Classroom Matters: Recent Episodes
Educate.Today
The Classroom Matters podcast aims to tell the stories and share the experiences of K-12 educators and the reality of our education system. Join Kristy Houle, former elementary teacher and principal and current home school Mom and Outreach Coordinator for Educate.Today, as she talks with a wide variety of fascinating people on important and interesting educational topics.
On this episode of the Classroom Matters podcast host Kristy Houle talks with Dr. Stephanie Gregson who currently serves as the Deputy Executive Director for the California Collaborative for Educational Excellence (CCEE). Stephanie’s focus is on school turnaround centering on improving teaching and learning aimed at equitable access, opportunity, and outcomes for students. Stephanie has more than 24 years of experience in public education and started her career as an elementary school teacher but has also served as a principal and a district leader. Dr. Gregson has anchored her decision making upon the belief that every student deserves the opportunity to thrive in an ideal learning environment.
Guest Website:
https://ccee-ca.org/
On this episode of the Classroom Matters podcast host Kristy Houle talks with Dr. Frank Buck, author of Get Organized!: Time Management for School Leaders and Get Organized Digitally!: The Educator's Guide to Time Management. After retiring from public education, Dr. Buck devoted his "second career" to writing and speaking on organization, time management, and personal productivity for educators. Dr. Buck realized that most educators are overwhelmed by the amount of paper and digital information in their jobs. As a teacher, principal, and central office administrator for almost 30 years, he saw the difference in having simple systems and how they made his job easier. He also realized what he was doing was easy to teach and has made a difference for countless people.
Guest Webpage - https://frankbuck.org/
On this episode of the Classroom Matters podcast host Kristy Houle talks with accomplished artist, Kevo Aregbe. Kevo holds a master’s degree in fine arts and his art ranges from painting to theater production, highlighting racial dynamics and human experiences. He is also the director of a nonprofit for arts, called Kevo Arts Studios, and teaches at a college, with over 10 years of experience as the owner of a successful tattoo studio. When it comes to education Kevo has unique experiences and had to learn how to navigate life and it’s challenges at an early age. From his youth, Kevo was shot, sent to jail, and had a history of drug dealing and violence. Kevo changed his life and became one of the most accomplished artists his city has ever seen.
Guest Webpage - https://www.artbykevo.com/
On today’s episode of the Classroom Matters podcast, host Kristy Houle talks with author, executive, angel investor, and lifelong student of markets John Foster about the importance of teaching students the most advanced concepts in business and economics. John has years of experience teaching kids as a Junior Achievement volunteer and over the course of several years built his own curriculum, which would become Middle School MBA.
Guest Websites:
https://www.middleschoolmba.com/
On this episode of the Classroom Matters podcast, host Kristy Houle talks with Dr. Gwenyth Jackaway about the impact of technology on student development and how to monitor digital wellness you’re your students. Dr. Gwenyth Jackaway is a leader in digital wellness. She was a member of the Fordham University and media studies faculty for more than 25 years. She's a mother, an author, and currently serves as an educational consultant for Carrots&Cake. A parental control app that encourages kids to learn first and play later, equipping them to thrive in the digital age.
Links for the Audience
Sign up now and get a 60-day free trial when you use the code “classroom.”
https://carrotsandcake.com/
On this episode of the Classroom Matters podcast, host Kristy Houle talks Caylee Carullo about how to help educators put an end to misbehavior. She’s been featured on Fox News for her positive behavior strategies and she’s the host of the Pre-K Teacher Family podcast. She has over 100,000 followers across her social media platforms, and she has created an online course that is helping teachers around the world create calm classrooms.
Links for the Audience
The Calm Classroom (Use Promocode “Kristy” for 15% off) https://www.triedandtrueteacher.com/the-calm-classroom-course
Send me a DM on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/prekteachertips/
Join my Email List: https://skilled-crafter-5644.ck.page/a7be5dceda
On this episode of the Classroom Matters podcast, host Kristy Houle talks with Grace Stevens about teacher burnout and how to create positive habits for a healthy mindset. Grace is a former corporate girl who decided to quit her VP life to pursue a dream job as a public-school teacher. After 20 years in the classroom, she now focuses full-time on helping educators have a more positive teaching experience.
Guest Website: https://www.gracestevens.com/
On this episode of the Classroom Matters podcast, host Kristy Houle talks with Katie Trowbridge about how to effectively incorporate creative and critical thinking skills into the educational environment. Katie has over 20 years of experience in the classroom and serves as CEO of Curiosity to Create, a nonprofit organization she created to help teachers focus on creativity and critical thinking.
Guests Website: https://www.curiosity2create.org/
On this episode of the Classroom Matters podcast, host Kristy Houle talks with Jessica Sinarski, licensed professional counselor of mental health, educator, and speaker about helping children identify their emotions and process them in a healthy way. Jessica has extensive post-graduate training and 15+ years as a clinician and educator which has led her to create the resource and training platform BraveBrains. She partners with school districts and child welfare agencies around the world to unlock resilience in children and adults alike. And she has just published her newest children’s book, Riley the Brave’s Big Feelings Activity Book: A Trauma-Informed Guide for Counselors, Educators, and Parents, which is full of engaging content and trauma-sensitive strategies to help children understand the brain science behind big feelings and how to deal with them.
Website: bravebrains.com
On this episode of the Classroom Matters podcast, host Kristy Houle talks with trainer, coach, and speaker, Kathy Magnusson about increasing resilience in students and teachers. Kathy has worked with educators and youth service professionals worldwide for over 25 years and is also a licensed teacher, social and emotional learning specialist, and certified Sources of Strength trainer. As the owner of Wildewood Learning, Kathy shows educators and youth service professionals what is needed to create safe and effective learning environments that draw upon the strengths of both adults and youth. Using a tailored strengths-based approach, Kathy gives people the knowledge and tools to uncover their individual brilliance.
Visit the Wildewood Learning website and take advantage of a free course Building Resilience through Strength-Based Learning.
Guest Website: Wildewood Learning
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kathryn-magnusson-ab17a939/
YouTube: Wildewood Learning
Facebook: Wildewood Learning
On this episode of the Classroom Matters podcast, host Kristy Houle talks to cognitive literacy expertBetsy Hill. Betsy is an award-winning educator and co-author of the book “Your Child Learns Differently, Now What? The Truth for Parents.” She studied the neuroscience of learning with Dr. Patricia Wolfe and other pioneers in the field, coining the term neuroeducator. In this episode Betsy shares the idea behind building a child’s cognitive literacy and how parents can help their children's learning abilities
Guest Website:
https://mybrainware.com/your-child-learns-differently/
On this episode of the Classroom Matters podcast, host Kristy Houle talks with Mae Caratachea, Co-President of the Saint Louis Sudbury School. The school is based on the principle that we are born curious and learn best when we initiate our own learning. They offer entirely Self-Directed Education in a self-governing democracy for students ages 5-18. No required curriculum, no homework, no tests, no grades.
Website: https://stlsudbury.org/
On this episode of the Classroom Matters podcast host Kristy Houle talks with author David McBee. David is passionate about reading, self-improvement, health, the outdoors, and his family. He is a podcast host, public speaker and is the author of the children's book series, DJ's Off-Road Adventures. This series teaches elementary-age children lessons on dealing with bullies, overcoming fear and the power of teamwork.
Guest Website: https://davidmcbee.com/
On this episode of the Classroom Matters podcast host Kristy Houle talks with author Maria Castellucci Moore, author of the newly released children’s book Vivienne in Paris which follows a young Parisian girl on a journey through Paris to find what makes her tick. This book tells a story of mindfulness and insight into how the surrounding world can really move you. It unites curiosity, wonder, and marvel to enlighten, surprise, and tickle your deepest spirit. Sometimes it’s the smallest things that bring you the greatest joy.
Guest Website: https://mariacastelluccimooreauthor.com/author
On this episode of the Classroom Matters podcast host Kristy Houle talks with School Emergency Management Expert, Trauma Informed Practices Consultant, and former Reserve Law Enforcement Officer, Claire Marie to discuss her new book on school lockdowns, Sammy the Sasquatch: Welcome to Crittertopia. Claire also dives deep into her passion for approaching emergency preparedness and management through a trauma-informed lens and supporting schools to do the same.
Guest Website: https://www.sammyandfriends.com/
On this episode of the Classroom Matters podcast, host Kristy Houle talks with award-winning writer and video producer Tom Speicher. His book, “A Week with Waffles” is a beautifully illustrated children’s book that is designed to help young children learn about the days of the week, encourage creative thought, help them understand that it’s ok to be an only child, and consider a host of adventures that are part of growing up. In this episode Tom talks about the importance of children’s literature in a student’s education and the creative process of writing for both kids and adults.
On this episode of the Classroom Matters podcast, host Kristy Houle talks with Ryan Steuer, founder of Magnify Learning, a PBL professional development organization that equips educators to engage learners, tackle boredom, and transform classrooms.
Ryan believes that when we get education right as leaders, leaders have launched their vision, teachers are fired up to be a part of something bigger than themselves, and learners are moving from passive to empowered. While Ryan has done this work (and fought for it) in the classroom, his joy comes now as he sees district after district adopt the PBL mindset and free their learners up to find their true potential and opportunity.
Prior to founding Magnify Learning, Ryan was an engineer for a Fortune 50 company, 8th grade English teacher, and missionary. He shares his education and leadership insights through PBL Simplified the book, YouTube, and podcast.
Guest Website: https://www.magnifylearningin.org/
Bryson Tarbet is a PreK-6th grade general music teacher just outside of Columbus, Ohio. He spent his first year out of college as part of an elementary school intervention team where he fell in love with working with students with disabilities. Due to this experience, as well as his personal experience as a neurodiverse individual, Bryson feels strongly about advocating for sensory and emotionally inclusive classrooms. In addition to being a full-time elementary music teacher he is also the founder of That Music Teacher, his online business that is dedicated to offering content-specific professional development for elementary music teachers.
Guest Website:
https://www.thatmusicteacher.com/
On this episode of the Classroom Matters podcast host Kristy Houle talks with Dr. Bibi Pirayesh, an educational therapist and learning rights advocate based in Los Angeles, CA. Dr. Pirayesh has spent the last 15 years working with hundreds of children, parents, teachers, and schools to enhance the lives of children with learning disabilities. In 2020, Dr. Pirayesh launched The Difference is Not Deficit Project to help promote the importance of seeing learning disability as a social justice issue.
Guest Website: https://www.oneofonekids.org/
On this episode of the Classroom Matters podcast host Kristy Houle talks with author and educator Jaer Armstead-Jones. Throughout his teaching of reading and writing, he has always had a burning desire to write books for middle school and high school teens they can relate to. His first novel, My Invisible Father, is a story about three St. Louis teen facing the hurdles of adolescence and the impact made by their fathers’ absences. Jaer has worked with teens in several capacities since 1993: as a youth minister, a youth facilitator at a juvenile correctional facility, and as an educator. He is also a librarian at the St. Louis County Public Library.
Guest Website: https://jaerarmsteadjones.com/
On this episode of the Classroom Matters podcast host Kristy Houle talks with Sally Nellson, an award-winning documentary filmmaker, about capturing and sharing the stories of what happens every day in public schools. Having directed and edited more than 100 films, Sally has a deep understanding of how to connect with her subjects and translate that to greater understanding among audiences. Her new initiative is a nationwide movement to end the teacher shortage through a documentary film and impact campaign.
Guest Website: https://impact.plusmedia.io/who-taught-you-resources-zve46alg9m#
On this episode of the Classroom Matters podcast, host Kristy Houle talks with Dr. Deborah Offner, who brings more than 2 decades of experience in schools and colleges as a classroom teacher, counselor, administrator, and consultant. She has written a new book called Educators as First Responders: A Teacher’s Guide to Adolescent Development and Mental Health, Grades 6-12, which is a comprehensive, hands-on guide to adolescent development and mental health for teachers and other educators of students in grades 6-12. During this conversation we discuss topics such as recognizing verbal and nonverbal signs of distress in students and how to prevent teacher burnout.
Guest Website: https://www.deborahoffnerphd.com/
On this episode of the Classroom Matters podcast host Kristy Houle talks with Elizabeth West, CEO of EWC Consulting about helping students build sustainable habits in high school to help prepare for college or a career. Right out of college, Elizabeth was hired as an Admissions Counselor at UNC Pembroke where she began to see student’s stories come to life. Throughout her 25 years in higher education, working with students and helping them become successful continues to be the greatest joy of her career. Elizabeth has spent 10 years of her career counseling students as an admissions officer, Associate Director of Admissions, and Director of Admissions, and 14 years teaching college students and working with them on how to become transfer students.
Guest Website: https://www.ncewc.com/about
Join host Kristy Houle as she talks with physicist and host of the popular YouTube channel Kathy Loves Physics, Kathy Joseph. Kathy has spent decades researching over 400 years of scientific history in her new book “The Lightening Tamers.” Not only is Kathy a popular YouTube host, but she's also a former Bay Area science teacher who spent 12 years teaching high school physics. Kathy knows what it takes to keep your students intrigued and involved even during the distracting teenage years. In this episode Kathy discusses proven strategies for ensuring your science lessons are always fun and never dull for maximum focus and better test scores and how to teach science through storytelling.
Website: www.kathylovesphysics.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/KathyLovesPhysicsHistory
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KathyLovesPhysics
According to literacy expert Matt Bardin, studies show that only 13% of American adults can read complex texts, and more than half read below a 6th grade level, but Matt is on a mission to change that. With decades of experience as an educator and entrepreneur, Matt has become an expert in literacy education, test-prep and strategies for transforming adolescents into their highest achieving selves. During this episode host Kristy Houle talks with Matt about what middle and high school teachers need to know about their students' reading and how to work towards solving the literacy crisis.
Guest Website: https://www.zinclearninglabs.com/
In this episode of the Classroom Matters podcast join host Kristy Houle as she talks with author and founder of The Umbrella Project about what kids really need as they learn to navigate the ups and downs of life.
Dr. Jen Forristal, BSc ND, is a Naturopathic Doctor with a primary focus in pediatric mental health and the founder and CEO of The Umbrella Project, a positive coping curriculum used internationally by thousands of parents, students, and educators. She has worked extensively with schools, researchers, and organizations in protecting the long-term health and performance of children facing unique challenges.
Guest Website Link: https://umbrellaproject.co/
Jeff Utecht is an educational technology consultant, educator, and author. He holds a master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction with a focus in Technology as well as his administrative certification through Washington State. Jeff began his career in the Elementary Classroom at a public school in Washington State. In 2001, he was the recipient of a Bill and Melinda Gates Grant called the Technology Leadership Program. He has a global view on education and the impact technology is having on classrooms. Jeff loves sharing ideas and strategies on ways educators can use technology in the classroom and how we must prepare students for their future not our past. In this episode of the Classroom Matters podcast join host Kristy Houle as she talks with Jeff about preparing students for the future, blended learning and digital collaboration.
Jeff’s Website: https://www.jeffutecht.com/
Gary Hubb is the Managing Partner for the new streaming video service, HistoryFix.com, which he began with his partner Will Eichler to provide exciting history videos seen from a different point of view for use in classrooms and homeschool settings. Since 1999, Gary has worked in both scripted and unscripted television and film as Production Coordinator, Manager and Assistant Director for multiple networks including CBS, ABC, FOX, TNT, Discovery, History, National Geographic and CNN. Gary has also produced, written and directed several films and documentaries that earned him multiple film festival nominations and a Special Jury Prize Award. During this episode Gary and host Kristy Houle discuss topics such as the biggest challenges educators face when teaching history in school settings and some things teachers can do or stop doing to make history more relevant and engaging for students.
Listeners of the Classroom Matters podcast can use the promo code HEC9MO when visiting HistoryFix.com and receive a choice of $5 a month or $50 for an annual subscription after a 7-day free trial. This unique promo code gives annual subscribers 10% off their first year at $45.00 (12 months for the price of 9 months).
Website Link: https://www.historyfix.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/StreamHistoryFix
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/streamhistoryfix/
In this episode of the Classroom Matters podcast host Kristy Houle talks with Dr. Mark David Milliron about preparing new teachers for a career in education and all the challenges that come with the journey to educate students across all settings. Mark is an award-winning leader, author, speaker, and consultant, who works with universities, community colleges, K-12 schools, foundations, corporations,
associations, and government agencies across the country and around the world. He serves as President & CEO of National University, one of the largest private, nonprofit universities in the United States.
Mark's Website: http://markmilliron.com/
Michaell Magrutsche is an Austrian-Californian multimedia artist, educator, and an author of five art-related books. Michaell believes in a student’s untapped human abilities, especially our truth compass and inherent tools of creativity, and healthy discourse and adaptability.
He is an outside the box thinker and is a passionate creativity/art researcher that looks for art/creativity's true values for humans outside of any system.
In this episode Michaell and I discuss the importance of growing creativity in today’s youth and how that can impact a student’s education. We also dive into the topic of how students can focus on the process of learning and not the product for a more thoughtful education.
Michaell’s Website: https://michaellm.com/
Shaunak Roy is the Founder and CEO of Yellowdig, a community-driven active learning platform with a mission to transform every classroom into an active, social, and experiential learning community. Prior to founding Yellowdig, Shaunak spent a decade advising global companies on technology, strategy, and growth. Today, Shaunak shares a rich discussion on the state of institutional learning, how Yellowdig is rethinking education, and the critical role that agency, mastery and connectedness play in the learning process.
Website Link: https://www.yellowdig.co/
On this episode of the Classroom Matters podcast host Kristy Houle sits down with Akberet Boykin Farr, Vice President of Diversity and Social Responsibility for Emerson Electric and Dr. Gwen Diggs, Vice President of Head Start/Early Head Start at the Urban League of Metropolitan Saint Louis. This discussion will focus on Emerson’s commitment to education equity and the emphasis on programs and initiatives targeting children from infancy through 12th grade with an emphasis on early childhood and student services in under-resourced communities.
Dr. Gwen Diggs, Vice President of Head Start/Early Head Start at the Urban League of Metropolitan Saint Louis, Adjunct Professor at University of Missouri-Saint Louis In her over 21 years of experience she has served as a dedicated educator as a teacher, principal and district level administrator overseeing federal programs, curriculum and instruction, early childhood, elementary, secondary, gifted and community education.
Boykin Farr is a graduate of Saint Louis University where she completed her undergraduate and graduate studies, earning a bachelor’s degree in management and industrial relations, an MBA in human resource management, and a doctorate in organizational theory and public policy studies. She currently serves on the boards of directors for the Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis and City Academy. She has overseen the development and rollout of the company’s Diversity and Inclusion programs, including unconscious bias training globally and the launch of employee resource groups to help promote a diverse and inclusive workplace.
Julius B. Anthony is the president of the St. Louis Black Authors of Children’s Literature. His organization is changing the lives of Black boys and girls by sharing books with characters that look like them.
The STL Black Authors of Children’s Literature Initiative is committed to fostering awareness about the importance of early literacy by creating innovative opportunities for all kids to have access to Black children’s literature. Julius has also published a book called “ME! Ten Poetic Affirmations,” which was written to encourage and motivate children to achieve their highest dreams.
St. Louis Black Authors Website
Education PowerED presents educators with a powerful new set of Culturally Responsive Teaching standards that can be used by teachers and administrators to counter institutionalized racism and white supremacy. On this episode of the Classroom Matters podcast an expert panel of guests and authors of the book Culture to the Max! Culturally Responsive Teaching and Practice offers an in-depth look into the practice and implementation of Culturally Responsive Teaching that can inform curriculum development, teacher evaluation, and classroom and culture evaluation. Join host Kristy Houle as she speaks with David McDonald, Founder and Managing Partner, Danielle Ross, Co-Founder and Partner, Andre Ross, Co-Founder and Partner and Dr. Shontoria Walker, Executive Director.
Education PowerED Website Link
On this episode of the Classroom Matters podcast, host Kristy Houle chats with Vicky Weber. Vicky Weber is a musician and an elementary educator with a love for children’s literature. As a Puerto Rican author of Taíno descent, she strives to create picture books that are fun, engaging, and educational. All her current titles are based on her background in music education or her heritage. Vicky also serves as one of the coaches at At Home Author where she teaches others how to become successfully published too. During this conversation we discuss the inspiration for her stories, the joys of being an author, and the writing process.
At Home Author Website
On this episode of the Classroom Matters podcast, host Kristy Houle chats with internationally-recognized teaching and recording artist, actor, TV host, and storyteller, Bobby Norfolk. Bobby’s innate ability to read and connect with audiences of all ages makes him one of America’s premier storytellers. Using dynamic movement and vocal effects, he creates vibrant characters who come to life through imaginative, creative story. Living History programs that highlight the African American experience, and toe-tapping musical shows are also part of his repertoire. Norfolk’s storytelling CDs have won ten prestigious Parents’ Choice Gold awards, and he has co-authored eight award-winning children’s books. He’s the recipient of three Emmy awards as host of CBS’s television series, Gator Tales, and the NSN ORACLE Circle of Excellence award.
Bobby's website.
On this episode of the Classroom Matters podcast host Kristy Houle chats with a pair of popular children’s book authors: Lori Orlinsky and Alysson Bourque.
Lori Orlinsky is CDC-certified in Bully Prevention and Response Training and serves as a National Bullying Prevention Center Ambassador. She has also earned multiple awards for her children’s books such as Being Small (Isn’t So Bad After All), The Tooth Fairy’s Tummy Ache, and Balloons for Tiger.
Meanwhile, Alysson Bourque is also an incredibly accomplished author, earning multiple awards with her adventures in children’s literature, namely her immensely popular “Alycat” book series. With such titles in the line of books like Alycat and the Cattywampus Wednesday and Alycat and the Tournament Tuesday, the Alycat series continues to both entertain and educate its readers.
During this episode we focus on how both of these amazing women dived into the world of writing and the impact of children’s literature on students in and out of the classroom.
Sasha Graham is the founder of Tiny Ninja Books and is the author of Milo Does Not Like Mornings, and Whitney Wins Everything. Sasha is a former executive at the Walt Disney Studios and her writing has appeared in magazines, newspapers and on television. Every book in the Tiny Ninja Books collection centers on the idea that we are each born with our own Tiny Ninja who is the very best version of us; brave, strong, compassionate, and kind. Our Tiny Ninjas are always there for us - all we have to do is listen.
The Tiny Ninja Books website.
Sandy Joy Weston is a keynote speaker, international podcaster, 3x published author, and entrepreneur, who has owned and operated health and wellness companies over 30 years. She became the first female trainer for the Philadelphia Flyers and created the nationally recognized Philly Street Line Dance to help combat Philly’s “fattest city” label. For the past five years, Sandy has been focusing on SJW Productions, an international company whose main mission is to highlight all the positive in the world. Her recent book Recess to Reset is a guided journal for kids to charge up all the positive stuff they already have inside. It will empower them to tap into their true SUPER power, and unlock their unique and awesome gifts.
During our conversation we discuss how students set themselves up for success and reach their goals, the GAME Plan, power statements and action plans and they relate to students and classroom performance.
Website: www.sandyjoyweston.com
In the last session of this 3-part series with the HOMEWORKS! organization we focus our discussion on the links between attendance, academics, and student behavior in the school setting. Founder Karen Kalish and CEO Colleen Polack describe what the HOMEWORKS! organization is doing to close the gap on equity, attendance, and academics in the schools they currently partner with.
In the last session of this series with the HOMEWORKS! organization, we focus our discussion on the links between attendance, academics, and student behavior in the school setting. Founder Karen Kalish and CEO Colleen Polack describe what the HOMEWORKS! organization is doing to close the gap on equity, attendance, and academics in the schools they currently partner with.
Rose Griffin is heavily engaged in the field of the art of communication. Rose Griffin is both a skilled speech-language pathologist, as well as an accomplished behavior analyst. Rose currently works with both public and private school students in Ohio, where she has a focus and passion on helping individuals with autism learn how to become better communicators. With these efforts, Rose has created her own business, a website to assist both professionals such as special-education teachers and speech therapists, as well as parents of children with autism. Her website abaspeech.org, contains a host of helpful resources consisting of educational courses and therapy materials.
Talking Points in Conversation:
•What made you want to become a speech therapist?
•What is autism? What are the signs?
•What specifically inspired you to help individuals with autism?
•What does a parent do if their child is diagnosed with autism?
•What ways can a parent help a child with autism better communicate?
•Are there any things that a parent should and shouldn’t do to help a child with autism?
•What role does speech therapy play in helping individuals with autism?
Rose's website.
Engaging parents in their children's education is critical to a child’s success. National education research overwhelmingly supports the finding that students do better academically and socially when parents and teachers work together, and children show up on the first day of school ready to learn. Join host Kristy Houle as she talks with Karen Kalish, Founder of HOMEWORKS! and Colleen Polack, CEO of the organization to discuss how they are working hard to help forge that missing link, creating a positive structure within which parents and teachers can effectively cooperate for the good of their students.
Children have been isolated at home for months, staring at screens, and parents are looking to summer camps as a critical opportunity for social interaction, physical activity and enriched learning. Getting kids moving and socializing are top priority as we move into the summer months.
According to the 2022 Summer Camp Outlook by Blue print4SummerSTL, 82% of responding STL regional families plan to send their child to in-person camp this summer.
On today’s episode of Classroom Matters I will be chatting with Zasmine Johnson of Blueprint4SummerSTL as we discuss how this organization is tackling this issue head-on
What are Video Segments and why do some stem from longer versions of the same videos? Watch to learn more about our segment categories.
What are the Quick Ideas that supplement each video in our library collection? Watch to learn how they can assist your educational environment.
What are the Curriculum Areas in our video library? What kind of topics do we cover? Watch to learn more about the content areas we provide.
What is Educate.Today? Watch to learn more about who we are and the video resources and user friendly features we provide you and your students.
What is Point to Point? Watch to learn about our On-Demand Live Interactive Programming that you can schedule on a date and time that works best for you and your students. See our list of currently available programs, here.
Antwaun Thompson or Coach T, has coached and mentored young men and women, helping to improve their athletic skills, confidence, resiliency, life skills experiences and focus for over 30 years. Nothing brings him more satisfaction than seeing the heart, determination, and commitment from young people. Coach T is the founder and executive Director of JLT Fieldhouse, a 501c3 nonprofit youth coaching and mentoring organization, dedicated to “Coaching and Mentoring the Leaders of Tomorrow”. He is also the CEO of Coach T’s Corner, an on-line mentoring academy that is designed to “Educate, Motivate and Support” our future leaders of tomorrow through personal growth and development and personal relationship development programs.
Links: https://www.coachtscorner.com/
What can concerned parents and teachers do to ensure their children, of all ages, develop great learning habits which will help them achieve their maximum at school and in life? This is probably one of the most important questions any parent can ask and now John Hattie, one of the most respected and renowned Education researchers in the world draws on his globally famous Visible Learning research to provide some answers.
Working with his own son Kyle, himself a respected teacher, the Hatties have written a book titled “10 Steps to Develop Great Learners”, which offers a 10-step plan to nurturing curiosity and intellectual ambition and providing a home environment that encourages and values learning. These simple steps based on the strongest of research evidence and packed full of practical advice can be followed by any parent or teacher to support and enhance learning and maximize the potential of their children.
During this episode we will discuss:
- How to communicate effectively with teachers
- How to be the ‘first learner’ and demonstrate openness to new ideas and thinking
- How to choose the right school for your child
- How to promote the ‘language of learning’
- How to have appropriate high expectations and how to understand the power of feedback
James Young, sixth-grade musical theatre teacher at Johnson-Wabash Sixth Grade Center, was named the 2022 Missouri Teacher of the Year. Young, a graduate of the UMSL College of Education, leads an innovative musical theater program, where students learn basic music theory concepts but also how to project self-confidence and be their best selves. During our conversation we discuss how being named Teacher of the Year has changed his outlook on teaching and the challenges of teaching music during a pandemic.
On this episode of the Classroom Matters podcast, I sit down with Dr. Toby Travis, founder of TrustED and an experienced teacher and school administrator, currently serving as the Superintendent of the Village Christian Academy in Fayetteville, NC. Toby has a story of working in a highly dysfunctional and toxic school environments, and through the implementation of intentional action steps, organizations experience mission-fulfillment and a sense of community well-being. Dr. Travis is also the author of the award-winning book "TrustED: The Bridge to School Improvement" - available at Amazon, featured in Forbes, and named "Book of The Month" (November), and nominated for "Book of The Year" (2021) by The Magic Pen.
During this conversation we discuss:
- The biggest issues with trust in the school environment today including teachers, administrators, students and parents
- Assessing trust issues in a school setting
- How the trust of a leader be repaired
- Advice/strategies for increasing the level of trust in a school district
Find Toby on his website and his Youtube.
On today’s episode I will be sitting down with Marsha Tuff. Marsha not only loves her family, dogs and butterflies, she also loves solving problems by coming up with her own designs. She’s a retired engineer, with degrees in mechanical, aerospace, and materials engineering, and enjoys developing experiments targeting girls to give them engaging experiences with science, engineering, and math. Because math is so important to success in STEM fields, Marsha creates experiments that show the magic and power of math. Her passion is helping students survive and thrive in STEM fields and enjoys helping students understand how relevant and incredibly powerful math is. iHer goal is to inspire others to be successful, build the resilience that comes from learning from failure, and empower them to follow their dreams, even when it gets tough.
During this conversation we will be discussing the role of women/girls in STEM and why play is so important to problem-solving skills.
Link to Marsha's website.
On today’s episode I will be sitting down with author and math coach Dave Cole. Dave has done everything from designing missile guidance systems to teaching college computer science classes and teaching and coaching elementary school math teams. One of the things Dave has learned throughout these experiences is the effective method of telling stories to help students understand difficult concepts. From this talent The Math Kids series was born. This book series isn't about teaching math but the focus is on the story, which follows four elementary school students as they use their math skills to solve problems, get to the bottom of tricky mysteries, and to help their friends. They are brave, resourceful, and adventurous, and learn that working as a team allows them to do what they can't do alone. With the emphasis on STEM in classrooms around the country, The Math Kids is a great series for getting students interested in mathematics, the often overlooked "M" in STEM.
During this conversation we will be discussing the secret for getting kids to love math and how “The Math Kids” series got its start and what keeps Dave motivated to write.
Dave's website
Dave's Facebook
J. Michael Hall is the founder of the fatherhood engagement program Strong Fathers Strong Families. Since 2003, this program has been implemented at schools throughout the United States and internationally, reaching over 225,000 dads and half a million kids. Michael is a father of two sons and the husband to a very successful middle school reading teacher. He is also a former special education teacher and a “recovering” middle school principal and is passionate about focusing on what fathers do well and giving them the opportunity to do some of those things with their children.
During this conversation we discuss the difference between “fatherlessness” and “fatherfullness,” and how fathers impact a child’s life.
Links: https://www.strongfathers.com/
Founder of Limitless Art, Marc Stein along with his two daughters Abigail and Rebecca have teamed up to form a creative movement, that everyone can participate in! The trio produces colorful and inspiring prints that help to promote a positive mindset, goal setting and the ability to dream big. Limitless Art was started by Marc and his two daughters while trying to find motivational, happy, and positive artwork for their bedrooms but instead, kept finding products that centered on themes of money and materialistic images. Feeling inspired, the girls suggested they should just design their own wall art and once they started working Limitless Art was created!
During this conversation we will discuss the process for creating and producing art work and how parents and teachers can help inspire creativity in children.
Links: https://limitlessart.com/
Cyndi Burnett has been teaching others how to be more creative for the last 20 years. In her role as the Director of Possibilities for Creativity and Education, her mission is to empower educators to infuse creative thinking into every classroom in the world. She has taught deliberate creative thinking at the college level for 20 years. Her on-line course, Ignite Your Everyday Creativity, reached over 100,000 people and she has written two books, Weaving Creativity into Every Strand of Your Curriculum and My Sandwich is a Spaceship: Creative Thinking for Parents with Young Children. During this conversation we will be discussing the reasons students aren’t getting enough sleep and how it affects their growth and development.
During this conversation we will discuss the true meaning of creativity in the classroom and the relationship between creativity and problem solving.
Links: https://creativityandeducation.com/about-us/our-team/
Rowena List is the founder of Getting It Together, an organization that helps people “de-clutter” and “get it together” while keeping their sanity in the process. Dubbed by her clients and friends alike as “the de-clutter queen”, she believes that being organized in all areas of life can help us to reach our goals, mitigate stress and be the best versions of ourselves. Whatever that means for each of us. Rowena understands that the work of educators, both in public education and in the homeschool setting can be challenging at times and creating an organizational routine can help calm the mind, body and soul. During our conversation Rowena discusses the reasons we suffer from organizational chaos and how to manage the clutter in order to be outstanding educators.
Links: https://www.gettingittogether.ca/
On today’s episode I will be sitting down with author and teacher Erin Garcia. Erin is on a mission to make the world more inclusive and as the parent of an autistic child she can share misunderstandings and mistakes she encountered to help others navigate these unchartered waters. Erin has a gift of speaking the truth without outraging those who will need to change their beliefs and behaviors. She has written two books including Tiger Livey and her most recent work, The Case of Sensational Stims, which celebrates neurodiversity and shows how to assist those with unique sensory needs.
During this conversation we will be discussing the challenges our public-school systems face when assisting students and parents presented with a diagnosis of autism.
Links: https://eringarciabooks.com/
This is episode #72 of "Classroom Matters" by Educate.Today. We are a program dedicated to speaking with some of the most outstanding educators in the nation, covering different topics in the world of teaching and learning.
On today’s episode I will be sitting down with Madonna Hanna, an award-winning educator, author, athlete, and inspirational speaker. She helps individuals of all ages believe that anything is possible when you work hard and have passion. She honestly believes that when people drop kick the drama in their lives, anything is possible. Madonna is a living example of that statement, and her goal is to utilize her skills, talents, and experiences to assist others with achieving their goals and dreams, while building self-esteem.
During this conversation we will be discussing her experiences with bullying and how it impacted her life and her strategies for teachers to stop bullies from hi-jacking the classroom setting.
Links: https://dropkickthedrama.com/
This is episode #71 of "Classroom Matters" by Educate.Today.
On this episode of Classroom Matters I will be sitting down with Kelly Ann Hopkins an author, librarian and teacher who spends her days as a high school educator where she challenges her students to read with abandon. Kelly is passionate about both writing and teaching which is evident in her most recent book "Buried Beneath," in which she tackles the topic of hoarding.
During this conversation we will be discussing the inspiration for her latest book "Buried Beneath", her writing routine, and the incline in mental health issues among students.
Links: https://khopkinswriter.wordpress.com/
On today’s episode I will be sitting down with Greg and Beth Langston the founders of College Flight Plan. Greg and Beth Langston have more than 20 years of experience working with students and young professionals to help them gain confidence by empowering them to use their strengths and values to set goals and develop individual plans for their lives. They truly understand how helpless parents can feel and the challenges of starting a child on the college or career path that fits them best, especially when that child doesn’t know what they want to study. Beth, a graduate of Purdue University, College of Education has helped hundreds of students navigate the college application essay process with tremendous success. Greg who graduated from the Purdue Krannert School of Business has led businesses more than $1 billion and worked in 65 countries mentoring hundreds of young professionals. Together they believe students deserve the tools to discover their unique core values, strengths, goals, and purpose.
During this conversation we will be discussing the reasons that students drop out of college or change majors within the first year and challenges the education system faces when helping students get on the right path.
Link to Greg and Beth's website, College Flight Plan.
Classroom Matters Host - Kristy Houle
Podcast Producers - Jessica Pierce and Kristy Houle
Podcast Audio Editing - Jessica Pierce
Educate.Today Executive Director - Tim Gore
On today’s episode I will be sitting down with Kim West, best-selling author and family therapist who has been lovingly titled “The Sleep Lady,” In her work as a family therapist and busy mom, Kim dreamed of a deep, restful sleep. While conventional wisdom promoted a cry-it-out approach to sleep training, Kim knew that was not her style. Over time, she gently helped her first daughter get to sleep, fine-tuning a process over the years which later became a world-renowned sleep method that has helped over 1 million families finally get some rest.
Kim has gained international recognition as an expert on baby and child sleep, and her step-by-step method, known as the Sleep Lady Shuffle, has empowered hundreds of thousands of families to find gentle, customized sleep solutions—and get some rest.
Kim has authored multiple books including the groundbreaking The Sleep Lady’s Good Night, Sleep Tight: Gentle, Proven Solutions to Help Your Child Sleep Well Without Leaving Them to Cry It Out. She has offered her expertise on national television programs including Dr. Phil, The Today Show, Good Morning America, and more.
During this conversation we will be discussing the reasons students aren’t getting enough sleep and how it affects their growth and development.
Link to Kim's website.
On today’s episode I will be sitting down for a second time with Dr. Rick Chromey, the founder and president of MANNA! Educational Services International, a nonprofit organization that serves schools, churches, and other organizations with inspirational edu-trainment. He's penned over a dozen books on classroom management, leadership, and cultural analysis, including his most recent work "GenTech: An American Story of Technology, Change and Who We Really Are." Rick has a doctorate in leadership and specializes in American history, pop culture and generations. Dr. Chromey is an expert in the field of classroom management, motivating students and leadership in education.
During this conversation we will be discussing how the term “classroom management” has changed over the last five years and how to effectively keep kids learning independently.
Classroom Matters Host - Kristy Houle
Podcast Producers - Jessica Pierce and Kristy Houle
Podcast Audio Editing - Jessica Pierce
Educate.Today Executive Director - Tim GoreLinks: https://rickchromey.com/
Steven W. Anderson is a learner, blogger, speaker, educational evangelist, and Dad. As a former teacher and Director of Instructional Technology, he is highly sought after for his expertise in educational technology integration and using social media for learning. He regularly travels the country talking to schools and districts about the use of social media in the classroom and how they can better serve students through technology.
During this conversation we will be discussing the idea behind @web20classroom, using social media to boost student learning and how teachers can embrace technology as an opportunity for learning.
Classroom Matters Host - Kristy Houle
Podcast Producers - Jessica Pierce and Kristy Houle
Podcast Audio Editing - Jessica Pierce
Educate.Today Executive Director - Tim Gore
Links: https://www.web20classroom.org/
Twitter: @web20classroom
Instagram: @web20classroom
Facebook: @web20classroom
On today’s episode I will be sitting down with Dr. Rick Chromey, the founder and president of MANNA! Educational Services International, a nonprofit organization that serves schools, churches, and other organizations with inspirational edu-trainment. He's penned over a dozen books on classroom management, leadership, and cultural analysis, including his most recent work "GenTech: An American Story of Technology, Change and Who We Really Are." Rick has a doctorate in leadership and specializes in American history, pop culture and generations. Dr. Chromey is an expert in the field of classroom management, motivating students and leadership in education.
During this conversation we will be discussing the reasons that students become disinterested in school/class, how to motivate a person authentically and honestly and motivating students who don’t care.
Link to:
Dr. Rick Chromey's website
Classroom Matters Host - Kristy Houle
Podcast Producers - Jessica Pierce and Kristy Houle
Podcast Audio Editing - Jessica Pierce
Educate.Today Executive Director - Tim Gore
On today’s episode I will be sitting down with Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge, a mental health trailblazer, founder of The Global Institute of Children’s Mental Health, and media expert who is, “changing the way we view and treat children’s mental health”. Her work has helped thousands reverse the most challenging conditions: ADHD, anxiety, mood, Lyme, and PANS/PANDAS using PROVEN holistic therapies. She is often featured on dozens of media outlets and is the author of 3 books, the latest being “It’s Gonna Be OK: Proven Ways to Improve Your Child’s Mental Health."
During this conversation we will be discussing the impact of the pandemic on student's stress and anxiety levels, the impact of technology on our kid’s mental health issues and how parents and teachers can promote good coping skills and strategies.
Classroom Matters Host - Kristy Houle
Podcast Producers - Jessica Pierce and Kristy Houle
Podcast Audio Editing - Jessica Pierce
Educate.Today Executive Director - Tim Gore
Links: https://drroseann.com/
On today’s episode I will be sitting down with Danny Brassell, A former inner-city teacher and author who is on a mission to bring joy back into education and the workplace by transforming struggling and reluctant readers into more passionate and proficient readers. Danny teaches his audiences how to make reading a life-long habit and he trains leaders on how to communicate their messages through effective and inspirational storytelling.
During this conversation we will be discussing how to build a love for learning in kids and how to get kids back on track post Covid-19.
Links: https://dannybrassell.com/
Classroom Matters Host - Kristy Houle
Podcast Producers - Jessica Pierce and Kristy Houle
Podcast Audio Editing - Jessica Pierce
Educate.Today Executive Director - Tim Gore
On today’s episode I will be sitting down with author and TED speaker Nathaniel Turner, a self-described “Humanity Propulsion Engineer.” Nate is the author of several books, including the children’s book series, “The Amazing World of STEM,” and his history-making book, “Raising Supaman.” As a zealous advocate that every person has an opportunity to maximize their human potential, Nate regularly shares his theory of a backward design life process with parents, teachers, and students. What truly sets Nate apart from others is his unique comical ability not only to see the world differently but to challenge his audiences in an edutaining way to live outside the box so that the world might be able to experience us at our best.
During this conversation we will be discussing the backward design model for students and how we can raise our children to be successful without relying on crutches in society such as wealth, privilege, legacy status, fraud, bribery, cheating or Adobe Photoshop.
Link to: Nathaniel's website.
Classroom Matters Host - Kristy Houle
Podcast Producers - Jessica Pierce and Kristy Houle
Podcast Audio Editing - Jessica Pierce
Educate.Today Executive Director - Tim Gore
This is episode #62 of "Classroom Matters" by Educate.Today. We are a program dedicated to speaking with some of the most outstanding educators in the nation, covering different topics in the world of teaching and learning.
On today’s episode I will be sitting down with Dr. Stephanie Ryan, a chemist, boy mom, and a social media influencer who enjoys using her background to create superior educational products and content. Although an academic at heart, Dr. Ryan is passionate about learning through play and can be found helping young kids explore the fascinating world around them. Over the years, Dr. Ryan has taught science to all age groups, both in and out of the classroom, helping toddlers learn about their world and college students define theirs. She is an active member of the chemistry education community and is currently a committee member of the International Activities Committee for the Division of Chemical Education.
During this conversation we will be discussing why teaching chemistry to young kids so scary for parents and how parents and teachers can expose and teach students about chemistry without fancy chemicals, supplies or textbooks.
Links to:
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/letslearnaboutscience/
Website - http://letslearnaboutscience.com/
Classroom Matters Host - Kristy Houle
Podcast Producers - Jessica Pierce and Kristy Houle
Podcast Audio Editing - Jessica Pierce
Educate.Today Executive Director - Tim Gore
This is episode #61 of "Classroom Matters" by Educate.Today. We are a program dedicated to speaking with some of the most outstanding educators in the nation, covering different topics in the world of teaching and learning.
On today’s episode I will be sitting down with author, career coach and innovative thinker, Holly Sharp as we discuss how to help kids discover career options and interests so they can grow into happy adults. Along with this mission, Holly also works with parents to help them overcome the stress of finding the right hobbies and interests for their kids to help set them in the right direction. Holly talks about working with teachers around approaching the "career" topic with greater purpose in the classroom and her book Dream It & Do It, which presents kids with 100 different career and modern-day role models.
During this conversation we will be discussing why we should stop asking kids, "What do you want to be when you grow up,” the three-step process for developing career interests and advice for parents at every stage of the career choice process.
Links: https://www.dreamitanddoitkids.com/
Classroom Matters Host - Kristy Houle
Podcast Producers - Jessica Pierce and Kristy Houle
Podcast Audio Editing - Jessica Pierce
Educate.Today Executive Director - Tim Gore
Megan Sweet is an author and systems-thinker who has been in education for more than twenty-five years. She's been a teacher, school administrator, and school district leader. Megan also has a Doctoral degree in Educational Leadership and her academic and professional interests rest mainly with how to create effective change in educational contexts. She's passionate about meditation, mindfulness, and the power of love to heal our world. Megan believes that when we approach educating our youth from the inside-out, by building a supportive and heart-centered connection with ourselves first, we have the confidence and resilience to tackle the important work of transforming our educational settings. Megan shares her unique approach to school change in her book, An Educator’s Guide for Using Your 3 Eyes.
During this conversation we will be discussing the idea behind the "inside out approach" in education and how it impacts student learning, relationships and the overall educational experience for kids and the top 3 challenges we are facing in our educational system today.
Website: https://www.your3eyes.com/
Book Purchase Link:
https://www.amazon.com/Educators-Guide-Using-Your-Eyes-ebook/dp/B07KS2C5S6/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=using+your+3+eye+book&qid=1622573423&sr=8-1
Classroom Matters Host - Kristy Houle
Podcast Producers - Jessica Pierce and Kristy Houle
Podcast Audio Editing - Jessica Pierce
Educate.Today Executive Director - Tim Gore
Children have been isolated at home for months, staring at screens, and parents are looking to summer camps as a critical opportunity for social interaction, physical activity and enriched learning. Getting kids moving and socializing are top priority as we move into the summer months.
According to the 2021 Summer Camp Outlook by Blue print4SummerSTL, 82% of responding STL regional families plan to send their child to in-person camp this summer.
On today's episode of Classroom Matters I will be chatting with Zasmine Johnson of Blueprint4SummerSTL as we discuss how this organization is tackling this issue head-on .
Classroom Matters Host - Kristy Houle
Podcast Producers - Jessica Pierce and Kristy Houle
Podcast Audio Editing - Jessica Pierce
Educate.Today Executive Director - Tim Gore
On today’s episode I will be sitting down with Suzanne DeMallie, who is not only a driving force in the world of educational change, but also a breath of fresh air for parents and educators across the globe. Suzanne is a former math teacher, advocate for auditory reform and the author of the book Can You Hear Me Now?where she exposes the unsettling reality of our classrooms with a brutally honest account of the policies and practices that leave so many children behind.
During this conversation we will be discussing the challenges that educators face when attempting to make educational change and initiating courageous conversations.
Led by Sports Foundation Director Solomon Alexander, the Musial Moments
program was inspired by the life and legacy of the great Stan Musial. The
Musial Moments program was created to help schools and organizations
foster kindness, character, and respect among young people My guest today,
Solomon Alexander is a former teacher, experienced public speaker and
authority on sportsmanship, Solomon encourages students to have fun, be
good and play right. He motivates students to show kindness, integrity and
selflessness, just as Stan The Man did during his illustrious career and life.
Also during this episode we will discuss the challenges that students and
parents face maintaining sports involvement during the pandemic and
strategies that can be used to stay active.
Classroom Matters Host - Kristy Houle
Podcast Producers - Jessica Pierce and Kristy Houle
Podcast Audio Editing - Jessica Pierce
Educate.Today Executive Director - Tim Gore
On today’s episode I will be sitting down with former educator, Brittany Long as we dive into the topic of how to realize your talents in the teaching world and how to know when to move on. Brittany Long is a former science teacher turned freelancer and entrepreneur who now works from home and is the host of the Life After Teaching podcast. Brittany knows what it's like to feel burned out, tired and desperately wanting more for her life, and although she still advocates for great teachers in the classroom, she also helps teachers find whatever path brings them joy. During this conversation we will be discussing the challenges that educators might face with making a smooth transition out of teaching and what steps to take when making the decision to either stay or go.
Classroom Matters Host - Kristy Houle
Podcast Producers - Jessica Pierce and Kristy Houle
Podcast Audio Editing - Jessica Pierce
Educate.Today Executive Director - Tim Gore
Darrion Cockrell joined a gang by age 10, navigated the challenges of the foster care system, struggled to find love and security during his adolescence, but with the help of his teachers became a teacher himself -- one of the best in Missouri, in fact. Cockrell, or "Mr. DC" as his students affectionately call him, was named Teacher of the Year by the Missouri Department of Education earlier this year.
During this conversation we will discuss his journey into education and how being named Teacher of the Year has changed his outlook on teaching and life in general. We will also discuss the impact that his prior challenges and the title of Teacher of the Year has had on being a husband and father.
On today’s episode I will be sitting down with Dr. Bryan Pearlman as we dive into the topic of how to meet a student’s human needs before academic needs. Dr. Bryan Pearlman is a veteran educator/school administrator, a mental health therapist, PD leader, keynote speaker, and adjunct professor. He is the author of two books: Maslow Before Bloom: Basic Human Needs Before Academics released in May 2020 & Whatever It Takes For All Students To Succeed In School and Life, released in January 2019. Dr. Pearlman is also the co-founder and board member of the mental health non-profit DSMHW.org.
During this conversation we will be discussing the challenges that educators might face with this approach in a remote learning setting and strategies that can truly make a difference in struggling students.
Classroom Matters Host - Kristy Houle
Podcast Producers - Jessica Pierce and Kristy Houle
Podcast Audio Editing - Jessica Pierce
Educate.Today Executive Director - Tim Gore
On today’s episode I will be sitting down with Bob Chapman, Chairman and CEO of St. Louis based Barry-Wehmiller. Over the last two decades Bob has dedicated his work and life to creating an environment where people feel truly valued and cared for. In his book Everybody Matters: The Extraordinary Power of Caring for Your People Like Family, Bob writes about his journey to find his true calling, going behind the scenes as his team tackles real-world challenges with caring, empathy, and inspiration.
During this conversation we will be discussing the challenges that educators face in leadership positions and how the truly human leadership approach can turn disgruntled, burned out teachers into high-performing teams.
Classroom Matters Host - Kristy Houle
Podcast Producers - Jessica Pierce and Kristy Houle
Podcast Audio Editing - Jessica Pierce
Educate.Today Executive Director - Tim Gore
On today’s episode I will be sitting down with two amazing educators who not only work in the world of alternative education, but also strive to help other educators through their roles in the Missouri Alternative Education Network.
Amy McEvoy currently serves as the President of MAEN and Dan Davinroy is the President-Elect. Their mission, which aligns to the National Alternative Education Association is to provide advocacy and support for professionals who work on behalf of children and youth receiving alternative education services.
We will be discussing the challenges that alternative education is facing during the pandemic and debunk the top 5 myths of teaching in an alternative school setting.
Classroom Matters Host - Kristy Houle
Podcast Producers - Jessica Pierce and Kristy Houle
Podcast Audio Editing - Jessica Pierce
Educate.Today Executive Director - Tim Gore
Today, our guest is National Teacher of the Year 2020, Tabatha Rosproy. We spoke with Tabatha earlier this month about her recent accomplishment of being named the first early childhood Teacher of the Year.
Tabatha Rosproy is a 10-year veteran of education and the first early childhood educator to be named National Teacher of the Year. Tabatha currently teaches preschool for the Winfield Early Learning Center in Winfield, Kansas. As the Covid-19 pandemic forced the close of school buildings across the country, Tabatha served as a co-chair of the educator task force that helped compile Kansas's Continuous Learning Guidance in which the primary goal was to develop guidance for Kansas educators to meet the immediate need of supporting learning outside of our normal practices. This and many other accomplishments have led Tabatha to be a role-model for all teachers around the nation as they struggle to teach in uncharted waters. We'll hear about the challenges that Tabatha has faced teaching early childhood in the wake of a pandemic and how her positive attitude helps encourage and impact others.
Classroom Matters Host - Kristy Houle
Podcast Producers - Jessica Pierce and Kristy Houle
Podcast Audio Editing - Jessica Pierce
Educate.Today Executive Director - Tim Gore
Kristy sits down with 12-year-old Mikey Wren, the youngest vending machine owner in the country. Mikey's interest in business started with a lemonade stand and grew into the ownership of several vending machines across the St. Louis area and two best-selling children's books. Hear Mikey and his supportive mother, Arriel, talk about what drives him, how he balances business with school, and his plans for the future.
In this episode of Classroom Matters, host Kristy Houle chats with Stacy Clay, Senior Vice President and Director of Community Affairs, First Bank and Dr. Steven Coxen, Associate Professor of Education, Maryville University about their involvement with the Education Technology Initiative and how this partnership is assisting St. Louis school districts.
Listen to Kristy and Tim talk about the upcoming fall semester and the different ways that being remote and using online resources can be beneficial.
Watch our first ever video podcast episode on our Youtube page!
Join host Kristy Houle as she wraps up this three part series with Online Safety expert, Ronna Glickman. In this episode they will discuss the importance of online safety during this season of remote-learning and share some strategies to keep your kids focused and safe while working online.
Join Kristy Houle as she dives deeper into conversations with Online Safety Expert, Ronna Glickman. In part two of this series Ronna discusses the impact too much online or screen time on a child's brain development.
What is the right age to get my child a cell phone? Should I monitor my child's social media usage? How does too much screen time affect my child? These may be familiar questions you've asked yourself. Join host Kristy Houle as she kicks off this three part series with Online Safety Expert, Ronna Glickman.
What started as a grassroots effort by St. Louis parents has turned into a community organization designed to help parents make the best educational choice for their children. Navigate STL Schools is a non-profit focused on helping St. Louis families find local schools that are the right fit for the unique needs of their children. Join host Kristy Houle as she chats with Executive Director, Anna-Stacia Allen, and Founding Board President and Community Parent, Gloria Nolan, about the challenges families face when looking for the best educational option and how Navigate STL Schools can help.
Tina McCord has been in the world of education for over ten years and is also the founder of the Zuni Learning Tree website. Tina's passion is for supporting teachers and having high-quality resources available in one place. Join host Kristy Houle as she chats with Tina about the Zuni Learning Tree resources and how teachers and parents can utilize them during a time of remote learning.
As both a public and private school teacher and a homeschool mom, Kristen Schindler has had over twenty years of experience with teaching and learning. In her most current role as a published author and educational consultant she is able to connect with people and truly listen to the stories they have to share. Join Kristen as she sits down with host Kristy Houle to chat about her book All the Things and what she is doing to help new homeschool families get a stress-free start to the new school year.
Michael Desparrios is no stranger to the world of education. As a former special education teacher and a special education consultant and coordinator he has seen firsthand the challenges teachers and parents sometimes face with understanding, and empathy for each other in times of trouble. In Michael’s current role as the Leader of Educational Initiatives for the Our Community Listens organization, he develops and train participants in the field of listening, non-verbal behaviors, and healing broken relationships. Join Kristy Houle as she chats with Michael about the program and her own experience with the 3-day training.
In this episode of Classroom Matters join host Kristy Houle as she wraps up a three-part series with Heather Forbes, the owner of the Beyond Consequences Institute. In the last episode of this series Heather discusses how the pandemic and civil unrest around the nation have increased the need for a trauma-informed approach.
In the second part of our three part series with Heather Forbes we dive into teacher buy-in and how to create change in the school environment. Heather is an expert in the field of trauma-informed care and is the owner of the Beyond Consequences Institute which works to help educators and parents take a trauma-informed approach with students. Join Kristy Houle as she chats with Heather and takes a deeper look into teacher implementation of the trauma-informed approach.
Chuck Alphin has been a vital part of the St. Louis community for decades and now his dedication to keeping the community safe is stronger than ever. As the regional director of the O’Fallon Boys and Girls Club and an intregral part of the Kingian Nonviolence philosophy Chuck spends his time delivering and emulating a message of support and love. Join host Kristy Houle as she chats with Chuck about the role of the Boys and Girls Club this summer and how the Kingian Nonviolence movement is needed now more than ever.
Heather Forbes is one of the nation's leading experts in the world of Trauma-Informed Education and has been a catalyst for the positive changes in school districts across the country. As the owner of the Beyond Consequences Institute, Heather has worked for over 20 years helping to educate both teachers and parents in the area of using a trauma-informed approach to help student's academic and behavioral health. Join host Kristy Houle as she starts this three part series with Heather to discuss the building blocks of the Beyond Consequences approach and how we can become better equipped to face upcoming challenges in the educational system.
Education shifted tremendously when the pandemic hit the nation in early March. Many parents were instantly thrown into the educator role and students had to learn a new normal quickly. Join host Kristy Houle as she talks about the differences between isolated learning and homeschooling. In both segments you will hear Kristy talk about the foundation of each and strategies for dealing with both types of learning.
Education shifted tremendously when the pandemic hit the nation in early March. Many parents were instantly thrown into the educator role and students had to learn a new normal quickly. Join host Kristy Houle as she talks about the differences between isolated learning and homeschooling. In both segments you will hear Kristy talk about the foundation of each and strategies for dealing with both types of learning.
**It can be easily said that students and school districts across the nation are faced with challenges of how to stay engaged and learning while at home, and this is especially true for low income school districts. In many of these districts children are not only struggling with how to keep up but also facing a lack of technology to assist them. Join host Kristy Houle as she chats with school principal Nate Porter about these challenges and how we can overcome them and prepare our students and teachers for the future of learning.
In this episode you'll hear...**
- The challenges that students in low-income areas face
- How Covid-19 has complicated the issues
- Ways to address those challenges
As educators, there will always be those students who just don’t want to be there no matter how hard you try. Join host Kristy Houle and Tim Gore as they discuss strategies and techniques they used to help motivate students who didn’t want to be motivated.
Keeping kids learning and engaged on a daily basis in a classroom can sometimes be a struggle for teachers. Now take that situation and flip it to a dining room table with parents adapting to the new normal and trying to work from home at the same time. Join host Kristy Houle as she talks with Tim Gore about how to keep kids learning, structured and engaged during this time of at home learning without going overboard.
According to an article published by the National Association for Gifted Children “Worries and anxious thoughts can increase in the absence of intellectual stimulation.” So how are families keeping up with teaching gifted students from home? How are the schools making sure that these students are not overlooked and have every resource needed to stimulate the brain? Join host Kristy Houle as she talks with Jeff Danielian to answer these questions and more. Jeff currently serves as the Teacher Resource Specialist and Editor for the National Association for Gifted Children **and discusses some strategies for keeping gifted students learning during these uncertain times.
In this episode you'll hear...**
- Ways to ensure your gifted students are getting everything they need while at home
- Resources to share with your gifted students
- How to talk to them about COVID-19
The Coronavirus has led to multiple challenges for schools and families across the nation and no one has felt that more than families educating students with disabilities. On a normal day a student that has an IEP (Individualized Education Plan) can be seen working with multiple experts and using therapeutic equipment. So what happens when this is left for the parents to try and replicate at home? Join host Kristy Houle as she chat with Special Education Administrator Christie Johnson about the obstacles and success they are having with students learning from home.
On this episode you'll hear...
- How teachers can help families in the transition to at-home learning for special needs students
- How parents of special needs students can ease the transition to at-home learning
- The importance of strong relationships between teachers and parents of special needs students
Teaching kids to read can be a difficult task for trained teachers in the best of environments, so you can imagine how difficult it might be for parents trying to teach from home. The current learning situation across the country is uncertain to say the least, but how can parents and teachers keep an emerging reader on the right track? Join host Kristy Houle and guest Becky Jennings as they dive into the world of reading strategies and techniques for keeping kids on the path to reading success.
In this episode you'll hear...
- Methods to keep your readers focused
- The step-by-step break down and analysis of the process of reading
- The impact literacy has on a child
Looking for a way to keep your kids engaged with both teachers and friends during this time of social distancing? Join host Kristy Houle and Tim Gore as they chat about the use of Zoom technology for both academic and social purposes while you are working with students at home.
During these uncertain times for schools and public education, teachers are dealing with a tremendous amount of challenges. They now have the heavy burden of working from home, teaching online and modifying grades and assignments.
In this episode you'll hear...
- How some teachers have successfully adjusted to an online classroom setting
- The major challenges that online teaching brings
- Which practices can and cannot be applied to an online classroom setting
Michelle Esswein is Founder, President and Chief Executive Officer of Winning Women, an organization that promotes an economic environment conducive to growth and development for women in business. She also produces and hosts a radio show and is the Chief Executive Officer of Teres Entertainment. Michelle has been recognized around the country for her accomplishments in the business world and as an entrepreneur. Join host Kristy Houle as she chats with Michelle about how we can encourage young women to seek out their dream of being an entrepreneur and a business owner.
In this episode you’ll hear…
- How Michelle got her start as an entrepreneur
- Her involvement with Winning Women
- Why it’s so important to encourage young women and girls with an interest in entrepreneurship
Kristy Houle and Tim Gore discuss the COVID-19 pandemic and how parents and teachers can effectively transition to online/at home learning.
This week Kristy and Tim talk all about homework and its place in the classroom. Effective? A waste of time? Where do you stand?
**Social-Emotional development in students is a vital component of any child's school day. How students respond and internalize peer interactions can either motivate or damage a student's mindset. Join host Kristy Houle as she chats with Social-Emotional learning expert Tre Gammage to find out how the public education system is addressing these developmental stages.
In this episode you'll hear...**
- The importance of social-emotional learning
- How to use it in educational settings
- Some of Tre's 8 lessons
Most educators would tell you that the first year of teaching is usually the most challenging. That was no different for our host Kristy Houle and her colleague Tim Gore. Join Kristy and Tim for some surprising, yet hilarious stories as they remember back to their first year of teaching.
Anyone that has ever worked in a public school setting know that the school secretary is the first person that most parents and community members see. It sometimes falls on them to set the tone and climate of the school building and to keep things running smoothly. This may seem like an easy task, but we will learn differently in this episode of Classroom Matters. Join host Kristy Houle as she sits down with school secretary Tiffany Allen as they dive into a behind the scenes look at how the front office runs in an effective school environment.In this podcast you'll hear:
- The many challenges of being a school secretary
- How good student-secretary relationships are formed
- How to show your school secretary your appreciation
Education has been along for the ride in a world where technology seems to be taking over. Looking back over the last 30 years of public-school education it is obvious there have been a lot of changes, challenges and hurdles that educators have overcome. Join host Kristy Houle and her colleague Tim Gore as they chat about some of those changes and how they think education has risen above those obstacles.
Education usually ensures a life-long career, however, Dr. Bernard Dubray has pushed that to the limit. Dr. Dubray has been in the education field for over 50 years and is currently the longest running superintendent for the state of Missouri. His devotion to the community, students and teachers is evident in the work that he does, but he has also made tremendous impacts in the areas of academics and finances. Join host Kristy Houle as she chats with Dr. Dubray about everything from his last 50 years of education and what the future may hold for him.
In this episode you'll hear...
- Dr. Dubray's journey and how he got where he is now
- What his day as a superintendent looks like
- His relationship with teachers and opinion on the national teacher shortage
Eric Hadley has been knee deep in the world of science for over twenty years. Working as an educator and expert in the field of STEM, he has witnessed firsthand how far public education has come in teaching future generations the importance of science and critical thinking skills. Join host Kristy Houle as she sits down with Eric to discuss how science education has progressed over the last two decades and the steps educators are taking to ensure students are prepared for a science driven society.
In this episode you’ll hear…
- The ways in which STEM can be used in the classroom setting
- About the gender gap in STEM classes and activities
- Why creativity and an affinity for creativity doesn’t negate a child’s STEM abilities
**How important are the arts in today's classroom? It seems as though the arts programs are always the first to be cut when school budgets get low. In today’s episode of Classroom Matters I will be chatting with Tom Tobias and Ed Grooms about arts education and the impact it has when we remove it from the public-school setting. Tom is a retired K-12 arts teacher and has also spent time with the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education serving as the Arts Education Director. Ed Grooms has been in education for over 50 years in which he taught a wide variety arts curriculum and gifted students. Join me in my conversation as we tackle such topics as assessment of the arts, fostering creativity and the long-term benefits of arts programs in public education.
In this episode you'll hear...**
- How budget cuts affect the arts
- How arts classes can positively influence learning in core classes
- What the arts have to do with STEAM
Join host Kristy Houle and colleague Tim Gore for another dose of reality as they discuss things they DON’T miss about teaching.
**Becky Jennings is no stranger to substandard professional development for teachers. As an expert in the professional development field for over 20 years, she has experienced the challenges and helped create resolutions for the epidemic of ineffective teacher training. In this episode of Classroom Matters she sits down with host Kristy Houle to discuss the pitfalls of professional development and how the education system is progressing in it’s efforts to improve the current model.
In this episode you'll hear...**
- How professional development could better engage teachers
- What administrators can do to help foster teacher growth
- How applied learning can improve how teachers understand their professional development
Join host Kristy Houle and former educator Tim Gore as they reminisce about aspects of teaching they miss most. Everything from read alouds to interacting with students Kristy and Tim dive into some funny memories and retrospective thinking with a touch of humor…and coffee.
**Public education has seen a tragic increase in the amount of school shootings and overall school violence in the last ten years. Students are no longer just “duking it out” on the playground and then calling a truce. In today’s society teens are more likely to respond to difficult situations in a more violent fashion than in years past. Social media and the instant access to violent video games, music lyrics and television programs could be playing a part in this increase, but how do we help students learn better coping mechanisms and how are these violent incidents impacting the school setting? Join host Kristy Houle as she chats with law enforcement and school resource officer Kip Heinle as they discuss the efforts that other resource officers around the nation are attempting to deal with on a day to day basis.
In this episode you'll hear...**
- What it's like to be a School Resource Officer
- How school safety has changed over time
- What we can do to keep our schools safe
**Tierica Berry is an innovative educator who empowers teenage girls to take ownership of their own development. She believes that when a girl recognizes that the choices they make everyday is what shapes their reality, it helps reduce blame and excuse making. As the founder of A Woman's Standard, Tierica helps train educators to assist young ladies to see the power they hold and fall in love with themselves like never before. Join host Kristy Houle, as she chats with Tierica about unpacking the emotional suitcase and how it can greatly impact a young girls academic environment.
In this episode you'll hear...**
- How to unpack your emotional suitcase as well as your students'
- The importance of emotional leadership in the classroom
- The difference Tierica Berry is making for young girls and students every day
Michael Brown's death in Ferguson, MO started a national civil rights movement revolving around how police and government treat black residents. Alongside the residents and community concerns came safety concerns for the staff and students of the Ferguson-Florissant School District, which is located in the heart of where many demonstrations took place. In this episode of Classroom Matters, host Kristy Houle talks with former Director of Security, Tom Dunlap about the impact this event had on the school district and lessons that were learned during these times.
In this episode you'll hear...
- How former Director of Security Tom Dunlap approached school safety during this time
- The way the community and schools transformed
- How faculty and staff came together for the students
Dr. Joseph Davis is not only leading the charge to restructure an entire school district, but also managing to keep the quality of academic success high. Raised in North Carolina by his mother and grandmother, Dr. Davis learned the value of hard work and a good education at a young age. Motivated by his love of people and relationships he has excelled at providing leadership and a love for learning to hundreds of teachers and administrators. Join me as I chat with Dr. Davis about the challenges and rewards of his role as the Superintendent of the Ferguson-Florissant School District.
In this episode you’ll hear…
- How Dr. Davis got to the position he’s in today
- How he supports the students and teachers in his schools
- The importance of finding your purpose
This week's Classroom Matters episode wraps up with part three of our Student Series on student preparedness for higher education and careers. Jack Pifer, a current high school senior sits down and talks with host, Kristy Houle about making his way through his last year of public school and the pressures of being an athlete. Jack also shares his thoughts on what makes an effective teacher and cell phone usage in the classroom setting.
This week's Classroom Matters episode continues with part two of our Student Series on student preparedness for higher education and careers. Nicole Moore, a recent high school graduate, and now college student sits down with host Kristy Houle to discuss the characteristics of both effective and ineffective teachers. Nicole also discusses how prepared she felt for life after high school and the role school district members had in moving her forward and keeping her on the right track.
This week's Classroom Matters episode kicks off our 3-part series with students and recent high school grads. Join host, Kristy Houle, as she begins the series by chatting with Lexi Allen, a recent high school graduate that now attends IUPUI in Indianapolis. Lexi fills us in on just how prepared she feels for this next chapter in her life and how her public school experiences have helped her journey.
**How do you balance the political pull of education while doing what's best for students at the same time? Education has become a system of not only expecting academic achievement for ALL students, but also teaching to the whole child. Dr. Margie Vandeven started her career as a teacher and now serves the state of Missouri as the Commissioner of Education. However, for educators like Dr. Vandeven climbing the academic ladder doesn't take the teacher out of you. In this episode of Classroom Matters join me as I chat with Dr. Vandeven about her journey to the work she is doing now and how we can help teachers remember the "why" of what they do each day.
In this episode you'll learn...**
- About Dr. Vandeven's position as Commissioner of Education
- Ways to improve teacher efficacy
- How parents and teachers can work together to improve child learning
Photo via the Columbia Daily Tribune
The nation has been facing a teacher shortage for some time now and folks may be wondering how we have gotten to this point and what we can do to fix it. It’s no secret that the field of teaching has changed drastically over the last 20 years. Our nation’s teachers have seen those changes up close and personal and many are making the decision to leave the field altogether. During this episode of Classroom Matters, we will have a chance to hear from Chief Human Resources Officer, Amy Joyce, about why this teacher shortage is occurring and some strategies that her school district is taking to hire and retain highly-qualified educators.
On this episode you'll hear...
- Methods of keeping teachers in their positions
- The importance of teacher relationships
- Ways to prepare teachers for the obstacles ahead
Engaging students in meaningful, memorable learning experiences can transform a child’s worldview. It is this belief that fuels our mission at Springboard to Learning to develop children’s abilities to think critically, create, collaborate and communicate. Springboard to Learning envisions a future where all children are passionate, engaged learners who experience success. In this episode of Classroom Matters, join me in my conversation with Lauren Wiser to learn more about this innovative approach to education.In this episode you'll hear...
- The Four C's of Springboard to Learning's Program
- How the arts can teach students their core curriculum
- The advantages of incorporating art into children's lives
**Want to know the secret of how to successfully lead a school district while keeping your sanity? Then join me for a conversation with Superintendent Dr. Chris Gaines as he walks us through what it has taken to get where he is today. As the superintendent of the Mehlville School District, Dr. Gaines has pretty much seen it all and continues to shine a positive light on the sometimes-challenging world of education and the paradigm shift of today’s modern family.
In this episode you'll hear...**
- Dr. Gaines path to superintendency
- The student stories he's encountered
- The relationships he's formed with students and educators in his district
Do you want to know what it’s like to live your mantra, die and then come back to life with a new mantra? Then you will want to tune in to this episode of Classroom Matters with host Kristy Houle. Dr. Stephen Sroka was a happy, healthy guy who spent his time traveling the country giving hope and inspiration with his slogan “The Power of One.” While on stage he went into cardiac arrest and was rushed to an emergency center while clinging to life. As he lay in the chopper awaiting his fate, the thought came to him that it isn’t the power of one that can save you, but the power of many. Listen in as Dr. Sroka talks about his experience and the journey he has taken to do the work he does today.
In this episode you'll hear...
- Why the power of many is better than the power of one
- Why school environments are reflective of the communities they're born from
- The 3 necessary F's in child development
Most teachers knew at an early age that education was the career path they wanted to take, but at what cost? In today’s world of bullying, state and national testing, school violence, and academic standards, it’s no wonder that we are facing a teacher shortage. At the University of Missouri-St. Louis, Stephanie Koscielski is working diligently to ensure that educators are highly qualified and able to walk into the classroom and achieve academic success. Using a new technique of student-teaching, called the Studio Schools Model, teacher candidates are given a sort-of on the job reality check of what being a teacher is really all about. Listen in as Stephanie and I discuss the working components of this student-teaching model and what direction teacher education is going.
In this episode you'll hear...
- The steps involved in becoming a teacher by today's standards
- How social media can effect your teaching career
- The importance of flexibility and adaptability as a teacher
If you say the words “flipped classroom" to most students they will look at you like you're nuts! In many cases, so will most teachers, but that doesn’t necessarily mean they aren’t using the method or that they haven’t had huge success with it. So many of our teachers are already implementing this unique form of learning in their everyday lessons, but they just don’t put a name to it. Tim Gore Executive Director of the Educate.Today organization defines and shares his experience with the Flipped Classroom model of teaching and how many educators are using it today. Join us for this in-depth conversation about the Flipped Classroom model and how you can make it work for your students!
In this episode, you’ll hear
- What does a blended learning model classroom look like?
- Challenges and successes of a flipped model classroom
- What is the teacher’s role when utilizing the flipped model classroom?
“Gifted students will do fine on their own.”
“Gifted programs are elitist.”
These and other myths prevent our country from appropriately educating millions of advanced students. In April 2019 Christine Nobbe was named Gifted Director for the state of Missouri and prior to that spent thirty years in the classroom setting. From special education to gifted teacher Christine has been able to help school districts around the state develop and grow outstanding gifted education programs and work with classroom teachers to identify characteristics of gifted students. Take a listen as Christine and I discuss and debunk some of the current myths about gifted education. In this episode you'll hear...
- How to identify the gifted student in a general classroom setting
- Why gifted students need the support and modifications to be successful
- Strategies to enrich the gifted students educational experience
Photo via confluenceacademy.org
Never being able to identify with characters in a book can be a difficult thing for a child who is learning how to read. This is the struggle that one family had as they attempted to educate their children in a mostly Caucasian world of books. That is when Jeffrey and Pamela Blair first began to realize that they and other African American families were facing challenges of finding books to help their children feel good about their culture and heritage. Now, as founders and owners of the EyeSeeMe bookstore, Jeffrey and Pamela can stock not only household bookshelves with reflections of the reader, but schools across the nation as well. Join me in this interesting conversation as we discuss the beginnings of the “mirrors and reflections” ideology and how this family has helped grow a love for reading in children across the nation.
Photo via STL LIVE
In 2018 Beth Davey, an art teacher from the Ritenour School District was named Teacher of the Year by Missouri’s Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. What Beth soon realized was that “with great power comes great responsibility” …or was that Spiderman? Listen in as Ms. Davey talks about her year spent as Teacher of the Year, and how she used that time to advocate for keeping and sustaining arts classes in education. It’s a conversation you won’t want to miss!
In this episode, you’ll hear…
- How serving as Missouri’s 2018 Teacher of the Year has inspired Beth
- Why teaching the arts in education is a vital component of a student’s success
- Strategies to enhance a student’s artistic characteristics and talents.
Photo via Missouri Association of Colleges for Teacher Education
You’ve heard the buzzwords…..media, technology, interactive, innovative, but what do they really mean and how can you use them effectively in a classroom setting? Teaching with innovation and technology is nothing new to the world of education, but are we truly doing it right? How is it possible for teachers to prepare students for future careers that don’t yet exist? Don Goble, award-winning speaker, author and multimedia educator sits down with host Kristy Houle to discuss the true meaning of teaching technology and media in today’s classroom in an effort to prepare students for a never-changing society and the technology that lives around us.
In this episode, you’ll hear
- How to use innovative ways to leverage video and media literacy into the classroom or business setting.
- Students taking initiative and control of their own learning
- Simple things that teachers can do to accomplish a more student-led classroom
As a professional speaker and former educator, Dr, Debra Peppers is no stranger to the epidemic of teacher stress. Hundreds of high-performing teachers suffer each year from not only mental anguish, but physical side effects caused by the unrealistic expectations that society has put on today’s teacher. Join host, Kristy Houle as she talks with Dr. Peppers to uncover the struggles of present day teachers and discover ways to help alleviate some of the challenges educators face every year.
In this episode you will hear:
- Research on teacher stress
- Expectations we as a society put on teachers that cause stress and health issues
- A few simple things teachers can do to create a healthier outlook, both mentally and physically
**Dr. Bill Daggett chats about the annual Model Schools Conference and how to get educators to become more future-focused to prepare students for what is ahead of them. We also get a chance to discuss the Rigor/Relevance Framework and how this approach had led hundreds of schools in successful transformations.
Before founding and now serving as Chairman of the International Center for Leadership in Education, Dr. Daggett was a teacher, local administrator, and a director with the New York State Education Department. He has spent his career figuring out what works and what doesn’t when it comes to a child’s academic success. While an avid supporter of public education, he courageously challenges teachers and administrators to be more focused on our children’s future than on maintaining the schools of our youth. His insights and leadership has caused nearly every major education association in the country, hundreds of school districts, numerous political and business leaders, publishers, and others to seek out his advice and guidance.**
**Kenneth Williams talks about how schools and educators can “live their posters” and truly achieve learning for all. We also get a chance to talk about his newest book Starting a Movement; Building Culture from the Inside Out with Professional Learning Communities that he cowrote with Tom Hierck.
As founder and Chief Visionary Officer of Unfold the Soul, Kenneth Williams is living proof that educators CAN and should “live their posters” and shares with us how to truly achieve learning for all. Unfold the Soul trains entrepreneurs, educators, and motivated individuals how to accelerate the achievement of their personal and professional goals. Ken’s background includes a BA from Morehouse College and he also holds a Master’s degree in Education from the University of Bridgeport and a Leadership Certificate from the Bowie State University. For nearly 20 years, he has been a teacher, assistant principal, sales manager, educational consultant, trainer, speaker and a leading authority in the areas of collaboration, breakthrough achievement, leadership, and peak performance.**Image from ccosa.org
Dr. Kim Bearden is explains how to create a positive and successful school climate.
Kim Bearden is the cofounder, executive director, and language arts teacher at the highly acclaimed Ron Clark Academy, an innovative middle school and educator-training facility in Atlanta. More than 50,000 educators from around the world have visited Kim’s classroom and have attended her workshops to learn better ways to engage students, promote academic rigor, and create a climate and culture that promote success. Over the past thirty-one years, she has been a teacher, instructional lead teacher, curriculum director, school-board member, staff-development trainer, and middle-school principal. Kim’s first book, Crash Course: The Life Lessons My Students Taught Me, made several bestseller lists. Her second book, Talk to Me: Find the Right Words to Inspire, Encourage, and Get Things Done was released in July of 2018.
The Classroom Matters podcast aims to share the good, the bad and the ugly of our education system. Join Kristy Houle, former teacher, principal and Outreach Coordinator for Educate.Today, as she talks with a wide variety of fascinating people on important and interesting educational topics.