council of Teachers of English, and New Jersey Council of Teachers of English, and an ambassador for Flipgrid. Nicole was most recently named the Ambassador of Special Projects and Professional Development for the New Jersey Literacy Association. She has been published on the Nerdy Book Club blog and Teaching Channel, appeared on the Books Between Podcast and My Disney Class Podcast, and was featured on the Educator Spotlight column for MG Book Village. Nicole also organizes and appears on author panels for both children and adults in local bookstores. Resource referenced- Breathing New Life Into Book Clubs, by Sonja Cherry-Paul and Dana Johansen. Check out our prior #TeacherFeature- Episode 11! You can connect with Nikki on Twitter at @MissNikkiIn5th. Be sure to join the My Messy Muse community on Facebook at www.facebook.com/groups/mymessymuse If you are interested in a school visit with host Michele McAvoy, please visit her website at www.michelemcavoy.com/workwithme Follow host Michele McAvoy Twitter: @michele_mcavoy Instagram: @michelemcavoy
Dr. Paul Teske likes to lead from the edges as he listens deeply, looks for connections, and brings key people together. He operates as a thought partner to many while cultivating strong communities....He's a lot of fun too! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.
The TeacherCast Podcast – The TeacherCast Educational Network
While getting students interested in math can be a challenge for teachers, TenMarks has found a fun – and timely – way to get kids buzzing about numbers. Drawing on students' interest in sports and the excitement of the annual March Madness basketball tournament, the Math Madness contest is a great way to get kids genuinely excited about math! Through a little friendly competition, students have fun, win prizes and gain mastery in math. However, it's not just about the cool prizes. Participating in Math Madness will spur student motivation and engagement like never before, resulting in significantly improved math confidence. Best of all, there's no reason to worry about students struggling while competing on their own during Math Madness. TenMarks assignments provide individualized practice through a variety of tools such as hints and videos, all of which are designed to help students persevere and ultimately master challenging math problems. The Math Madness contest, now in its fifth year, has helped thousands of students strengthen their math skills. In 2015, students answered millions of questions with over 84 percent accuracy! Math Madness has amazing prizes such as Amazon Gift Cards and Amazon Fire Tablets that'll help motivate students in the beginning. However, a week into the madness and you'll see an enthusiasm for math you never saw coming! About TenMarks and “With Math I Can”Developed under the leadership of Amazon Education and TenMarks, “With Math I Can” challenges the nation's more than three million teachers and their students to take the pledge to replace the notion of “I'm not good at math” with “I am working to get better at math” by embracing a “growth mindset,” the belief that abilities and intelligence can be developed, which leads to an increased focus on the process of learning rather than the outcome. Supporters of the “With Math I Can” movement include Stanford University Professor of Mathematics Education Jo Boaler, Character Lab, Common Sense Education, National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM), Stanford University's Project for Education Research that Scales (PERTS), ClassDoJo, ASCD, and Teaching Channel. Teachers and students can learn more, watch a video, access resources, and take the pledge at http://www.withmathican.org/ (www.withmathican.org). Links of interesthttps://www.tenmarks.com/math-madness (https://www.tenmarks.com/math-madness) http://blog.tenmarks.com/2016/03/its-not-just-about-winning-prizes-unexpected-benefits-of-math-madness.html ( http://blog.tenmarks.com/2016/03/its-not-just-about-winning-prizes-unexpected-benefits-of-math-madness.html) Twitter (@WithMathICan) – https://twitter.com/WithMathICan (https://twitter.com/WithMathICan) Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/WithMathICan (https://www.facebook.com/WithMathICan) Teacher Resourceshttps://www.tenmarks.com/prepare-instruct (https://www.tenmarks.com/prepare-instruct) About Our GuestMeera Vaidyanathan is an education leader who is passionate about integrating technology into education to bring innovation to the student learning experience. At TenMarks, Meera oversees the development of curriculum products and leads the effort to ensure that TenMarks delivers solutions that place the teacher at the center of instruction and provide students with work that is personalized to their individual learning pathways. Throughout her career in the education industry, Meera has held several leadership roles in content and product management, business development, and marketing. Prior to TenMarks, Meera served as the VP of Content and Product Management at HotChalk where she led HotChalk's growth and development strategy for K-12. In her roles at CK-12, McGraw-Hill Education, Oxford University Press, and Princeton University Press, Meera spearheaded the acquisition and creation of content for a wide range of K-12 educational materials and encyclopedias (online and print). She has an MBA from...
Leah Alcala, well known to the Teaching Channel community from her popular videos such as https://learn.teachingchannel.com/videos/class-warm-up-routine (My Favorite No) and https://learn.teachingchannel.com/videos/math-test-grading-tips (Highlighting Mistakes: A Grading Strategy), talks with Sarah Brown Wessling about her teaching journey. Now a Math teacher at Berkeley High School in Berkeley, California, Leah recounts what she's learned over the years about the craft of teaching.
Join us as we explore the benefits and possibilities of hybrid roles for teachers, how to create and manage them, what works with them, and what people won't tell you about them. Follow: @intoy2014 @mr_abud @SarahWessling @bamradionetwork Sarah Brown Wessling has been teaching high school English for the past 18 years. She is the 2010 National Teacher of the Year and Laureate Emeritus of Teaching Channel. Her blog is Open Teaching, at sarahbrownwessling.com
Erika Nielsen Andrew is the Chief Academic Officer at Teaching Channel. She started her career as a high school social studies teacher in several Bay Area schools. After a short stint as a high school administrator, she earned her doctorate at University of California, Berkeley, and went on to found and lead several coaching groups at the School of Education, including the Urban Schools Network and the Teaching and Learning Alliance. Subscribe to Talks with Teachers on iTunes In this episode you will learn: How she and Teaching Channel are working to make professional learning as invigorating and inspiring as can be. Where she began her career and how it ultimately led to a career at Teaching Channel. Why we need to open the doors on more classrooms The two similarities between coaching athletes and coaching teachers Two sure-fire ways to give feedback to large numbers of students How Teaching Channel establishes its culture of respect and collaboration The primary reason why most professional development is inadequate The struggles teachers still face with the Common Core The 3 easy things any teacher can do when they first arrive on Twitter chat Why a personal passion outside of the classroom is so important inside the classroom Follow Erika Nielsen Andrew on Twitter @thenewready The post #77 Teaching Channel’s Erika Nielsen Andrew appeared first on Talks with Teachers.
Marguerite Izzo -- National Teaching Hall of Fame Inductee Subscribe to "The Test" -- Brian's new podcast about teaching in an era of testing Listen to find out: Why Marguerite has taught every grade from 5-12 Marguerite is a member of the Teaching Hall of Fame Why she firmly believes that if you can teach middle school, you can teach anything How teaching is more difficult than being a doctor and why our best is needed every day How administrative support can be a game changer for a teacher What happens when we don't reflect and adjust when we are teaching What the general public fails to understand about teaching, the challenge of reaching that affective domain and how that can influence the intellectual domain The exhausting and exhilarating nature of reaching 30+ students Learn the three essential things that she loves about teaching Marguerite recommends The Courage to Teach as a book that all teachers should read Why taking care of yourself is so important in teaching How you can use The Teaching Channel to improve as a teacher What confidence can do for students and how we can empower their success Marguerite's belief in the importance of national standards Her proudest moments as a teacher The post #62 Marguerite Izzo — Giving Our Very Best appeared first on Talks with Teachers.
Sean McComb -- 2014 National Teacher of the Year Sean McComb, an English teacher at Patapsco High School & Center for the Arts in Baltimore County, was named 2014 National Teacher of the Year. In addition to teaching, McComb supports his Patapsco colleagues through coaching and training as the school's Staff Development Teacher. He also served as a curriculum writer for the school system and an adjunct instructor in Education and Writing at Towson University. In this episode you will learn: Sean's journey into teaching Patapsco's A.V.I.D. program The emotional toll of being a teacher A lesson that failed for Sean How to ignite passion in the classroom How to ask the right essential questions When to hold back and let students control the class Why intellectual curiosity is important What you can do to build better connections with your students Why the Teaching Channel is a great resource a tip to improve student writing What he is most proud of as a teacher The post #60 2014 National Teacher of the Year — Sean McComb appeared first on Talks with Teachers.
This week’s featured farmers are Jonah Vitale-Wolff and Leah Penniman. Leah Penniman is an educator, farmer, and food justice activist from Soul Fire Farm in Grafton, NY. She is committed to dismantling the oppressive structures that misguide our food system, reconnecting marginalized communities to land, and upholding our responsibility to steward the land the nourishes us. In her dual capacity as a public secondary school science teacher and as a farm educator, Leah joyfully and reverently connects learners to the intricate miracle that is this living planet and to their own power as agents of positive change in the community. In recognition of the truth that food sovereignty is a global struggle, Leah is also a core collective member of Ayiti Resurrect, and coordinates an ongoing reforestation and sustainability project with farmers in Haiti, her ancestral homeland. Leah’s work as an educator has been recognized nationally by the Fulbright Distinguished Awards in Teaching Program, the Teaching Channel, New Technology Network, College Board, National Science Teachers Association, Edutopia, Center for Whole Communities, and Rethinking Schools. Jonah Vitale-Wolff is a farmer activist educator from Soul Fire Farm in Grafton, NY. He is committed to creating relevant and effective alternatives to the oppressive structures that result in gaping disparities in our food systems and larger communities. In his role as operations manager as Soul Fire, Jonah gets to exercise his love for land, community, and spirit through growing food for his communities of Albany and Troy, NY, organizing around building a just food system, facilitating workshops, teaching young people, and training the next inspired farmer activists. Jonah’s work holds central the profound ways in which the sacred connection to land creates a powerful vessel for social change and personal transformation. In addition to being a farmer, Jonah is also a proud dad, partner and dancer. “There are so many ways that I feel this work is important for the liberation of our people. It’s not jut bout the food and the land but for sovereignty for all people.” [05:00] –Leah Penniman on Greenhorns Radio
Josh Parker English teacher -- Baltimore, Maryland 2012 Maryland Teacher of the Year Segment I – Background and Inspiration Tell your story. Where are you from and how long have you been teaching? What classes have you taught? – Joshua initially wanted to be a professional basketball player despite coming from a family of teachers. He worked in sports but did not find it fulfilling. He ended up substitute teaching and then decided to go back to school to obtain his teaching certification. He has been teaching in various capacities in Baltimore since and was named the 2012 Maryland Teacher of the Year. Who has helped you in your journey to become a master teacher? – 3 people 1. His department chair -- Mandy Shanks 2. his principal 3. Dr Alfred Tatum who writes a lot of books about teaching African-American males how to read. It is important for other teachers to know that we all have had setbacks in the classroom. Identify an instance in which you struggled as a teacher and explain what you learned from that experience. – He taught Accelerated English and it was for students that failed the test and needed remediation. It was a class that had a scripted program. He went against his instincts and trusted the book and the script. Along the way he learned to not to trust the script so much as to trust his knowledge of students. He also learned how to match real-time data with real-time metrics. How do we develop a love of reading? – 6 things: 1. relevancy -- don't throw out Shakespeare but add Walter Dean Myers Langston Hughes 2. We need to understand the differences in boys and teach that way. Sometimes boys don't have great attention spans so we have to chunk the reading. 3. Make the case -- sometimes students don't know how important reading is until they hear the statistics of illiterate or disfunctional readers 4. Allow time for expression --the students have to be able to speak what they read, speak their ideas, speak their stories. 5. Embrace their out of school reading styles -- some students will read comic books or sports stories. Celebrate that and share it in your classroom. 6. Model reading yourself -- Carry books wherever you go. What is one thing that you love about the classroom? – The energy, the synergy, the anything-can-possible-happen. Having the rapt attention of 25 adolescents is one of the best feelings that you can have. Segment II — Digging into the Teacher Bag of Goodies What book do you recommend to a teacher striving to improve his or her craft? -- Two books: The English Teacher's Companion by Jim Burke and Teaching Reading to Black Adolescent Males by Dr. Alfred Tatum. What is one thing a teacher can do outside the classroom that can pay off inside the classroom? -- A teacher has to discover themselves and pouring that energy into that and then bring it into the classroom. Joshua loves to play basketball and enjoys bringing that passion into the classroom. What sites are valuable on the internet? -- Teaching Channel and the English Companion are the tried and true sources for Joshua. Provide a writing practice that is effective? – Shorten and simplify the rubric. Update the cannon. What book, written in the last 10-15 years, belongs in the classroom? -- The Other Wes Moore. Fist, Stick. Knife. Gun. by Geoffery Canada. is another. The post Inspiring Students to Read with Joshua Parker appeared first on Talks with Teachers.
Sarah Brown Wessling HS English Teacher, 2010 National Teacher of the Year, Host -- Teaching Channel (Johnston, Iowa) January Contest: Win a Copy of Carol Jago's With Rigor for All by emailing me a lesson that worked (email) Segment I – Background and Inspiration Tell your story. Where are you from and how long have you been teaching? What classes have you taught? – Sarah comes from a family of teachers and initially wanted to be a teacher and principal. Yet, she started university as a broadcast journalism major, then switched around from philosophy to psychology until she had an epiphany and realized that she could do all of those things if she were in the classroom. She turned right around and head to the education department. Who has helped you in your journey to become a master teacher? – Sarah has had supportive professors and other teachers that have given her guidance, but it is an accumulation of a lot of factors. She conveyed the importance of experiences, whether it be going through National Board Certification or scoring AP exams that facilitated her growth. It is important for other teachers to know that we all have had setbacks in the classroom. Identify an instance in which you struggled as a teacher and explain what you learned from that experience. – She has had so many but the best-documented example was a lesson for the Teaching Channel, How a Lesson PLan Can Fail. In it you see her thinking out loud, talking through how she was going to correct a lesson that was not going well. Sarah spoke that we will all have similar experiences, and rather than blame external factors that are beyond ourselves, we have to be accountable for what we can be accountable for... and ultimately that is ourselves. Why teach English and the Language Arts? – Language is absolutely crucial. It is the way we communicate as humans. Without an understanding of stories, we become more isolated. ELA goes beyond literature it is reading, and writing, and speaking. In a more universal way we need to realize that the Humanities are not dead. Stories are at the heart of the strong arguments currently being written by Malcolm Gladwell and Atul Gawande in the New Yorker. What is one thing that you love about the classroom? – There are so many things that she loves, such as the unpredictability. Yet most of all, she loves watching them become autonomous. It is always a sign of their growth and independence. The other part that she loves is the questions that students bring to the classroom. Segment II — Digging into the Teacher Bag of Goodies What book do you recommend to a developing teacher? -- Lots of books, yet books speak to different people at different times. She often turns to Parker Palmer's The Courage to Teach: Exploring the Inner Landscape of a Teacher's Life. It has been an important compass because it encourages thinking about who we are as teachers and what the work requires. What is one thing a teacher can do outside the classroom that can pay off inside the classroom? – Being a parent. It changed her as a teacher. While it didn't change her instructional strategies, it shifted her understanding of the dynamic of home and school and it also shifted what it was like to want the world for someone. She better understood how to pay attention to kids,individually, because that is what she wants for her child. Is there an internet resource that you can recommend which will help teachers grow professionally? – Certainly the Teaching Channel. She sees so much value in its videos because we can learn from high-quality instruction. Edutopia, Read Write Think, National Board, NCTE are others. The resources have become an extension, or house, her professional community. It is about the community, mores than the resources,
What should a teacher do when a great lesson plan takes a wrong turn and starts heading south? Our guests toss you a lifeline to grab when you feel yourself and your lesson plan going under. @jasonflom @Blairteach @bodymindchild Bruce Oliver is an ASK Group Senior Consultant, living in Burke, Virginia. He is also a co-author of Creating a Culture for Learning. Sarah Brown Wessling is a 16-year veteran of the high school English classroom. She teaches at Johnston High School in Johnston, Iowa and is also Teacher Laureate for the Teaching Channel. Jason Flom is the Director of Learning Platforms at Q.E.D. Foundation. Nancy Blair is a school improvement consultant who frequently worked with the High Schools That Work and Making Middle Grades Work initiatives.