Schoolutions: Curious Educators. Evidence-Based Strategies. Classrooms Where Every Child Thrives.

Transform Your Classroom With Intentional Vocabulary Instruction

Mon, 13 Jul 2026 00:00:00 -0400

Dr. Tanya S. Wright, an Associate Professor at Michigan State University and former kindergarten teacher, explains how to move beyond static word lists. This S2E26 Schoolutions episodeffocuses on the mechanics of building rich language environments during everyday classroom routines. Whether you are managing transitions or facilitating morning meetings, you will see how minor adjustments to your existing flow can yield significant gains in student literacy strategies.

Tanya is the author of A Teacher's Guide to Vocabulary Development Across the Day: Grades K-3, and this conversation breaks down what her research actually looks like in a classroom. We define what it really means to know a word, and why a dictionary definition alone doesn't build the kind of vocabulary knowledge kids need as readers, writers, speakers, and listeners. This connects directly to student engagement, student participation, and closing gaps in attention in class when kids don't understand the words a text or a teacher is using.

We talk about the "locked vocabulary gate," the idea that decoding without meaning leaves comprehension out of reach no matter how strong a reader's phonics skills are. Tanya explains orthographic mapping and why vocabulary knowledge is the missing piece connecting spelling, pronunciation, and meaning for beginning readers. This is essential listening for instructional strategies, lesson planning, and effective teaching in any K-3 classroom, and it matters just as much for culturally responsive teaching and equity in education, since kids arrive in a classroom with different vocabularies shaped by their homes and communities.

We also cover text sets, active processing, observational vocabulary assessment, and why encouraging kids to attempt spelling of big words supports both vocabulary growth and decoding skills. Tanya makes the case that content area learning, in science, social studies, and beyond, is one of the best vehicles for vocabulary growth, and that cutting content instruction in the name of literacy actually works against literacy. This is a direct, practical resource for school leadership, instructional leadership, and school improvement conversations around curriculum planning and school culture.

Episode Mentions:

Tanya's books:
- Literacy Learning for Infants, Toddlers, & Preschoolers: Key Practices for Educators(NAEYC 2022)
- A Teacher's Guide to Vocabulary Development Across the Day: Grades K-3(Heinemann 2021)
- All About Words: Increasing Vocabulary in the Common Core Classroom: PreK-2(Teachers College Press 2013)
- Nurturing Knowledge: Building a Foundation for School Success by Linking Early Literacy to Math, Science, Art, and Social Studies(Scholastic 2007)
- A Parent's Guide to Reading With Your Young Child(Scholastic 2006)

Other Resources Tanya Recommends:

SOLID Start (FREE, open-access science curriculum materials with integrated literacy learning opportunities)

This conversation is on YouTube too!

Chapters:
0:00 Introduction to Dr. Tanya S. Wright
1:30 The educator who inspires her
3:00 Why five words a week isn't enough
5:30 Defining vocabulary and the locked vocabulary gate
8:00 The different types of word knowledge
11:00 What active processing means
13:00 Why read alouds build vocabulary
16:30 Choosing which words to explicitly teach
19:30 Supporting multilingual learners
21:00 The principles of word learning
23:00 Orthographic mapping and meaning
26:00 Why content learning builds vocabulary
30:00 Pre-teaching vocabulary: when it works and when it doesn't
34:30 What a text set is and why it matters
39:00 Finding strong texts without a publisher
41:00 Assessing vocabulary through observation
44:00 Word choice and spelling approximations in writing
47:30 Vocabulary strategies for independent readers
50:30 Final call to action

Schoolutions is the podcast for educators and school leaders, families and homeschoolers, and the coaches, counselors, and mentors who believe every student deserves to thrive. Join our community of educators committed to cultivating student success, inspired teaching, and creating inclusive classrooms with a pro-kid mindset focused on the whole child.

🌿Ready to grow alongside your children? Book a coaching session with me here. We'll unlock the expert who is already within you and surround you with a community of educators committed to forever getting better through collective expertise.

🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

Don't forget to 🔔SUBSCRIBE for more teaching tips, and 💬SHARE the episode!

#schoolutions #schoolutionspodcast #forevergettingbetter #curiositydriven #evidencebasedclassroomreadystrategies #VocabularyDevelopment #EarlyLiteracy #ReadingComprehension #TeacherTips #InstructionalCoaching #EquityInEducation #ReadAloud #K3Teachers #TeacherSupport #ProfessionalDevelopment #Schoolutions #EducationPodcast #WholeChild #NewTeachers #InstructionalLeadership

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

The Case for Bringing Play Back to School

Fri, 10 Jul 2026 00:00:00 -0400

Global changemakers Renée Dinnerstein and Larry Leaven have a shared commitment to children when it comes to reviving choice time, inquiry, exploration, and play in schools around the world. Their inspiring anecdotes and creative out-of-the-box solutions through this S2E36 Schoolutions conversation, will help listeners immediately put choice time into action.

Episode Mentions:

This conversation is on YouTube too!

Chapters:
0:00 Introduction to Renée Dinnerstein and Larry Leaven
2:00 The educators who shaped their careers
7:00 Why play is disappearing from classrooms
9:30 What choice time actually means
12:15 Play vs. playful instruction
14:00 Starting the day with play instead of using it as a reward
16:50 Why choice time matters more after the pandemic
19:00 Choice time work in Hong Kong and China
20:40 Play across cultures: Rome, Italy, and beyond
24:20 Mixing classrooms to support English language learners
27:20 What teachers learn by observing play
30:25 Why choice time can't be measured on a spreadsheet
33:10 The choice time lab room model
36:50 Focusing on a few students each day
39:10 Building a choice time culture without full staff buy-in
42:25 Final call to action

Thank you to Renée Dinnerstein and Heinemann Publishing who are so generous to offer a PROMO CODE (CHOICE) to receive 30% off Renée's book: Choice Time: How to Deepen Learning Through Inquiry and Play, PreK-2
https://www.heinemann.com/products/e07765.aspx

Schoolutions is the podcast for educators and school leaders, families and homeschoolers, and the coaches, counselors, and mentors who believe every student deserves to thrive. Join our community of educators committed to cultivating student success, inspired teaching, and creating inclusive classrooms with a pro-kid mindset focused on the whole child.

🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

Don't forget to 🔔SUBSCRIBE for more teaching tips, and 💬SHARE the episode!

#schoolutions #schoolutionspodcast #forevergettingbetter #curiositydriven #evidencebasedclassroomreadystrategies #ChoiceTime #ChildDirectedPlay #EarlyChildhoodEducation #TeacherTips #InstructionalCoaching #SchoolLeadership #StudentEngagement #ActiveLearning #WholeChild #EquityInEducation #EducationPodcast #Schoolutions #TeacherSupport #ProfessionalDevelopment #ParentCommunication #InclusiveClassrooms #TeacherMentors #SchoolCulture #InstructionalLeadership #NewTeachers

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

PLC at Work® Is Being Reignited by Leaders Like This

Mon, 06 Jul 2026 00:00:00 -0400

I sat down with Dr. Anthony Muhammad for Schoolutions S3E37 to talk about his book The Way Forward: PLC at Work and the Bright Future of Education, and this conversation just landed in the top 20 most listened-to episodes in our summer series re-release. Anthony spent nearly twenty years as a teacher, assistant principal, and high school principal before becoming one of the most respected voices in school leadership and instructional leadership today.

We get into the three big ideas behind real professional learning community work: a focus on student learning, collective effort over individual effort, and evidence-driven decision-making. This is effective teaching and instructional strategies at the school-wide level, not just a classroom-by-classroom fix.

Anthony also breaks down the difference between healthy and toxic school culture, and he explains the actual physical harm that negative collaboration does to a staff. If school improvement in your building feels stuck, this names why. We talk about what separates true commitment from what Anthony calls PLC Lite, and he lays out six non-negotiable tights that define PLC Right.

Episode Mentions:

The Way Forward: PLC at Work® and the Bright Future of Education by Anthony Muhammad
Dr. Richard DuFour
The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho
Robert Eaker
The Fifth Discipline: The Art & Practice of the Learning Organization by Peter Senge
Thomas J. Sergiovanni
Shirley Hord & Milbrey McLaughlin
Madeline Hunter - ITIP
Professional Learning Teams
Transforming School Culture: How to Overcome Staff Division by Anthony Muhammad
MTSS
Marzano High Reliability Schools
Learning by Doing, Fourth Edition: A Handbook for Professional Learning Communities at Work® by Richard DuFour, Rebecca DuFour, Robert Eaker, Thomas W. Many, Mike Mattos, Anthony Muhammad

Would you rather watch this conversation? Here's the YouTube link.

Chapters:

0:00 Welcome and introducing Dr. Anthony Muhammad
1:51 The mentor behind the book: Rick DuFour
4:00 Why the book is structured past, present, future
9:24 The story behind the cover art
12:28 The three big ideas of PLC at Work
18:48 Turning big ideas into staff-specific questions
21:20 Healthy vs. toxic school culture
24:44 The physical toll of negative collaboration
29:44 PLC Lite vs. PLC Right
33:17 The six non-negotiable tights
39:06 The best first step for educators
41:15 Closing thoughts and where to find the book

Schoolutions is the podcast for educators and school leaders, families and homeschoolers, and the coaches, counselors, and mentors who believe every student deserves to thrive. Join our community of educators committed to cultivating student success, inspired teaching, and creating inclusive classrooms with a pro-kid mindset focused on the whole child.

🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

Don't forget to 🔔SUBSCRIBE for more teaching tips, and 💬SHARE the episode!

#schoolutions #schoolutionspodcast #forevergettingbetter #curiositydriven #evidencebasedclassroomreadystrategies #PLCatWork® #atplc #anthonymuhammad #solutiontree #RichardDuFour #RobertEaker #SchoolCulture #InstructionalLeadership #SchoolImprovement #TeacherCoaching #ProfessionalLearning #EffectiveTeaching #EducationLeadership #PLCatWork #TeacherSupport #WholeChild #StudentSuccess

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Science of Reading & The PreK Years (NYSED Literacy Brief 4)

Fri, 03 Jul 2026 00:00:00 -0400

You're about to hear one of the most downloaded episodes from the last five years of this podcast. The audio may be rougher than what you hear now, but I'm not going back to clean it up. You're hearing exactly where I started, and I trust that the growth shows on its own, the same way I hope my work as an educator does.

___________________________

I continue my conversation with Dr. Wendy Bunker around the recently released Science of Reading Literacy Briefs by the New York State Education Department, produced for the NYSED by Nonie K. Lesaux, PhD, and Katie C. Carr, M.Ed. This S3E28 episode focuses on Literacy Brief 4: Science of Reading: The PreK Years and the vital role the PreK years play in lifelong literacy.

Episode Mentions:

Would you rather watch this conversation? Here's the YouTube link.

Chapters:

0:00 – Intro: Revisiting a fan-favorite episode
1:29 – Welcome & introducing Dr. Wendy Bunker
2:00 – Overview of Literacy Brief 4: "The Science of Reading: The Pre-K Years"
3:04 – The Big Six literacy skills (from the Big Five to adding oral language)
5:05 – Understanding the high-impact practices bar graph (pre-K time distribution)
9:12 – Print-rich classrooms & memorized read-alouds (the "Brown Bear" example)
10:36 – Page two graphic: structures and processes for high-impact practices
12:37 – Why page three is a favorite: high-impact practices in action for pre-K
14:33 – Deep dive: phonological awareness, phonics, spelling & word study
15:29 – The Hechinger Report findings: letters + sounds nearly doubles phonemic awareness effectiveness
16:30 – Phonics vs. phonological awareness vs. phonemic awareness, explained
19:19 – Page four: supporting English learners and students with identified needs (UDL framework)
21:34 – Considering research gaps for diverse learners
21:57 – Book recommendations (Dinnerstein, Teacher Tom, Bodrova & Leong)
22:36 – Closing thoughts on joy and play in literacy
23:24 – Outro & credits

🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

Don't forget to 🔔SUBSCRIBE for more teaching tips, and 💬SHARE the episode!

#schoolutions #schoolutionspodcast #forevergettingbetter #curiositydriven #evidencebasedstrategies #classroomreadystrategies

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Counting Down the Top 20 Schoolutions⁩ Episodes This Summer

Wed, 01 Jul 2026 00:00:00 -0400

There's a magic to the 1980s and 90s childhood memories that just doesn't exist anymore. Did you grow up waiting by the radio on Sunday mornings for Casey Kasem's American Top 40? My sister and I would sit next to a clock radio for four hours, waiting for the number-one song in America. That kind of countdown is worth reviving.

I’m taking a trip back to the era of analog weekend rituals, from the anticipation of the weekly Top 40 countdown to the chaotic energy of watching American Gladiators at my dad's house.

This summer, Schoolutions is counting down the top 20 most-listened-to episodes from Seasons 1 through 5. Starting Friday, July 3rd, a new episode drops every Monday and Friday, from number 20 down to number 1.

These episodes address what teachers actually wrestle with: classroom belonging, student motivation, low engagement, classroom behavior, and how to reach kids who seem checked out. You'll also find conversations built for coaches and school leaders around instructional coaching, teacher support, school culture, professional development, and what it takes to move from good intentions to real school improvement. Caregivers and homeschoolers are in here too. Episodes on parent communication, the home-school connection, and supporting student success outside the classroom.

Season 6 kicks off in September.

Chapters:
0:00 The idea behind the summer countdown
0:28 How the Schoolutions Top 20 works
1:05 What topics the episodes cover
1:30 Season 6 is coming

🌿Ready to grow alongside your children? Book a coaching session with me here. We'll unlock the expert who is already within you and surround you with a community of educators committed to forever getting better through collective expertise:

#Schoolutions #SchoolutionsPodcast #ForeverGettingBetter #CuriosityDriven #EvidenceBased #ClassroomReadyStrategies #ClassroomBelonging #StudentEngagement #StudentMotivation #ActiveLearning #InspiringStudents #EffectiveTeaching #InstructionalStrategies #TeachingTips #InnovativeTeaching #InclusiveTeaching #TeacherCoaching #InstructionalCoaching #TeacherSupport #NewTeachers #CoachingStrategies #ProfessionalDevelopment #SchoolLeadership #SchoolCulture #PrincipalStrategies #ParentInvolvement #HomeSchoolConnection #CulturallyResponsiveTeaching #EquityInEducation #InclusiveClassrooms #ProKidMindset #WholeChild #StudentSuccess #EmpoweredEducators #EducationTransformation #TeacherImpact #Homeschoolers #InstructionalLeaders #SchoolCounselors #EducationLeadership #Schoolutions #EducationPodcast

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Season 5 Finale: Truths About Teaching in Uncertain Times

Mon, 29 Jun 2026 00:00:00 -0400

How do we approach parenting advice and teaching children when the world keeps changing?

After over 40 conversations with experts during Season 5 of Schoolutions, I am summarizing the key ideas for supporting children during uncertain times. You will learn the surprising answer that nearly every expert discussed as the foundation for modern child development and the throughline every expert kept returning to: the expertise isn't out there in the next program or framework. It's already within you, and it's already within the child in front of you.

Inside this episode:
• What separates expert teachers from experienced ones (hint: they're "nosy")
• How a child's identity as a reader, writer, and mathematician is built in everyday moments
• Why whole child teaching (brains, bodies, hearts, and play) isn't softer teaching, it's more demanding teaching
• What inclusive classrooms and culturally responsive teaching look like in practice
• Why classroom belonging is the condition for learning, not a bonus after learning
• How civic life, climate, and community belong inside education transformation
• What's coming this summer (a Best Of archive series) and in Season 6 (For Teachers, By Teachers, and Forever Getting Better)

Featuring ideas from: John Hattie, Angela Stockman, Molly Ness, Maria Walther, Kay Stahl, Patty McGee, Melanie Meehan, Maggie Roberts, Mona Iehl, Wendy Ward Hoffer, David Price, Eli Harwood, Rusty Keeler, Tom Gelardi, Stacey Shubitz, Dr. Courtney Bishop, Beverly Falk, Erin Patterson, Chris Hass, Muriel Summers, Cornelius Minor, Dr. Kass Minor, and many more.

📚 Book a coaching session with Olivia: https://oliviawahl.com
🎙 Subscribe so you never miss an episode
👍 If this episode helped you, leave a review. It helps more educators and caregivers find the show

Chapters:
0:00 Intro — Teaching in the age of change
1:10 The expertise is already within you (John Hattie & expert teacher habits)
2:40 Professional learning & instructional coaching (Sandy Halpin, Larry Ainsworth, Angela Stockman, Chrissy Beltran)
3:30 Student identity as readers — orthographic mapping, read-aloud & phonics (Molly Ness, Maria Walther, Kay Stahl)
4:05 Writing, voice & the brain — student engagement through writer's workshop (Patty McGee, Katie Keier, Melanie Meehan, Maggie Roberts)
4:30 Math confidence & rebuilding student motivation (Mona Iehl, Wendy Ward Hoffer)
4:55 Science wonder, multilingual learners & student agency (David Price, Beth Skelton, Tan Huynh, Sarah Zerwin, Dr. Rebecca Winthrop)
5:45 Whole child — brain-body connection, attachment, play & emotional safety (Gravity Goldberg, Eli Harwood, MJ Murray Vachon, Rusty Keeler, Tom Gelardi, Kate Driscoll)
6:50 Inclusive classrooms — childhood illness, disabilities & neurodivergence (Suzanne Stone, Brett Fox, Stacey Shubitz, Dr. Courtney Bishop)
7:30 Rethinking the model of school — microschools, homeschool & regenerative education
8:05 Early childhood, equity & housing instability (Beverly Falk, Erin Patterson, Dr. Kris Nystrom, Dr. Fabi Bagula)
8:55 Civic life, climate stewardship & student leadership (Chris Hass, Colleen O'Brien, Muriel Summers, Xochitl Bentley)
9:30 Community is unshakable — Cornelius & Dr. Kass Minor close the season
10:30 Thank you & what's coming this summer (Best Of archive series)
11:40 Season 6 preview — For Teachers, By Teachers, Forever Getting Better
12:30 Book a coaching session with Olivia + closing

#Schoolutions #TeachingTips #EffectiveTeaching #StudentEngagement #ActiveLearning #ClassroomBelonging #WholeChild #InspiringStudents #InstructionalCoaching #ProfessionalDevelopment #SchoolCulture #SchoolLeadership #InclusiveTeaching #CulturallyResponsiveTeaching #EquityInEducation #ParentInvolvement #FamilyPartnerships #EmpoweredEducators #EducationTransformation #TeacherSupport #NewTeachers #ProKidMindset #OliviaWahl #PodcastForTeachers #Season5Finale

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Teaching Fiercely: Why Teachers Need Autonomy to Transform Schools

Fri, 26 Jun 2026 00:00:00 -0400

What does it look like to lead with both ferocity and grace, and why do so many teachers forget that admitting your feelings isn't the same as admitting defeat?

In Part 2 of my S5E43 Schoolutions conversation, I continue my conversation with Cornelius Minor⁩ (author of We Got This) and Dr. Kass Minor (author of Teaching Fiercely), co-founders of The Minor Collective. We discuss why grace and ferocity are twin concepts and how embracing emotional vulnerability is actually a mark of true strength. We also talk about what sustains teachers through hard times, what school leadership really looks like when it's built around empowered educators, and how marveling at the children right in front of you can change everything.

You'll learn:
→ Why grace is ferocity's twin and what "speculative grace" means for inclusive teaching
→ How admitting your feelings builds real community (Cornelius's unforgettable skateboard story)
→ What instructional leadership looks like when it centers authentic learning conversations
→ Why every teacher, coach, and caregiver must claim the title of knower
→ Cornelius's two-step summer practice: witness a young person, then marvel

Kass and Cornelius also share what it's like to co-found The Minor Collective while raising two daughters together, and what their marriage teaches them about community, humility, and beautiful chaos.

💫Check out Part 1 & some resources mentioned:

➡️ We Got This by Cornelius Minor
➡️ Teaching Fiercely by Dr. Kass Minor
➡️ The Minor Collective
➡️ The Will to Change by bell hooks (on change)
➡️ On Re-Finding Ferocity: When there are no more lines to hold
➡️ Pedagogy of the Oppressed by Paulo Freire
➡️ Emma Goldman
➡️ Zaretta Hammond
➡️ Sankofa (Akan concept)

Chapters:
0:00 Intro: Grace, ferocity, and keeping hope alive in hard times
1:45 What does it mean to refind your ferocity?
3:30 Sankofa: drawing fuel from ancestors and looking back to move forward
5:30 Grace is ferocity's twin; rethinking what sustains teachers
6:45 Cornelius's skateboard story: Joe, Malcolm, and admitting your feelings
9:30 Vulnerability in instructional leadership: what it really looks like
11:30 Curriculum inquiry conversations and the ecosystem of learning
14:00 The Minor Collective at home; co-creating a life and a mission
17:30 Beauty and chaos: what partnership and marriage teach about community
20:00 Can you ever turn the work off? On the personal and professional being enmeshed
22:00 Lessons from outside the US; listening to children and honoring what they bring
24:30 Who gets to be a knower? Why teachers must claim their expertise
28:00 The evolution of coaching: dialogic, facilitative, and side by side
29:30 Where does hope live? The tweens, the teens, and thrifting
32:00 Two steps for summer: witness a young person and marvel
34:30 Wrap-up + what's coming in season six

Schoolutions is the podcast for educators and school leaders, families and homeschoolers, and the coaches, counselors, and mentors who believe every student deserves to thrive. Join our community of educators committed to cultivating student success, inspired teaching, and creating inclusive classrooms with a pro-kid mindset focused on the whole child.

🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

Don't forget to 🔔SUBSCRIBE for more teaching tips, and 💬SHARE the episode!

Next Week: I'm doing something a little different. I'm sitting with the big ideas from this season; the threads that have run through every conversation, and I'm thinking out loud with you about what's coming. About a vision I am so passionate about, one that is at the heart of what Season 6 will be: For Teachers, By Teachers, and Forever Getting Better. That theme is close to my heart for many reasons, including a book I've been pouring myself into that's coming your way in spring 2027. I cannot wait to share more.

#schoolutions #schoolutionspodcast #forevergettingbetter #curiositydriven #evidencebasedstrategies #classroomreadystrategies #education #teachers #schoolculture #teachercoaching #instructionalcoaching #inclusiveteaching #culturallyresponsiveteaching #equityineducation #teachingfiercely #minorcollective #professionaldevelopment #schoolleadership #studentengagement #wholechild #grace #ferocity #marvel

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Teachers Don't Have to Go It Alone

Wed, 24 Jun 2026 00:00:00 -0400

At the heart of the refreshed Minor Collective site is one belief: people come before ideas, ideology, or frameworks.

As conversations about student growth and teacher effectiveness quietly shift toward kid obedience and teacher compliance, going it alone can feel scary. In this short but powerful clip from my S5E43 Schoolutions conversation with Cornelius and Dr. Kass Minor, The Minor Collective's message is simple: you're not alone, and we're meant to go together...moving where teachers, children, and families are already headed.

The team shares why their approach to education is relational, critical, adaptive, and responsive, and why that matters more than ever right now. If you care about people-first education, teacher support, and what schools are becoming, this one's for you. 💛

⏱️ Chapters
0:00 People over ideologies
0:18 Relational, critical, adaptive, responsive
0:36 Where education is really headed
0:52 Why it can feel scary right now
1:08 We're not alone...we go together

Watch, reflect, and share Part 1 & Part 2 of our Schoolutions S5E43 interview.

🌿Would you like to work together to create an environment where we center people-first education and collective wisdom? Book a coaching session with me here.

#Schoolutions #SchoolutionsPodcast #ForeverGettingBetter #CuriosityDriven #EvidenceBased #ClassroomReadyStrategies #MinorCollective #PeopleFirstEducation #TeacherSupport #InstructionalCoaching #TeacherCoaching #ProfessionalDevelopment #WholeChild #ProKidMindset #EquityInEducation #CulturallyResponsiveTeaching #InclusiveClassrooms #EducationTransformation #EmpoweredEducators #SchoolCulture #InstructionalLeadership #TeacherImpact #MentorTeachers #NewTeachers #FamilyPartnerships #TeacherLife #Edu #Teachers #SchoolLeadership #TeachersOfYouTube

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Reclaiming Joy: The Blueprint Resilient Educators Follow

Mon, 22 Jun 2026 00:00:00 -0400

What does it look like when education is built around the full humanity of every child and every teacher?

In Part 1 of my S5E43 Schoolutions conversation, I sit down with Cornelius Minor⁩ (author of We Got This) and Dr. Kass Minor (author of Teaching Fiercely), co-founders of The Minor Collective. Together, they unpack what it really means to build a pro-kid mindset, reclaim teacher personhood, and find beauty in the mess of modern schooling.

You'll learn:
→ How curriculum audits center the human, not the framework
→ Why community is the one thing that's truly unshakable
→ What student engagement and student motivation really look like when teachers do the work alongside students
→ How active learning and inclusive teaching shift school culture
→ Why whole child thinking transforms everything from lesson planning to school leadership

Cornelius and Kass also share how The Minor Collective approaches teacher coaching, professional learning, and instructional leadership with a fiercely humanistic lens: relational, critical, adaptive, and responsive.

Some resources mentioned:

➡️ We Got This by Cornelius Minor
➡️ Teaching Fiercely by Dr. Kass Minor
➡️ The Minor Collective
➡️ Maxine Greene / aesthetic education
➡️ Nothing Personal by James Baldwin (on personhood)
➡️ The Will to Change by bell hooks (on change)
➡️Minor, K. (2025, December 1). Illuminating the call: Thought sanctuary as a framework for teacher flourishing: Cultivating imagination and inquiry within the parameters of school. Voices in the Middle, 33(2)
➡️Minor, K. (2025, September 1). Illuminating the Call: Fierce pedagogy: blueprints for a better future. Voices in the Middle, 33(1)

Chapters:
0:00 Intro: What does education built around full humanity look like?
2:15 Researcher inspirations: Maxine Greene, James Baldwin, bell hooks
3:45 Reclaiming your personhood as a teacher
5:10 Community is what's unshakable; lessons from those who've surfed the shifts
6:15 Curriculum audits that center the human; The Minor Collective approach
9:00 Teachers doing the student work themselves; street credit and trust
10:15 The new Minor Collective site; going far together
13:00 Lightning round: books, metaphors, and what teachers need right now
15:20 One word for teachers + finishing the sentence on centering children
16:00 Small things giving hope; joy at the school dance
17:10 Wrap-up + Olivia's son and the joy of reading

Schoolutions is the podcast for educators and school leaders, families and homeschoolers, and the coaches, counselors, and mentors who believe every student deserves to thrive. Join our community of educators committed to cultivating student success, inspired teaching, and creating inclusive classrooms with a pro-kid mindset focused on the whole child.

🌿Ready to grow alongside your children? Book a coaching session with me here. We'll unlock the expert who is already within you and surround you with a community of educators committed to forever getting better through collective expertise.
🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

Don't forget to 🔔SUBSCRIBE for more teaching tips, and 💬SHARE the episode!

#education #teachers #schoolculture #teachercoaching #instructionalcoaching #inclusiveteaching #culturallyresponsiveteaching #equityineducation #teachingfiercely #minorcollective #professionaldevelopment #schoolleadership #newteachers #studentengagement #schoolutions #schoolutionspodcast #forevergettingbetter #curiositydriven #evidencebasedstrategies #classroomreadystrategies

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Rebuilding Math Confidence: Practical Tips for Families

Fri, 19 Jun 2026 00:00:00 -0400

What if rebuilding your child's math confidence this summer started not with worksheets, but with a mirror?

In Part 2 of my S5E42 Schoolutions conversation, Wendy Ward Hoffer (All Minds on Mathematics: Math Workshop for Every Learner) gets practical and personal. If your child had a hard year in math, this is your playbook. Wendy walks families and educators through exactly what to do and what to stop saying so that children walk into September with agency, curiosity, and the belief that they belong in mathematics.

In this episode you'll learn:
• Why rebuilding a child's math identity often starts with the adults first
• How to let your child be the expert when homework looks unfamiliar
• What "humble math" looks like — and why it's the most powerful teaching stance there is
• The one thing to say instead of "I didn't learn it this way."
• What a child who has had a great summer mathematically looks like when walking into a September classroom

Wendy's vision for classroom belonging, pro-kid mindset, and whole-child education shines throughout, and her Wonder Woman analogy for what student confidence looks like might be the most memorable moment in the series.

💫Check out Part 1 & the linked resources for Part 2 here:
📚 Book: All Minds on Mathematics: Math Workshop for Every Learner
🌐 Organization: Public Education Business Coalition (PEBC)
💫Blog Post: "Math: Why Doesn't Yours Look Like Mine?"
💫Upcoming Professional Development: Minds on Math Institute
💫Study Guide for All Minds on Math

Chapters:
0:00 Welcome back & what Part 2 covers
1:30 If your child had a hard year in math — start here
2:00 Look in the mirror first: modeling a healthy math identity
2:45 Re-engaging a struggling learner without using the word "math"
3:30 Creating safety at home for risk-taking and vulnerability
4:30 Teaching kids it's okay to disagree with themselves
5:30 The dinner table as a math and thinking workshop
6:45 What September looks like for a teacher who has read All Minds on Mathematics
8:00 How Wendy envisions readers engaging with the book
9:20 "I didn't learn it this way" — what to say instead
10:00 Let your child be the expert: questions that work
11:30 When you still don't understand after asking all the right questions
12:20 How modern math curricula differ from what we were taught
13:40 The egg carton fraction story — and "Mama, I hate your math"
15:30 It's not about the curriculum — it's about the child
16:10 What a child looks like after a great math summer (the Wonder Woman moment)
17:40 Reading from All Minds on Mathematics: humble math, pages 38–39
18:45 Olivia's 3 key takeaways
21:00 Next week on Schoolutions + closing

Schoolutions ⁩ is the podcast for educators and school leaders, families and homeschoolers, and the coaches, counselors, and mentors who believe every student deserves to thrive. Join our community of educators committed to cultivating student success, inspired teaching, and creating inclusive classrooms with a pro-kid mindset focused on the whole child.

🎙️ New episodes every Monday & Friday with bite-sized Wednesday reel bonus content.
🌿Ready to grow alongside your children? Book a coaching session with me here. We'll unlock the expert who is already within you and surround you with a community of educators committed to forever getting better through collective expertise.
🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

Don't forget to 🔔SUBSCRIBE for more teaching tips, and 💬SHARE the episode!

Next Week: Cornelius ⁩ and Dr. Kass Minor, co-founders of The Minor Collective, have spent years building education around a radical premise: that kids deserve to be truly centered. In a moment when teaching feels surveilled, exhausted, and politically complicated, this conversation is a fierce, tender reminder of why the work still matters and how to keep going.

#MathIdentity #HumbleMath #StudentSuccess #FamilyPartnerships #InclusiveTeaching #ProKidMindset #WholeChild #SummerLearning #ClassroomBelonging #InstructionalCoaching #EquityInEducation #EmpoweredEducators #MathWorkshop #ParentInvolvement #AllMindsOnMath #Schoolutions #InspiringStudents #TeacherSupport #EducationTransformation #studentengagement #schoolutions #schoolutionspodcast #forevergettingbetter #curiositydriven #evidencebasedstrategies #classroomreadystrategies

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

The Truth About Being "Good" at Math

Wed, 17 Jun 2026 00:00:00 -0400

What does it really mean to be "good at math"?

In this short but powerful clip from my S5E42 Schoolutions conversation with Wendy Ward Hoffer, of PEBC, we challenge the old myth that math identity is built on speed and being right and explore how families and teachers can work together to nurture every child's confidence and curiosity in math.

True mathematical thinking isn't about quick answers. It's about dwelling with ideas, pondering, and reflecting deeply. These are qualities shared by history's greatest mathematical minds. For teachers and parents alike, this means rethinking the instructional strategies and education strategies we use to support kids who think differently or move at their own pace.

✅ What you'll learn:
• Why honoring student ideas, instead of rushing to the "right" answer, builds real student engagement, student motivation, and student participation.
• How simple prompts like "How might we think about this?" or "How can we model this?" spark active learning, hold attention in class, and turn low engagement into genuine curiosity, especially for students who've struggled with classroom behavior or confidence in math.

Watch, reflect, and share Part 1 & Part 2 of our Schoolutions S5E42 interview.

🌿Would you like to work together to create an environment where your students dwell with ideas, ponder, and reflect deeply? Book a coaching session with me here. I'd love to be a thought partner for you.

🕐 Chapters:
0:00 – The Big Question: Setting Kids Up for Math Success
0:08 – The Myth: "Good at Math" Means Fast and Right
0:20 – What Real Mathematical Thinkers Actually Do
0:32 – Reframing What "Good at Math" Means
0:42 – Honoring Student Thinking: Practical Prompts
1:00 – Building Confidence Through Meaning-Making

#Schoolutions #SchoolutionsPodcast #ForeverGettingBetter #CuriosityDriven #EvidenceBased #classroomreadystrategies #MathIdentity #MathMindset #ClassroomBelonging #StudentEngagement #StudentMotivation #ActiveLearning #InspiringStudents #EffectiveTeaching #TeachingTips #InclusiveTeaching #TeacherCoaching #InstructionalCoaching #NewTeachers #ProfessionalDevelopment #SchoolLeadership #SchoolCulture #ParentInvolvement #HomeSchoolConnection #FamilyPartnerships #CulturallyResponsiveTeaching #EquityInEducation #WholeChild #StudentSuccess #EmpoweredEducators #EducationTransformation #TeacherImpact

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

The Secret to Student-Centered Math Instruction

Mon, 15 Jun 2026 00:00:00 -0400

What if the most powerful thing you could do for your child's math future this summer had nothing to do with worksheets or tutoring?

In Part 1 of this week's S5E42 Schoolutions conversation, Wendy Ward Hoffer, author of All Minds on Mathematics: Math Workshop for Every Learner, shares a simple but radical idea: math identity is built in the everyday moments most of us are already living.

In this episode you'll learn:
• Why being good at math is not about speed or correct answers
• What a child who says "I hate math" is really saying
• How to find math everywhere this summer, at no cost

Wendy believes math education is a powerful lever for equity in education and inclusive teaching. Her work spans classroom belonging, culturally responsive teaching, and building a pro-kid mindset that honors every learner's thinking, not just the fast or the "correct" ones. Our conversation continues with Part 2 on Friday, where Wendy offers a full summer playbook for families and educators. Don't miss it!

Some resources mentioned:
📚 Book: All Minds on Mathematics: Math Workshop for Every Learner
🌐 Organization: Public Education Business Coalition (PEBC)
💫Blog Post: "Math: Why Doesn't Yours Look Like Mine?"
💫Upcoming Professional Development: Minds on Math Institute
💫Study Guide for All Minds on Math

Chapters:
0:00 Introduction & what you'll learn
1:40 About Wendy Ward Hoffer & All Minds on Mathematics
2:45 Researcher inspiration: John Holt & trusting children
3:45 Why summer is an underutilized math opportunity
5:20 Reframing what it means to be good at math
6:50 Math workshop & student math identity
8:00 What teachers & families should listen for (signs of negative math identity)
9:30 Coaching kids to help each other without doing the work for them
11:00 Sending kids off as mathematicians — what teachers can say
12:40 Math detectives: finding math everywhere this summer
13:10 Lightning round — best road trip math game
14:00 "I hate math" really means...
14:15 The kitchen as a math workshop
14:55 Most underestimated free summer math activity
15:35 One word for every student entering September
16:20 Olivia's 3 big takeaways
17:50 Preview of Part 2

Schoolutions is the podcast for educators and school leaders, families and homeschoolers, and the coaches, counselors, and mentors who believe every student deserves to thrive. Join our community of educators committed to cultivating student success, inspired teaching, and creating inclusive classrooms with a pro-kid mindset focused on the whole child.

🎙️ New episodes every Monday & Friday with bite-sized Wednesday reel bonus content.
🌿Ready to grow alongside your children? Book a coaching session with me here. We'll unlock the expert who is already within you and surround you with a community of educators committed to forever getting better through collective expertise.
🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

Don't forget to 🔔SUBSCRIBE for more teaching tips, and 💬SHARE the episode!

#MathIdentity #StudentEngagement #InclusiveTeaching #MathWorkshop #SummerLearning #TeachingTips #EquityInEducation #ProKidMindset #StudentMotivation #ClassroomBelonging #ActiveLearning #InstructionalCoaching #SchoolCulture #FamilyPartnerships #CulturallyResponsiveTeaching #EducationLeadership #AllMindsOnMath #Schoolutions #MathForKids #empowerededucators #schoolutions #schoolutionspodcast #forevergettingbetter #curiositydriven #evidencebasedstrategies #classroomreadystrategies

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Summer Boredom? Try These Movement Ideas for Every Age

Fri, 12 Jun 2026 00:00:00 -0400

🏃 What if the secret to student engagement this summer was free, fun, and made by a P.E. teacher with nearly 15 million views?

In Part 2 of my Schoolutions conversation with @CoachGelardi⁩ (The PhysEdZone), we get completely practical. Tom gives age-by-age movement tips for summer, shares exactly which videos to start with, and explains why co-creating movement WITH kids, not just directing them, is the real driver of student motivation and active learning.

🎯 You'll Learn:
• How the PhysEdZone YouTube channel was born on a rainy day and a bake sale
• Why Tom's videos work as mentor texts for new teachers and instructional coaching
• Age-based tips: Pre-K–3rd (dance fitness workouts) vs. upper elementary–high school (70 at-home PE activities)
• The sock ball basketball game that teaches abdominal strength AND accuracy
• How student participation in choosing songs and moves is the co-creation model that keeps kids coming back
• Why giving kids a score to beat is one of the most powerful tools for inspiring students

💫Make sure to watch Part 1 & check out some of the resources mentioned:
➡️The PhysEdZone (Tom's YouTube channel)
⭐Witch Doctor workout (dance fitness)
⭐Dance Monkey workout (dance fitness)
⭐At-Home P.E. series with 70 videos made during the COVID lockdown
➡️Coach Gelardi's TikTok
➡️Coach Gelardi's Instagram

⏱️ Chapters:
0:00 Welcome back — Part 2 intro
1:00 Recap: what we covered in Part 1
2:00 How the PhysEdZone YouTube channel began
3:30 The rainy-day bake sale origin story
5:00 Using Tom's videos as mentor texts for new teachers
7:00 Why Tom started his TikTok for P.E. tips
8:00 Inspiring future P.E. teachers through social media
9:00 Co-creation and why creativity follows mastery
10:30 Building a library of movement content
11:30 Best videos to start with this summer
12:00 Age-based tips: Pre-K through 3rd grade
12:45 Age-based tips: Upper elementary through high school
13:00 The at-home P.E. series with 70 household-item activities
13:30 Sock ball basketball breakdown
14:00 Why competition keeps kids coming back for more
15:00 Closing thoughts and thank-you
16:00 Outro: Movement is joy
16:30 Coming up next: Wendy Ward Hoffer on summer math

Join our community of educators committed to cultivating student success, inspired teaching, and creating inclusive classrooms with a pro-kid mindset focused on the whole child.

🎧 New episodes every Monday & Friday with bite-sized Wednesday reel bonus content.
📧 Book a coaching session with me here if you’d like a thought partner to help you cultivate curious learners who advocate for what they believe in.
🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

Don't forget to 🔔SUBSCRIBE for more teaching tips, and 💬SHARE!

Next week's episode: Wendy Ward Hoffer, author of All Minds on Mathematics, makes the case that summer is the most underused math classroom we have. The kitchen, the car, and the dinner table are all you need.

#schoolutions #schoolutionspodcast #forevergettingbetter #curiositydriven #evidencebasedstrategies #classroomreadystrategies #PhysEdZone #CoachGilardi #Schoolutions #StudentEngagement #ActiveLearning #InspiringStudents #TeacherCoaching #InstructionalCoaching #NewTeachers #ProfessionalDevelopment #HomeSchoolConnection #FamilyPartnerships #EducationAtHome #WholeChild #ThrivingStudents #EmpoweredEducators #TeacherImpact #SchoolCulture #InclusiveTeaching #StudentMotivation #StudentParticipation #ClassroomBelonging #EffectiveTeaching #EducationStrategies #PhysicalEducation #SummerActivities #KidsMovement #DanceFitness #AtHomePE #EducationPodcast #TeacherTips #ParentInvolvement #ProKidMindset #SchoolImprovement #InstructionalLeadership

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Building Emotionally Safe P.E. Classrooms with Evidence-Based Strategies

Wed, 10 Jun 2026 00:00:00 -0400

What if the most powerful thing you could do for student engagement wasn't a new lesson plan, but making sure every kid feels safe enough to try?

In this clip from my S5E41 Schoolutions conversation, I sit down with @CoachGelardi where he emphasizes the critical role of physical safety in the P.E. classroom, but also highlights that an emotional connection with students encourages them to try new things without fear of making mistakes. It underscores how acknowledging the uniqueness of each student is vital for effective physical education and teaching. By prioritizing both safety and emotional well-being, educators can help all students thrive.

This is what inclusive teaching, classroom belonging, and pro-kid mindset look like in action. Whether you're navigating low engagement, mixed-ability groups, or just trying to inspire students who've checked out, this one's for you.

✅ What you'll learn:
• Why emotional safety is the foundation of active learning
• How to channel naturally talented students into peer mentors
• A simple reframe that boosts student motivation AND classroom culture
• Real talk on differentiated instruction from a PE classroom lens

Watch, reflect, and share Part 1 & Part 2 of our ⁨@schoolutionspodcast⁩ S5E42 interview.

Would you like to work together to create an emotionally safe environment for your students? Book a coaching session with me here. I'd love to be a thought partner for you.

🕐 Chapters:
0:00 – Physical vs. emotional safety in the classroom
0:22 – Every kid is unique: handling mixed ability levels
0:45 – What to do with naturally gifted students
1:05 – Going from good to great by helping others

#Schoolutions #SchoolutionsPodcast #ForeverGettingBetter #CuriosityDriven #EvidenceBased #classroomreadystrategies #PhysEd #ElementaryPE #MovementMatters #SHAPEAmerica #KidsAndMovement #TeacherOfTheYear #BrainBreaks #PhysEdZone #ChildDevelopment #ElementaryEducation #TeacherLife #MovementIsLearning

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

The Hidden Power of P.E. Class

Mon, 08 Jun 2026 00:00:00 -0400

What does it really take to teach 28 kindergartners (alone) in a gym every single day?

In Part 1 of my S5E41 Schoolutions conversation with @CoachGelardi, the 2025 SHAPE America National Elementary P.E. Teacher of the Year and New York State Teacher of the Year, we talk about what world-class physical education and fitness actually look like and why every educator, parent, and school leader needs to pay attention. Tom is the creator of the PhysEdZone YouTube channel, which is closing in on 15 million views, and he's built one of the most powerful P.E. programs in New York City.

In this episode, you'll learn:

Why student engagement and active learning start with emotional safety, not rules
How Tom uses co-created classroom expectations to build genuine classroom belonging and reduce classroom behavior issues
The science behind movement and student success, and why movement breaks are non-negotiable for attention in class
How specific feedback (not praise) drives real student motivation and student participation
Why inclusive teaching means beginning with every kid where they are: athletically, emotionally, and socially
Tom's approach to inspiring students who struggle and those who excel
What parents and caregivers can do at home to keep kids moving and support a home-school connection
The biggest mistake adults make that kills kids' love of movement (hint: it's the iPad)
What pro-kid mindset, whole child development, and equity in education actually look like inside a gym

Coach Tom Gelardi in the News:

Chapters:
0:00 – Introduction: 28 Kids, One Gym, Zero Assistants
1:45 – Meet Tom Gelardi: Awards, YouTube & Origin Story
3:00 – Tom's Education Background & Early Mentors
4:30 – What It Means to Be a "Pied Piper" for Kids
5:45 – A Day in the Life: Elementary P.E. Across 20 Years
7:00 – From Good to Great: Using Talent to Lift Others
8:00 – Why P.E. Teachers Are Masterful Responsive Educators
8:45 – Managing Safety with 60+ Kids in One Space
10:00 – Co-Creating Classroom Expectations (Not Just Rules)
12:00 – Large Class Sizes: What City Schools Look Like
13:00 – Wild Midday Story: Fifth Graders + First Graders, No Equipment
14:30 – Turning Chaos Into Opportunity: Teacher Growth
15:15 – How Movement Impacts the Brain & Focus
17:30 – Brain Breaks: The Research Behind Movement & Learning
19:00 – The Long-Term Relationship Between P.E. Teachers & Kids
20:30 – Making Impact Beyond the 45-Minute Class
21:30 – Lightning Round: Rainy Day Movement Ideas
22:30 – What Adults Do That Kills Kids' Love of Movement
23:30 – Put the Phone Down: Being Fully Present
24:30 – Worst Equipment Story (The Flat Basketball)
25:30 – Biggest Misconception About P.E. Teachers
26:30 – The Power of One-on-One Feedback in P.E.
28:00 – Specific Feedback in Action: The Beanbag Example
30:00 – Learning From Your Students as a Teacher
31:00 – Wrap-Up & Key Takeaways

🎧 Part 2 drops Friday, where @CoachGelardi⁩ shares his best summer movement tips for families, broken down by age group, plus his favorite PhysEdZone videos to use right now.

Join our community of educators committed to cultivating student success, inspired teaching, and creating inclusive classrooms with a pro-kid mindset focused on the whole child.

🎧 New episodes every Monday & Friday with bite-sized Wednesday reel bonus content.
📧 Book a coaching session with me here if you’d like a thought partner to help you cultivate curious learners who advocate for what they believe in.
🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

Don't forget to 🔔SUBSCRIBE for more teaching tips, and 💬SHARE!

#schoolutions #schoolutionspodcast #forevergettingbetter #curiositydriven #evidencebasedstrategies #classroomreadystrategies #PhysicalEducation #PETeacher #StudentEngagement #ActiveLearning #ClassroomBelonging #TeacherTips #InspiringStudents #WholeChild #InclusiveTeaching #StudentSuccess #MovementBreaks #BrainBreaks #EffectiveTeaching #InstructionalStrategies #SchoolCulture #TeacherCoaching #InstructionalCoaching #EmpoweredEducators #EducationTransformation #ProKidMindset #ParentInvolvement #HomeSchoolConnection #EquityInEducation #NewTeachers #SchoolLeadership #TeacherImpact #PhysEdZone #TomGelardi #Schoolutions #OliviaWahl #SHAPEAmerica #ElementaryEducation #ChildDevelopment #MovementIsLearning

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

The Summer Reading Toolkit Every Family Needs

Fri, 05 Jun 2026 00:00:00 -0400

In Part 2 of my S5E40 Schoolutions conversation with Dr. Kay Stahl, we explore practical tips for families to keep reading alive over the summer. This episode provides valuable educational strategies to enhance reading comprehension and foster essential reading skills, especially for children who say they are not readers. Dr. Stahl shares the latest research on comprehension (from the National Academy of Education's free report, Reaping the Rewards of the Reading Initiative), which shows that active learning matters more than passive reading: children need to MAKE something (a map, a book, a podcast) to demonstrate true understanding.

We also cover:
→ Why everything counts as reading (menus, stats, movie discussions) and how low-engagement readers can find their entry point
→ The social side of reading: how family partnerships and shared books drive student participation and inspire students to read more
→ Why there's no age limit for read-alouds and the connection to parent involvement, home-school connection, and inclusive teaching
→ What reading struggle looks like at home and education strategies caregivers can use to support striving readers
→ How to use "pulse points" to identify roadblocks to comprehension and apply instructional strategies that work

💫Make sure to watch Part 1 & the linked resources mentioned:

Assessment for Reading Instruction (5th edition)
Reaping the Rewards of the Reading Initiative — a free report from the National Academy of Education, summarizing 250 studies across five research groups on comprehension
National Academy of Education website

Chapters:
0:00 Introduction & episode overview
1:45 What "I'm not a reader" really signals
3:30 The four traits of reading motivation
4:45 What counts as summer reading (everything!)
6:15 Should you ever stop reading aloud?
7:30 Books being banned — and why families should read them at home
9:00 Family book clubs & social reading experiences
10:30 Building vocabulary and knowledge over summer
11:15 The comprehension research that changes everything: make a product
12:30 Maps, books, recordings — authentic learning in action
13:00 What reading struggle looks like at home
15:00 How context, support, and interest affect comprehension
16:30 Modeling reading as a caregiver
17:00 Reaping the Rewards of the Reading Initiative (free report)
18:00 Key takeaways & wrap-up

🎧 New episodes every Monday & Friday with bite-sized Wednesday reel bonus content.
📧 Book a coaching session with me here, if you’d like a thought partner to help you cultivate curious learners who advocate for what they believe in.
🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

Don't forget to 🔔SUBSCRIBE for more teaching tips, and 💬SHARE!

Next week's episode: @CoachGelardi , New York State Teacher of the Year and the force behind 15 million YouTube views, pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to keep kids moving, focused, and thriving. From keeping 64 kids in one gym safely engaged to building a viral at-home fitness empire during COVID, this conversation will completely change how you think about physical education.

#schoolutions #schoolutionspodcast #forevergettingbetter #curiositydriven #evidencebasedstrategies #classroomreadystrategies #SummerReading #ReadingInstruction #StudentMotivation #ParentInvolvement #LiteracyTips #TeachingTips #EducationPodcast #SummerReading #ReadingInstruction #StudentMotivation #StudentEngagement #ActiveLearning #InspiringStudents #ParentInvolvement #HomeSchoolConnection #FamilyPartnerships #CaregiverSupport #TeachingTips #EffectiveTeaching #InstructionalStrategies #LiteracyTips #TeacherCoaching #InstructionalCoaching #ProfessionalDevelopment #SchoolLeadership #SchoolCulture #InclusiveTeaching #WholeChild #ProKidMindset #StudentSuccess #EmpoweredEducators #InspiredTeaching #EducationTransformation #Schoolutions #KayStahl #OliviaWall #EducationPodcast #NewTeachers #TeacherMentors #SchoolAdministrators #Homeschoolers #ReadingComprehension #VocabularyBuilding #ReadAloud #LiteracyResearch

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Do You Know the Difference Between These Two Categories of Reading Skills?

Wed, 03 Jun 2026 01:00:00 -0400

Are all reading skills taught the same way? Not according to researcher Scott Paris and understanding the difference could transform how you teach literacy.

In this short from my S5E40 Schoolutions conversation, I sit down with Dr. Kay Stahl as she explains how Scott Paris introduced a powerful framework that every educator needs to know: the Constrained vs. Unconstrained Skills Continuum. On one end, you have constrained skills like phonics and letter names: sequential, isolated, and learned over a short period of time. On the other end are unconstrained skills like comprehension and vocabulary: lifelong learning journeys that grow incrementally and can never truly be "finished."

This distinction is a game-changer for instructional strategies and lesson planning, because it means we can't use a one-size-fits-all approach to effective teaching. When we understand that phonics has a finish line but comprehension does not, we become better equipped to support the whole child and build a path toward true student success.

Watch, reflect, and share Part 1 & Part 2 of our @schoolutionspodcast S5E40 interview.

📧 Book a coaching session with me here, if you’d like a thought partner to help you cultivate curious learners who advocate for what they believe in.

📚 CHAPTERS
0:00 – Introduction: Not All Skills Are Equal
0:08 – What Are Constrained Skills? (Phonics & Letter Names)
0:20 – The Skill Continuum Explained
0:32 – What Are Unconstrained Skills? (Comprehension & Vocabulary)
0:45 – Why This Framework Changes How We Teach

#Schoolutions #SchoolutionsPodcast #ForeverGettingBetter #CuriosityDriven #EvidenceBased #ClassroomReadyStrategies #effectiveteaching #instructionalstrategies #teachingtips #studentengagement #activeLearning #inclusiveclassrooms #culturallyresponsiveteaching #professionaldevelopment #instructionalcoaching #teachercoaching #schoolleadership #schoolimprovement #educationleadership #newteachers #mentorteachers #lessonplanning #wholesomechild #studentsuccess #empowerededucators #educationtransformation #literacydevelopment #readinginstruction #phonics #comprehension #constrainedskills #unconstrainedskills #scottparis #teacherimpact #schoolculture #equityineducation

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Diagnostic Reading Tools Every Teacher Needs Before Summer

Mon, 01 Jun 2026 00:00:00 -0400

What if the biggest obstacle to student success isn't summer, it's what teachers stop doing after the standardized test?

In Part 1 of my S5E40 Schoolutions conversation with Dr. Katherine (Kay) Stahl, literacy consultant, clinician, and former director of the NYU Literacy Clinic, she shares what 25+ years in classrooms taught her about reading, assessment, and what actually works. Learn about effective methods for teaching reading and supporting learning to read, ensuring summer reading is a time of continued progress. This conversation offers practical education tips for teachers, emphasizing the importance of phonics and ongoing teaching, especially after standardized testing concludes.

🎯 In this episode, you'll also learn about:
• The constrained vs. unconstrained skills framework every teacher needs to understand
• Why diagnostic assessment has fallen by the wayside and how to bring it back
• What fluency really means beyond reading speed (hint: it's about comprehension)
• The case for morphology instruction in 3rd grade and beyond
• How to turn end-of-year data into something useful for families and next year's teacher
• Paired reading: the research-backed strategy parents can use at home this summer

Some resources mentioned:

Assessment for Reading Instruction
Paris, S. (2005). "Reinterpreting the Development of Reading Skills." Reading Research Quarterly
Stahl, K. (2011). "Applying New Visions of Reading Development in Today's Classroom." The Reading Teacher
Keith Topping, paired reading research and methodology
Kay's website — specifically a parent-facing section on diagnostic assessment with 12 questions parents should ask their child's teacher
Kay's five co-authored books

Chapters:
0:00 Introduction ➡️Dr. Kay Stahl
1:45 Who is Kay? Background & NYU Literacy Clinic
2:45 Constrained vs. unconstrained skills (Scott Paris research)
5:30 The biggest mistake teachers make at year-end
8:30 Turning data into action ➡️ end-of-year assessment tables
11:00 Why diagnostic assessment has fallen by the wayside
13:00 Science of reading & Assessment for Reading Instruction
13:45 Morphology ➡️what it is and why it matters
15:40 Fluency beyond reading speed ➡️accuracy, prosody & comprehension
18:00 The speedometer➡️teaching kids to match reading rate to purpose
20:30 Paired reading ➡️ the research-backed family strategy
22:30 Lightning round ➡️summer tips, myths & quick wins
25:30 Wrap-up & what's coming in Part 2

Part 2 drops Friday: covering summer reading plans, what counts as reading, and a comprehension finding that changes everything.

Join our community of educators committed to cultivating student success, inspired teaching, and creating inclusive classrooms with a pro-kid mindset focused on the whole child.

🎧 New episodes every Monday & Friday with bite-sized Wednesday reel bonus content.
📧 Book a coaching session with me here, if you’d like a thought partner to help you cultivate curious learners who advocate for what they believe in.
🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

Don't forget to 🔔SUBSCRIBE for more teaching tips, and 💬SHARE!

#Schoolutions #SchoolutionsPodcast #ForeverGettingBetter #CuriosityDriven #EvidenceBased #ClassroomReadyStrategies #ScienceOfReading #LiteracyInstruction #ReadingFluency #TeachingTips #InstructionalCoaching #StudentEngagement #StudentMotivation #EffectiveTeaching #SummerReading #ParentInvolvement #HomeSchoolConnection #FamilyLiteracy #WholeChild #ProKidMindset #EmpoweredEducators #Morphology #DiagnosticAssessment #ProfessionalLearning
#TeacherLife

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Setting Teachers, Families, and Students up for Summer

Sun, 31 May 2026 00:00:00 -0400

This June, Schoolutions is setting teachers, families, and students up for success in September all summer long. Five conversations. One month of inspiring students, empowered educators, and real education transformation.

This Month's Conversations:
📖 S5 E40: Dr. Kay Stahl | June 1 & 5
Dr. Kay Stahl brings 25+ years of classroom and clinic experience to a conversation about the 5th edition of Assessment for Reading Instruction. A must-listen for anyone who cares about student success and keeping reading alive all summer. Kay's insights on paired bedtime reading and dinner-table reading talk make the home-school connection feel completely doable and prove that summer slide is totally avoidable.

🏃 S5 E41: @CoachGelardi | June 8 & 12
Coach Tom Gelardi, New York State's P.E. Teacher of the Year, pulls back the curtain on what really happens in a gym class: managing 64 kids in a space meant for 30, and building a YouTube channel closing in on 15 million views. This conversation transforms how you see student engagement, whole child development, and the power of movement as an instructional strategy.

➗ S5 E42: Wendy Ward Hoffer | June 15 & 19
Author of All Minds on Mathematics, Wendy makes the case that summer is the most underused math classroom we have. The kitchen, the car, and the dinner table are all you need. A practical, joyful playbook for any adult who wants to grow a curious mathematician, no worksheets required. @PEBC

💛 S5 E43: Dr. Kass & Cornelius Minor | June 22 & 26
Co-founders of The Minor Collective, Cornelius and Dr. Kass Minor, have spent years building education around one radical premise: kids deserve to be truly centered. In a moment when teaching feels surveilled, exhausted, and politically complicated, this conversation is a fierce, tender reminder of why the work still matters.

🎙️ S5 E44: Season 5 Closing Reflection | June 29
I (Olivia Wahl) reflect on the big ideas from Season 5, preview what's coming this summer, and share what Season 6 is all about — for teachers, by teachers — leading up to my book release in spring 2027.

📬 Stay Connected & Subscribe
👍 Like if you're ready for education transformation
💬 Comment: Which guest are you most excited to hear?
🔔 Subscribe for weekly teaching tips and instructional strategies https://www.youtube.com/@schoolutionspodcast/
📱 Share Wednesday reels with colleagues, friends, and families

Chapters:
0:00–0:10: Intro
0:10–0:20 Dr. Kay Stahl
0:20–0:30 Coach Tom Gelardi
0:30–0:40Wendy Ward Hoffer
0:40–0:48 Kass & Cornelius Minor
0:48–0:59 Season 5 Reflection

#Schoolutions #SchoolutionsPodcast #ForeverGettingBetter #CuriosityDriven #EvidenceBased #ClassroomReadyStrategies #TeacherPodcast #EducationPodcast #StudentEngagement #ClassroomBelonging #ActiveLearning #InspiringStudents #EffectiveTeaching #InstructionalStrategies #TeachingTips #InnovativeTeaching #InclusiveTeaching #TeacherCoaching #InstructionalCoaching #TeacherSupport #MentorTeachers #CoachingStrategies #ProfessionalDevelopment #SchoolLeadership #SchoolImprovement #InstructionalLeadership #EducationLeadership #SchoolCulture #PrincipalStrategies #ParentInvolvement #HomeSchoolConnection #FamilyPartnerships #CulturallyResponsiveTeaching #EquityInEducation #InclusiveClassrooms #AntiBiasTeaching #ProKidMindset #WholeChild #StudentSuccess #ThrivingStudents #EmpoweredEducators #EducationTransformation #TeacherImpact #SummerLearning #NewTeachers

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Why This Integrated Literacy Framework is a Game-Changer for ELLs

Fri, 29 May 2026 00:00:00 -0400

What does it actually take to build student engagement and student participation for experienced multilinguals — not just in theory, but in every lesson, every day?

In Part 2 of my S5E39 Schoolutions conversation, literacy experts Beth Skelton and Tan Huynh break down the integrated literacy framework at the heart of their new book, Integrated Literacy for Experienced Multilinguals. This episode is packed with education strategies and instructional strategies you can use tomorrow.

You’ll learn about:
🔄 THE INPUT-OUTPUT LOOP: The single most powerful shift for active learning and attention in class. Stop delivering 40-minute lectures. Give students a small chunk of content, then ask for output immediately. Rinse and repeat. Beth and Tan show exactly how this works in a grade 7 science lesson on plate tectonics; a masterclass in effective teaching and lesson planning.

📝 THE STRUCTURED QUICK WRITE: A practical instructional routine that integrates reading, writing, speaking, and listening in one short activity. Tan walks us through building academic sentences using "comma-but" contrast structures; the kind of innovative teaching that produces real academic language, not just correct answers.

⚖️ EXPLICIT INSTRUCTION AS AN EQUITY ISSUE: This is where the conversation gets real. Beth shares a story about a professional multilingual woman whose career advancement is being capped, not because of her ability, but because no one ever taught her the academic language structures she needed. This is the cost of low engagement with explicit instruction. Equity in education and inclusive teaching aren't just values; they're instructional choices. An annotated mentor text, a sentence frame, a structured quick write: these aren't optional scaffolds. They're a right for every student.

💫Make sure to watch Part 1 & check out resources mentioned:
➡️Long-Term Success for Experienced Multilinguals by Beth Skelton and Tan Huynh (their first book)
➡️Integrated Literacy for Experienced Multilinguals by Beth Skelton and Tan Huynh (the new book)
➡️Talk. Read. Talk. Write. by Nancy Motley - credited by Tan as the inspiration for the input-output loop sequencing
➡️Previous Schoolutions episode with Beth and Tan: an earlier, separate episode (distinct from this two-part series) where scaffolding is discussed in depth

Chapters:
0:00 Intro — integrated literacy framework overview
1:45 Why the four language domains can't be siloed
5:30 The badminton metaphor for language integration
8:00 What is the input-output loop?
10:00 Plate tectonics classroom example
13:00 Beth on shortening the loop for academic language
14:30 Using "while" and "comma-but" as contrast structures
17:30 The equity argument — explicit instruction is a right
20:30 What is an annotated mentor text?
22:30 The structured quick write in action
25:30 Stories of student and teacher breakthroughs
29:30 Key takeaways + outro

🎧 New episodes every Monday & Friday with bite-sized Wednesday reel bonus content.
📧 Book a coaching session with me here, if you’d like a thought partner to help you cultivate curious learners who advocate for what they believe in.
🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

Don't forget to 🔔SUBSCRIBE for more teaching tips, and 💬SHARE!

Next week's episode: I am sitting down with literacy expert Dr. Kay Stahl to unpack something so many students carry quietly: "I'm not a reader." We're talking about what that statement actually signals, why diagnostic assessment matters so much more than a standardized test score, and how families can build confident readers this summer without it ever feeling like school. You don't want to miss it. I'll see you then.

#schoolutions #schoolutionspodcast #forevergettingbetter #curiositydriven #evidencebasedstrategies #classroomreadystrategies #MultilingualLearners #ELLStrategies #IntegratedLiteracy #StudentEngagement #EquityInEducation #ExplicitInstruction #InstructionalCoaching #TeacherTips #ActiveLearning #InclusiveClassrooms #CulturallyResponsiveTeaching #ProKidMindset #Schoolutions #EducationPodcast #TeacherCoaching #LessonPlanning #AcademicLanguage #ProfessionalDevelopment #StudentSuccess #EffectiveTeaching

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Breaking Down Language Barriers in the Classroom

Wed, 27 May 2026 00:00:00 -0400

What does it cost us when experienced multilinguals never receive the explicit academic language instruction they need, not just to pass a class, but to fully participate in school, in careers, and in life?

In this short from my S5E39 Schoolutions conversation, I sit down with authors Beth Skelton and Tan Huynh to unpack their newest book, Integrated Literacy for Experienced Multilinguals. Together they challenge the deficit-laden label "long-term English learner" and replace it with something far more accurate and empowering: experienced multilingual.

What does "stuck" actually look like in a classroom? It looks like a ninth-grader saying, "It gets bigger when it gets closer," and a well-meaning teacher accepting that answer and moving on. It looks like assuming students should already know academic language simply because they've been in the system for years. It looks like protection masquerading as support, and acceptance masquerading as high expectations.

Tan and Beth argue that every content teacher (science, math, social studies) is also a language teacher, whether they know it or not. The language of geology is not the same as the language of literary analysis. The language of a lab report is not the language of a hallway conversation. And when we stop assuming and start teaching explicitly, we close gaps and open futures.

As Tan says it best: "An experienced multilingual is not a struggling student. They are students in need of academic instruction."

Watch, reflect, and share Part 1 & Part 2 of our @schoolutionspodcast S5E39 interview.

📧 Book a coaching session with me here if you’d like a thought partner to help you cultivate curious learners who advocate for what they believe in.

Chapters:
0:00 – The Cost of Silence: What Society Loses
0:08 – The Danger of Assumptions in Schools
0:18 – What Could Students Do If We Just Taught Them?
0:28 – Reframing the Label: Not Struggling, Just Under-Taught

#Schoolutions #SchoolutionsPodcast #ForeverGettingBetter #CuriosityDriven #EvidenceBased #ClassroomReadyStrategies #ExperiencedMultilinguals #ELDTeaching #AcademicLanguage #EquityInEducation #CulturallyResponsiveTeaching #InclusiveClassrooms #StudentEngagement #StudentSuccess #EffectiveTeaching #InstructionalCoaching #TeacherSupport #ProfessionalDevelopment #SchoolLeadership #InstructionalStrategies #WholeChild #ProKidMindset #EmpoweredEducators #TeacherImpact #EducationTransformation #MultilingualLearners #WIDAFramework #IntegratedLiteracy #ActiveLearning #InspiringStudents #SchoolCulture #NewTeachers #MentorTeachers #FamilyPartnerships #HomeSchoolConnection

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Your Good Intentions Are Widening the Gap: What ENL Teachers Need to Hear

Mon, 25 May 2026 00:00:00 -0400

What does "stuck" actually look like in a classroom and whose job is it to fix it?

In this S5E39 Part 1 episode of Schoolutions, I sit down again with Beth Skelton and Tan Huynh to discuss their newest collaboration, Integrated Literacy for Experienced Multilinguals. They talk about why the phrase "long-term English learner" needs to go, and what "stuck" looks like in a classroom. This episode is a must-listen for any teacher looking to improve their English language instruction and support every student.

Beth shares a powerful classroom story about a ninth grader who could explain physics perfectly in social language but needed explicit support to reach academic language. Tan shares what it felt like to arrive in the U.S. as a five-year-old Vietnamese refugee and later be told his "creative" science writing wasn't science writing at all.

Some episode mentions👇
💫The Writing Revolution by Natalie Wexler and Judith Hochman
💫Long-Term Success for Experienced Multilinguals by Beth Skelton and Tan Huynh (their first book)
💫Integrated Literacy for Experienced Multilinguals by Beth Skelton and Tan Huynh (the new book)
💫The 2020 WIDA framework
💫The original WIDA "Can Do" philosophy
💫Ruslana Westerlund — contributor to the 2020 WIDA framework
Publications
💫Scientific American — mentioned as an example of science writing for non-scientists

🔑 Topics discussed:
➡️ Why "experienced multilingual" replaces deficit language around student engagement and student motivation
➡️ What stuck looks like and how it starts as early as 4th grade (classroom behavior vs. academic language)
➡️ Social language vs. academic language: the continuum and why it matters for active learning
➡️Why every content teacher is responsible for the language of their discipline and how that supports inclusive teaching
➡️Good-intentioned practices that actually increase the gap (a must-hear for instructional coaching and teacher support)
➡️ The equity argument for explicit instruction as the most generous form of culturally responsive teaching

More resources from Tan & Beth:

Huynh, T. & Skelton, B. (2026).A Scaffolding Strategy to Help Experienced ELLs Express Complex Ideas. Edutopia
Huynh, T., & Skelton, B. (2025).Sentence-Level Scaffolds That Foster English Learners' Independence and Growth. Edutopia
Huynh, T., & Skelton, B. (2025).Adapting Gradual Release of Responsibility for English Language Learners. Edutopia
Huynh, T., & Skelton, B. (2025).Using an Input-Output Loop to Help Newcomer Students Learn Class Content. Edutopia

Chapters:
0:00 Welcome & guest introductions
1:45 Research nugget: The Writing Revolution (Tan)
2:55 Research nugget: WIDA 2020 framework (Beth)
3:50 Why this book? Origin of Integrated Literacy for Experienced Multilinguals
5:40 Why "long-term English learner" needs to go (asset vs. deficit language)
7:50 What "stuck" looks like: the convex lens classroom story
11:00 Social language vs. academic language explained
13:00 Every content teacher IS a language teacher
14:40 Beth's husband's geology thesis (and why science writes in passive voice)
16:50 Tan's "sandwiched" rock layers story (two Englishes)
18:45 Lightning round: Q&A with Beth and Tan
22:00 Preview of Part 2 with the input-output loop & language domains

Join our community of educators committed to cultivating student success, inspired teaching, and creating inclusive classrooms with a pro-kid mindset focused on the whole child.

🎧 New episodes every Monday & Friday with bite-sized Wednesday reel bonus content.
📧 Book a coaching session with me here, if you’d like a thought partner to help you cultivate curious learners who advocate for what they believe in.
🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

Don't forget to 🔔SUBSCRIBE for more teaching tips, and 💬SHARE!

#schoolutions #schoolutionspodcast #forevergettingbetter #curiositydriven #evidencebasedstrategies #classroomreadystrategies #MultilingualLearners #ELLTeachers #AcademicLanguage #ExperiencedMultilinguals #EquityInEducation #InclusiveClassrooms #InstructionalCoaching #TeacherCoaching #CulturallyResponsiveTeaching #StudentEngagement #StudentMotivation #ActiveLearning #EffectiveTeaching #InstructionalStrategies #ProfessionalDevelopment #SchoolLeadership #EducationLeadership #SchoolCulture #TeacherSupport #MentorTeachers #ProKidMindset #WholeChild #StudentSuccess #EmpoweredEducators #EducationTransformation #TeacherImpact #SchoolChange #ClassroomBelonging #AntibiasTeaching

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

The Actionable Participatory Model Every Teacher Needs to Learn About

Fri, 22 May 2026 01:00:00 -0400

What happens when the students whom everyone overlooks become the ones who change everything?

In Part 2 of this must-hear S5E38 Schoolutions conversation, Rachael Thrash shares the inspiring story about Angolan students in Portland, Maine, who turned their isolation into a school-wide soccer tournament, walks through her Actionable Participatory Model step by step, and gives you the one move you can make this Monday to start co-creation in your classroom today.

Rachael unpacks why shy students, multilingual learners, and kids who learn differently are the most silenced voices in schools, and exactly how strategic facilitation and inclusive teaching can change that. This is equity in education and school culture work at its most practical and most human.

💫Make sure to watch Part 1 & check out some of the resources mentioned:

Rachael Thrash's website
Let the Learners Lead: Empowering Student Voice to Co-Create School Culture by Rachael Thrash
Baxter Academy for Science and Technology, Portland, Maine
International School of Helsinki

Next Week: Tan Huynh and Beth Skelton are on a mission to reach the students everyone assumes are fine — experienced multilinguals who can chat in the hallway but still can't write a formal essay with ease. Tune in to learn about their new book, Integrated Literacy for Experienced Multilinguals, and for the personal stories, the framework, and the moves that offer these students the instruction they've always deserved.

Chapters:
0:00 — Hook: Angolan Students Who Changed Their Whole School
1:00 — Welcome Back & Part 2 Overview
1:30 — Case Study: Baxter Academy for Science and Technology, Portland, Maine
3:00 — How Isolation Became the Catalyst for Change
4:00 — From Problem to Proposal: The Soccer League Story
5:30 — The Confidence Ripple Effect — What the Biology Teacher Noticed
6:30 — Whose Voices Get Overlooked Most Often
7:30 — The Story of Risa: From Silent to Leading
9:00 — How a Student Leadership Retreat Changed Everything
10:00 — Introducing the Actionable Participatory Model
10:30 — Step 1: Relationship Building and Connection
11:30 — Step 2: Exploring What's Working and What Isn't
12:30 — Step 3: Imagining a Better School
13:00 — Step 4: Breaking Ideas Into Actionable Projects
14:00 — Step 5: Real Audience, Real Stakes
14:45 — Step 6: Reflection and Redefining Together
16:00 — Why This Book Is a Mentor Text for Teachers
16:30 — What the World Is Demanding of Kids Right Now
17:30 — Why Co-Creation Defies AI
19:00 — Regenerative Education and Hattie's Research
20:30 — Page 143: The Co-Create Framework Quote
22:00 — The One Move to Start This Work on Monday
24:00 — Key Takeaways and Call to Action
25:00 — Next Week Preview: Tan Huynh and Beth Skelton
26:00 — Outro and How to Work With Olivia Wahl

📧 🎧 New episodes every Monday & Friday with bite-sized Wednesday reel bonus content.
📧 Book a coaching session with me here if you’d like a thought partner to help you cultivate curious learners who advocate for what they believe in.
🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

Don't forget to🔔SUBSCRIBE for more teaching tips, and 💬SHARE!

Next week's conversation: Tan Huynh and Beth Skelton are on a mission to reach the students everyone assumes are fine — experienced multilinguals who can chat in the hallway but still can't write a formal essay with ease. Tune in to learn about their new book, Integrated Literacy for Experienced Multilinguals, and for the personal stories, the framework, and the moves that offer these students the instruction they've always deserved.

#schoolutions #schoolutionspodcast #forevergettingbetter #curiositydriven #evidencebasedstrategies #classroomreadystrategies #StudentVoice #CoCreation #LetTheLearnersLead #RachaelThrash #Schoolutions #OliviaWahl #ActionableParticipatoryModel #StudentLeadership #InclusiveTeaching #EquityInEducation #ClassroomBelonging #StudentEngagement #Multilingual #ELLStudents #ShyStudents #OverlookedStudents #InstructionalLeadership #SchoolImprovement #TeacherCoaching #InstructionalCoaching #EffectiveTeaching #ActiveLearning #EmpoweredEducators #WholeChild #ProKidMindset #CulturallyResponsiveTeaching #AIinEducation #HumanCenteredLearning #PortraitOfAGraduate #EducationTransformation #RegenerativeEducation #ProfessionalDevelopment #SchoolCulture #InspiringStudents #TeacherImpact

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Treating Every Student as a Leader Changes Everything

Wed, 20 May 2026 00:00:00 -0400

Is your student council secretly reinforcing the status quo? In this short from my S5E38 Schoolutions conversation, Rachael Thrash, author of Let the Learners Lead and Senior Director of Education & Innovation at Big Bad Boo Studios, breaks down why traditional student leadership models are built on barriers that silence the very students whose voices matter most.

When school leadership becomes a privilege for the already-confident, already-popular, already-successful kids, we send a quiet but powerful message: this space isn't for you. Real school culture change starts when we treat every student as a leader in the making.

Watch, reflect, and share Part 1 & Part 2 of our @schoolutionspodcast S5E38 interview.

📧 Book a coaching session with me here: https://www.oliviawahl.com/printable-resources/p/professional-mentorship-expert-networking, if you’d like a thought partner to help you cultivate curious learners who advocate for what they believe in.

📘 Grab Rachael's book: Let the Learners Lead
🌐 Learn more: https://cocreateschools.com/

Chapters
0:00 Why Traditional Student Leadership Fails
0:20 The Status Quo Problem in Student Councils
0:45 School as a Laboratory — For Every Student
1:10 What Exclusive Leadership Models Really Teach Kids
1:35 How We Repeat Society's Inequities in Schools

#Schoolutions #SchoolutionsPodcast #ForeverGettingBetter #CuriosityDriven #EvidenceBased #ClassroomReadyStrategies #StudentLeadership #ClassroomBelonging #StudentEngagement #EquityInEducation #InclusiveTeaching #SchoolCulture #StudentVoice #ProKidMindset #LetTheLearnersLead #EffectiveTeaching #InstructionalLeadership #SchoolImprovement #EmpoweredEducators #TeacherCoaching #ActiveLearning #InspiringStudents #EducationTransformation #CulturallyResponsiveTeaching #WholeChild #SchoolChange #TeacherImpact #AntiTeaching #NewTeachers #ProfessionalDevelopment #SchoolLeadership #Schoolutions

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Every Student Is a Leader & Here's the Research to Prove It

Mon, 18 May 2026 00:00:00 -0400

Is your student council accidentally silencing the students who need a voice most?

In Part 1 of this two-part S5E38 Schoolutions conversation, Rachael Thrash, Senior Director of Education and Innovation at Big Bad Boo Studios and author of Let the Learners Lead: Empowering Student Voice to Co-Create School Culture, breaks down why traditional student leadership models are quietly reinforcing the status quo, and what co-creation actually looks and feels like in schools.

Rachael walks us through David Yeager's research and the student voice continuum, unpacks why a student survey is NOT the same as student voice, and shares two unforgettable stories about what happens when teachers trust kids enough to let things get messy. This is instructional leadership and school culture work at its most human.

Some episode mentions:

Rachael Thrash's website
10 to 25 by David Yeager, PhD
Designing Group Work by Cohen and Lawton
Student Voice Continuum — Teschales and Nykula, University of Pennsylvania
International School of Helsinki
Tricia Friedman

🎧 Part 2 drops Friday, where Rachael walks us through a school case study, whose voices get overlooked most, and the one move you can make on Monday morning to get this work started.

CHAPTERS
0:00 — Hook: Is Your Student Council Doing More Harm Than Good?
1:00 — Welcome & Introduction: Who Is Rachael Thrash?
2:00 — Research Spotlight: David Yeager & Designing Group Work
3:30 — What Traditional Student Leadership Gets Wrong
5:00 — The Student Council Constitution That Excludes Most Kids
6:00 — The Moment Rachael Knew We Had to Do This Differently
7:30 — Student Voice vs. Student Survey: There's a Huge Difference
9:00 — The Student Voice Continuum Explained
10:30 — Co-Creation: What It Actually Means for Students & Adults
11:30 — What Happens When Teachers Let Go of Control
12:30 — The Resistance Art Gallery Story
14:30 — The Helsinki Interview That Changed Everything
16:00 — Life Is Messy — and That's the Point
16:45 — Lightning Round With Rachael Thrash
19:00 — Key Takeaways & Call to Action
19:45 — Come Back for Part 2 — Preview

Join our community of educators committed to cultivating student success, inspired teaching, and creating inclusive classrooms with a pro-kid mindset focused on the whole child.

📧 🎧 New episodes every Monday & Friday with bite-sized Wednesday reel bonus content.
📧 Book a coaching session with me here if you’d like a thought partner to help you cultivate curious learners who advocate for what they believe in.
🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

Don't forget to🔔SUBSCRIBE for more teaching tips, and 💬SHARE!

#schoolutions #schoolutionspodcast #forevergettingbetter #curiositydriven #evidencebasedstrategies #classroomreadystrategies #StudentVoice #SchoolCulture #StudentLeadership #CoCreation #LetTheLearnersLead #RachaelThrash #Schoolutions #OliviaWahl #InclusiveTeaching #EquityInEducation #ClassroomBelonging #StudentEngagement #InstructionalLeadership #SchoolImprovement #TeacherCoaching #InstructionalCoaching #EffectiveTeaching #ActiveLearning #EmpoweredEducators #WholeChild #ProKidMindset #CulturallyResponsiveTeaching #AntiBiasTeaching #EducationTransformation #TeacherImpact #ProfessionalDevelopment #NewTeachers #SchoolLeadership #FamilyPartnerships #inspiringstudents

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Student Climate Advocacy In Action: From Classroom Stories to Civic Change

Fri, 15 May 2026 00:00:00 -0400

What if the secret to student engagement, student motivation, and inspiring students wasn't a new app or a new behavior system, but storytelling?

In Part 2 of my S5E37 Schoolutions conversation, Xochitl Bentley (author of Helping Students Become Climate Stewards) walks us through what climate stewardship projects look and feel like in real classrooms: from a Green Ambassador Grant field trip to TreePeople Eco Park in LA to a student-led postcard campaign to city representatives. These aren't assigned projects. They're sparked by genuine encounters with stewardship, and they ripple outward into the community.

You’ll learn:
✦ How to make the case for environmental justice education in any classroom
✦ The "read with the grain / read against the grain" strategy for counter-storytelling
✦ Flash fiction + news stories = student agency in climate narratives
✦ What a real climate stewardship project looks like, start to finish
✦ The 3 questions every student should carry with them for life

💫Make sure to watch Part 1 & check out some resources mentioned:
➡️Flash fiction technique borrowed from writer Kathy Fish: thinking like a mosaicist
➡️The Great Pacific Garbage Patch as a springboard for student flash fiction writing
➡️Louisiana's Cancer Alley as a case study for rhetorical strategies in ELA
➡️Field trip to TreePeople eco park in Los Angeles

Chapters:
0:00 – Introduction & Part 1 Recap
1:45 – The "Read With / Against the Grain" Strategy
4:00 – Banking Student Questions as Visible Inquiry
5:30 – Flash Fiction + News Stories = Student Agency
8:00 – Making the Case for Environmental Justice in Any Classroom
10:30 – Environmental Hazards as Public Health Emergencies
11:30 – The Green Ambassador Grant Project
12:30 – TreePeople Eco Park Field Trip
14:30 – Student-Led Community Showcase & Postcard Campaign
15:45 – Defining "Climate Steward"
17:00 – The Three Questions for Future Ancestors
18:00 – Reading from the Book's Preface
19:30 – Olivia's 3 Big Takeaways
21:00 – Next Episode Preview

📧 Book a coaching session with me here if you’d like a thought partner to help you cultivate curious learners who advocate for what they believe in.
🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

Next Week: International educator and author Rachael Thrash is about to challenge everything you think you know about what student leadership looks like. She makes a compelling case in her new book, Let the Learners Lead, for why handing real power to students doesn't just change schools, it changes the world.

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

How to Get Students to Care About Climate Change in Your Classroom

Wed, 13 May 2026 00:00:00 -0400

When students shut down during climate conversations, the answer isn't more data; it's better storytelling. In this short from my S5E37 Schoolutions conversation, climate educator and author Xochitl Bentley explains why wrapping difficult facts in stories is the key to unlocking student engagement, authentic voice, and real civic action in your classroom.

Whether you're focused on inspiring students, improving student participation, or building a pro-kid mindset across your school, Xochitl's approach to environmental storytelling offers a whole child framework that works across ELA, science, social studies, and beyond.

Watch, reflect, and share Part 1 & Part 2 of our @schoolutionspodcast S5E37 interview.

📧 Book a coaching session with me here if you’d like a thought partner to help you cultivate curious learners who advocate for what they believe in.

Schoolutions is for teachers, education coaches, instructional leaders, school administrators, parents, homeschoolers, teacher mentors, school counselors, and anyone committed to empowered educators and thriving students. Tune in every Monday and Friday for evidence-based, classroom-ready strategies you can apply right away.

📚 CHAPTERS
0:00 Why students shut down during climate conversations
0:22 The problem with facts and statistics alone
0:38 Why storytelling unlocks student engagement
0:52 The power of community-rooted stories
1:05 Authentic voice, honest call to action

#Schoolutions #SchoolutionsPodcast #ForeverGettingBetter #CuriosityDriven #EvidenceBased #ClassroomReadyStrategies #StudentEngagement #ClassroomBelonging #InspiringStudents #ActiveLearning #EffectiveTeaching #InstructionalStrategies #StudentMotivation #TeacherCoaching #InstructionalCoaching #NewTeachers #MentorTeachers #ProfessionalDevelopment #SchoolLeadership #EquityInEducation #CulturallyResponsiveTeaching #InclusiveClassrooms #AntiBiasTeaching #ProKidMindset #WholeChild #StudentSuccess #EmpoweredEducators #EducationTransformation #TeacherImpact #ClimateEducation #EnvironmentalStorytelling #StudentVoice #Schoolutions #ClimateStorytelling #ClimateStewards #XochitlBentley

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Want Students to Become Climate Stewards? Use These 6 Storytelling Stances!

Mon, 11 May 2026 00:00:00 -0400

What if the most powerful climate tool we have isn't a statistic, it's a story?

In Part 1 of my S5E37 Schoolutions conversation, I sit down with teacher Xochitl Bentley to unpack how using six specific storytelling stances can effectively engage students with climate change issues. Xochitl emphasizes that stories can be a more powerful tool than statistics in fostering environmental education and stewardship, highlighting their role in the broader education for sustainability movement.

Some resources mentioned:
📚 Helping Students Become Climate Stewards: Storytelling for Environmental Advocacy and Problem Solving by Xochitl Bentley
📚 Slow Violence and the Environmentalism of the Poor by Rob Nixon
📚The Serviceberry by Robin Wall Kimmerer
📚Parable of the Sower by Octavia Butler
➡️Fukushima Daiichi Accident

CHAPTERS:
0:00 – Introduction & Who Is Xochitl Bentley
1:45 – The Research: Rob Nixon & Slow Violence
3:30 – What Sparked Xochitl's Passion for Climate Stewardship
5:00 – The Food Story That Hooked Students (Heather's Classroom)
6:10 – Lessons from Japan: Foresight, Islands & Sustainability
8:30 – Why Facts Alone Don't Drive Action
9:30 – Wrapping Data in Stories: The Core Argument
10:30 – The Six Storytelling Stances (Overview)
11:00 – Stance 1: Storytelling for Systemic Responsiveness
12:10 – Stance 2: Storytelling About Root Causes
13:10 – Stance 3: Storytelling Beyond Either/Or
14:10 – Stance 4: Storytelling for Kinship & Reciprocity
15:20 – Stance 5: Storytelling for Intergenerational Awareness
16:30 – The Seventh Generation Principle Connection
17:10 – Stance 6: Storytelling for Collective Mobilization
18:10 – Lightning Round Begins
18:45 – Book Rec: The Serviceberry by Robin Wall Kimmerer
19:40 – One Word Students Feel: Overwhelmed
20:10 – Most Underrated Genre: Ghost Stories
21:00 – Biggest Myth in Environmental Education
21:30 – A Student Becomes a Climate Steward When…
22:00 – Wrap Up & What's Coming in Part 2

🎧 Part 2 drops Friday, where Xochitl walks through the full storytelling flow and real climate stewardship projects from her classroom.

Join our community of educators committed to cultivating student success, inspired teaching, and creating inclusive classrooms with a pro-kid mindset focused on the whole child.

📧 🎧 New episodes every Monday & Friday with bite-sized Wednesday reel bonus content.
📧 Book a coaching session with me here if you’d like a thought partner to help you cultivate curious learners who advocate for what they believe in.
🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

Don't forget to🔔SUBSCRIBE for more teaching tips, and 💬SHARE!

#schoolutions #schoolutionspodcast #forevergettingbetter #curiositydriven #evidencebasedstrategies #classroomreadystrategies #StudentEngagement #TeacherCoaching #InstructionalStrategies #ClimateEducation #EffectiveTeaching #ClassroomBelonging #CulturallyResponsiveTeaching

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Can We Scale Street Redesign? ⁨@openplansnyc⁩ Has a Plan!

Fri, 08 May 2026 00:00:00 -0400

In part 2 of my S5E36 ⁨Schoolutions conversation with Sabina Sethi Unni from @openplansnyc⁩ breaks down how urban redevelopment can truly impact a school community. Sabina shares specific strategies for urban design, like a co-created toolkit and a relational outreach approach, showing a before and after in community engagement. This architecture video highlights the Clarkson Street project, proposing new installations to foster a better environment.

💫Make sure to watch Part 1 and learn more about applying by reaching out to Sabina at sabina@openplans.org

📚 Some Episode Mentions:

CHAPTERS
0:00 — Introduction: Streets as the Most Joyful Place in the Neighborhood
1:30 — What Is a School Street? Definition & What It Looks Like
4:00 — How Schools Apply & Eligibility Requirements
6:30 — Equity First: Why Low-Income Communities Are Prioritized
9:00 — The Biggest Barriers: Staffing, Admin Burden & Leadership Turnover
11:30 — Co-Creating the Toolkit with Transportation Alternatives
14:00 — From Cold Outreach to Relational Organizing
16:30 — The Clarkson Street Story: A National Model in the Making
20:00 — NYC's First-Ever Permanent Swing Gate on a Public Street
23:00 — Mayor Mamdani's Opt-Out Proposal & What It Could Mean
26:00 — If Every Street Became a School Street: Where to Start
29:00 — The Vision for Scale & What Paris Can Teach NYC
31:00 — How to Get Involved, Apply, or Support the Movement

🎧 New episodes every Monday & Friday with bite-sized Wednesday reel bonus content.
📧 Connect with me if you’d like a thought partner to help you cultivate curious learners who advocate for what they believe in.
🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

Don't forget to 🔔SUBSCRIBE for more teaching tips, and 💬SHARE!

Next week's episode: Xochitl Bentley teaches us about different storytelling stances and how they connect to climate stewardship. Xochitl offers a masterclass in culturally responsive teaching, inclusive classrooms, and sparking student motivation through narrative and identity.

#schoolutions #schoolutionspodcast #forevergettingbetter #curiositydriven #evidencebasedstrategies #classroomreadystrategies
#SchoolStreets #UrbanPlanning #EquityInEducation #StudentSuccess #WholeChild #SchoolCulture #InstructionalLeadership #TeacherCoaching #ActiveLearning #OutdoorLearning #FamilyPartnerships #CulturallyResponsiveTeaching #ProKidMindset #SchoolImprovement #EmpoweredEducators #InclusiveClassrooms #SchoolusionsPodcast #TeacherSupport #PrincipalStrategies #CommunitySchools

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

How is @openplansnyc Turning School Streets into Outdoor Classrooms for Students?

Wed, 06 May 2026 00:00:00 -0400

In this clip (watch here), Sabina Sethi Unni from Open Plans defines a school street as a DOT program enabling schools to close adjacent streets to car traffic during school hours, enhancing school safety. This initiative, rooted in urban planning, can range from simple pick-up and drop-off closures to creating spaces for recess and gym. The aim is to improve road safety and overall student safety by managing traffic around schools.

This is the kind of innovative teaching environment and instructional leadership thinking that drives real school improvement, strengthens family partnerships, and builds school culture from the ground up. Whether you're a principal, teacher, instructional coach, or caregiver, this conversation will inspire you to think differently about the spaces where students learn, move, and thrive.

📩 Want to bring a School Street to your school? Contact Sabina at sabina@openplans.org

Ready to unlock more innovative teaching strategies that empower educators and drive real school change? Subscribe and explore the full channel.

Watch, reflect, and share Part 1 & Part 2 of our Schoolutions S5E36 interview.

CHAPTERS:
0:00 What is a School Street?
0:12 Pick-Up & Drop-Off Safety
0:22 Recess & Gym on the Street
0:35 Outdoor Learning & Science Fairs
0:48 Community Programming & Halloween Parades
1:02 School Streets as a Hub for Student & Family Life

📧 Connect with me if you’d like a thought partner to help you cultivate curious learners who advocate for what they believe in.
🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

📌 Subscribe for more tools for empowered educators, teacher mentors, school counselors, instructional leaders, and anyone committed to thriving students and school change.

#Schoolutions #SchoolutionsPodcast #ForeverGettingBetter #CuriosityDriven #EvidenceBased #ClassroomReadyStrategies #SchoolStreets #OpenPlans #StudentEngagement #ActiveLearning #EquityInEducation #SchoolCulture #InnovativeTeaching #WholeChild #OutdoorLearning #FamilyPartnerships #InstructionalLeadership #SchoolImprovement #EmpoweredEducators #ProKidMindset #CulturallyResponsiveTeaching #InclusiveClassrooms #TeacherCoaching #EducationTransformation #ThrivingStudents #SchoolLeadership #ParentInvolvement #InspiringStudents #TeacherImpact #ProfessionalDevelopment #NYCSchools #UrbanEducation

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

School Streets: Inside NYC's Movement to Reclaim Urban Spaces

Mon, 04 May 2026 00:00:00 -0400

In Part 1 of this S5E36 two-part Schoolutions conversation, urban planner and organizer Sabina Sethi Unni from @openplansnyc breaks down New York City's School Streets program. It's a DOT initiative that closes car traffic in front of schools during school hours to create outdoor space for kids who need it most. Consider the possibilities...what if the street outside your school could become a gym, a science fair, or a Halloween parade all before 3 PM?

We discuss:
- What School Streets actually looks like (hint: it's active learning in action)
- How schools apply and who is eligible
- Why student engagement and classroom behavior improve when kids have space to move
- The #1 barrier for under-resourced schools and how Open Plans removes it
- Why equity in education and culturally responsive teaching are baked into their outreach model
- How parent involvement and family partnerships make or break the program
- What school leadership and principal strategies can do to champion this today
- Why community engagement is non-negotiable in education transformation

📩 Want to bring a School Street to your school? Reach out to Sabina directly: sabina@openplans.org

Some resources mentioned:

CHAPTERS:
0:00 — Introduction & Sabina's Background
1:45 — Research That Drives the Work (Hackney, UK)
3:00 — How Street Design Became a Lever of Power
5:00 — From Intern to Full-Time: The Equity Research That Started It All
7:15 — How Schools Apply & Who Is Eligible
8:45 — Prioritizing Low-Income Communities of Color
9:45 — The Real Barriers: Staffing, PTAs & Stretched Schools
10:55 — How Open Plans Removes Barriers for Schools
12:30 — What a School Street Actually Looks & Feels Like
13:45 — Flexible Hours: Schools Choose What Works for Them
14:30 — How Involved Is Open Plans After Approval?
15:30 — Leadership Turnover as a Hidden Barrier
16:30 — Lightning Round: Best Quotes, Myths & Big Dreams
18:30 — The Danger of Skipping Community Engagement
19:30 — Key Takeaways & Part 2 Preview

Join our community of educators committed to cultivating student success, inspired teaching, and creating inclusive classrooms with a pro-kid mindset focused on the whole child.

📧 🎧 New episodes every Monday & Friday with bite-sized Wednesday reel bonus content.
📧 Connect with me if you’d like a thought partner to help you cultivate curious learners who advocate for what they believe in.
🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

Don't forget to 🔔SUBSCRIBE for more teaching tips, and 💬SHARE!

#schoolutions #schoolutionspodcast #forevergettingbetter #curiositydriven #evidencebasedstrategies #classroomreadystrategies#SchoolStreets #EquityInEducation #StudentEngagement

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Students Thrive When Teachers Center Their Voices

Sun, 03 May 2026 00:00:00 -0400

This May, Schoolutions is putting student voices front and center because real student success starts with listening. We spotlight how teachers can tune in to children's voices and experiences, including their streets, stories, leadership, and language.

👟 Sabina Sethi Unni opens the month with her powerful work through Open Plans NYC and the School Streets program. She is transforming unsafe streets in front of New York City schools into open play spaces that honor the whole child.

📖 Xochitl Bentley dives into different storytelling stances and how they connect to climate stewardship. Xochitl offers a masterclass in culturally responsive teaching, inclusive classrooms, and sparking student motivation through narrative and identity.

🌱 Rachael Thrash talks about co-creating schools with students and developing student leaders. This is a must-listen for anyone passionate about active learning, student participation, and equity in education.

📚 Beth Skelton and Tan Huynh close out the month with their new book on working with experienced multilinguals and their integrated literacy framework. Beth and Tan offer essentials for anyone committed to anti-bias teaching, inclusivity, and thriving students who are also language learners.

These conversations are rooted in inspiring students and educators, and in the belief that educational transformation happens when we center student voice, build family partnerships, and support teachers.

Join us this May. We can't wait to see you. 💙

CONNECT & SUBSCRIBE:
👍 Like if you're ready for education transformation
💬 Comment: Which guest are you most excited to hear?
🔔 Subscribe for weekly teaching tips and instructional strategies
📱 Share Wednesday reels with your teaching team

CHAPTERS
0:00 Intro: May's theme: centering children's voices
0:12 Sabina Sethi Unni: School Streets & safe play spaces
0:25 Xochitl Bentley: storytelling stances & climate stewardship
0:36 Rachael Thrash: co-creating schools & student leadership
0:47 Beth Skelton & Tan Huynh: experienced multilinguals & integrated literacy
0:58 Join us this May!

#Schoolutions #SchoolutionsPodcast #ForeverGettingBetter #CuriosityDriven #EvidenceBased #ClassroomReadyStrategies #ClassroomBelonging #StudentEngagement #StudentMotivation #ActiveLearning #InspiringStudents #EffectiveTeaching #InstructionalCoaching #TeacherSupport #ProfessionalDevelopment #SchoolLeadership #SchoolCulture #FamilyPartnerships #HomeSchoolConnection #CulturallyResponsiveTeaching #EquityInEducation #InclusiveClassrooms #AntiBiasTeaching #WholeChild #StudentSuccess #EmpoweredEducators #EducationTransformation #TeacherImpact #NewTeachers #StudentVoice #StudentLeadership #MultilingualLearners #TeachersOfYouTube #EducationPodcast #ProKidMindset #SchoolImprovement

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

The Truth About Making Science Outreach Work Worldwide

Fri, 01 May 2026 00:00:00 -0400

In part two of my S5E35 ⁨Schoolutions conversation, science busker and communicator David Price with @ScienceMadeSimpleUK⁩ joins me to unpack what happens when you take STEM education to the streets. From crossing language barriers without a single word to designing classroom belonging through hands-on phenomena to building STEM kits for classrooms where balloons are a luxury, this episode is packed with practical insights for anyone who cares about inspiring students and transforming how we teach.

In this episode:
➡️Why student participation skyrockets when you lead with play, not lecture
➡️How mimicry and observation are the original instructional strategies — and why schools train it out of kids
➡️The "Odd One Out" technique for sparking student engagement and scientific thinking from minute one
➡️How to design for inclusive classrooms where language, cost, and jargon aren't barriers
➡️What the Singapore National Science Busking Championship reveals about empowered educators and student success
➡️Why effective teaching starts with you, not a script, not a lab, not a budget

💫Make sure to watch Part 1 & here are some episode Mentions:

Chapters:
0:00 — Welcome Back & Part 1 Recap
1:45 — Going Global: Language & Cultural Barriers in Science Busking
3:30 — Why Wordless Performance Works: The Power of Observation & Mimicry
5:00 — Learning-Doing: The Inseparable Pair
6:30 — Can Visualize Come Back? A Call to Funders
7:00 — Holding the Mission Sacred While Running a Real Business
8:30 — Meet the Science Made Simple Team
9:30 — STEM Education in Ghana: Designing Kits for Equity
11:30 — Building Science Busking Kits for Any Context
13:00 — Teaching the Scientific Method as a Phenomenon
14:00 — Connecting Science to Real-Life Phenomena in the Classroom
16:00 — Thinking, Doing, Talking Science: The Odd One Out Technique
17:30 — Building Student Confidence to Question & Explore
18:30 — Advice for Aspiring Science Communicators
20:00 — The Most Effective Communicator Is YOU
21:00 — Find Your Community: British Interactive Group & Science Communication Masters
22:30 — What Still Feels Unfinished: Singapore Busking Championships & a Dream for Europe
24:00 — Closing Reflections & Three Takeaways
26:00 — Next Week: Urban Planner Sabina Unni on School Streets

🎧 New episodes every Monday & Friday with bite-sized Wednesday reel bonus content.
📧 Connect with me if you’d like a thought partner to help you cultivate curious learners who advocate for what they believe in.
🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

Next week: I am so excited to introduce you to urban planner Sabina Sethi Unni, who is on a mission to transform the clogged streets in front of New York City schools into outdoor classrooms, block parties, and safe spaces for kids to actually breathe. She is going to break down exactly how the School Streets program with Open Plans works and what it would take to bring it to every school in the city.

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

This Proprioception Trick Stops Every Student Cold

Wed, 29 Apr 2026 00:00:00 -0400

In this short (watch here), David Price of @ScienceMadeSimpleUK and I explore science busking: a joyful, hands-on approach to inspiring students through playful phenomena in education. Watch as proprioception (your brain's ability to sense where your body parts are in space) becomes an unforgettable lesson hook.

This is what effective teaching looks like: low-prep, high-impact, and rooted in curiosity. Whether you're a classroom teacher, instructional coach, school leader, or parent supporting education at home, this kind of whole-child, pro-kid mindset is exactly what drives student motivation, classroom belonging, and thriving students.

Science busking isn't a trick; it's a teaching strategy that sparks attention in class, deepens student participation, and makes abstract concepts stick through inclusive, culturally responsive teaching.

Ready to unlock more innovative teaching strategies that empower educators and drive real school change? Subscribe and explore the full channel.

Watch, reflect, and share Part 1 & Part 2 of our Schoolutions S5E35 interview.

CHAPTERS
0:00 Introduction to science busking
0:06 The demo begins — can you catch all three?
0:28 Nailing it — student success moment
0:45 What just happened? Introducing proprioception
1:05 Why this is powerful for teaching and learning

When coaches, teachers, administrators, and families work hand in hand, it fosters a school atmosphere where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged in their learning journey.

📧 Connect with me if you’d like a thought partner to help you cultivate curious learners who advocate for what they believe in.
🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

📌 Subscribe for more tools for empowered educators, teacher mentors, school counselors, instructional leaders, and anyone committed to thriving students and school change.

#Schoolutions #SchoolutionsPodcast #ForeverGettingBetter #CuriosityDriven #EvidenceBased #ClassroomReadyStrategies #ScienceBusking #ActiveLearning #StudentEngagement #TeachingTips #InstructionalCoaching #ClassroomBelonging #EffectiveTeaching #ProKidMindset #EducationTransformation #InspiringStudents #WholeChild #SchoolLeadership #NewTeachers #InnovativeTeaching #TeacherImpact #ProfessionalDevelopment #InclusiveClassrooms #CulturallyResponsiveTeaching #StudentMotivation #LessonPlanning #SchoolCulture #ParentInvolvement #EmpoweredEducators #EquityInEducation #HomeschoolParents

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Science Busking: The Unexpected Teaching Method Schools Are Missing

Mon, 27 Apr 2026 00:00:00 -0400

In part 1 of my S5E35 Schoolutions conversation, science busker and LAMDA-trained communicator, David Price of @ScienceMadeSimpleUK, takes us inside a live street performance, and YOU get to participate. We explore proprioception, the body science behind the busk you'll try in this episode, as a metaphor for how hands-on, student participation, and whole-child learning can transform classroom behavior, student motivation, and attention.

David shares how he trains researchers, new teachers, and school leaders in the art of captivating strangers and why those same skills are transformative for inspiring students and building student success in any setting.

In Part 1, you'll discover:
→ What science busking is and why it works for low engagement audiences
→ The "golden volunteer" principle and how it applies to classroom belonging
→ Why students at Rael Gate School started designing their own busks
→ How street performer techniques translate into effective teaching
→ The proprioception experiment you can try right now

Resources from David:

Some episode mentions:

Chapters
0:00 Intro — science on a street corner
1:30 Meet David Price: LAMDA science communicator & busker
3:00 Stefia Sini: the interplanetary engineer
4:00 How David found science communication (not planned!)
5:30 LIVE BUSK — try the proprioception experiment now
8:10 What science busking actually is
10:00 Busking in schools — the Rael Gate story
13:00 Materials: what's in a busking kit?
14:20 Capturing a transient audience — the ball trick
16:30 Lessons from the 2009 World Street Performance Championships
19:00 The "golden volunteer" and inclusive classroom strategies
20:45 Lightning round — David's hot takes

📧 🎧 New episodes every Monday & Friday with bite-sized Wednesday reel bonus content.
📧 Connect with me if you’d like a thought partner to help you cultivate curious learners who advocate for what they believe in.
🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

Don't forget to🔔SUBSCRIBE for more teaching tips, and 💬SHARE with fellow educators!

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Growing Through Discomfort: Why the Best Teachers Step Away

Fri, 24 Apr 2026 00:00:00 -0400

In part two of my S5E34 Schoolutions conversation, Muriel Summers of Leader in Me explores the balance in education and parenting between fostering student independence and providing necessary guidance, drawing from Muriel's extensive teaching experience. Discover practical classroom strategies and teaching tips for educators aiming to cultivate confident, self-directed learners.

What does it truly mean to empower a student, and where exactly is the line between stepping back and disappearing? In Part 2 of this conversation, educator and author Muriel Summers (co-author of Teacher Believed in Me with Dr. David K. Hatch) shares the wisdom of four decades in classrooms around the world.

Whether you're a classroom teacher, instructional coach, school administrator, or caregiver, this episode delivers practical, try-it-tomorrow strategies around:
✦ Building student confidence through authentic success
✦ Scaffolding: when to add support and when to pull back
✦ Why growth lives inside discomfort (and what our job really is)
✦ Global patterns in student engagement and student participation
✦ How school culture and school leadership shape whether children feel heard

💫Make sure to watch Part 1 & check out some of the resources mentioned:

Chapters:
0:00 Introduction & recap of Part 1
1:45 What "empower" really means — Dr. Stephen Covey's definition
3:30 Letting children taste success & leadership
6:00 Empowering vs. fading into the background — where's the line?
7:00 The swimming lesson story — confidence in action
9:00 Art shows, systems & messages that build or break confidence
10:00 Scaffolding: when to put it up & when to take it down
11:20 Public speaking, podiums & never letting kids leave the stage feeling unsuccessful
14:30 Training wheels, discomfort & the dip where growth lives
15:20 Middle school, homework & handing off responsibility
17:00 Why discomfort is non-negotiable for growth
18:30 Fertilizing the soil — the parent & educator's true role
19:30 Global trends in student responsibility & voice
22:00 What Muriel witnessed in India, Romania & around the world
25:00 Heart prints — Muriel's legacy message
26:30 Three key takeaways from Part 2

🎧 New episodes every Monday & Friday with bite-sized Wednesday reel bonus content.
📧 Connect with me if you’d like a thought partner to help you cultivate curious learners who advocate for what they believe in.
🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

Next week's episode takes things somewhere unexpected. David Price with @ScienceMadeSimpleUK has taken science busking to 26 countries, and in this conversation, he proves exactly why it works. From street corners to Singapore championships, this episode illuminates why STEM is irresistible to any audience, anywhere in the world.

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Want Students to See Their Own Greatness? Empower Them...

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 00:00:00 -0400

In this short, Muriel Summers and I explore the concept of empowerment, drawing insights from Stephen Covey's 7 Habits and the Leader in Me framework. We discuss how true leadership involves recognizing and unleashing the inherent greatness within individuals, fostering significant personal growth. This perspective highlights the importance of cultivating success habits and continuous self-improvement for effective leadership development.

Drawing from the collaborative work of Dr. Hatch, we revisit one of the most profound definitions of leadership: "Communicating someone's worth and potential so clearly that they are inspired to see it in themselves."

This isn't just a quote, it's a philosophy for empowered educators, instructional leaders, and anyone who believes in the whole child.

Watch, reflect, and share Part 1 & Part 2 of our Schoolutions S5E34 interview.

🔑 In this video:
- Why the word empower was intentionally chosen
- How Stephen Covey's 7 Habits connects to student motivation and school culture
- What it looks like to see and communicate student greatness
- How this mindset shapes effective teaching, instructional coaching, and school leadership

📌 CHAPTERS:
- 0:00 – Why the Word "Empower?"
- 0:20 – Stephen Covey's 7 Habits & Unleashing Greatness
- 0:40 – Covey's Definition of Leadership
- 1:00 – Communicating Worth & Potential
- 1:20 – What Empowerment Looks Like in Schools

When coaches, teachers, administrators, and families work hand in hand, it fosters a school atmosphere where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged in their learning journey.

📧 Connect with me if you’d like a thought partner to help you cultivate curious learners who advocate for what they believe in.
🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl
📌 Subscribe for more tools for empowered educators, teacher mentors, school counselors, instructional leaders, and anyone committed to thriving students and school change.

#Schoolutions #SchoolutionsPodcast #ForeverGettingBetter #CuriosityDriven #evidencebasedmedicaleducation #empowerededucators #studentsuccess #inspiredteaching #instructionalcoaching #schoolleadership #teachercoaching #wholchild #educationtransformation #stephencovey #7habits #unleashgreatness #classroombelonging #studentengagement #schoolculture #teachingtiips #inclusiveteaching #proKidMindset #thrivingstudents #newteachers #mentorteachers #parentinvolvement #equityineducation #culturallyresponsiveteaching #schoolimprovement #instructionalleadership #educationleadership #activelearning #studentmotivation #familypartnerships #homeschoolconnection

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Want Children to Find Their Inner Leader? Do This...

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 00:00:00 -0400

In part one of my S5E34 Schoolutions conversation, Muriel Summers of Leader in Me offers life advice and highlights the significant impact of entrusting children with real responsibility. This practice is a powerful, yet often underestimated, tool in child development. Summers, with extensive experience, offers valuable teaching and parenting tips, encouraging a positive parenting approach that fosters growth and confidence in children.

Muriel shares the story of how Oprah Winfrey's third-grade teacher changed her trajectory with a single, small act of trust. She breaks down the difference between handing a child a task versus genuinely entrusting them with responsibility and why that distinction is everything when it comes to student motivation, classroom belonging, and school culture.

We also dig into equity in education because when there's no system in place, the same children keep getting chosen. Muriel explains how instructional leadership and intentional classroom structures ensure every child, not just the confident or compliant ones, gets to feel what it's like to be believed in.

🎧 WHAT YOU'LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE:
- Why entrusting kids with responsibility is different from assigning tasks — and why students feel the difference
- How low expectations are the most dangerous thing in a classroom (and what to do instead)
- Why equity in the classroom requires a deliberate system, not good intentions
- How school culture shifts when every child gets a meaningful role
- What Leader in Me schools are doing globally to build inclusive classrooms and family partnerships
- Why discomfort is actually the whole point of empowered learning (preview for Part 2!)

Some Episode Mentions:
➡️Leader in Me

➡️A.B. Combs Magnet Elementary

➡️Teacher Believed in Me

➡️The Leader in Me

📑 CHAPTERS
0:00 - Introduction: What Changes a Child's Trajectory?
1:00 - Meet Muriel Summers & Leader in Me
2:00 - The Foundation: 7 Habits & 43 Years in Education
3:30 - Task vs. Responsibility: What's the Difference?
5:00 - Oprah's Third-Grade Teacher & the Power of Trust
7:00 - Every Child Deserves to Feel Trusted
8:00 - Equity in the Classroom: Who Gets Chosen?
9:30 - Individual Gifts & the Good of the Whole Community
10:30 - Global Connections in Leader in Me Schools
11:30 - Lightning Round: Most Dangerous Thing a Teacher Can Do
12:30 - Classroom Roles That Sound Meaningful But Aren't
13:30 - "They're Just Not Ready" — Muriel's Response
14:30 - Preview: Part 2 on Empowering Student Ownership
15:00 - Olivia's 3 Key Takeaways & Call to Action

Join our community of educators committed to cultivating student success, inspired teaching, and creating inclusive classrooms with a pro-kid mindset focused on the whole child.

🎧 New episodes every Monday & Friday with bite-sized Wednesday reel bonus content.
📧 Connect with me at https://www.oliviawahl.com/coaching-consulting if you’d like a thought partner to help you cultivate curious learners who advocate for what they believe in.
🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

#schoolutions #schoolutionspodcast #forevergettingbetter #curiositydriven #evidencebasedstrategies #classroomreadystrategies

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Why Civics Knowledge Doesn't Necessarily Lead to Civic Participation

Fri, 17 Apr 2026 00:00:00 -0400

In part two of my S5E33 Schoolutions conversation, Colleen O'Brien, Ed.D., reveals what decades of research and classroom teaching experience taught her: the gap between civic knowledge and civic participation isn't apathy, it's confidence.

Colleen and I explore:
🔹 Why low engagement in civic life is really a confidence problem, not an apathy problem
🔹 What inclusive teaching and nonpartisan facilitation actually look like in practice
🔹 How student participation in structured discussion prepares kids for real-world advocacy
🔹 The role of instructional leadership and school culture in making civics education consistent and high quality

💫Make sure to watch Part 1 & Some Episode Mentions:

Chapters
0:00 – Welcome Back & Part 2 Overview
1:45 – Civic Knowledge vs. Civic Behavior: What's the Difference?
4:00 – Civics Education Then vs. Now: What's Changed?
6:20 – The Real Reason People Don't Participate (It's Not Apathy)
7:45 – Building the Bridge: From Understanding Democracy to Showing Up
9:00 – Training Facilitators & Reading the Room
10:45 – How to Model Nonpartisanship When Everything Feels Partisan
12:30 – Teaching Values vs. Teaching Partisanship
14:00 – Where Is Civics Education Headed?
15:30 – What This Journey Taught Colleen About Herself
16:00 – National Resources for Educators Everywhere
17:00 – Closing Takeaways

Next week: What happens when a teacher truly believes in a child? Not just says it, but proves it? Muriel Summers, co-creator of Leader in Me and co-author of Teacher Believed in Me, reveals why entrusting kids with real responsibility is the most powerful thing an adult can do and why holding back might be the most dangerous. You don't want to miss it.

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

What the Data Actually Shows About Young Voters

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 00:00:00 -0400

In this short, civics educator and doctoral researcher Colleen O'Brien, Ed.D., (Co-Director of Civics for Colorado) shares how a recent Georgetown University survey highlights a crucial point: 90% of youth believe understanding the us government is important. This educational video explores how this strong interest in civics debunks the myth of student apathy. It's clear that fostering democracy begins with informed education, not just textbook knowledge.

In the full part 1 episode, we cover:
- Why civic anxiety (not apathy) is the real barrier to student participation
- How real civic experiences build student confidence and engagement
- Programs like We the People and Project Citizen that are transforming classrooms
- What Justice Anthony Kennedy told a room full of teachers about civic discourse
- Why civics education is uneven across Colorado and what it costs communities

Watch, reflect, and share Part 1 & Part 2 of our Schoolutions S5E33 interview.

📌 Subscribe for more tools for empowered educators, teacher mentors, school counselors, instructional leaders, and anyone committed to thriving students and school change.

📚 Chapters
- 0:00 The myth of student apathy
- 0:12 What Georgetown's 2025 study actually found
- 0:28 90% of students want to know how government works
- 0:42 93% across party lines agree
- 0:55 Why data matters for funding civics education
- 1:05 What 3,000 students taught one educator

When coaches, teachers, administrators, and families work hand in hand, it fosters a school atmosphere where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged in their learning journey.

📧 Connect with me if you’d like a thought partner to help you cultivate curious learners who advocate for what they believe in.
🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

#Schoolutions #SchoolutionsPodcast #ForeverGettingBetter #CuriosityDriven #evidencebased #civicseducation #StudentEngagement #ActiveLearning #InspiringStudents #EffectiveTeaching #InstructionalStrategies #TeachingTips #InnovativeTeaching #InclusiveTeaching #TeacherCoaching #InstructionalCoaching #ProfessionalDevelopment #SchoolLeadership #EducationLeadership #SchoolCulture #FamilyPartnerships #CulturallyResponsiveTeaching #EquityInEducation #InclusiveClassrooms #ProKidMindset #WholeChild #StudentSuccess #EmpoweredEducators #EducationTransformation #TeacherImpact #ClassroomBelonging #StudentMotivation #ScionsPodcast #CivicsForColorado #DemocracyEducation

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Students Don't Need Motivation for Civics: They Need Confidence

Mon, 13 Apr 2026 00:00:00 -0400

Part one of my S5E33 Schoolutions conversation, Colleen O'Brien, Ed.D., discusses the critical role of civic education in fostering informed citizens. She argues that providing students with real civic experiences, not just textbook definitions, can shift their engagement from passive observation to active participation.

Some Episode Mentions:

Dr. Diana Owen, Georgetown University
Civic Education Research Lab (CERL)
Justice Anthony Kennedy
Center for Civic Education
Common Cause
Civics for Colorado (formerly C3LE)
Colorado Youth Advisory Council (COYAC)
iCivics
National School Reform Faculty (student work protocol)
We the People
Project Citizen
Citizen Nation
90% of students say it's important to know how government works
More Information & Upcoming Events from Colleen

⏱️ CHAPTERS
0:00 – Introduction: Anxiety vs. Apathy in Civics
1:00 – Meet Colleen O'Brien
2:00 – The Research: 90% of Students Want Civic Education
4:30 – Core Beliefs of Civics for Colorado
5:45 – The Voting Booth Moment: A Story About Student Confidence
8:30 – Why Civics Education Is Uneven Across Colorado
11:30 – The Cost of Low Civic Literacy on Society
14:00 – The Three-Legged Stool: Knowledge, Skills & Action
17:00 – What Justice Kennedy Said About Student Discussion
18:30 – Confidence vs. Arrogance in Civic Participation
19:30 – We the People Program Explained
23:00 – Project Citizen: Student-Led Community Change
26:30 – Civics Starts at the Elementary Level
28:30 – Lightning Round with Colleen O'Brien
29:45 – Wrap-Up & Preview of Part 2

Join our community of educators committed to cultivating student success, inspired teaching, and creating inclusive classrooms with a pro-kid mindset focused on the whole child.

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Why the Best Classrooms Look More Like Nature Than Factories

Fri, 10 Apr 2026 00:00:00 -0400

In part two of my S5E32 Schoolutions conversation with Dr. Benjamin Freud of the Green School Bali, we explore how regeneration and regenerative agriculture principles can inform learning, emphasizing a more holistic view. This conversation is designed to cultivate fresh perspectives on adult learning and sustainable development in educational contexts.

We cover:
→ The four S's of the Bird Lab — sensing, seeking, shaping, and storytelling — and why this framework supports active learning and whole child development
→ Why rubrics, when treated as the end goal, are violent to the learning process — and what to replace them with in your lesson planning and instructional strategies
→ Why stories are the most honest form of assessment — and how they build classroom belonging, student participation, and inspired teaching
→ The difference between emergent learning and "anything goes" — and how guardrails rooted in community problems create more student motivation than any standard ever could
→ Why a set curriculum that never changes is epistemologically violent — and what innovative teaching looks like instead
→ What the 8th grade water structure project reveals about pro-kid mindset, thriving students, and learning that serves something beyond the individual
→ How the "learningologist" model reimagines teacher coaching, instructional coaching, and the consultant relationship entirely
→ Why education will be regenerative when it stops trying to be — and what that means for school leadership, school culture, and education leadership at every level

💫Make sure to watch Part 1 & here are some Episode Mentions:

Chapters:
0:00 Introduction and recap of Part 1
1:30 Inside the Bird Lab — what learning looks like here
2:45 The four S's: sensing, seeking, shaping, storytelling
4:30 Why regenerative learning can't be a copy-paste model
6:30 What's wrong with rubrics and grades
8:00 Assessment as story — moving your audience
10:00 Google Drive projects and the individualism trap
11:30 The "learningologist" vs. the fly-in consultant
13:30 What emergent learning actually means
15:00 The 8th grade water structure project — a real example
16:45 Standards as guardrails vs. standards as the goal
18:30 "Education will be regenerative when..." — the closing question
19:30 Olivia's closing reflection and listener challenges
21:30 Next week — civic education with Colleen O'Brien, Ed.D.

🎧 New episodes every Monday & Friday with bite-sized Wednesday reel bonus content.
📧 Connect with me as a thought partner to help you cultivate curious learners who advocate for what they believe in.
🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

Next week: Civics educator and doctoral researcher Colleen O'Brien joins me to reveal why civic apathy is actually a confidence problem and how the right classroom experiences can transform students into active participants. From Supreme Court insights to student voting booth moments, this conversation will absolutely change the way you think about civic education at every age.

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

What a School in the Jungle Taught Me About Community, Nature & Why We Really Learn

Wed, 08 Apr 2026 00:00:00 -0400

This short with Benjamin Freud, Ph.D., of Green School Bali explores how the learning process is intrinsically linked to active participation. Benjamin highlights the profound connection between learning by doing and contributing to community building. Discover how a trajectory focused on community engagement shapes a meaningful learning journey.

This isn't just a school in the jungle; it's a radical reimagination of why we learn, how we grow, and who we learn for. Most traditional schools, through the way they measure learning, keep students individualized and disconnected. But what if student engagement, student motivation, and active learning were rooted in relationships with other people, with nature, with purpose?

This is what inspiring students really looks like. Not through more instructional strategies or lesson planning tricks, but through a shift in school culture and a pro-kid mindset that honors the whole child. Whether you're an educator looking for innovative teaching ideas, an instructional coach exploring coaching strategies, a school leader focused on school improvement and instructional leadership, or a parent seeking a deeper home-school connection, this one's for you.

Real student participation. Real student success. Real education transformation.

🌿 Save this if you believe in empowered educators and thriving students.
💬 Drop a comment: What would change in your classroom or school if learning were about community, not just individual progress?

Watch, reflect, and share Part 1 & Part 2 of our Schoolutions S5E32 interview.

📌 Subscribe for more tools for empowered educators, teacher mentors, school counselors, instructional leaders, and anyone committed to thriving students and school change.

📚 Chapters
0:00 — School in the jungle: a different kind of learning
0:08 — Learning as process, not collection
0:18 — The trajectory: contribution to community
0:30 — Co-constitutive learning — doing and learning together
0:42 — How traditional schools keep us individualized
1:00 — Nature as teacher: spiders, snakes, bamboo, and belonging
1:15 — It's not about me, it's about the relationship

📧 Connect with me if you’d like a thought partner to help you cultivate curious learners who advocate for what they believe in.
🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

#Schoolutions #SchoolutionsPodcast #ForeverGettingBetter #CuriosityDriven #EvidenceBased #EducationTransformation #TeachingTips #StudentEngagement #SchoolCulture #InclusiveTeaching #EmpoweredEducators #WholeChild #InstructionalCoaching #EquityInEducation #ActiveLearning #InnovativeTeaching #ProKidMindset #TeacherSupport #SchoolLeadership #ThrivingStudents #ClassroomBelonging #StudentMotivation #CulturallyResponsiveTeaching #TeacherImpact #effectiveteaching

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

A School in the Jungle With No Walls & Lessons Every Teacher Needs to Hear

Mon, 06 Apr 2026 00:00:00 -0400

In part one of my S5E32 Schoolutions conversation, Dr. Benjamin Freud, Head of Upper School at Green School Bali, challenges conventional beliefs about education. This conversation explores the philosophy of education, questioning whether traditional approaches truly foster learning. We discuss the future of education, focusing on sustainable living and environmental education as pathways to deeper understanding and innovation.

We cover:
→ Why "learning through doing" is not the same as learning and doing, and why that distinction matters for instructional strategies and lesson planning
→ How low engagement and disengaged students aren't behavior problems but design problems
→ Why global citizenship is one of the most dangerous phrases in a school mission statement
→ The difference between regenerative design, sustainability, and what it means for inspiring students and thriving schools
→ The case for philosophy in K–12 as a tool for student participation, critical thought, and whole child development
→ What biomimicry reveals about inclusive classrooms, anti-bias teaching, and a pro-kid mindset that actually scales beyond the jungle

Some Episode Mentions:

Chapters:
0:00 Introduction — Meet Dr. Benjamin Freud
1:45 From Paris to Bali: Ben's arc into education
3:30 Bruno Latour and the power of assemblages
5:00 Green School Bali — what makes it different
7:00 Learning & doing (not learning through doing)
9:00 Why skills-based education can be dangerous
11:00 Preparing students for an unknown future
13:00 The sixth mass extinction — education's missing priority
15:00 AI, outputs are dead — it's all about inputs now
18:00 The bio collective and what "we" really means
19:30 The Bird Lab — biomimicry for regenerative design
22:00 Why inclusion always involves exclusion
24:30 Lightning round begins
25:00 Why "global citizenship" is a dangerous phrase
26:30 Stop teaching world history — teach global history
27:30 More philosophy in schools
28:30 History should be taught backward
29:30 What's coming in Part 2: rubrics and assessment

🎧 New episodes every Monday & Friday with bite-sized Wednesday reel bonus content.
📧 Connect with me as a thought partner to help you cultivate curious learners who advocate for what they believe in.
🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

April's Confidence Boost for Students & Teachers!

Sat, 04 Apr 2026 15:00:00 -0400

This month, Schoolutions focuses on cultivating student confidence through insightful conversations. Dr. Benjamin Freud discusses the principles of regenerative agriculture, emphasizing that learning by doing is essential for true understanding. Following this, Colleen O'Brien, Ed.D., highlights the critical role of civic education in fostering informed citizens and strengthening democracy.

Muriel Summers speaks to why we need to believe in children, even before they believe in themselves. And science busker extraordinaire, David Price, shows why science busking is a brilliant way to spread STEM knowledge and education.

🌱 Dr. Benjamin Freud | ⁨@greenschoolbali⁩
Discover regenerative education: a philosophy where active learning and real-world doing are inseparable. A must-hear for anyone rethinking instructional strategies and innovative teaching.

🗳️ Colleen O'Brien, Ed.D. | Civics for Colorado
Civics education is more urgent than ever. Colleen unpacks the difference between student apathy and a lack of confidence; a distinction every educator working on student motivation and student participation needs to hear.

⭐ Muriel Summers | ⁨@LeaderinMeChannel⁩
Co-creator of the Leader in Me resources, Muriel, reminds us why believing in kids before they believe in themselves is at the heart of a pro-kid mindset and whole-child education. Essential listening for mentor teachers, instructional coaches, and anyone focused on school culture.

🔬 David Price | Science Made Simple UK Science Busker
A science busker with ⁨@ScienceMadeSimpleUK⁩ , who travels the world, David brings STEM education to life through wonder and curiosity a masterclass in attention in class and empowered educators in action.

Join us this April. We can't wait to see you. 💙

CONNECT & SUBSCRIBE:
👍 Like if you're ready for education transformation
💬 Comment: Which guest are you most excited to hear?
🔔 Subscribe for weekly teaching tips and instructional strategies
📱 Share Wednesday reels with your teaching team

📚 Chapters
0:00 - April theme: cultivating student confidence
0:12 - Dr. Benjamin Freud | Regenerative education at Green School Bali
0:30 - Colleen O'Brien, Ed.D. | Civics education & student confidence
0:50 - Muriel Summers | Believing in kids before they believe in themselves
1:10 - David Price | STEM education & the science busker
1:30 - Join us this April

#TeacherPodcast #StudentEngagement #ClassroomBelonging #StudentMotivation #ActiveLearning #InspiringStudents #EffectiveTeaching #InstructionalCoaching #TeacherSupport #MentorTeachers #ProfessionalDevelopment #SchoolLeadership #EducationLeadership #SchoolCulture #EquityInEducation #CulturallyResponsiveTeaching #InclusiveClassrooms #ProKidMindset #WholeChild #StudentSuccess #EmpoweredEducators #EducationTransformation #TeacherImpact #STEMEducation #CivicsEducation #RegenerativeEducation #LeaderInMe #NewTeachers #HomeschoolPodcast #InstructionalLeadership

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

San Diego Unified School District⁩'s Bold Plan: $4 Billion Housing Strategy Without Taxpayer Funds

Fri, 03 Apr 2026 00:00:00 -0400

Part two of my Schoolutions conversation with Superintendent Fabiola Bagula, Ph.D., details the San Diego Unified School District's strategies for affordable housing and community building. Their initiative showcases a regional vision for urban planning that aims to tackle the housing crisis and drive social change. This discussion offers a glimpse into real estate and local news efforts to support educators.

💫Make sure to watch Part 1 & Some Episode Mentions:
➡️David Tate's Conscious Accountability
➡️Ayanna Pressley (quoted by Fabi) "The people closest to the pain should be closest to the power."
➡️Emancipatory Leadership and Improving Equity in Education
➡️Balboa Elementary: school where Fabi served as principal and implemented the full-day grade-level PLC/RTI model

📑 CHAPTERS
0:00 Introduction: Part 2: The Financial Strategy & Bold Regional Vision
1:45 How to reduce a billion-dollar budget deficit without sacrificing people
3:00 Investing before cutting: the asset-based approach to budget decisions
4:15 Removing "my department, my budget" identity from financial decisions
5:30 Three things every district needs to replicate the housing initiative
6:00 A forward-thinking board and strong labor union relationships
6:45 Community buy-in, and the dog park request
8:00 Documenting the process so other districts can replicate it
9:00 What emancipatory leadership means: power to the people closest to the pain
10:45 200 schools, no one-size-fits-all: regional autonomy within system stability
11:10 Influence over power: building voice, agency, and community
12:30 Giving principals protected time together for communities of practice
13:30 The Balboa Elementary model: one full grade level out every day
14:00 The Yale research finding that stopped superintendents cold
15:30 What actually moves student achievement: competitive wages and time
16:15 Affordable housing as peace of mind, the missing layer in teacher time
17:45 BRAND NEW: The Regional Housing Finance Authority
18:15 What if we built affordable housing around under-enrolled schools?
19:30 40% of community college students are housing insecure
20:00 Bond money, votes, and a vision for families setting roots in San Diego
21:00 How to follow the initiative and access resources as they're published
21:45 Next episode teaser: Dr. Benjamin Freud, The Green School Bali

🎧 New episodes every Monday & Friday with bite-sized Wednesday reel bonus content.
📧 Connect with me if you’d like a thought partner to help you cultivate curious learners who advocate for what they believe in.
🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

Next Week: Dr. Benjamin Freud, Head of Upper School at Green School Bali, challenges everything we think we know about education, from the dangers of "global citizenship" as a mission statement to why rubrics and standardized assessment are fundamentally at odds with how learning actually works.

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

San Diego Unified's Solving the Housing Crisis for Their Educators

Wed, 01 Apr 2026 00:00:00 -0400

In this short, a visionary superintendent, Fabi Bagula, Ph.D., breaks down a bold, innovative approach to teacher retention and the housing crisis: repurposing district-owned land to develop affordable housing for employees, complete with on-site daycare and trade apprenticeships for students entering the workforce.

This is what school leadership done right looks like: tackling the real barriers to teacher retention, strengthening school culture, and driving education transformation from the top down.

If you're a school administrator, instructional leader, or anyone passionate about school improvement and education leadership, this will inspire you to think bigger about what's possible.

✅ No taxpayer funds used
✅ Affordable housing for educators
✅ Built-in daycare for staff
✅ Student apprenticeships in the trades

This is the future of school districts. Are you ready?

👇 Save this. Watch, reflect, and share Part 1 & Part 2 of our Schoolutions S5E31 interview with your team.

📌 Subscribe for more tools for empowered educators, teacher mentors, school counselors, instructional leaders, and anyone committed to thriving students and school change.

📚 Chapters
0:00– Intro: The Educator Housing Problem
0:08 – The Bold Idea: Using District Land
0:22 – No Taxpayer Money — Here's the Model
0:38 – Developer Proposals & Affordable Housing
0:50 – Adding Daycare for Educators
1:02 – Student Apprenticeships in the Trades

📧 Connect with me if you’d like a thought partner to help you cultivate curious learners who advocate for what they believe in.
🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

Don't forget to🔔SUBSCRIBE for more teaching tips, and 💬SHARE with fellow educators!

#Schoolutions #SchoolutionsPodcast #ForeverGettingBetter #CuriosityDriven #EvidenceBased #SchoolLeadership #EducationLeadership #TeacherHousing #AffordableHousing #EducatorRetention #SchoolImprovement #PrincipalStrategies #EmpoweredEducators #EducationTransformation #SchoolCulture #InstructionalLeadership #ProfessionalDevelopment #SchoolAdministrators #TeacherSupport #SchoolChange #SanDiegoSchools #TeacherRetention #StudentApprenticeships #DistrictLeadership #InnovativeLeadership

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

The Groundbreaking Plan to Stop Teachers From Being Priced Out of Their Own Communities

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 00:00:00 -0400

In part one of my S5E31 Schoolutions conversation, Dr. Fabi Bagula, Superintendent of San Diego Unified School District, discusses her authentic approach to leadership and its impact on education. She shares insights into critical teacher retention issues and the innovative, affordable housing solutions her team is implementing in San Diego, California. Fabi's commitment to equity and school improvement strategies is evident as she addresses the challenges and triumphs of leading with an open heart.

Fabi also speaks to why she refuses to call it an "achievement gap" (it's a support gap) and how she's avoided hardening in response to public criticism. This episode is essential listening for school administrators, instructional leaders, new teachers, teacher mentors, instructional coaches, families, and anyone invested in school improvement and education transformation.

Some Episode Mentions:
➡️Otto Scharmer, author of Presencing
➡️Marshall Elementary School
➡️Yale Broad Leadership Fellowship
➡️Monday 02/26 & Tuesday 02/27 board meetings, when they chose the final proposals for more information

📌 Part 2 drops Friday, where Fabi illuminates what emancipatory leadership looks and feels like in practice

📑 CHAPTERS
0:00 Introduction — Dr. Fabi Bagula, First Latina Superintendent of San Diego Unified
1:45 The researcher Fabi is leaning on: Otto Scharmer's Presencing
3:00 How they met 26 years ago at Marshall Elementary
4:30 Schools belong to the communities they serve
5:50 Stepping into unsteady terrain: building trust as a new superintendent
7:00 Why honest, hard conversations move schools AND people
8:00 The weight of carrying everyone's 10-year-old problems
9:30 Laying off 69 while creating 86, and why no one heard the good news
10:40 "Don't armor up" - the hardest part of leading with an open heart
12:30 The affordable housing crisis for San Diego educators
13:45 How the district turned 5 vacant properties into 30 developer bids
16:00 $4 billion in long-term revenue with zero taxpayer dollars
17:45 Why educators living in the communities they teach matters
19:00 Whole child AND whole adult education
20:30 Lightning Round: school culture, the support gap, and what teachers need to know
22:00 Teaser for Part 2

🎧 New episodes every Monday & Friday with bite-sized Wednesday reel bonus content.
📧 Connect with me if you’d like a thought partner to help you cultivate curious learners who advocate for what they believe in.
🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

Don't forget to🔔SUBSCRIBE for more teaching tips, and 💬SHARE with fellow educators!

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

100% Ask-Back Rate: Why Every School That Tries Portrait Pals Wants It Again

Fri, 27 Mar 2026 00:00:00 -0400

Part 2 of my ⁨Schoolutions conversation with Tonya Quinn from The Kindness Art Education details how her Portrait Pals program uses art to address critical attendance management issues. The initiative fosters a powerful kindness movement, helping to alleviate stress relief among students by connecting them through shared experiences. This approach significantly contributes to improving kids mental health and overall school engagement.

💫Make sure to check out Part 1 before this episode

In this episode, you'll discover:
→ The full Portrait Pals process: from professional photographer to curated gallery exhibition
→ How this program directly addresses chronic absenteeism and low engagement
→ Why inspiring students works better than enforcing behavior
→ The questionnaire questions that reveal what kids are really carrying
→ How active learning through portraiture weaves in math, science, anatomy, & narrative
→ What classroom belonging looks like when a child feels truly seen
→ How police officers, senior citizens, and kids in France are all Portrait Pals
→ What to say to a skeptical administrator who thinks there's no time or funding
→ The blank canvas moment and why it's the most important teaching tool in the room

Portrait Pals has a 100% ask-back rate from every school and community it touches. The only thing standing between this program and thousands more thriving students is resources. Share this episode with a teacher, principal, school counselor, or donor who believes every child deserves to thrive not just survive. Donate here.

Whether you're a teacher searching for instructional strategies that spark student motivation, an instructional coach looking for coaching strategies that produce real school change, a school leader committed to school culture and equity in education, or a parent who believes in the whole child this episode is essential listening.

CHAPTERS:
0:00 — Introduction: 31% chronic absenteeism & Portrait Pals
1:45 — The professional photographer & authentic self-presentation
3:30 — Anthony: "My pal looks like they could do something major one day"
5:45 — How Tonya matches pals across communities and countries
7:30 — The questionnaire: shared anxiety between rural America and France
9:00 — Supplies, structure & meeting community needs
10:45 — Police officers, Portrait Pals & "this is exactly what we needed"
13:30 — How many sessions & keeping it during the school day
15:00 — Portraits, math, science, anatomy & human skills
17:30 — Shape, light & shadow, and spirit the three elements of portraiture
18:45 — The gallery exhibition experience
20:00 — The girl with her head on her desk and what happened next
21:45 — 100% ask-back rate & how to get involved
23:00 — Closing reflections & how to support Portrait Pals

Next Week: We are heading to San Diego, where history is being made. San Diego Unified School District has nearly 3,000 affordable housing units in the pipeline for educators. Superintendent Fabi Bagula, Ph.D., is leading a charge to make sure the people who show up every day to serve students can actually afford to live in the communities they serve. That conversation is coming your way next week. Don't miss it.

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

The 3-Step Method Every Portrait Artist Needs

Wed, 25 Mar 2026 00:00:00 -0400

In this short, we discuss creating and painting portraits by focusing on three key areas: shape, light and shadow, and spirit. Tonya Quinn outlines how to paint a face by observing and interpreting human features, emphasizing that even simple shapes like parentheses can represent them. This approach provides valuable painting tips and painting techniques for artists of all levels.

By teaching students to read a face, not just draw it, children develop the skills to notice how a classmate is truly feeling, even when words aren't spoken. This is inclusive teaching and culturally responsive teaching in action. Students practice active learning by observing, interpreting, and responding to each other's emotional states, building empathy, classroom belonging, and student engagement naturally through the creative process.

When a child says, "He's smiling, but I think he's angry. I hope he takes a minute to calm down."

That's whole child development. That's inspiring students to care for one another. That's the kind of school culture that transforms classrooms.

Whether you're a teacher looking for innovative teaching and instructional strategies, an instructional coach seeking coaching strategies for professional development, a school administrator focused on school improvement and instructional leadership, or a parent exploring education at home and family partnerships, this clip will shift how you think about student motivation, student participation, and what effective teaching truly looks like.

🎨 Art becomes the doorway. Empathy becomes the lesson. Connection becomes the outcome.

👇 Save this. This is what education transformation looks like. Watch, reflect, and share Part 1 & Part 2 of our Schoolutions S5E30 interview with your team.

🗂️ CHAPTERS
0:00 — The Secret to Painting Portraits
0:05 — The 3-Part Framework: Shape, Light & Spirit
0:12 — Reading the Human Face
0:22 — What's Behind the Smile?
0:35 — Kids Teaching Kids Emotional Awareness
0:50 — How I Calm Myself When I'm Angry

📧 Connect with me if you’d like a thought partner to help you cultivate curious learners who advocate for what they believe in.
🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

Don't forget to 🔔SUBSCRIBE for more teaching tips, and 💬SHARE with fellow educators!

#Schoolutions #SchoolutionsPodcast #ForeverGettingBetter #CuriosityDriven #EvidenceBased #PortraitPals #TheKindnessArtEducation #ClassroomBelonging #StudentEngagement #EffectiveTeaching #InspiredTeaching #WholeChild #InclusiveTeaching #CulturallyResponsiveTeaching #EmpoweredEducators #TeacherCoaching #InstructionalCoaching #SchoolCulture #ActiveLearning #ProKidMindset #EquityInEducation #StudentSuccess #ThrivingStudents #EducationTransformation #TeacherImpact #SchoolLeadership #NewTeachers #ProfessionalDevelopment #ArtEducation #SELinSchools #EmpathyInEducation #PortraitDrawing #TeachingTips #InnovativeTeaching #SchoolImprovement #FamilyPartnerships #ParentInvolvement

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Every Child Needs These 4 Rules to Become an Artist

Mon, 23 Mar 2026 00:00:00 -0400

Part 1 of my S5E30 Schoolutions conversation, Tonya Quinn from The Kindness Art Education shares her journey, emphasizing the role of visual art and art for kids in shaping worldviews. This conversation highlights how art classes for beginners can ignite creativity and provide healing, even far from home. Tonya illuminates how personal hardship has fostered her powerful kindness movement.

In this episode, you'll discover:
→ The 4 rules for being an artist (and why they work for every child in every classroom)
→ Why active learning and student participation skyrocket when kids feel creative ownership
→ How Portrait Pals bridges generations to fight low engagement
→ What inclusive teaching actually looks like when you hand a child primary colors and say, "You can do this"
→ Why inspiring students starts with teaching them to listen to themselves first
→ The research from Harvard's Project Zero that proves arts access improves academic performance
→ A pro-kid mindset that goes beyond survival toward whole-child thriving

Whether you're a teacher looking for innovative teaching strategies, an instructional coach searching for coaching strategies that move the needle, a school leader focused on school culture and instructional leadership, or a parent exploring the home-school connection and family partnerships, this conversation is for you.

Some Episode Mentions:

📌 Part 2 drops Friday where we go inside the full Portrait Pals process.

If this moved you, share it with a teacher, principal, parent, or school counselor who believes every child deserves to thrive, not just survive.

CHAPTERS:
0:00 — Introduction & Tonya Quinn overview
1:45 — Harvard's Project Zero research on arts & student success
4:00 — How Tonya's parents shaped her pro-kid mindset
5:20 — 20 years in London: perspective, art galleries & inclusive teaching
8:30 — Launching a nonprofit during the pandemic
9:50 — The "How to Be an Artist" curriculum & 4 rules
13:00 — Every child deserves to thrive, not just survive
14:30 — The challenge sweet spot: frustration + growth in the classroom
16:30 — Making skin tone: the hardest and proudest moment
17:45 — Lightning round with Tonya Quinn

#schoolutionspodcast #forevergettingbetter #curiositydriven #PortraitPals

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Africa Has a Literacy Crisis. America Has an Economic Stake in Solving It.

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 00:00:00 -0400

In Part 2 of my Schoolutions conversation, Dr. Kris Nystrom (founder of Reading the World Inc.) connects the dots among global literacy rates, the world economy, and why what happens in a slum school in Nairobi has a profound economic impact. This discussion highlights the critical role of universal education in addressing poverty and fostering global awareness, underscoring the broader implications for finance and world news.

Kris shares:
🌍 Why student success in Kenya is directly tied to the global economy
📖 Project Ripple: a science of reading initiative in Nairobi slum schools with 100:1 student-teacher ratios
💡 The Good Hope Royalty Center, where "all children are royal" and street kids are given unconditional love and a future
🔁 The Sankofa philosophy: "You can go back and fix your mistakes"
👨‍👩‍👧 How one literate child creates a ripple of empowered educators, healthier families, and stronger communities

💫Make sure to watch Part 1 & donate here if you can.

📚 CHAPTERS:
00:00 Welcome & Sankofa: "You can go back and fix your mistakes"
02:00 Colonial history & why African literacy rates are low
04:30 Inside Nairobi slum schools: 100 students to 1 teacher
07:30 Project Ripple: science of reading training in APBET schools
09:00 Why global literacy matters to every economy
10:30 By 2050, 1/4 of the world will live in Africa
12:00 The ripple effect: one child teaches their parents to read
13:30 Good Hope Royalty Center & Faith Woge's unconditional love
16:30 "All children are royal" candles, soap & sustainable futures
17:30 How to support Reading the World Inc.
18:00 Closing reflection: the ripple is the whole thing

🔗 RESOURCES MENTIONED:

🎧 New episodes every Monday & Friday with bite-sized Wednesday reel bonus content.
📧 Connect with me if you’d like a thought partner to help you cultivate curious learners who advocate for what they believe in.
🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

Don't forget to 🔔SUBSCRIBE for more teaching tips, and 💬SHARE with fellow educators!

Next Week: We are going somewhere equally unexpected and equally beautiful. Portrait Pals, founded by Tonya Quinn, is redefining what art class can be — pairing children across communities to paint each other's portraits, and in doing so, teaching them that every face tells a story worth seeing.

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Where You're Born Shouldn't Decide Your Education

Wed, 18 Mar 2026 00:00:00 -0400

What does a child's birthplace have to do with their right to learn? Everything. And Dr. Kris Nystrom is doing something about it.

This clip explores the philosophical foundation of "reading the world," asserting that a child's place of birth should not dictate their access to education for all. It underscores the critical role of academic success in fostering social justice. This perspective drives the daily work of educators committed to education reform, questioning why any child should be treated as less than, and emphasizing the need for mental health support.

🌍 Support Reading the World Inc. by donating here.

In this clip:
- The philosophical foundation of Reading the World Inc.
- What "school deserts" are, and the 4 forces that create them
- Why the pro-kid mindset has no borders
- What culturally responsive teaching looks like at a global scale
- How student success begins with seeing the whole child

Save this. Share it with your school administrators, instructional leaders, and fellow teachers.

Watch, reflect, and share Part 1 & Part 2 of our Schoolutions S5E29 interview with your team.

📌 CHAPTERS
0:00 — The Quote That Drives Everything
0:12 — "Where One Is Born Cannot Be the Only Reason"
0:28 — Looking Kids in the Eyes: The Moral Case for Equity
0:45 — What Is a School Desert?
0:52 — Walking Through Lions to Get to Class
1:05 — Building Schools That Communities Own

📧 Connect with me if you’d like a thought partner to help you cultivate curious learners who advocate for what they believe in.
🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

Don't forget to 🔔SUBSCRIBE for more teaching tips, and 💬SHARE with fellow educators!

#Schoolutions #SchoolutionsPodcast #ForeverGettingBetter #CuriosityDriven #EvidenceBased #equityineducation #CulturallyResponsiveTeaching #SchoolDesert #GlobalLiteracy #WholeChild #StudentSuccess #InclusiveClassrooms #TeacherCoaching #InstructionalLeadership #SchoolImprovement #ProKidMindset #EmpoweredEducators #Schoolutions #ReadingTheWorld #TeachingTips #EducationTransformation #NewTeachers #MentorTeachers #FamilyPartnerships #SchoolCulture

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Lions, Floods, & Poverty: Knocking Down The Barriers Keeping African Kids Out of School

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 00:00:00 -0400

Part One of my S5E29 Schoolutions with Dr. Kris Nystrom highlights the critical need for education for all and how a dedicated "teacher" can drive education reform through direct action. It reframes our understanding of social justice in educational contexts and the profound impact of ensuring academic success globally.

In Part 1 of this conversation, Kris shares:
• How 10 years of global literacy research revealed a crisis hiding in plain sight
• What the "four horsemen of educational inequity" are (conflict, climate, geography, and cost) and why they demand a whole child approach
• Why good teaching always begins with student culture, and how bypassing that is itself a political act
• His community-first protocol for sustainable school building: no savior complex, no top-down solutions
• What it's really like when kids walk through lion and leopard territory just to reach a classroom

Kris founded Reading the World Inc. in 2024. Nobody takes a salary. Every dollar goes directly to children. Donate here.

🎙️ Part 2 drops this Friday, where we zoom out to the global literacy crisis and why it matters far beyond sub-Saharan Africa.

➡️Resource links

➡️Paulo Freire

➡️Umberto Eco

➡️Charles Sanders Peirce

➡️Stanislas Dehaene

➡️Maryanne Wolf

Chapters
0:00 Introduction: Who is Dr. Kris Nystrom?
1:40 Research foundations: Paulo Freire, semiotics, and how the brain reads
4:00 Why culturally responsive teaching is a moral stance
5:00 What is a school desert? The four horsemen of educational inequity
8:00 The real cost barriers keeping kids out of school
10:30 From Connecticut retirement to sub-Saharan Africa
12:30 The philosophical foundation: where you're born shouldn't determine access
13:40 Kris's community-first protocol for building schools
17:00 Lightning round: what keeps Kris up at night, biggest misconceptions
19:30 Preview of Part 2: global literacy and economic ripple effects

Join our community of educators committed to cultivating student success, inspired teaching, and creating inclusive classrooms with a pro-kid mindset focused on the whole child.

🎧 New episodes every Monday & Friday with bite-sized Wednesday reel bonus content.
📧 Connect with me if you’d like a thought partner to help you cultivate curious learners who advocate for what they believe in.
🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

Don't forget to 🔔SUBSCRIBE for more teaching tips, and 💬SHARE with fellow educators!

#readingtheworld #schoolutions #schoolutionspodcast #forevergettingbetter #evidencebasedstrategies #classroomreadystrategies #SchoolDeserts #GlobalLiteracy

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Federal Funding Threatened: Here's How Homeless Liaisons Fought Back

Fri, 13 Mar 2026 00:00:00 -0400

In Part 2 of my Schoolutions conversation, Erin Patterson from SchoolHouse Connection returns to detail legislative wins for families experiencing homelessness, showcasing how advocacy works amid federal budget cuts.

In this episode, you'll learn:

How $129 million in homeless education funding was zeroed out in the President's FY26 budget, and how SchoolHouse Connection got it restored through nonpartisan grassroots advocacy
What the McKinney-Vento Act actually guarantees for homeless students
The Homeless Children and Youth Act: the signature legislation that would align federal definitions so families in motels and doubled-up housing finally qualify for housing assistance
How the Thrive from the Start Coalition is mobilizing state-level action on infant and toddler homelessness, and why 48 states applied for just 10 grants

Mentions:
➡️Barbara Duffield
➡️Thomas J. Lucas (TJ)
➡️Thrive from the Start Coalition
➡️Advocacy Page
➡️Federal Policy Tracker
➡️Homeless Children and Youth Data Map
➡️McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act
➡️Every Student Succeeds Act
➡️Education for Homeless Children and Youth Program
➡️Homeless Children and Youth Act
➡️Individuals with Disabilities Education Act
➡️Resources for Homeless Education Liaisons

🎧 Watch Part I! Erin paints the full picture of what hidden homelessness looks like for children across America.

CHAPTERS

0:00 When the Budget Shows a Zero

1:45 FY26 Budget & Homeless Education

6:00 $129 Million Restored

7:30 McKinney-Vento Explained

10:00 Undocumented & Homeless

11:45 Dedicated Funding vs. Block Grants

13:00 Thrive from the Start

15:15 Homeless Children & Youth Act

16:30 How to Get Involved

Next Week: Dr. Kris Nystrom left retirement to tackle the world's lowest literacy rates in sub-Saharan Africa, one community at a time. This one will change how you see what's at stake when a child can't read.

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

The Truth About Childhood Homelessness

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 00:00:00 -0400

This clip with Erin Patterson of SchoolHouse Connection explores the often-overlooked reality of childhood homelessness, particularly for families with children. We learn that many children experiencing homelessness are having to "double up" with others, making them part of the invisible people in our communities.

These real-life stories shed light on how economic inequality contributes to the challenges faced by children experiencing homelessness.

Housing instability is one of the biggest hidden drivers of low engagement, classroom behavior challenges, and student motivation struggles. The whole child can't thrive when they don't know where they're sleeping tonight.

This is what equity in education and a pro-kid mindset actually look like in practice, when we see the full picture of a child's life.

Save this. Share it with your school administrators, instructional leaders, and fellow teachers.

👇 Watch, reflect, and share Part 1 & Part Two of our Schoolutions S5E28 interview with your team. 🚀📚 .

📚 CHAPTERS
0:00 – What most people picture when they hear "homeless"
0:10 – The shocking 80% statistic
0:25 – Motel hopping & the doubled-up reality
0:45 – What this means for students in your classroom

When coaches, teachers, administrators, and families work hand in hand, it fosters a school atmosphere where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged in their learning journey.

📧 Connect with me at https://www.oliviawahl.com/coaching-consulting if you’d like a thought partner to help you cultivate curious learners who advocate for what they believe in.
🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

Don't forget to 👍LIKE this video if it helped you, 🔔SUBSCRIBE for more teaching tips, and
💬SHARE with fellow educators! https://www.youtube.com/@schoolutionspodcast/

#Schoolutions #SchoolutionsPodcast #ForeverGettingBetter #CuriosityDriven #EvidenceBased #StudentEngagement #EquityInEducation #CulturallyResponsiveTeaching #WholeChild #ProKidMindset #InclusiveClassrooms #TeacherImpact #ClassroomBelonging #EffectiveTeaching #SchoolCulture #StudentSuccess #EmpoweredEducators #EducationTransformation #HomelessStudents #TeachingTips #InstructionalLeadership #SchoolLeadership #AntibiasTeaching #FamilyPartnerships #NewTeachers

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Who Are the Children Experiencing Homelessness in America?

Mon, 09 Mar 2026 00:00:00 -0400

In part 1 of this powerful S5E28 Schoolutions conversation, Erin Patterson, Senior Director of Strategic Initiatives at SchoolHouse Connection, pulls back the curtain on what homelessness in America truly looks like for children experiencing it. This conversation reveals how often the reality of a family experiencing homelessness is hidden, challenging common perceptions about critical social issues.

In this episode, you'll learn:

Why 80% of homeless students are "invisible" — and how that affects classroom behavior and student engagement
How housing instability shows up as fatigue, anxiety, and absenteeism (and what that means for effective teaching)
The data gap between HUD's definition of homelessness and what schools actually see
Why babies (yes, infants) are the age group most at risk of eviction
How a pro-kid mindset and the right education strategies can be a lifeline
The single resource Erin recommends for caregivers and educators who want to take action
Why transportation is the #1 unfunded need in this space

Resources mentioned:
➡️Sara Shaw
➡️Harvard Center on the Developing Child
➡️Point-in-Time (PIT) Count
➡️HUD definition of homelessness
➡️McKinney-Vento Act
➡️Voices of Youth

Don't miss Part 2 when Erin takes us inside Congress to break down the legislative wins for children experiencing homelessness and how YOU can be part of the change.

📑 CHAPTERS
0:00 Introduction: What Hidden Homelessness Really Looks Like
1:45 Meet Erin Patterson & SchoolHouse Connection
2:00 Key Research: Harvard Center on the Developing Child
3:30 Sara Shaw: The Nation's Leading Data Expert on Child Homelessness
4:30 What Homelessness Actually Looks Like for Families with Children
6:00 Why Children Experiencing Homelessness Are Invisible in Shelters
7:00 The Data Gap: HUD vs. Education Law Definitions
8:00 The Point-in-Time Count Problem
8:45 Washington DC: 9-10% of Infants & Toddlers Are Homeless
9:45 Why Children Can't Learn Without Stable Housing
10:30 Erin's Journey: From Teacher to Advocate
12:15 "The Classroom Showed Me the Symptoms"
13:00 Lightning Round: Hardest Part of the Job
14:00 The #1 Misconception About Child Homelessness
14:45 If You Had Unlimited Funding: Transportation
15:45 Best Resource for Educators & Caregivers
16:30 Preview: Part 2 — Inside Congress with SchoolHouse Connection

📧 Connect with me as a thought partner!
🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Talking with Skeptical Parents & Educators About Students Taking Action

Fri, 06 Mar 2026 00:00:00 -0500

Welcome back to Part Two of my S5E27 Schoolutions conversation. The dreaming is over, and it's time to move from empathy to action. Dr. Chris Hass and I get into the hard stuff: scripted curricula, skeptical parents, time constraints, and how to do this work even when the system feels like it's working against you.

Dr. Hass shares what research actually looks like from kindergarten through fifth grade, from K/1 students writing letters to restaurant managers about plastic straws, to fifth graders conducting year-long independent community inquiries. He makes the case that children are not waiting to be old enough, brave enough, or smart enough. They're ready right now.

Whether you're a classroom teacher with five minutes in a morning meeting or a school leader rethinking how literacy and social studies connect, this episode gives you concrete moves you can make tomorrow.

📚 Book mentioned: From Empathy to Action by Chris Hass, Katie Kelly & Lester Laminack, and Social Justice Talk by Chris Hass

🎧 Haven't listened to Part One yet? Start there first because this conversation builds directly on it.

Chapters:
0:00 — Welcome back: from dreaming to problem solving
1:30 — "My kids are too young" and answering the skeptics
3:30 — Scaffolding students toward independent action projects
5:00 — Scripted curricula: working within the constraints
7:00 — Finding the cracks: the 15% solution
9:00 — Advocating for your profession and your students
10:30 — What research looks like in K/1 classrooms
13:00 — Research structures in 2nd and 3rd grade
15:00 — Building toward independent 5th-grade inquiry
16:30 — AI, critical thinking, and why this work is future-proof
18:00 — Integrating literacy, social studies, and social justice
20:00 — Talking to skeptical parents and caregivers
22:00 — When kids need trusted adults to process hard news
24:00 — What schools doing this work can look forward to
25:30 — A closing passage from From Empathy to Action
27:00 — Next episode preview: Erin Patterson on student homelessness

Join our community of educators committed to cultivating student success, inspired teaching, and creating inclusive classrooms with a pro-kid mindset focused on the whole child.

🎧 New episodes every Monday & Friday with bite-sized Wednesday reel bonus content.
📧 Connect: schoolutionspodcast@gmail.com
🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

Don't forget to 🔔SUBSCRIBE for more teaching tips, and SHARE with fellow educators!

Next Week: I am sitting down with Erin Patterson of Schoolhouse Connection, and she is about to pull back the curtain on a crisis that most of us walk right past every single day. There are 1.3 million homeless students hiding in plain sight in our schools, and Erin has spent her career fighting for them at the highest levels. From landmark congressional wins to the ongoing fight to change federal law, this conversation will forever reshape how you see homelessness, how you see your students, and what you believe is possible when one person refuses to look away.

#SchoolutionsPodcast #ForeverGettingBetter #EmpathyToAction #StudentEngagement

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Which of the Three Kinds of Empathy Helps Us Take ACTION?

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 00:00:00 -0500

What does it really mean to be empathetic, and are we teaching kids the right kind?

In this reel, Dr. Chris Hass breaks down the 3 Forms of Empathy every educator, parent, and school leader needs to understand and why most people stop at the first one. Whether you're focused on classroom belonging, student engagement, or building a stronger school culture, this short snip from our conversation will reshape how you think about connection in your classroom and community.

We explore:
- Emotional Empathy: recognizing how someone feels
- Cognitive Empathy: understanding *why* they feel that way
- Compassionate Empathy: the form that actually moves us to act

The difference between feeling sorry for a student and doing something meaningful for them is everything. This is the shift that separates reactive teaching from inspiring students and creating thriving students who feel seen, heard, and supported.

For more information, get Chris's book, From Empathy to Action (co-authored with Katie Kelly and Lester Laminack)

👇 Watch, reflect, and share with your team. 🚀📚 Part 1 & Part Two of our ⁨ Schoolutions S5E27 interview.

🕐 CHAPTERS
0:00 - Introduction: Why Empathy Matters in Education
0:45 - What Most People Get Wrong About Empathy
1:30 - Form #1: Emotional Empathy: Feeling What Others Feel
2:15 - Form #2: Cognitive Empathy: Understanding the Root Cause
3:00 - Form #3: Compassionate Empathy: Empathy That Moves You to Act
4:10 - What Compassionate Empathy Looks Like in the Classroom
5:00 - The Difference Between Solving Problems and Being Present
5:45 - How Empathy Drives Student Success and School Culture

📧 Connect: schoolutionspodcast@gmail.com
🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

Don't forget to🔔SUBSCRIBE for more teaching tips, and 💬SHARE with fellow educators!

#Schoolutions #SchoolutionsPodcast #ForeverGettingBetter #CuriosityDriven #EvidenceBased #ClassroomReadyStrategies #EmpathyInEducation #ClassroomBelonging #StudentEngagement #TeachingTips #InstructionalCoaching #SchoolCulture #EffectiveTeaching #StudentMotivation #CompassionateEmpathy #InclusiveClassrooms #WholeChild #StudentSuccess #EmpoweredEducators #CulturallyResponsiveTeaching #EquityInEducation #ProKidMindset #TeacherSupport #SchoolLeadership #EducationTransformation #TeacherImpact #FamilyPartnerships #ParentCommunication #InspiringStudents #NewTeachers #ProfessionalDevelopment #InstructionalLeadership #SchoolImprovement #ActiveLearning #ThrivingStudents #InspiredTeaching

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Empathy without Action? That's the Real Problem!

Mon, 02 Mar 2026 00:00:00 -0500

In Part One of our S5E27 Schoolutions conversation, Dr. Chris Hass challenges our understanding of empathy, suggesting that simply feeling emotions might not lead to substantive change. This conversation delves into emotional intelligence, highlighting how moving beyond mere feelings to tangible actions is vital for social justice in childhood.

Chris is an assistant professor at James Madison University and co-author of From Empathy to Action with Katie Kelly and Lester Laminack. He asks us to consider whether teaching kids to feel empathy is actually getting in the way of real change.

Dr. Hass also introduces the three forms of empathy: emotional, cognitive, and compassionate, and explains why compassionate empathy is the one that actually moves students from caring to doing. You'll hear the remarkable true story of second and third graders who researched gender representation in street signs, presented to their city mayor and city council, and helped get a street renamed after Columbia's first Black female doctor.

This episode is for anyone who believes students are capable of more than we give them credit for — and wants the tools to prove it.

🎧 Part Two drops Friday, where we tackle the skeptics, scripted curricula, and nervous caregivers head-on.

From Chris: Using Literacy Instruction to Develop Student Activists & Empathy thru Education

Some episode mentions & resources:
📚 Book mentioned: From Empathy to Action by Chris Hass, Katie Kelly, & Lester Laminack
👩‍🏫 Researcher mentioned: Vivian Vasquez (critical literacy in early childhood)
📖 Books mentioned: Text, Lies & Videotape by Patrick Shannon

Chapters:
0:00 — Introduction: The empathy paradox
1:00 — About Schoolutions Podcast & Dr. Chris Hass
2:00 — Vivian Vasquez & what education could be
4:30 — Why feeling bad isn't the same as taking action
7:00 — Three forms of empathy explained
9:00 — What holds students (and adults) back from action
11:30 — Teaching into fear and discomfort
13:00 — The street sign project: second graders before city council
18:00 — How to structure inquiry-based action projects
21:00 — The fairytale study: when outcomes surprise you
24:00 — Lightning round: mistakes, literacy, and advice for new teachers
28:00 — The power of mentor texts & critical text sets
30:30 — Preview of Part Two

🎧 New episodes every Monday & Friday with bite-sized Wednesday reel bonus content.
📧 Connect: schoolutionspodcast@gmail.com
🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

Don't forget to🔔SUBSCRIBE for more teaching tips, and 💬SHARE with fellow educators!

#Schoolutions #SchoolutionsPodcast #ForeverGettingBetter #EmpathyToAction

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Taking Action When Feeling Badly Isn't Enough

Sun, 01 Mar 2026 00:00:00 -0500

This March, Schoolutions brings you 5 powerful conversations designed to inspire change in education, build hope, offer leadership skills, and transform how we show up for children, families, and communities. Whether you're an educator, school leader, or advocate, these discussions will meet you where you are.

🎙️ Here's what's coming this March:
✅ Dr. Chris Hass opens the month by exploring how empathy becomes action. This is a must-watch for anyone committed to student success and education transformation.
✅ Erin Patterson from SchoolHouse Connection returns to share landmark wins with Congress on behalf of children and families experiencing homelessness. Erin's work a powerful example of equity in education and family partnerships in action.
✅ Dr. Kris Nystrom, joining us from Africa, shares his inspiring work to end school deserts. It's a conversation rooted in instructional leadership, school improvement, and whole child thinking.
✅ Tonya Quinn from The Kindness Art Education introduces us to Portrait Pals. It's a beautiful project where children paint each other's portraits and learn through story. This is culturally responsive teaching, inclusive classrooms, and a pro-kid mindset at its finest.
✅ Dr. Fabi Bagula shares about the Affordable Fair Housing Initiative being put into place on behalf of San Diego Unified School District teachers. Their community is focused on home-school connection, caregiver support, and equity in education in a real and tangible way.

These conversations are for teachers, education coaches, school administrators, parents, homeschoolers, teacher mentors, instructional leaders, and school counselors who believe in the power of empowered educators and thriving students.

Join us this March. We can't wait to see you. 💙

🔔 Subscribe for education approaches that prioritize pro-kid mindset, inclusive teaching, and student participation!

CONNECT & SUBSCRIBE:
👍 Like if you're ready for education transformation
💬 Comment: Which guest are you most excited to hear?
🔔 Subscribe for weekly teaching tips and instructional strategies
📱 Share Wednesday reels with your teaching team

📚 CHAPTERS
0:00 — Introduction: 5 Conversations to Inspire Action
0:30 — Dr. Chris Hass: Turning Empathy Into Action
1:00 — Erin Patterson: Landmark Wins for Homeless Children & Families
1:30 — Dr. Kris Nystrom: Ending School Deserts
2:00 — Tonya Quinn: Portrait Pals & Culturally Responsive Learning
2:30 — Dr. Fabi Bagula: Affordable Fair Housing for San Diego Unified School District Teachers
3:00 — Join Us This March!

#Schoolutions #SchoolutionsPodcast #ForeverGettingBetter #StudentSuccess #EquityInEducation #EmpoweredEducators #InclusiveClassrooms #CulturallyResponsiveTeaching #SchoolLeadership #TeacherCoaching #InstructionalLeadership #ProKidMindset #WholeChild #FamilyPartnerships #HomeschoolConnection #EducationTransformation #SchoolImprovement #ThrivingStudents #ChildHomelessness #SchoolDeserts #FairHousing #PortraitPals #TheSmartSolutions #March2026 #InspiredTeaching #TeacherSupport #ProfessionalDevelopment #SchoolCulture

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

The Kindergarten Proposal NYC's Mayor Must Hear

Fri, 27 Feb 2026 00:00:00 -0500

Welcome back to Part Two of my S5E26 Schoolutions conversation with Dr. Beverly Falk and Dr. Nancy Cardwell.

🧠 What you'll learn in this episode:
💫The exact asks inside Beverly and Nancy's proposal and why Massachusetts and Connecticut have already led the way
💫How play-based learning actually builds the foundation children need to detect AI misinformation and fake news
💫What culturally responsive teaching looks like when it's grounded in community
💫Why assessment must move beyond standardized tests toward performance-based, observation-driven documentation
💫What student engagement looks like when children have choice, voice, and real problems to solve
💫Why screen time and AI need urgent guardrails and how play deprivation leaves children more vulnerable to misinformation
💫How school culture, classroom belonging, and trauma-informed approaches create the emotional steadiness children need to learn

📎 Resources:
➡️NYCPS Proposal to Support Play
➡️High Quality Early Learning Project ➡️Investigating Choice Time by Renée Dinnerstein
➡️Bronx Community Charter School Bronx River Study
➡️State resolutions supporting play-based learning
➡️NYC Mayor Mamdani's Education Transition Team

💫Check out Part One

📑 Chapters
0:00 — Welcome Back: What Part 2 Covers
2:00 — Why This Mayor, Why Now? The Story Behind the Proposal
3:30 — States Leading the Way
5:00 — The Equity Case: Why Rich Learning Must Be for ALL Children
6:30 — Starting the Day with Choice Time
8:00 — Play as a Tool for Democracy and Critical Thinking
9:00 — Why the Team Has Hope in NYC's New Mayor
11:00 — The High Quality Early Learning Project
13:00 — The Bronx River Study
15:30 — The Actual Proposal: Beverly Breaks Down the Asks
16:30 — The Science of Reading Has Been Distorted & Here's What's Missing
17:30 — Performance-Based Documentation
19:30 — Screen Time, AI, and What Children Really Need
20:30 — Redefining Early Childhood
22:00 — What Teachers Can Do RIGHT NOW Inside a Scripted School Day
25:00 — How Play Teaches Kids to Spot Misinformation and AI Fakes
28:00 — Schools as Training Grounds for Democracy
29:30 — Closing: This Is Not Nostalgia It's a Movement
31:00 — What's Coming Next Week

Next Week: Dr. Chris Hass, co-author of From Empathy to Action with Katie Kelly and Lester Laminack, makes a compelling case that even the youngest students can create real change. This conversation will challenge how you think about empathy research and what's truly possible in your classroom.

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Who Gets to Play at Your School?

Wed, 25 Feb 2026 00:00:00 -0500

This reel explores how budgets are truly narratives, reflecting what is valued and who is considered valuable. Understanding the principles of budgeting and personal finance can illuminate societal priorities. What does a school budget say about what we truly value? In this powerful reel, we explore how budgets aren't just numbers; they're narratives that reveal who we believe deserves opportunity, joy, and time to grow.

We dive deep into the role of play in education, asking a question that cuts to the heart of equity: Who gets to play? For children of wealthy families, play is assumed. For children in under-resourced communities, it's often treated as a luxury they can't afford. But what if that assumption is exactly what's holding our students back?

Looking at models like Denmark's approach to whole child development, we unpack the difference between acquiring knowledge and developing understanding and why that distinction matters for student success, classroom belonging, and truly inclusive classrooms.

Whether you're focused on instructional leadership, culturally responsive teaching, or simply trying to create a classroom where every child feels seen and valued, this episode will challenge you to rethink what school is really for.

🎯 Perfect for teachers, school administrators, instructional coaches, teacher mentors, school counselors, parents, homeschoolers, and anyone passionate about education transformation.

💡 Topics covered include: classroom belonging, student motivation, whole child development, equity in education, inclusive teaching, pro-kid mindset, school culture, and effective teaching strategies.

📌 If you believe in thriving students and empowered educators, subscribe and join our community of inspired teaching professionals working toward real school change.

🚀📚 Watch Part One & Part Two of our S5E26 Schoolutions interview.

Chapters
0:00 – Introduction: Budgets as Stories of Value
0:45 – Who Gets to Play? The Equity Question
1:30 – Play for Wealthy vs. Under-Resourced Students
2:15 – The Denmark Model: Educating the Whole Child
3:00 – Knowledge Acquisition vs. Developing Understanding
3:45 – What This Means for Classroom Belonging & Student Success
4:30 – Reimagining School Culture for Every Child

When coaches, teachers, administrators, and families work hand in hand, it fosters a school atmosphere where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged in their learning journey.

📧 Connect: schoolutionspodcast@gmail.com
🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

Don't forget to🔔SUBSCRIBE for more teaching tips, and 💬SHARE with fellow educators!

#schoolutions #schoolutionspodcast #forevergettingbetter #EquityInEducation #WholeChild #ClassroomBelonging #StudentSuccess #InclusiveTeaching #CulturallyResponsiveTeaching #EffectiveTeaching #ProKidMindset #SchoolCulture #EducationTransformation #TeacherCoaching #InstructionalLeadership #EmpoweredEducators #StudentEngagement #ActiveLearning #SchoolLeadership #TeachingTips #InspiredTeaching #NewTeachers #schoolimprovement

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

NYC Kindergarteners Are Being Diagnosed with Play Deprivation & We Can Change It

Mon, 23 Feb 2026 00:00:00 -0500

Part One of my S5E26 ⁨Schoolutions conversation explores the current state of kindergarten education, questioning what a typical kindergarten day looks like and what it should be. Dr. Beverly Falk and Dr. Nancy Cardwell explore the neuroscience of play, highlighting the impacts of scripted curricula on young learners and emphasizing that play deprivation is a measurable issue that needs to be addressed for healthy child development.

This discussion offers valuable insights for parents and teachers alike, focusing on childhood and mental health in early learning environments.

🧠 What you'll learn in this episode:
💫Why scripted curricula are causing real, measurable harm to young children — and who profits from it
💫What neuroscience reveals about active learning vs. worksheets and skill-and-drill instruction
💫How play deprivation shows up in classrooms as anger, withdrawal, and low engagement
💫What Denmark's forest schools and empathy model can teach us about inclusive classrooms and student success
💫Why "fidelity to the curriculum" must be replaced with fidelity to the learner — a cornerstone of culturally responsive teaching and equity in education
💫What Beverly and Nancy's proposal to NYC's Mayor and education transition team actually recommends

Some episode mentions & resources:
➡️Center on the Developing Child at Harvard University
➡️Lillian Dropkin Weber Papers
➡️Mary Helen Immordino-Yang
➡️Denmark's forest school model
➡️Bank Street Teaching Kindergarten Conference, March 13-14, 2026

Don't miss the continuation of this powerful conversation! In Part 2, where Beverly and Nancy get specific. What are they actually asking for? What does their proposal say, and what can teachers do right now, even inside the constraints of a scripted school day? This is behind-the-scenes work that is giving me, and I hope it gives you, real grounded hope.

📑 Chapters
0:00 — Introduction: What Should Kindergarten Look Like?
2:00 — Meet Dr. Beverly Falk & Dr. Nancy Cardwell
3:00 — Research That Grounds Play-Based Learning
5:00 — What a Typical Kindergarten Day Looks Like NOW (vs. What It Should)
7:30 — The Neuroscience of Play: How the Brain Actually Learns
10:00 — Worksheets vs. Hands-On Learning: The Real Data
11:30 — 95% of Brain Architecture Built by Age 5
13:00 — Fidelity to Children vs. Fidelity to Curriculum
14:00 — The Cost of Scripted Curricula — Literally
16:30 — Denmark's Empathy & Forest School Model
20:30 — What NYC Schools Could Borrow Tomorrow
22:00 — Lightning Round: Honest Takes on Early Childhood Today
25:00 — What Gives Beverly & Nancy Hope Right Now
25:45 — Preview of Part 2: The Proposal for NYC's Mayor

🎧 New episodes every Monday & Friday with bite-sized Wednesday reel bonus content.
📧 Connect: schoolutionspodcast@gmail.com
🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

The Brain State Hierarchy Every Teacher Must Understand

Fri, 20 Feb 2026 00:00:00 -0500

Welcome back to Part Two of my S5E25 Schoolutions conversation with Dr. Courtney Bishop. Courtney shares a collaborative approach during an IEP special education meeting. This video offers essential IEP tips for parents and special education advocates to effectively support children with special needs.

What You'll Discover:
✅ How to prepare for your first IEP meeting with confidence
✅ The mindset shift that changes everything for educators AND parents
✅ What data to track and how to notice patterns
✅ The brain states framework every adult needs to understand
✅ Professional development that actually transforms practice
✅ How to give yourself grace in the journey

This episode reveals the neuroscience behind regulation and executive functioning, showing why adults must regulate FIRST before children can learn. Perfect for parents, teachers, instructional coaches, school counselors, mentor teachers, new teachers, school administrators, and anyone committed to student success, family partnerships, and home-school connection.

🧠 Essential Framework: Conscious Discipline Brain States
🎯 Focus: IEP advocacy, data collection, caregiver-educator partnerships

💫Check out Part One

Chapters
0:00 Introduction - Your IEP Advocacy Toolkit
1:00 Welcome Back - Part Two with Dr. Courtney Bishop
2:00 First IEP Meeting - What Every Caregiver Should Know
3:00 Assuming Best Intent on All Sides
4:00 Communicating Your Child's Needs Effectively
6:00 Notice and Name - Sharing Observable Behaviors
7:00 Building Team Child - Transparent Communication
8:00 What Data Should Caregivers Track?
9:00 Tracking Patterns and Regulation Tipping Points
10:00 Essential PD - Understanding Brain States
11:00 The Brain State Hierarchy Explained
12:00 Connection Before Correction - The Key to Learning
13:00 Parting Words - Grace for Neurodivergent Journeys
15:00 Celebrating Neurodivergent Strengths
16:00 Next Week - Play Deprivation Crisis in NYC Schools
17:00 Closing - Choose Connection Over Compliance

Join our community of educators committed to cultivating student success, inspired teaching, and creating inclusive classrooms with a pro-kid mindset focused on the whole child.

🎧 New episodes every Monday & Friday with bite-sized Wednesday reel bonus content.
📧 Connect: schoolutionspodcast@gmail.com
🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

Don't forget to🔔SUBSCRIBE for more teaching tips, and 💬SHARE with fellow educators! h

Next Week: Dr. Beverly Falk and Dr. Nancy Cardwell from CCNY reveal a shocking trend: NYC pediatricians are now diagnosing kindergarteners with play deprivation-induced anxiety and depression. These veteran educators expose how scripted curricula are creating a public health crisis and share their six-point proposal they're bringing to Mayor Mamdani to save early childhood education.

#schoolutions #schoolutionspodcast #schoolutionsteachingstrategies #forevergettingbetter #IEPAdvocacy #NeurodivergenteSupport #ParentPartnership #InclusiveEducation #SpecialEducation #TeacherTraining #SchoolLeadership #FamilyEngagement #BrainScience #StudentSuccess #ProfessionalDevelopment #InstructionalCoaching #HomeSchoolConnection #CulturallyResponsiveTeaching #WholeChild #EmpoweredEducators #EducationTransformation #ProKidMindset #IEP #specialeducation #neurodivergent #parentadvocacy #teachers #inclusiveeducation #ADHD #autism

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Your Regulation Is Their Regulation

Wed, 18 Feb 2026 00:00:00 -0500

This reel explores how emotional states impact behavior, especially in children when adults are upset. We discuss crucial brain science principles, highlighting the brain's survival mechanisms and the critical need for a sense of safety for emotional regulation. Understanding these dynamics offers practical parenting tips and effective behavior management strategies, fostering greater emotional intelligence in both children and adults.

Drawing on Conscious Discipline research, Dr. Courtney Bishop breaks down the three brain states: survival, emotional, and executive, and why a child's brain cannot rise higher than the adult's. If you're struggling with low engagement, classroom behavior challenges, or student motivation, understanding this neuroscience is a game-changer for your teaching.

You'll learn:
- Why students fight, flee, freeze, or fawn — and what their brain is actually asking
- How classroom belonging and feeling safe are prerequisites for learning
- Why adult regulation is the foundation of effective teaching and student engagement
- How instructional strategies rooted in brain science create truly inclusive classrooms
- What this means for teacher coaching, instructional coaching, and professional development

🚀📚 Watch Part One & Part Two of our ⁨Schoolutions S5E25 interview.

Whether you're a new teacher, a veteran educator, an instructional leader, or a school administrator, this insight will transform how you approach student participation, lesson planning, and school culture.

📌 CHAPTERS
00:00 – Introduction: What's Happening in the Brain
00:30 – The Survival Brain: Fight, Flight, Fawn, Freeze
01:00 – The Emotional Brain: What Kids Are Really Asking For
01:30 – Why Adults Must Regulate First
02:00 – Conscious Discipline & the Science of Connection
02:30 – What This Means for Your Classroom

📧 Connect: schoolutionspodcast@gmail.com
🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

Don't forget to 🔔SUBSCRIBE for more teaching tips, and 💬SHARE with fellow educators!

#schoolutions #schoolutionspodcast #forevergettingbetter #ClassroomBehavior #StudentEngagement #ClassroomBelonging #ConsciousDiscipline #EffectiveTeaching #InstructionalCoaching #TeacherSupport #NewTeachers #ProfessionalDevelopment #SchoolLeadership #InclusiveClassrooms #ProKidMindset #WholeChild #StudentSuccess #EmpoweredEducators #EquityInEducation #CulturallyResponsiveTeaching #TeacherImpact #EducationTransformation #InspiredTeaching

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

What Neurodivergent Children ACTUALLY Need to Learn

Mon, 16 Feb 2026 00:00:00 -0500

Part One of my S5E25 Schoolutions conversation challenges traditional classroom management. Dr. Courtney Bishop, a neurodivergent mom, shares a vital neuroscience principle that can reshape parenting neurodivergent kids and improve IEP meetings. This insight offers a fresh perspective for parents navigating school challenges and understanding their child's needs.

What You'll Learn:
✨ Why traditional behavior systems fail neurodivergent kids
✨ The difference between regulation and resilience (and why we need BOTH)
✨ Universal tools that work for educators, parents, and leaders
✨ Red flags that schools aren't neurodivergence-informed
✨ How to shift from deficit-focused to strength-based approaches

Courtney shares her signature framework for raising regulated AND resilient humans, debunking the myth that emotional awareness creates "soft" kids. This is essential viewing for teachers, education coaches, school administrators, parents, homeschoolers, teacher mentors, instructional leaders, and school counselors committed to inclusive teaching, culturally responsive teaching, and equity in education.

Some episode mentions:
➡️John Hattie's Visible Learning
➡️Conscious Discipline

Don't miss the continuation of this powerful conversation! In Part 2, Dr. Courtney Bishop shifts from systems-level change to practical, actionable strategies you can implement immediately.

Chapters:
0:00 Introduction - Why Traditional Behavior Systems Fail
1:00 Meet Dr. Courtney Bishop - Neurodivergent Mom & Conscious Discipline Coach
2:00 Research Foundation - Making Thinking Visible
3:00 The Crisis in Education for Neurodivergent Children
4:00 Why Traditional Behavior Management Fails Neurodivergent Kids
6:00 The Yes And Conscious Coaching Framework
8:00 Raising Regulated and Resilient Humans
10:00 The Truth About Regulation vs. Resilience
12:00 Empathy Over Toughness - A New Generation
13:00 Coaching Adults vs. Teaching Children
15:00 Universal Supports - Finding Common Ground
17:00 When Parents and Schools Meet Fire with Fire
18:00 Tools and Resources for Caregivers
19:00 Lightning Round - Myths About Neurodivergent Students
20:00 Red Flags - Schools That Aren't Prepared
21:00 60 Seconds with the Secretary of Education
23:00 Preview of Part Two - Tactical IEP Strategies

Join our community of educators committed to cultivating student success, inspired teaching, and creating inclusive classrooms with a pro-kid mindset focused on the whole child.

🎧 New episodes every Monday & Friday with bite-sized Wednesday reel bonus content.
📧 Connect: schoolutionspodcast@gmail.com
🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

Don't forget to 🔔SUBSCRIBE for more teaching tips, and 💬SHARE with fellow educators!

#schoolutions #schoolutionspodcast #schoolutionsteachingstrategies #forevergettingbetter #neurodivergent #education #teachers #classroommanagement #studentengagement #inclusiveteaching #specialeducation #teachercoaching #schoolleadership #parentingtips #ADHD #autism #professionalDevelopment #educationalleadership #teachersupport #inclusiveclassrooms #equityineducation #wholchild #studentsuccess #educationtransformation #NeurodivergenteEducation #InclusiveClassroom #TeacherSupport #StudentSuccess #EducationReform #ClassroomBehavior #ProfessionalDevelopment #SchoolLeadership

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

The Brain Science Behind Better Writing Instruction

Fri, 13 Feb 2026 00:00:00 -0500

Welcome back to Part Two of my S5E24 Schoolutions conversation with Melanie Meehan and Maggie Beattie Roberts, where we explore how understanding the brain's role can inform "how to write" instruction. This discussion makes practical connections between neuroscience and effective teaching strategies, ensuring educators can apply cognitive science principles to foster better writers. This is all about actionable education insights for every classroom.

And this isn't just theory. Maggie and Melanie break down the minute moves that unlock possibilities, the progression charts that guide your next teaching step, and how explaining brain science to students transforms their relationship with writing.

Discover why you can do transformative work in just a few minutes, how to make writing equitable for all learners, and what to do with that writer slumped over their desk, gripping a pencil in their fist. Most importantly: Writing is thinking. At this critical juncture, with AI offering to do that cognitive work for our students, we cannot let go of teaching this essential skill.

What You'll Learn:
✅ How to navigate a research-heavy book when you're overwhelmed
✅ The "minute moves" that create a big impact in just minutes
✅ Why explaining brain science to students changes everything
✅ How one seventh grader went from writing-averse to engaged
✅ Making writing accessible and equitable for all learners
✅ Practical strategies for any curriculum or writing program

💫Check out Part One

📚 Pre-order Foundational Skills for Writing now—releases February 24th!🎯 Start with the chapter that speaks to YOUR most puzzling writer.

Chapters
0:00 - Introduction: Making Research Practical
1:00 - Welcome Back: From Theory to Practice
2:00 - Addressing the "This Sounds Dense" Concern
4:00 - How to Navigate the Book's Architecture
6:00 - Using Foundational Skills with Any Curriculum
7:00 - The Bigger Vision: Equity and Access
9:00 - Speaking Brain Language with Students
10:00 - The Seventh Grader Who Became a Braver Writer
13:00 - Minute Moves: Big Impact in Small Time
15:00 - Writing is Thinking: The AI Imperative
16:00 - Final Thoughts and Pre-Order Information
17:00 - Next Week: Dr. Courtney Bishop on Neurodivergence
18:00 - Closing and Subscribe

Join our community of educators committed to cultivating student success, inspired teaching, and creating inclusive classrooms with a pro-kid mindset focused on the whole child.

🎧 New episodes every Monday & Friday with bite-sized Wednesday reel bonus content.
📧 Connect: schoolutionspodcast@gmail.com
🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

Don't forget to🔔SUBSCRIBE for more teaching tips, and 💬SHARE with fellow educators!

Next Week: Dr. Courtney Bishop takes us deeper into the brain with her journey as a neurodivergent mom and educator. She'll reveal why traditional behavior management fails our kids and how her conscious coaching framework helps adults pause, shift their narratives, and create genuine connection—because here's the truth: children can't reach their learning brain until we regulate our own.

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Nurturing Stronger Writers by Strengthening These 3 Executive Functions

Wed, 11 Feb 2026 00:00:00 -0500

Maggie Beattie Roberts highlights brain-based, whole-child teaching at its most practical. It's exactly the kind of insight that transforms how teachers approach lesson planning, student engagement, and instructional strategies for learners who seem "stuck."

What if the reason your students struggle with writing has nothing to do with effort — and everything to do with how their brain is wired? In this clip, we break down the three core executive functions that make or break a student's writing experience: working memory, cognitive flexibility, and inhibitory control.

Think of executive functions like the stagehands of a Broadway production. Nobody sees them — but without them, the whole show falls apart. When we understand and support these behind-the-scenes cognitive processes, we give students the neurological foundation they need to actually *do* the work a writing curriculum demands.

🧠 In this video, you'll learn:
➡️What executive functions are and why they matter for writing
➡️The 3 categories every educator needs to know: working memory, cognitive flexibility & inhibitory control
➡️Why low engagement or avoidance in writing may be an executive function issue — not a behavior issue
➡️How supporting executive functions builds student success from the ground up
➡️What this means for inclusive teaching, instructional coaching, and classroom practice

Whether you're a classroom teacher, instructional coach, school counselor, or school leader, understanding executive functions is one of the most powerful tools you can add to your practice.

👇 Drop a comment: Which executive function do you see students struggle with most in your classroom?

🚀📚 Watch Part One & Part Two of our ⁨Schoolutions S5E24 interview.

Chapters
0:00 - Introduction: Why Students Struggle with Writing
0:08 - The Three Categories of Executive Functions
0:20 - The Stagehand Analogy: Executive Functions Explained
0:38 - What Happens When Executive Functions Break Down
0:52 - Supporting Executive Functions to Build Writing Skills
1:05 - Engaging the Cognitive Motors for Writing Success

📧 Connect: schoolutionspodcast@gmail.com
🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

Don't forget to 🔔SUBSCRIBE for more teaching tips, and 💬SHARE with fellow educators!

#ExecutiveFunctions #WorkingMemory #CognitiveFlexibility #InhibitoryControl #WritingInstruction #BrainBasedLearning #StudentEngagement #StudentSuccess #WholeChild #ProKidMindset #InclusiveTeaching #EffectiveTeaching #InstructionalCoaching #TeacherCoaching #ClassroomBelonging #EquityInEducation #InspiringStudents #ThrivingStudents #EmpoweredEducators #SchoolCulture #ActiveLearning #TeachingTips #InnovativeTeaching #ProfessionalDevelopment #InstructionalLeadership #SchoolImprovement #EducationTransformation #TeacherImpact #NewTeachers #MentorTeachers #schoolutions #schoolutionsteachingstrategies #schoolutionspodcast #forevergettingbetter

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

The Metacognition Shift That Makes Spelling Actually Make Sense

Wed, 11 Feb 2026 00:00:00 -0500

Melanie Meehan shares a practical strategy for teaching spelling that focuses on understanding the brain's role in the process. Learn how to teach spelling by incorporating brain diagrams, a method successfully used with a seventh grader who struggled with writing. Melanie's teaching tips aim to improve student comprehension and confidence in their education journey.

What happens when a struggling 7th-grade writer finally understands why spelling is hard and how his brain can change? Something powerful shifts when educators take time to explain the why behind learning, showing students brain diagrams, teaching spelling patterns, and giving learners the language to understand their own thinking.

Whether you're a classroom teacher, instructional coach, mentor teacher, or school leader, this moment captures the heart of inclusive, equity-driven education: meeting every student where they are and helping them understand themselves as learners.

🧠 Topics covered in this video:
➡️Using metacognition to unlock student potential
➡️Brain-based spelling instruction and morphology
➡️Supporting students with low engagement or learning struggles
➡️How teacher coaching transforms classroom practice
➡️Culturally responsive and pro-kid teaching in action

🚀📚 Watch Part One & Part Two of our ⁨⁨Schoolutions S5E24 interview.

📑 Chapters
0:00 - Introduction: A 7th Grader's Writing Journey
0:12 - Using the Spelling Chapter & Teaching Protocols
0:28 - Explaining the Brain Diagram to the Student
0:44 - Teaching Morphology & Spelling Patterns
0:58 - The Power of Metacognition in Spelling Instruction
1:10 - Why This Approach Was a Game Changer

📧 Connect: schoolutionspodcast@gmail.com
🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

Don't forget to🔔SUBSCRIBE for more teaching tips, and 💬SHARE with fellow educators!

#InstructionalCoaching #TeacherCoaching #EffectiveTeaching #StudentSuccess #ClassroomBelonging #MetaCognition #SpellingInstruction #Morphology #InclusiveTeaching #EquityInEducation #ProKidMindset #WholeChild #SchoolImprovement #EducationLeadership #TeachingTips #NewTeachers #MentorTeachers #EmpoweredEducators #SchoolCulture #ActiveLearning #StudentEngagement #InspiringStudents #EducationTransformation #TeacherImpact #CulturallyResponsiveTeaching #BrainBasedLearning #ProfessionalDevelopment #InstructionalLeadership #InnovativeTeaching #thrivingstudents #schoolutions #schoolutionsteachingstrategies #schoolutionspodcast #forevergettingbetter

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Writing Starts in the Brain, Not on the Page

Mon, 09 Feb 2026 00:00:00 -0500

Part One of my S5E24 Schoolutions ⁨conversation uncovers why underdeveloped executive functioning for kids can impact areas like working memory and response inhibition. Melanie Meehan and Maggie Beattie Roberts make foundational writing skills accessible by highlighting how understanding executive function deficits can completely change how we approach literacy education. We discuss how addressing these executive dysfunction challenges can support a child's development into a more confident writer.

Discover why writing instruction can't wait any longer in literacy conversations. In this powerful episode, Maggie and Melanie reveal the foundational skills we've been overlooking in writing instruction and how understanding executive functions transforms everything—from that first capital letter to complex compositions.

As a special education teacher turned writing coordinator and a national literacy consultant, Maggie and Melanie unpack their groundbreaking book Foundational Skills for Writing: A Brain-Based Guide to Strengthen Executive Functions, Language, and Other Cornerstones for Writing. Learn how eight regions of the brain coordinate when a child picks up a pencil, why handwriting is a gateway to literacy, and how the solar system writing model changes everything we thought we knew about teaching writing.

Some episode mentions:

➡️Young-Suk Grace Kim
➡️Steve Graham
➡️The Writing Clinic
➡️Melanie's other books
➡️Two Writing Teachers
➡️Maggie's books: DIY Literacy & Unboxing the Curriculum

Stay tuned for Part Two on Friday, where we dive into practical strategies you can use tomorrow!

Chapters
0:00 - Introduction: The Hidden Challenge in Writing Instruction
1:00 - Meet Maggie Roberts and Melanie Meehan
2:00 - Foundational Skills for Writing: The Book Overview
3:00 - Research That Changed Everything
5:00 - The Origin Story: A Conference Napkin Conversation
7:00 - The Solar System Writing Model Explained
10:00 - Brain at Work: Understanding the Writing Brain
13:00 - Executive Functions: The Stage Hands of Writing
16:00 - Handwriting as a Gateway to Literacy
19:00 - The Writing Clinic: Supporting All Writers
20:00 - Lightning Round: Myths, Truths, and Strategies
24:00 - Coming Up in Part Two

Join our community of educators committed to cultivating student success, inspired teaching, and creating inclusive classrooms with a pro-kid mindset focused on the whole child.

🎧 New episodes every Monday & Friday with bite-sized Wednesday reel bonus content.
📧 Connect: schoolutionspodcast@gmail.com
🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

Don't forget to🔔SUBSCRIBE for more teaching tips, and 💬SHARE with fellow educators!

#schoolutions #forevergettingbetter #WritingInstruction #LiteracyDevelopment #FoundationalSkills

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Family Life Outside of School for Children with Disabilities

Fri, 06 Feb 2026 00:00:00 -0500

Welcome back to Part Two of my S5E23 Schoolutions conversation with Stacey Shubitz. We discuss the importance of looking beyond just IEP goals and accommodations in special education. Stacey emphasizes considering child development and the need for downtime, joy, and culturally relevant books. Caregivers can use these parenting tips to provide emotional support and foster inclusive education for children with disabilities outside of school hours.

Stacey reveals the surprising advice a speech pathologist gave her: "Take care of your marriage," tucked between recommendations for two-word sentences was perhaps the most important guidance she'd receive. She shares what happens when caregivers don't take care of themselves (shorter fuses, emotional overwhelm, everything feeling like a catastrophe) and the permission we all need to hear: it's okay to skip therapy homework sometimes.

This isn't about surviving—it's about thriving. About curating joy intentionally. About finding children's books that help siblings develop empathy. About protecting your relationships while advocating for your child.

Key Topics Covered:
- The 130 hours: structuring life beyond school walls
- Permission to take "speech therapy vacations" and why downtime matters
- Curating joy vs. relentless therapy schedules
- Children's books as windows, mirrors, and doors for disability understanding
- Supporting siblings through literature and conversation
- Caregiver self-care isn't optional—it's essential
- Nurturing couple relationships while parenting children with disabilities
- What happens when we don't take care of ourselves
- Creating safe spaces for family dialogue about disability
- The whole child approach to family life

💫Check out Part One if you missed it on Monday!

🔗 Get Stacey's book: Make the School System Work for Your Child With Disabilities at (PROMO CODE EMJAN1533 for 15% off (expires 2/21/26)

Chapters
0:00 Introduction: The 130 Hours Nobody Talks About
1:00 Beyond IEPs: Life Outside School Walls
2:00 Welcome Back: Part 2 with Stacey Shubitz
3:00 Why Include Life Beyond School?
4:00 Permission to Take Speech Therapy Vacations
5:00 Curating Joy Intentionally
5:30 The Importance of Downtime and Rest
6:00 When Your Child Says "I Can't Practice Today"
7:00 Vision Therapy Without Homework: A Game Changer
8:00 Modeling Healthy Rest Habits
8:30 Connection Through Reading Together
9:00 Children's Books That Nurture Empathy
10:00 Windows, Mirrors, and Doors in Disability Literature
11:00 Books for Siblings: Building Understanding
12:00 Creating Safe Spaces for Family Dialogue
13:00 What Happens When Caregivers Don't Self-Care
14:00 The Marriage Advice That Changed Everything
15:00 Finding Your Anchor: Partners and Support Systems
16:00 Vulnerability, Mentorship, and Gratitude
17:00 Resources and Book Recommendations
18:00 Promo Code for Stacey's Book
18:30 Next Week: Foundational Writing Skills Research
19:00 Closing: You're Doing Better Than You Think

Next Week: Melanie Meehan and Maggie Beattie Roberts are joining me to reveal groundbreaking research behind their new book on foundational writing skills. We're unpacking how understanding the brain's role in writing—from handwriting to executive function—can transform how we teach every child to become a confident, capable writer.

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

The Truth About School Evaluations Parents Need to Hear

Wed, 04 Feb 2026 00:00:00 -0500

Discover a powerful perspective shift on educational evaluations that eliminates stigma and empowers families. In this transformative reel clip, Stacey Shubitz shares how one parent reframed the evaluation process as "finding the key to unlock the brain" – a beautiful metaphor that changes everything about how we approach student struggles and student success.

If your child is experiencing low engagement, classroom behavior challenges, or attention in class difficulties, this video offers hope and clarity. Educational evaluations aren't about labels – they're about understanding the whole child and creating pathways to thriving students through culturally responsive teaching, inclusive classrooms, and effective teaching strategies.

Perfect for teachers, education coaches, school administrators, parents, homeschoolers, teacher mentors, instructional leaders, and school counselors seeking to build a pro-kid mindset and strengthen the home-school connection.

What You'll Learn:
• How to eliminate evaluation stigma for families and students
• A powerful way to explain evaluations that empowers children
• Why seeking help through evaluation supports student engagement and student motivation
• Building equity in education through understanding and support
• Strengthening parent communication and family partnerships
• Creating inclusive teaching environments that celebrate every learner

This approach supports classroom belonging, student participation, and education transformation by shifting from shame to solution-focused support. Whether you're involved in instructional coaching, teacher support, professional development, or parent involvement, this message reinforces that evaluations create easier pathways for learning and living.

For: New teachers, mentor teachers, instructional leaders, school leadership teams, and caregivers seeking innovative teaching strategies and caregiver support.

Building school culture that prioritizes the whole child, teacher impact, and inspired teaching starts with changing the conversation around support and evaluation.

🚀📚 Watch Part One (https://youtu.be/VP81-Crxvwc) & Part Two (https://youtu.be/xen2OnJjiRM) of our Schoolutions S5E23 interview.

Chapters:
0:00 - Introduction: A Parent's Powerful Perspective
0:15 - The "Key to Unlock the Brain" Metaphor
0:35 - Breaking Down the Evaluation Stigma
0:50 - Evaluation as Help, Not a Label
1:10 - Making School and Home Easier for Children
1:25 - Final Thoughts: Empowering Families Through Understanding

📧 Connect: schoolutionspodcast@gmail.com
🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

Don't forget to 🔔SUBSCRIBE for more teaching tips, and 💬SHARE with fellow educators! https://www.youtube.com/@schoolutionspodcast/

#EducationalEvaluation #StudentSuccess #ProKidMindset #InclusiveEducation #ParentSupport #TeacherSupport #WholeChild #EquityInEducation #ThrivingStudents #SchoolCulture #InstructionalCoaching #FamilyPartnerships #CulturallyResponsiveTeaching #EmpoweredEducators #EducationTransformation #TeacherImpact #StudentEngagement #InclusiveClassrooms #AntiBiasTeaching #professionaldevelopment #schoolutions #schoolutionsteachingstrategies #schoolutionspodcast #forevergettingbetter

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Make the School System Work for Your Child with Disabilities

Mon, 02 Feb 2026 00:00:00 -0500

Part One of my S5E23 Schoolutions conversation, literacy specialist and parent Stacey Shubitz shares her dual perspective on navigating special education. If you've ever felt lost in IEP meetings or unsure how to advocate for your child, this episode is your roadmap.

Stacey, author of Make the School System Work for Your Child With Disabilities, reveals why leading with your child's strengths—not deficits—changes everything. She breaks down the difference between IEPs and 504 plans, shares the exact phrases to use when schools push back on accommodations, and explains why evaluations are actually keys to unlocking easier learning paths for your child.

Whether you're a teacher wanting to better support families, a parent feeling overwhelmed by the system, or an administrator seeking to improve parent communication and family partnerships, you'll walk away with practical strategies you can use tomorrow.

Key Topics Covered:
- Special education vs. general education: understanding the difference
- IEPs vs. 504 plans explained clearly
- Leading with strengths in the evaluation process
- Effective teaching strategies for inclusive classrooms
- Parent involvement and home-school connection best practices
- Professional development for supporting students with disabilities
- Culturally responsive teaching and equity in education
- Student engagement and classroom belonging for all learners
- Teacher support and instructional coaching insights
- Self-care for caregivers navigating the special education system

Get in touch with Stacey:

🔗 Get Stacey's book: PROMO CODE EMJAN1533 for 15% off ***promotion expires February 21, 2026

Some Episode Mentions:
➡️Emily Ladau
➡️Own Voices Movement

Chapters
0:00 Introduction: Navigating Special Education with Confidence
1:00 Meet Stacey Shubitz: Educator and Parent Perspective
3:00 The Book That Changes Everything
4:00 Learning from Own Voices in Disability
6:00 Two Hats: Educator and Parent
7:00 Special Education vs. General Education Explained
9:00 IEPs vs. 504 Plans: The Difference That Matters
10:00 Reframing Evaluations: Unlocking Your Child's Brain
12:00 Leading with Strengths, Not Deficits
14:00 Navigating Communication Breakdowns
16:00 Your Go-To Resource Guide
17:00 Lightning Round: IEP Meeting Essentials
17:15 When to Request IEP Revisions
17:45 The One Document to Keep on Your Phone
18:15 Phrases for Advocating for Accommodations
18:45 Biggest Myth About Special Education
19:15 Self-Care for Parents: The Power of Meditation
20:00 Coming Up in Part 2: Life Beyond School

🎧 New episodes every Monday & Friday with bite-sized Wednesday reel bonus content.
📧 Connect: schoolutionspodcast@gmail.com
🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

These Educators Are Changing How We Support ALL Learners This February

Sun, 01 Feb 2026 00:00:00 -0500

This February, join Schoolutions as it highlights educators and researchers advancing child support.

🎯 What You'll Learn:
• How to navigate IEPs, 504s, and disability services with confidence
• The shocking research behind foundational writing skills that transforms student success
• A neurodivergent educator's journey supporting thriving students in inclusive classrooms
• The alarming trend: NYC pediatricians diagnosing kindergartners with play-deprivation-induced anxiety and depression
• A bold 6-point proposal to save early childhood education in public schools

Featured Experts:
💫Stacey Shubitz bridges the home-school connection for families navigating special education.
💫Melanie Meehan and Maggie Beattie Roberts share critical research on instructional strategies for foundational writing skills.
💫Dr. Courtney Bishop reveals her path as a neurodivergent mom and educator championing equity in education.
💫Dr. Beverly Falk and Dr. Nancy Cardwell from City College expose an education crisis and present their solution to NYC leadership.

Whether you're focused on classroom belonging, student motivation, culturally responsive teaching, or education transformation, these conversations offer effective teaching strategies for the whole child. Perfect for teachers, education coaches, school administrators, parents, homeschoolers, teacher mentors, instructional leaders, and school counselors committed to inspired teaching and empowered educators.

🔔 Subscribe for education strategies that prioritize pro-kid mindset, inclusive teaching, and student participation! https://www.youtube.com/@schoolutionspodcast/

CHAPTERS:
0:00 Introduction: February's Education Revolution
0:15 Stacey Shubitz: Bridging Home & School for IEPs and 504s
0:30 Melanie Meehan & Maggie Beattie Roberts: Foundational Writing Research
0:45 Dr. Courtney Bishop: Neurodivergent Mom & Educator's Journey
1:00 Dr. Beverly Falk & Dr. Nancy Cardwell: NYC's Play Deprivation Crisis
1:30 The 6-Point Proposal to Save Early Childhood Education
1:50 Join the Conversations This February

CONNECT & SUBSCRIBE:
👍 Like if you're ready for education transformation
💬 Comment: Which guest are you most excited to hear?
🔔 Subscribe for weekly teaching tips and instructional strategies
📱 Share Wednesday reels with your teaching team

Join me in creating thriving students through classroom belonging, student engagement, and inspired teaching. Let's make 2026 a year of teacher impact and school change!

#EducationPodcast #SpecialEducation #IEP #StudentEngagement #InclusiveTeaching #EquityInEducation #TeacherCoaching #ProfessionalDevelopment #SchoolLeadership #ParentInvolvement #CulturallyResponsiveTeaching #WholeChild #EarlyChildhoodEducation #PlayBasedLearning #NeurodivergentStudents #TeachingStrategies #EducationReform #TeacherSupport #InstructionalCoaching #FamilyPartnerships #ProKidMindset #EmpoweredEducators #InspiredTeaching #EducationTransformation #ThrivingStudents #ClassroomBelonging #StudentSuccess #SchoolCulture #InstructionalLeadership #HomeSchoolConnection

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Why ALL Kindergarteners NEED a Writers Playshop

Fri, 30 Jan 2026 00:00:00 -0500

Welcome back to Part Two of my S5E22 Schoolutions conversation with Katie Keier. This episode builds on the foundation from Part One, exploring Katie's unique classroom strategies. We dive into her innovative teaching techniques, including why she creates classrooms that foster belonging and student engagement through choice, materials, and the honoring of every child's story. Katie shares powerful examples of student participation and student motivation, including kindergartners who became environmental advocates and petitioned their school to go plastic-free.

Key Topics:
• Teaching with integrity vs. teaching with fidelity
• Equity in education and inclusive teaching practices
• Student engagement through play-based learning and active learning
• Culturally responsive teaching that honors family partnerships
• Professional development for teachers navigating scripted curricula
• Instructional strategies that support the whole child
• Parent communication and home-school connection
• Documentation and assessment in inclusive classrooms
• Student success through student-centered learning
• Teacher coaching and mentor teachers supporting new teachers

💫Check out Part One

Researchers & Educators Mentioned:
➡️Vivian Gussin Paley
➡️Katie Kelly (author of From Empathy to Action)

Books & Publications:
➡️Kitchen Dance by Maurie Manning (Katie's go-to picture book for modeling)

Pedagogical Approaches & Organizations:
➡️Reggio Emilia Approach
➡️The Hundred Languages in Ministories (Reggio Emilia concept)
➡️Kennedy Center's CETA (Changing Education Through the Arts) Program

CHAPTERS
0:00 - Welcome to Part 2
1:00 - Play, Equity, and Access in Writers Playshop
3:00 - Honoring Every Child's Story
5:00 - What to Watch and Listen For
7:00 - Documentation Without Losing Presence
9:00 - Navigating Required Curricula
11:00 - Fidelity vs. Integrity ⭐
13:00 - Celebrating Children's Work
15:00 - Arts Integration and the Hundred Languages
17:00 - Building Beloved Community Through Story
18:00 - Kindergartners as Environmental Advocates
21:00 - Must-Read Picture Book: Kitchen Dance
23:00 - The Bear Story (Katie's Running Journey)
25:00 - Children Are Our Hope
26:00 - Closing Reflections

🎧 New episodes every Monday & Friday with bite-sized Wednesday reel bonus content.
📧 Connect: schoolutionspodcast@gmail.com
🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

Next Week: I'm sitting down with Stacey Shubitz to talk about her groundbreaking new book for families navigating IEPs, 504 plans, and disability services.

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Standards Alone Won't Inspire Young Writers

Wed, 28 Jan 2026 00:00:00 -0500

Are standards enough to inspire real writers? In this powerful reel, Katie Keier shares why teaching writing standards in isolation isn't creating confident, motivated writers in our classrooms. Learn about the "iceberg method" - where standards are just the tip, and meaningful purpose sits beneath the surface.

The truth: Kids can learn to spell "cat" and blend sounds, but without an authentic audience, purpose, and opportunities for student participation, they'll never see themselves as real writers. This video explores how classroom structures like Writers Playshop transform low engagement into active learning by giving students meaningful reasons to write and share their work.

Perfect for teachers, education coaches, school administrators, instructional leaders, and parents looking to improve student engagement, student motivation, and student success through effective teaching strategies.

🔑 Key Topics Covered:
• Why teaching standards in isolation fails student engagement
• The iceberg approach to writing instruction
• How purpose and audience inspire students to become writers
• Creating classroom belonging through meaningful writing opportunities
• Practical instructional strategies for innovative teaching
• Building student participation and attention in class

Whether you're focused on lesson planning, teacher coaching, instructional leadership, or supporting thriving students with a pro-kid mindset and whole child approach, this video offers education transformation insights you can implement immediately.

💡 Transform your approach to writing instruction and create empowered educators who inspire teaching that drives real student success and teacher impact.

🚀📚 Watch Part One & Part Two of our ⁨Schoolutions⁩ S5E22 interview.

Chapters:
0:00 - The Standards Question
0:15 - The Iceberg Method Explained
0:35 - Teaching Standards in Isolation
0:50 - Why Purpose Matters for Young Writers
1:10 - Creating Meaningful Writing Opportunities

When coaches, teachers, administrators, and families work hand in hand, it fosters a school atmosphere where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged in their learning journey.

📧 Connect: schoolutionspodcast@gmail.com
🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

Don't forget to 🔔SUBSCRIBE for more teaching tips, and 💬SHARE with fellow educators!

#StudentEngagement #TeachingStrategies #WritingInstruction #EffectiveTeaching #StudentMotivation #ClassroomBelonging #ActiveLearning #InstructionalCoaching #TeacherSupport #EducationLeadership #InnovativeTeaching #InclusiveTeaching #ProKidMindset #WholeChild #StudentSuccess #TeacherImpact #EducationTransformation #InspiredTeaching #ThrivingStudents #EmpoweredEducators #LessonPlanning #SchoolLeadership #ProfessionalDevelopment #CulturallyResponsiveTeaching #EquityInEducation #NewTeachers #MentorTeachers #SchoolImprovement #TeachingTips #WritersWorkshop

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Stories Live Everywhere: The Writers Playshop Approach

Mon, 26 Jan 2026 00:00:00 -0500

Part One of my S5E22 Schoolutions conversation, Katie Keier shares how her Writers Playshop is changing kindergarten writing through play. Learn about effective teaching strategies and how to create a dynamic classroom environment where children thrive.

In this episode, 33-year veteran teacher Katie Keier shares how a five-year-old revolutionized her entire approach to teaching writing. Discover why she refuses to spell words for children, how materials serve as story catalysts, and why black pens matter more than you think.

Researchers & Educators:
➡️Katie Wood Ray
➡️Donald Graves
➡️Lucy Calkins
➡️Nancy Atwell
➡️Matt Glover
➡️Loris Malaguzzi
➡️Vivian Gussin Paley
➡️Susan Harris MacKay and teachers at OPAL School
➡️Carl Anderson

Books & Publications:
➡️Catching Readers Before They Fall
➡️Catching Readers Blog
➡️Writers Playshop: Joyful Play in Kindergarten

Pedagogical Approaches:
➡️Reggio Emilia Approach
➡️The Hundred Languages in Ministories (Reggio Emilia concept)
➡️OPAL School Story Workshops

CHAPTER TIMESTAMPS
0:00 - Introduction: Welcome to Solutions Teaching Strategies
1:00 - Katie's Background & the Birth of Writer's Play Shop
3:00 - Meet Katie Keier: 33 Years of Teaching Excellence
4:00 - Research Foundations: Standing on Giants' Shoulders
6:00 - From Writers Workshop to Writers Playshop
7:00 - Stories Live Everywhere: First Day of Kindergarten
9:00 - Materials as Story Catalysts: Invitations to Create
11:00 - Structure & Time: How Writer's Play Shop Works Daily
13:00 - The Teacher's Role: Curious Audience & Support
14:00 - Joy & Infinite Possibilities in Kindergarten
15:00 - Why Katie Never Spells Words for Children
17:00 - Ownership & Agency: Children Reading Their Own Work
18:00 - Representational Drawing & Multilingual Learners
19:00 - Lightning Round: Misconceptions About Kindergarten Writers
20:00 - Essential Materials: Black Pens, Blank Books, Loose Parts
21:00 - Meeting Standards Through Meaningful Writing
23:00 - Building Confidence: From Kindergarten to High School
24:00 - Closing & Preview of Part Two

🎧 New episodes every Monday & Friday with bite-sized Wednesday reel bonus content.
📧 Connect: schoolutionspodcast@gmail.com
🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Scripted Programs Limiting Your Read Alouds? Here's What Works!

Fri, 23 Jan 2026 00:00:00 -0500

In Part Two of my S5E21 Schoolutions conversation, literacy expert Maria Walther focuses on the power of the read aloud. This episode offers more teaching strategies for educators and builds on our Part One conversation. Discover how incorporating read aloud stories and read aloud books can enhance reading instruction and foster a love for storytime in your classroom.

What You'll Learn:
✅ The Monday-Friday Sandwich Strategy for integrating picture books with curriculum
✅ How to plan strategic read-alouds (before, during, after reading)
✅ Why real books create bonds that videos cannot replicate
✅ How to select and teach tier-two vocabulary for active learning
✅ Planning 3-5 strategic questions instead of interrupting every page
✅ Reading books across multiple days for deeper student participation and attention in class
✅ Connecting read-aloud to writing workshop and oral language
✅ How caregivers can support education at home through read-aloud

💫Check out Part One (https://youtu.be/q-E19vZ1XCk) if you missed it on Monday

Some Resources Mentioned:
📚 The Read Aloud Handbook by Jim Trelease
📚 Isabel Beck's work on tier-two vocabulary
📚 Maria Walther's website with book lists and PD protocols

Chapters
0:00 - Welcome to Part 2: The Power of Read Aloud
01:00 - Why Read Aloud Is NOT a Luxury
02:00 - Recap of Part 1 & Today's Focus
03:00 - The Monday-Friday Sandwich Strategy
05:00 - Where to Find Picture Books: Library & Resources
06:00 - Grade-Level Planning & Joyful Book Selection PD
07:00 - Strategic Read Aloud Planning: Before, During, After
09:00 - When to Pause: Reading Student Readiness
10:00 - Why Real Books Beat Video Read-Alouds
11:00 - Building Connection Through Read Aloud
12:00 - Selecting Tier-Two Vocabulary Words
13:00 - Connecting Read Aloud to Writing Workshop
14:00 - Reading 3-5 Books Daily: Making Time for What Matters
15:00 - Strategically Savoring: Pre-Planning vs. Pure Joy Reading
16:00 - Leading vs. Facilitating Conversations
17:00 - Maria's Dream: Read Aloud in Every Classroom Daily
18:00 - This Week's Challenge: Try the Strategies
19:00 - Next Week Preview: Writer's Play Shop with Katie Kier
20:00 - Wrap-Up & Resources

Join our community of educators committed to cultivating student success, inspired teaching, and creating inclusive classrooms with a pro-kid mindset focused on the whole child.

🎧 New episodes every Monday & Friday with bite-sized Wednesday reel bonus content.
📧 Connect: schoolutionspodcast@gmail.com
🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

Don't forget to 🔔SUBSCRIBE for more teaching tips, and 💬SHARE with fellow educators!

Next Episode Preview: Kindergarten teacher Katie Kier on Writer's Play Shop - transforming 5-year-olds into confident authors!

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

No Big Books? No Problem!

Wed, 21 Jan 2026 00:00:00 -0500

In this reel clip, we discuss the essential components of shared reading and why it needs to be updated. Many classrooms lack traditional materials, impacting effective teaching strategies. Maria Walther also shares reading tips for creating a more engaging and impactful literacy experience for students.

Shared reading doesn't have to disappear from your classroom just because big books are hard to find! Maria Walther even reveals why shared reading is slipping away in classrooms and shares a game-changing solution that uses materials you already have on your shelf.

Discover how to transform your existing picture books into powerful shared reading tools, boosting student engagement, student participation, and active learning without spending a dime on new materials. This innovative teaching approach brings fresh life to effective teaching practices and proves that the best instructional strategies often come from reimagining what's already in your classroom.

🔑 KEY TAKEAWAYS:
• Why shared reading has been disappearing from classrooms
• How to use picture books for shared reading instead of big books
• Practical strategies for student motivation and attention in class
• Cost-effective solutions for inspiring students through literacy

🚀📚 Watch the full Part One & Part Two of our Schoolutions S5E21 interview.

0:00 - Why Shared Reading Needs Shaking Up
0:08 - The Real Problem with Shared Reading
0:18 - Big Books Are Disappearing from Classrooms
0:28 - Shared Reading Started Slipping Away
0:38 - The Picture Book Solution
0:48 - Using Read Aloud Books for Shared Reading
0:58 - It's the Materials, Not the Method

📧 Connect: schoolutionspodcast@gmail.com
🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

Don't forget to 👍LIKE this video if it helped you, 🔔SUBSCRIBE for more teaching tips, and 💬SHARE with fellow educators!

#SharedReading #TeachingTips #LiteracyInstruction #ElementaryTeachers #EducationStrategies #StudentEngagement #ClassroomStrategies #ProfessionalDevelopment #InstructionalCoaching #TeacherLife

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Transform Picture Books Into Powerful Shared Reading Tools

Mon, 19 Jan 2026 00:00:00 -0500

In Part One of my S5E21 Schoolutions conversation, Maria Walther breaks down the critical difference between read aloud and shared reading, and shares why those short, focused bursts of instruction are the bridge your students need between teacher-led learning and independence. We discuss how to make this work alongside published curriculum, effective teaching, instructional strategies, and lesson planning that honors what kids need.

Key Topics Discussed in Part One:
✅ The difference between read aloud and shared reading
✅ Why brevity matters for student engagement, active learning, and attention in class
✅ How to connect phonics instruction to authentic reading experiences
✅ Planning short burst shared reading sessions that boost student participation
✅ Using picture books you already have for innovative teaching and inclusive teaching
✅ Supporting student motivation and inspiring students through focused literacy instruction

Some resources mentioned:

📚 Shake Up Shared Reading by Maria Walther
📚 Choice Words by Peter Johnston

Other Books by Maria:

Chapters:
0:00 - Introduction to Maria Walther
01:00 - The Problem: Shared Reading is Disappearing
02:00 - Episode Structure & What's Coming
03:00 - Meet Maria Walther: Literacy Expert
04:00 - Essential Research: Peter Johnston's "Choice Words"
05:00 - Why Shake Up Shared Reading?
06:30 - Read Aloud vs. Shared Reading: Key Differences
08:00 - Connecting Phonics to Shared Reading
09:00 - The Power of Short Bursts
10:00 - Planning a Shared Reading Session
12:00 - Text Accessibility & Student Support
13:00 - Lightning Round Begins
13:30 - Advice for First-Year Teachers
14:00 - Biggest Misconception About Shared Reading
14:15 - Most Important Literacy Skill: Inferring
14:45 - What Surprises About First Graders
15:00 - Go-To Questions During Read Aloud
16:00 - This Week's Challenge
17:00 - Wrap-Up & Preview of Part 2

📧 Connect: schoolutionspodcast@gmail.com
🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

🔗 Part Two drops this week - 🔔SUBSCRIBE for more teaching tips, and
💬SHARE with fellow educators!

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Stories Resonate—This Is Why Teachers Should Capture Them

Fri, 16 Jan 2026 00:00:00 -0500

Part Two of my S5E20 Schoolutions conversation with Dr. Michelle Chanda Singh, learn about effective digital media and edu tech tools that give students creative agency, fostering interactive learning.

In this episode, you'll discover:
🎯 Why traditional curriculum fails and how storytelling bridges the gap
📱 Digital storytelling tools: Canva and Adobe Spark
🎤 The guest speaker strategy that actually resonates with students
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 How a 10th-grade interview assignment preserved family legacy
✨ The difference between "supporting" and "RAISING" classrooms
🚀 One actionable next step to start Monday morning

Michelle shares how a simple 10th-grade assignment—interviewing an elder family member—became an irreplaceable treasure when her grandfather passed two years later. This is storytelling as legacy, connection, and curriculum combined.

💫Check out Part One & Digital Tools Mentioned:
• Canva for Education
• Adobe Spark
• Microsoft Clip

Chapters:
0:00 - Introduction: From Why to How—Taking Action with Storytelling
1:00 - Welcome Back to Part Two with Dr. Michelle Chanda Singh
1:46 - Reminder: Listen to Part One First!
2:00 - Bridge Building Solutions: Why Incorporate Storytelling into Curriculum?
2:22 - Storytelling Makes Teaching Human, Simply Put
2:48 - Traditional Curriculum Misses the Mark: The Gaps
3:09 - Storytelling Democratizes Education
4:00 - Seeing Ourselves as Whole Human Beings, Not Victims
4:26 - Digital Storytelling Tools: Capturing and Creating Stories
5:00 - The Power of Canva: Student Agency in Storytelling
5:31 - Removing Barriers: Not Every Student Wants to Raise Their Hand
6:00 - Adobe Spark and Free Educator Accounts
6:42 - Collaborative Memoir Writing: NCTE Session Inspiration
7:00 - Funds of Knowledge: Interviewing Family Members
7:42 - The 10th Grade Assignment That Changed Everything
8:00 - Meet Michelle's Grandfather: The Father Figure Who Made It All Possible
9:00 - Recording the Interview: A Moment of Intuition
9:42 - Discovering Family History: Seeing Grandpa as a Teenager
10:00 - 2 Years Later: Grandfather Passes Away
10:42 - Creating the Funeral Slideshow: Videos Become Legacy
11:00 - Stories Passed Down to Great-Niece's Twins
11:42 - Guest Speakers: Beyond the Perfect Resume
12:00 - Kids Need Real Human Stories, Not Just Credentials
12:42 - The HBCU Guest Speaker Example: Pastor and First Lady
13:00 - Models Who Look Like Them: 90% Black or Caribbean Descent
13:42 - "How Did You Get From Here to There?" The Stories That Matter
14:00 - Mentorship Through Lived Experience
14:42 - Balance: Expertise AND Human Touch
15:00 - Michelle's Quote: "Stories Resonate, Connect, and Cultivate Community"
15:42 - One Next Step for Monday: Start Small
16:00 - Stories as Entry Points to Learning
16:42 - Video Clips, Podcasts, Student Grandparent Stories
17:00 - Storytelling Is NOT an Add-On—It's the Foundation
17:42 - Connection to Learning, to Each Other, to Content, to Teachers
18:00 - "We're Raising the People. We're Raising the Humanity."
18:22 - Closing: Emotional Engagement
18:42 - Olivia's Reflection: Try One Story-Based Entry Point
19:00 - Preview: Next Week with Maria Walther on Read Alouds
19:42 - Credits and Thank You
20:00 - How to Connect and Share This Episode

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

When You Start With One Story This Happens

Wed, 14 Jan 2026 00:00:00 -0500

Start Monday With One Story | Transform Student Engagement Through Storytelling 📚✨

One simple shift can revolutionize classroom belonging and student motivation. Start with ONE story. ONE perspective. ONE moment. Stories aren't just content—they're entry points that help students see themselves, stay engaged, and go deeper into learning. When we incorporate stories, we raise the humanity in our classrooms.

Perfect for teachers, new teachers, education coaches, school administrators, instructional leaders, teacher mentors, homeschoolers, parents, and school counselors seeking effective teaching strategies for student engagement, active learning, and inclusive classrooms.

💬 How do you use storytelling in your classroom? Share below!

CHAPTERS:
0:00 - One Next Step for Monday
0:05 - Start With One Story
0:15 - Stories as Entry Points
0:25 - Building Engagement Through Narrative
0:35 - Raising Humanity in Classrooms

🚀📚 Watch the full Part One (https://youtu.be/665GvsiS6pU) & Part Two (https://youtu.be/5D7cqLpwzLw) of our ⁨Schoolutions S5E20 interview.

When coaches, teachers, administrators, and families work hand in hand, it fosters a school atmosphere where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged in their learning journey.

📧 Connect: schoolutionspodcast@gmail.com
🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

Don't forget to 👍LIKE this video if it helped you, 🔔SUBSCRIBE for more teaching tips, and 💬SHARE with fellow educators!

#StudentEngagement #ClassroomBelonging #TeachingStrategies #StudentMotivation #ActiveLearning #InspiringStudents #CulturallyResponsiveTeaching #InclusiveTeaching #EffectiveTeaching #TeachingTips #InnovativeTeaching #EquityInEducation #ProKidMindset #WholeChild #NewTeachers #TeacherCoaching #EmpoweredEducators #EducationTransformation #TeacherMentors #InstructionalLeaders #Homeschoolers #ParentInvolvement #FamilyPartnerships #SchoolCulture #StudentParticipation #AttentionInClass #ThrivingStudents #InstructionalStrategies #LessonPlanning #TeacherImpact

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

When Your Teacher Sees You: One Student's Turning Point

Mon, 12 Jan 2026 00:00:00 -0500

In Part One of my S5E20 Schoolutions conversation, Dr. Michelle Chanda Singh shares how inclusive teaching can profoundly impact the student experience and foster a sense of belonging for all students, emphasizing that education for all hinges on deeply connected learning. She discusses how a Spanish teacher's innovative language learning approach helped her overcome feelings of invisibility in the classroom.

In this part one deeply personal conversation, Michelle reveals:
✨ Why 54% of students feel culturally unseen in classrooms
✨ How invisibility shows up as "silence in the curriculum"
✨ The difference between learning for compliance vs. connection
✨ Gloria Ladson-Billings's culturally responsive pedagogy framework
✨ Why humanizing ourselves as teachers unlocks classroom belonging

Stay tuned for Part Two (on Friday), where Michelle offers digital storytelling tools.

Some resources mentioned:
➡️Storytelling Can Bridge Cultural Gaps
🎤How Cultural Representation Improves Education
➡️ Gloria Ladson-Billings
➡️ StoryCorps
➡️ Smithsonian Learning Resources
➡️ Zinn Education Project
➡️ PBS LearningMedia

Chapters:
0:00 Introduction: What Does Invisibility in the Classroom Look Like?
1:00 Meet Dr. Michelle Chanda Singh: A Year in the Making
1:46 Today's Focus: Storytelling Can Bridge Cultural Gaps
2:13The Research Foundation: Gloria Ladson-Billings & Culturally Responsive Pedagogy
2:53 Taking Us Back: 9 Years Old, Newly Arrived from Jamaica
3:14 Education as Priority: Coming to America for Better Opportunities
4:00 The Adult Lens: Looking Back as an Educator and Researcher
4:44 Invisibility Wasn't Loud—It Was Silence in the Curriculum
5:31 Learning for Compliance, Not Connection
6:04 Succeeding Without Being Fully Seen
6:42 The Shock: When Friends Met Her Indian Family
7:00 The Statistics: 54% Students of Color, 82% White Teachers
7:24 The Representation Gap in Education Today
8:00 Enter Ms. Fernandez: Fourth, Fifth, and Sixth Grade Spanish Teacher
8:51 Education Beyond Performance and Perfection
9:17 Prioritizing Connection Over Transaction
9:42 The Learning That Stuck: Songs, Café con Leche, and Las Tiendas
10:34 Standing Up Out of Respect: A Cultural Moment
11:42 Permission to Be Different While Honoring Culture
12:17 Reflecting on Teaching Refugees in California
13:00 The Equal Playing Field: Learning Spanish Together
13:42 Lightning Round Begins!
14:00 Top Resource for Storytelling: Start with Listening
15:00 Storytelling Requirement: Beyond Textbooks and into Lives
16:00 "When You Share Your Story, You Become Human"
16:42 What Would Ms. Fernandez Say? A Look of Pride
17:00 Wrapping Part I: The Spanish Spelling Bee Memory
17:33 Preview of Part II: Getting Practical with Digital Tools
18:00 Closing: Your Homework—Share One Story This Week

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Liability Myths Debunked: Why Adventure Play is SAFER Than You Think

Fri, 09 Jan 2026 00:00:00 -0500

Part Two of my S5E19 Schoolutions conversation with Rusty Keeler tackles the "how" of implementing adventurous play—storage solutions, liability myths, phantom policies, and the 13-year success story of Ithaca Children's Garden's Anarchy Zone.

🎯 What You'll Learn:
• Storage and organization strategies for loose parts play (yes, even for Type A educators!)
• How to address liability concerns with administrators and insurance companies
• The truth about licensing requirements vs. internalized fears
• Real implementation examples from the Anarchy Zone
• Why the "boring adult stuff" is actually sacred advocacy work
• How to prolong play instead of preventing it

🔑 Key Takeaways:
The biggest barrier to adventurous play isn't insurance or regulations—it's phantom policies we've internalized as unchangeable truth. Rusty reveals how to have productive conversations with decision-makers, address real concerns while letting go of unfounded fears, and create messy corners or anarchy zones that transform outdoor learning.

Some resources mentioned:
• Ithaca Children's Garden
• Adventure play networks (OPAL, Reimagining Recess Project)
• Guide to 100 Outdoor Loose Parts

Chapters:
0:00 - Welcome to Part 2
1:00 - The Phantom Policy Problem
3:00 - Why Loose Parts Transform Play
6:00 - The Cloak of Invisibility Approach
8:00 - Organization Strategies for Type A Educators
10:00 - The Messy Corner Solution
12:00 - Teacher Role: Observation & Validation
13:00 - Addressing Liability Concerns
15:00 - The Licensing Scapegoat
17:00 - Doing the Boring Stuff for Kids
18:00 - The Anarchy Zone Story
21:00 - Meeting with Insurance (Spoiler: They Said Yes!)
23:00 - Leading with Hearts, Using Our Voices
25:00 - Final Reflections: Sacred Advocacy Work
26:00 - Resources & Next Week's Preview
27:00 - Call to Action

Join our community of educators committed to cultivating student success, inspired teaching, and creating inclusive classrooms with a pro-kid mindset focused on the whole child. When coaches, teachers, administrators, and families work hand in hand, it fosters a school atmosphere where everyone is inspired, and every student is fully engaged in their learning journey.

💌 Take Action:
Pick up the phone or send that email to one decision-maker about implementing adventurous play. Then email me at schoolutionspodcast@gmail.com to share how it went!

🎧 New episodes every Monday & Friday with bite-sized Wednesday reel bonus content.
📧 Connect: schoolutionspodcast@gmail.com
🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

Don't forget to🔔SUBSCRIBE for more teaching tips, and 💬SHARE with fellow educators!

#AdventurousPlay #LoosePartsPlay #OutdoorLearning #RiskyPlay #StudentEngagement #TeachingStrategies #EducationPodcast #TeacherSupport #SchoolLeadership #ProfessionalDevelopment #InclusiveEducation #WholeChild #EquityInEducation #InstructionalCoaching #ActiveLearning #NaturalPlaygrounds #AnarchyZone #IthacaChildrensGarden #RustyKeeler #PlayBasedLearning #EarlyChildhoodEducation #ElementaryEducation #EducationReform #EmpoweredEducators #StudentSuccess #ReimaginRecess #PlayMatters #ChildhoodUnplugged #OutdoorPlay #Schoolutions #SchoolutionsPodcast #SchoolutionsTeachingStrategies #ForeverGettingBetter

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Why Cardboard Boxes Beat $10,000 Playgrounds

Wed, 07 Jan 2026 00:00:00 -0500

Discover the power of loose parts in creating engaging, natural play spaces that boost creativity, student engagement, and active learning! In this reel clip with Rusty Keeler, we explore how simple, low-cost materials can transform any outdoor environment—whether it's a school playground, backyard, or homeschool setting—into a space where children thrive.

Learn why traditional playground equipment like monkey bars isn't enough, and how natural elements like rolling hills, sand, water, mud, trees, gardens, and loose materials empower students to take control of their environment. This approach supports the whole child, promotes student participation, inspires creativity, and creates opportunities for collaborative problem-solving.

Perfect for teachers, education coaches, school administrators, parents, homeschoolers, and anyone interested in innovative teaching, culturally responsive teaching, and creating inclusive classrooms where every child can succeed.

What You'll Learn:
✅ Why loose parts are essential for natural play spaces
✅ How to design outdoor environments that inspire students without breaking the bank
✅ The connection between natural play, student motivation, and student success
✅ Practical teaching tips for incorporating nature into your educational setting
✅ How loose parts support equity in education and the pro-kid mindset

Whether you're focused on lesson planning, instructional strategies, school improvement, or creating stronger home-school connections, this video offers education strategies that support empowered educators and thriving students.

Chapters:
0:00 - Introduction: The Importance of Loose Parts
0:15 - Designing Natural Play Spaces vs Traditional Playgrounds
0:35 - What Makes a Natural Play Environment
0:50 - The Power of Loose Parts in Any Yard
1:05 - How Loose Parts Boost Creativity & Collaboration
1:20 - Student Engagement Through Environmental Control
1:35 - Making Natural Play Accessible & Affordable
1:50 - Final Thoughts: Transform Your Space Today

🚀📚 Watch Part One (https://youtu.be/hwx1X65Og7M) & Part Two (https://youtu.be/u3z8T-q-SHg) of our ⁨Schoolutions S5E19 interview.

When coaches, teachers, administrators, and families work hand in hand, it fosters a school atmosphere where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged in their learning journey.

📧 Connect: schoolutionspodcast@gmail.com
🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

Don't forget to 🔔SUBSCRIBE for more teaching tips, and 💬SHARE with fellow educators!

#LoosePartsPlay #NaturalPlaySpaces #StudentEngagement #ActiveLearning #InnovativeTeaching #InclusiveClassrooms #WholeChild #ProKidMindset #EmpoweredEducators #EducationStrategies #OutdoorLearning #PlayBasedLearning #CulturallyResponsiveTeaching #EquityInEducation #TeacherCoaching #ThrivingStudents #NaturalPlayground #OutdoorClassroom #ChildLedLearning #EducationTransformation #InstructionalStrategies #ProfessionalDevelopment #SchoolLeadership #ParentInvolvement #HomeschoolEducation #EffectiveTeaching #InspiringStudents #EducationForAll #NaturePlay #CreativePlay #Schoolutions #SchoolutionsPodcast #SchoolutionsTeachingStrategies #ForeverGettingBetter

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

The Play Crisis & Permission to Say Yes

Mon, 05 Jan 2026 00:00:00 -0500

Part One of my S5E19 Schoolutions conversation with Rusty Keeler explores how to integrate more unstructured play, loose parts, and outdoor activities for kids into daily life, fostering child development and encouraging open-ended play. It's time to grow imagination.

Rusty has spent 30+ years designing and advocating for natural outdoor play around the world, and he's witnessed firsthand how we've fundamentally changed childhood. While we've created increasingly "safe" playgrounds with rubberized surfaces and strict rules, childhood anxiety and lack of resilience have skyrocketed. We've been doing it wrong.

In Part 1, you'll discover:
- The crucial difference between risks (good!) and hazards (remove them!)
- Why cardboard boxes and traffic cones unlock more creativity than expensive equipment
- How the Reimagining Recess project transformed schools by training adults to say YES
- The three simple rules that can replace your entire playground rulebook
- Why loose parts create equity and let ALL children shine
- Which countries are leading the play revolution (and what we can learn from them)

This isn't just about recess—it's about classroom belonging, student engagement, student motivation, active learning, inspiring students, and creating thriving students through a pro-kid mindset. When children experience authentic play, they develop the resilience and creativity that translates directly into classroom behavior, student participation, and attention in class.

Stay tuned for Part Two (on Friday), where Rusty tackles liability myths, storage solutions, and the "Anarchy Zone" success story—plus exactly how to have tough conversations with administrators.

Some resources mentioned:
➡️Reimagining Recess Project (Ithaca Public Education Initiative)
➡️OPAL (Outdoor Play and Learning) - UK
➡️Peter Gray
➡️Adventures in Risky Play
➡️Play Nature Podcast

Chapters
0:00 - Introduction: The Play Crisis in Modern Childhood
1:00 - Meet Rusty Keeler: 30 Years of Play Revolution
3:00 - How Childhood Has Changed Since the 70s/80s
6:00 - The Global Screen Time Problem
8:00 - Risks vs. Hazards: The Crucial Difference
11:00 - Reimagining Recess: A Model for Schools Everywhere
13:00 - The Power of Loose Parts (Cardboard, Tires, Traffic Cones!)
16:00 - How Loose Parts Create Equity on the Playground
18:00 - The Ripple Effect: From Recess to Writer's Workshop
19:00 - Lightning Round: Best Free Loose Parts
19:45 - Lightning Round: Playground Rules to Ditch
20:20 - Lightning Round: Which Country Does Recess Best?
21:00 - Lightning Round: Essential Books About Play
22:00 - The Future of Play Advocacy
23:00 - Your Challenge: Step Back and Observe
24:00 - What's Next in Part 2

Join our community of educators committed to cultivating student success, inspired teaching, and creating inclusive classrooms with a pro-kid mindset focused on the whole child.

📧 Connect: schoolutionspodcast@gmail.com
🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Practical Tips from Recess to Writing This January & New Release Schedule

Sun, 04 Jan 2026 00:00:00 -0500

Happy New Year! I'm excited to share a Schoolutions podcast update with you, designed to enhance your weekly planning routine and boost your productivity. Starting January 5th, 2026, guest conversations will be divided into two shorter episodes, released on Mondays and Fridays. Wednesdays will feature a 60-second reel, offering a bite-sized piece from our conversation that you can share with a colleague.

This month's theme: Imagination, Play, and Storytelling - essential education strategies for student engagement, classroom behavior, and the whole child.

NEW FORMAT:
📅 Mondays - Part 1 with lightning round to inspire your week
📅 Wednesdays- 60-second shareable reel for quick wins
📅 Fridays - Part 2 with my three biggest takeaways

WHO THIS IS FOR:
✅ Teachers seeking inspired teaching and teacher impact
✅ Education coaches and instructional coaching professionals
✅ School administrators and education leadership teams
✅ Parents, homeschoolers, and caregiver support networks
✅ Instructional leaders driving school culture and school change
✅ School counselors supporting the whole child
✅ Teacher mentors and coaching strategies experts
✅ Anyone committed to professional development, education transformation, and family partnerships

WHY THIS MATTERS:
These conversations tackle low engagement, improve classroom behavior, strengthen parent involvement and parent communication, and provide actionable education strategies for inclusive classrooms. Whether you're focused on principal strategies, teacher support, or education at home, this series delivers practical tools for student success.

COMING EPISODES:
🎙️ ⁨@rustykeeler⁩ - Loose parts play and outdoor learning environments
🎙️ Dr. Michelle Chanda Singh ( ⁨@lctelearning⁩ ) - Storytelling as culturally responsive pedagogy
🎙️ Maria Walther - Read aloud strategies for shared classroom experiences
🎙️ Katie Keier ( ⁨@catchingreaders⁩ ) - Writer's Play Shop innovations for early writers

CONNECT & SUBSCRIBE:
👍 Like if you're ready for education transformation
💬 Comment: Which guest are you most excited to hear?
🔔 Subscribe for weekly teaching tips and instructional strategies
📱 Share Wednesday reels with your teaching team

Join me in creating thriving students through classroom belonging, student engagement, and inspired teaching. Let's make 2026 a year of teacher impact and school change!

CHAPTERS
0:00 Welcome & Happy New Year 2026!
0:05 NEW Podcast Format Announcement
0:25 Monday/Wednesday/Friday Episode Structure
0:45 January Theme: Imagination, Play & Storytelling
0:55 Guest #1: Rusty Keeler on Loose Parts & Outdoor Play
1:10 Guest #2: Dr. Michelle Chanda Singh on Storytelling Power
1:20 Guest #3: Maria Walther on Read Alouds & Shared Experiences
1:30 Guest #4: Katie Keier on Writers Playshop
1:45 Call to Action: Join Our Conversations

#Education #Teachers #Teaching #Parenting #ProfessionalLearning #StudentEngagement #TeacherLife #EducationPodcast #InstructionalCoaching #TeacherCoaching #SchoolLeadership #EducationLeadership #InnovativeTeaching #InclusiveEducation #CulturallyResponsiveTeaching #EquityInEducation #WholeChild #ProKidMindset #ActiveLearning #ClassroomBehavior #StudentMotivation #TeacherSupport #MentorTeachers #NewTeachers #InstructionalLeaders #EducationCoaches #SchoolAdministrators #SchoolCulture #EducationTransformation #TeacherImpact #SchoolChange #ThrivingStudents #EmpoweredEducators #LooseParts #OutdoorPlay #Storytelling #ReadAlouds #WritersPlayshop #PlayBasedLearning #LiteracyEducation #Schoolutions #SchoolutionsPodcast #SchoolutionsTeachingStrategies #ForeverGettingBetter

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

BONUS: Stuck With a Resistant Teacher? Try This Instead

Fri, 02 Jan 2026 00:00:00 -0500

In this S5E18 Schoolutions Teaching Strategies BONUS, I tackle the complex challenges within coaching relationships, especially when teachers repeatedly decline coaching. This conversation addresses the resistance and avoidance behaviors that can stall progress, offering insights for instructional leadership. It's an exploration of personal growth in coaching, emphasizing the impact of effective relationships.

What happens when a teacher says no to coaching? Not just once, but repeatedly. In this bonus episode, I dive into the messy middle of instructional coaching - those moments that make or break your impact as an education coach.

If you've ever worked with a teacher who avoids eye contact in the hallway, felt stuck in a coaching relationship, or wondered whether you're actually making a difference, this episode is for you. I'm sharing practical, try-it-tomorrow strategies for coaching teachers who are overwhelmed, resistant, or simply not ready for support.

In this episode, you'll discover:
- What to do when coaching relationships feel stuck and nothing seems to be working
- How to coach overwhelmed teachers who can't articulate what they need
- The one question that could transform your coaching approach
- Why asset-based coaching is critical for building trust with resistant teachers
- The difference between accountability and control in teacher support
- A simple notebook practice that will strengthen your coaching immediately

This episode explores teacher coaching, instructional coaching, coaching strategies, professional development, teacher support, mentor teachers, new teachers, instructional strategies, education strategies, effective teaching, teacher impact, school leadership, instructional leadership, education leadership, whole child, student success, thriving students, empowered educators, inspired teaching, education transformation, school improvement, school culture, and pro-kid mindset.

Your Action Step: Before your next coaching conversation, write down one word in your notebook that describes how you want to show up. Let that word guide your approach.

🚨NEW FORMAT ALERT: Starting January 5th, 2026, I'm trying a new format:
- Mondays: Part 1 of guest conversations + lightning round
- Wednesdays: 60-second midweek inspiration reel
- Fridays: Part 2 of guest conversations + my top 3 takeaways

Chapters
0:00 - Introduction: When Teachers Say No to Coaching
1:00 - The Foundations of Great Coaching vs. Doing It
2:00 - What To Do When You Feel Stuck With a Teacher
3:00 - The Most Important Coaching Move: Naming What You Notice
4:00 - You Cannot Coach Someone Who Isn't Ready
5:00 - Positive Determination: Keep Showing Up
6:00 - Coaching the Overwhelmed Teacher
7:00 - Accountability vs. Control in Coaching
8:00 - Being Human With Teachers
9:00 - The Notebook Practice That Changes Everything
10:00 - Coaching is Relationship Work First
11:00 - New Format Announcement for 2026
12:00 - Wrap Up & Action Step

Join our community of educators committed to cultivating student success, inspired teaching, and creating inclusive classrooms with a pro-kid mindset focused on the whole child.

📧 Connect: schoolutionspodcast@gmail.com
🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

Don't forget to 🔔SUBSCRIBE for more teaching tips, and 💬SHARE with fellow educators!

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

The BEST Qualities of an Instructional Coach

Mon, 29 Dec 2025 00:00:00 -0500

In this S5E18 Schoolutions Teaching Strategies conversation, Chrissy Beltran explains how to stop being a "fixer" coach and start being a partner! In this powerful conversation, Chrissy (Buzzing with Ms. B) shares game-changing strategies for instructional coaching that actually work with all teachers, maximize teacher support, and drive student success.

Chrissy is the host of the "Instructional Coaching with Ms. B" podcast (250+ episodes), a former literacy coach and instructional coach supporting teachers everywhere

🎯 What You'll Learn:
Chrissy reveals her proven coaching strategies for working with teachers in different engagement modes—from resistors to explorers. Discover how to shift from deficit-based to asset-based coaching, when to tell vs. ask, and why great classroom teachers don't always make great instructional coaches. Learn the "Visit-a-Colleague" strategy that breaks through resistance, the 4-T debrief method for documenting impact, and how to differentiate your professional learning approach for every teacher type.

Some resources mentioned:
➡️Jan Hasbrouck, Ph.D.'s coaching research

➡️The Disengaged Teen by Rebecca Winthrop & Jenny Anderson - Interview

Get in touch with Chrissy:
🐝 Visit Buzzing with Ms. B: the shop
🛒 Shop Buzzing with Ms. B on TpT
👓 Check out Buzzing with Ms. B: the blog
🎙️ Listen to Instructional Coaching with Ms. B, the podcast
🖥️ Join Instructional Coaching with Ms. B: The Facebook group

CHAPTERS:
0:00 - Introduction to Chrissy Beltran
1:49 - Research That Guides Coaching Practice
2:43 - From Fixer to Partner: The Coaching Mindset Shift
5:33 - Asset-Based Coaching & Documentation Strategies
6:48 - Why Great Teachers Don't Always Make Great Coaches
8:47 - Top 3 Skills Every Coach Needs
11:23 - Adult Learning & Teacher Development
13:10 - "Just Tell Me What to Do" - When to Show vs. Ask
17:00 - The 4 Modes of Teacher Engagement
18:25 - Coaching the Resistor: Building Bridges
20:19 - The Visit-a-Colleague Strategy
21:40 - Who Should Be Coached? (Spoiler: Everyone)
24:19 - Beyond Data Dumps: Finding Stories in Student Work
25:47 - The Pattern-Finder Framework
27:02 - Measuring Your Coaching Impact
28:12 - Lightning Round: Essential Coaching Tools & Tips
30:05 - Final Thoughts & Closing

#InstructionalCoaching #TeacherCoaching #ProfessionalDevelopment #EducationLeadership #TeacherSupport #CoachingStrategies #SchoolLeadership #StudentSuccess #EffectiveTeaching #InstructionalStrategies #TeacherImpact #EducationCoaches #MentorTeachers #SchoolImprovement #EmpoweredEducators #InspiredTeaching #WholeChild #EquityInEducation #InclusiveTeaching #ThrivingStudents #EducationTransformation #SchoolCulture #InstructionalLeadership #TeacherMentors #NewTeachers

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

BONUS: Why This Teacher Left Public School After 12 Years

Fri, 26 Dec 2025 00:00:00 -0500

In this S5E17 Schoolutions Teaching Strategies BONUS, I unpack Sarah Tesar's honest story about leaving public school kindergarten—not because of bad admin or paperwork, but because the emotional cost became unsustainable.

This isn't just about teacher burnout. It's about the empathy paradox: the same qualities that make someone great at student engagement and classroom belonging can become impossible to sustain without systemic support.

In This Episode, You'll Discover:
✅ Why self-care advice fails when classroom behavior needs are overwhelming
✅ The difference between individual problems and system problems in education
✅ How to create active learning through integrated, theme-based teaching tips
✅ Practical lesson planning strategies that boost student motivation and student participation
✅ The power of mixed-skill grouping for inclusive teaching and student success
✅ Why authentic purposes transform low engagement into inspired teaching moments
✅ How to rethink the school day structure for thriving students

Sarah's experience offers effective teaching insights on instructional strategies, professional development, and teacher support that every educator needs to hear. Whether you're struggling with attention in class, looking for innovative teaching methods, or seeking coaching strategies for teacher impact—this conversation will validate your experience and equip you with practical solutions.

This is education beyond the classroom—practical, try-it-tomorrow approaches for empowered educators who believe in equity in education and student motivation that lasts.

Ready to transform your teaching or school culture? Watch now and discover why sustainable teaching isn't built in isolation—it's built in community.

🚀📚 Watch the full S5E17 ⁨@schoolutionspodcast⁩ interview here (https://youtu.be/LHxZLWh36Z0)

Join our community of educators committed to cultivating student success, inspired teaching, and creating inclusive classrooms with a pro-kid mindset focused on the whole child.

📧 Connect: schoolutionspodcast@gmail.com
🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

Don't forget to 🔔SUBSCRIBE for more teaching tips, and 💬SHARE with fellow educators!

Chapters
0:00 - Introduction: The Empathy Paradox
1:00 - Sarah's Story: 12 Years in Public School
2:00 - The Empathy Paradox Explained
3:00 - Individual vs. System Problems
4:00 - What Sarah Proposed to Her District
5:00 - Integrated, Theme-Based Learning
6:00 - Small Integration Strategies You Can Use
7:00 - Mixed-Skill Grouping in Action
8:00 - The 3-Hour School Day Question
9:00 - Rethinking School Day Structure
10:00 - Three Key Takeaways
11:00 - Your Invitation: Three Things to Write Down
12:00 - Building Sustainable Teaching in Community

#TeacherBurnout #StudentEngagement #EffectiveTeaching #InstructionalStrategies #TeacherSupport #ClassroomBelonging #ProfessionalDevelopment #EducationLeadership #CulturallyResponsiveTeaching #WholeChild #InnovativeTeaching #TeacherCoaching #StudentSuccess #EquityInEducation #ProKidMindset #InclusiveTeaching #LessonPlanning #ActiveLearning #SchoolCulture #EmpoweredEducators

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Why This Teacher Left Public School (But Still Believes in It)

Mon, 22 Dec 2025 00:00:00 -0500

In this S5E17 Schoolutions Teaching Strategies conversation, Sarah Tesar shares why being a public school kindergarten teacher for 12 years made her an excellent teacher for other people's children, but prevented her from being fully present with her own family, and how she's now created a hybrid homeschool model that honors both her expertise as an educator and her needs as a whole human being.

What You'll Learn:
✅ The emotional cost of teaching and recognizing when your cup is empty
✅ How to create mixed-age classrooms where kindergartners and fifth graders thrive together
✅ Theme-based curriculum built around science and social studies standards that naturally integrates literacy, math, student engagement, and active learning
✅ Scaffolding strategies across multiple skill levels for effective teaching and classroom behavior management
✅ Creating 3-hour learning sessions so engaging kids beg to attend
✅ Why social-emotional intervention deserves the same priority as academic intervention for student success and classroom belonging
✅ Practical strategies for integrated, joyful learning in any setting—public school, homeschool, or hybrid through innovative teaching and instructional strategies

Whether you teach in a traditional school or are exploring alternative models, Sarah shares research-backed strategies (including Vygotsky's zone of proximal development and attention in class techniques) you can use tomorrow to create more purposeful, engaging learning while honoring your own wellbeing and inspiring students through student participation.

Some resources mentioned:
➡️UFLI Phonics
➡️Elizabeth Sulzby's Emergent Storybook Reading Process
➡️Tara West's Writing Curriculum

CHAPTERS
0:00 - Introduction: The Cost of Being a Good Teacher
3:00 - Meet Sarah Tesar: From Public School to Homeschool
5:00 - Research Foundation: Vygotsky & Zone of Proximal Development
6:00 - The Breaking Point: When Teaching Depletes Your Cup
9:00 - The Empath's Dilemma: Giving Everything Away
11:00 - What Shifted: Finding Balance in Hybrid Homeschool
14:00 - Meeting Children's Needs: Systems & Social-Emotional Support
17:00 - A Day in the Life: Morning Homeschool Routine
20:00 - Scaffolding Phonics Across Ages
21:00 - The Apple Stand: Relevant, Purposeful Learning
23:00 - Hybrid Classroom: K-5 Students Learning Together
25:00 - Curriculum Design: Science & Social Studies as Foundation
27:00 - Scaffolding Writing: From Words to Paragraphs
29:00 - Integration: Shattering Educational Silos
31:00 - Parent Expectations in Hybrid Homeschool
33:00 - Lightning Round: Homeschool Myths & Best Practices
35:00 - Closing: The Gift of Having Something Left to Give
36:00 - Takeaways: What You Can Try Tomorrow

Join our community of educators committed to cultivating student success, inspired teaching, and creating inclusive classrooms with a pro-kid mindset focused on the whole child.

📧 Connect: schoolutionspodcast@gmail.com
🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

Don't forget to 🔔SUBSCRIBE for more teaching tips, and 💬SHARE with fellow educators!

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

BONUS: Mindful Waiting: A Secret to Better Student Engagement

Fri, 19 Dec 2025 00:00:00 -0500

In this S5E16 Schoolutions Teaching Strategies BONUS, I break down MJ Murray Vachon, LCSW's powerful teaching strategies that seem almost too simple to work—but they do. Listen to learn how you can transform your classroom with 3 simple practices that unlock genuine curiosity and calm. In this bonus episode,

Discover why saying "I don't know you" every morning can revolutionize student engagement, how 4 minutes of silence reached a defiant teen, and the 60-second "notice" practice that students actually beg to use.

What You'll Learn:
✅ The "I Don't Know You" mindset shift for deeper student connections
✅ Why waiting 2-4 minutes transforms classroom behavior and student participation
✅ The 60-second "Notice" breathing technique for attention in class
✅ How to move from judgment to curiosity with every student
✅ Practical teaching tips you can implement tomorrow

Perfect for teachers, education coaches, school administrators, parents, homeschoolers, teacher mentors, instructional leaders, and school counselors looking for effective teaching strategies that create inclusive classrooms and support the whole child.

Chapters
0:00 - Introduction: 3 Practices That Transform Teaching
1:00 - The "I Don't Know You" Mindset Shift
3:04 - Small Shift #1: Practice Curiosity Over Knowing
4:00 - The Power of Waiting: The Bus Mooning Story
6:00 - Small Shift #2: Wait 2 Minutes Before Speaking
7:00 - The "Notice" Practice: 60 Seconds to Presence
9:00 - Small Shift #3: Start Class with Notice
10:00 - Taking It Into Your Classroom
11:00 - Closing: Curiosity Requires Discomfort

💫Check out linked episode mentions here:
https://www.buzzsprout.com/1890886/episodes/18380877

Join our community of educators committed to cultivating student success, inspired teaching, and creating inclusive classrooms with a pro-kid mindset focused on the whole child. When coaches, teachers, administrators, and families work hand in hand, it fosters a school atmosphere where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged in their learning journey.

📧 Connect: schoolutionspodcast@gmail.com
🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

Don't forget to 👍LIKE this video if it helped you, 🔔SUBSCRIBE for more teaching tips, and
💬SHARE with fellow educators!

#TeachingTips #ClassroomManagement #StudentEngagement #EducationStrategies #TeacherCoaching #InstructionalCoaching #MindfulTeaching #InclusiveClassroom #StudentMotivation #TeacherSupport #ProfessionalDevelopment #WholeChild #EducationPodcast #TeacherLife #InspiredTeaching #schoolutionsteachingstrategies #Schoolutions

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Find Your Inner Calm in the Classroom

Mon, 15 Dec 2025 00:00:00 -0500

In this S5E16 Schoolutions Teaching Strategies conversation, join me with seasoned clinician MJ Murray Vachon, LCSW, as she shares the story of a 14-year-old who mooned a bus—and how nine minutes of curious conversation taught him life skills that lasted decades. Discover why curiosity requires discomfort, how to create calm from the inside out, and the simple "notice" practice that even Notre Dame football players started using in their huddles.

In This Episode You'll Discover:
✨Why classroom belonging starts with curiosity, not compliance
✨How to shift from judgment to curiosity to improve classroom behavior and student engagement
✨The "notice" practice that transforms student motivation and attention in class in under 60 seconds
✨Why low engagement often signals adults need to change, not students
✨ Active learning strategies that inspire students through emotional regulation
✨ How student participation increases when teachers practice co-regulation
✨ Instructional strategies that support the whole child approach

Resources Mentioned:

CHAPTER MARKERS
0:00 - Introduction: The Power of "Help Me Understand"
1:00 - Meet MJ Murray Vachon: 50,000+ Therapy Sessions
3:00 - Brené Brown's Research on Curiosity
4:00 - Why You Can't Be Curious and Comfortable
6:00 - The Two-Word Shift: From Judgment to Curiosity
9:00 - The Bus Mooning Story Begins
10:00 - The Four-Minute Wait That Changed Everything
11:00 - Teaching the Do-Over: Life Skills in Action
13:00 - The 9-Minute Conversation vs. A Day of Emails
14:00 - Why Repair Matters More Than Punishment
17:00 - Letting Go: What Education Needs to Release
19:00 - The Teacher Who Got Retooled at 67
21:00 - When "Kids Are Lazy" Is Actually Adult Control
23:00 - Creating Calm from the Inside Out
25:00 - The "Notice" Practice Explained
26:00 - Notre Dame Football Players in the Huddle
28:00 - Co-Regulation: Students Need Us Until 18
30:00 - Teaching Kids to Notice: Slowing Down to Speed Up
33:00 - Lightning Round: Best Advice for Teachers
34:00 - What MJ Believed Then vs. Now
36:00 - The Podcast Origin Story: Students Made Me Do It
38:00 - Your Invitation: Try Notice Tomorrow
39:00 - Outro & Resources

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

BONUS: What Happens When You Break Teaching Traditions?

Fri, 12 Dec 2025 00:00:00 -0500

In this S5E15 Schoolutions Teaching Strategies BONUS, I unpack the question: What if the teaching traditions we follow aren't actually required? This week's bonus episode explores the revolutionary concept of "stepping aside" in education—not stepping away, but repositioning yourself so students can drive their own learning.

In this reflection on Sarah Zerwin's groundbreaking work, we examine phantom policies (those teaching traditions we follow even though we're not required to), explore why we often work harder than our students, and discover practical strategies for student-driven learning that actually work.

Key Topics Covered:
💫Phantom policies in teaching and why we follow them
💫The OTA (Original Thought Annotation) strategy for student engagement
💫The driving course metaphor for effective teaching and instructional strategies
💫Learning progressions and student self-evaluation
💫How to increase student participation and active learning
💫Practical teaching tips for inspiring students and boosting student motivation

This episode is perfect for teachers, education coaches, instructional leaders, school administrators, teacher mentors, new teachers, and anyone committed to education transformation and student success.

Featured Concepts:
✓ Student-driven learning frameworks
✓ Culturally responsive teaching approaches
✓ Inclusive teaching strategies
✓ Whole child education
✓ Professional development insights
✓ Instructional coaching techniques
✓ Teacher support and mentor teachers guidance

Whether you're dealing with low engagement, seeking innovative teaching methods, or looking to improve classroom behavior and classroom belonging, this episode offers actionable education strategies you can implement tomorrow.

CHAPTERS:
0:00 - Introduction: The Challenge of Stepping Aside
1:00 - What Are Phantom Policies in Teaching?
3:00 - Common Phantom Policies We All Follow
4:00 - The OT (Original Thought) Annotation Strategy
6:00 - Building Student Thinking: The Three-Step Process
7:00 - The Driving Course Metaphor for Teaching
9:00 - Student-Driven Learning vs. Teacher-Centered Learning
10:00 - The Elephant in the Room: Grades & Evaluation
12:00 - Learning Progressions & Student Self-Evaluation
13:00 - Book Recommendations & Final Reflections
14:00 - Your Challenge: Find One Place to Step Aside
15:00 - Closing Thoughts on Student Agency

🚀📚 Watch the full S5E15 interview here (https://youtu.be/bsiNQiIn5DQ)

Join our community of educators committed to cultivating student success, inspired teaching, and creating inclusive classrooms with a pro-kid mindset focused on the whole child.

📧 Connect: schoolutionspodcast@gmail.com
🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

Don't forget to 👍LIKE &🔔SUBSCRIBE for more teaching tips, and 💬SHARE with fellow educators!

#StepAside #Schoolutions #SchoolutionsTeachingStrategies #ForeverGettingBetter #TeachingStrategies #StudentEngagement #EducationPodcast #TeacherTips #InstructionalCoaching #StudentMotivation #ActiveLearning #EducationLeadership #TeacherSupport #ProfessionalDevelopment #InclusiveTeaching #StudentSuccess #InnovativeTeaching #ClassroomStrategies #EducationTransformation #WholeChild #CulturallyResponsiveTeaching #TeacherCoaching #LessonPlanning #InspiredTeaching #EmpoweredEducators #SchoolLeadership #StudentDrivenLearning #EducationReform

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Launching Students into High-Level Work They Care About

Mon, 08 Dec 2025 00:00:00 -0500

In this S5E15 Schoolutions Teaching Strategies conversation, join me with teacher and author Sarah M. Zerwin as she shares strategies from her book Step Aside: Strategies for Student-Driven Learning with Secondary Readers and Writers (Illustrated by Jane Zerwin).

🚗 The Driving Course Metaphor: Student-driven learning isn't about abandoning students—it's like teaching someone to drive. You don't toss them the keys; you sit beside them, teach the rules, create a safe course, and strategically step back while staying present.

📝 The Power of the Humble Post-it Note: Discover how Original Thought Annotations (OTAs) using simple sticky notes can revolutionize student engagement, classroom belonging, and student motivation. Students write "I noticed... I think..." and build complex thinking from small observations.

🎯 The Three Step Meaning Making Process:
1️⃣Start Small (notice details through OTAs)
2️⃣Seek Connections (through rambling writing and discussion)
3️⃣Take Action (apply thinking to authentic work)

Resources:

Pointless by Sarah Zerwin
The Courage to Teach by Parker Palmer
Reading With Presence by Marilyn Pryle
A Novel Approach by Kate Roberts
The Anti-Racist Writing Workshop by Felicia Rose Chavez
The Quickwrite Handbook by Linda Rief

CHAPTERS
0:00 Introduction: Working Harder Than Your Students?

1:00 Meet Sarah Zerwin and Step Aside

3:00 Parker Palmer & The Third Thing

5:00 The Driving Course Metaphor

8:00 Phantom Policies We Don't Need

12:00 Collaborating with Jane

15:00 The Humble Post-it Note Revolution

17:00 Original Thought Annotations (OTAs)

20:00 Building Thinking from Small Observations

23:00 The 3-Step Meaning-Making Process

26:00 Start Small: What Students Notice

28:00 Seek Connections: Rambling & Discussion

32:00 Take Action: Thinking into Learning

34:00 Evolution from Pointless

36:00 Learning Progressions

38:00 Student-Generated Goals Using AI

42:00 Lightning Round

44:00 Misconceptions About Student-Driven Learning

46:00 Where Can You Step Aside?

48:00 Final Invitation

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

BONUS: One Skill Art Teachers Say Matters More Than Technique

Fri, 05 Dec 2025 00:00:00 -0500

In this S5E14 @schoolutionspodcast BONUS, I unpack @katedriscoll931 's revolutionary approach to education that prioritizes observation over analysis, pride over perfection, and joy over data. Whether you're teaching art, math, or anything in between, Kate's strategies for classroom belonging, student engagement, and inspiring students will transform how you think about effective teaching.

What if the most important thing we could teach students isn't in any curriculum guide? Art teacher Kate Driscoll, whose video reached 80 million people, believes the answer is simple: teach them to notice.

What You'll Learn:
• Why teaching observation before interpretation changes everything for student participation and attention in class
• How to create conditions for authentic pride (not participation trophies) that boost student motivation
• Kate's assessment philosophy that starts with "What do you like about your work?" – a game-changer for low engagement
• The power of using contemporary, local artists to increase student engagement and create meaningful home-school connection
• 5 concrete strategies you can implement Monday morning for active learning across any subject

Kate sees 400 students for just one hour each week, yet every child leaves her classroom carrying pride and creative confidence. This approach to inclusive teaching and culturally responsive teaching works because it honors the whole child while building student success through real autonomy and choice.

Perfect for teachers, education coaches, school administrators, parents, homeschoolers, teacher mentors, instructional leaders, and anyone committed to education transformation and empowered educators.

Referenced Episode: Season 5, Episode 14 - "Why This Art Teacher is Making Kids Love Creating" with Kate Driscoll

5 Try-It-Tomorrow Strategies:
1. Practice noticing – really seeing without devices
2. Create conditions for pride through real challenges with autonomy
3. Find contemporary, relevant connections to your curriculum
4. Ask "What do you like about your work?" before offering feedback
5. Remember the joy you bring

Weekend Challenge: Take a noticing walk with your students. Count colors in a leaf, observe shadow patterns, really see your environment. Email your observations to schoolutionspodcast@gmail.com.

Chapters
0:00 - Introduction: The 80 Million View Video
1:00 - The Power of Teaching Students to Notice
3:00 - Observation Before Analysis: What Students Are Missing
4:30 - The Radical Skill of Paying Attention
5:30 - Creating Conditions for Pride (Not Trophies)
6:45 - Contemporary Artists: Making Curriculum Relevant
8:00 - Assessment That Starts With Self-Reflection
9:30 - Remember the Joy You Bring
10:30 - 5 Try-It-Tomorrow Strategies
12:00 - Weekend Challenge: Take a Noticing Walk
13:00 - Final Thoughts: Teaching the Extraordinary in the Ordinary

🚀📚 Watch the full S5E14 ⁨@schoolutionspodcast⁩ interview here (https://youtu.be/wWpZsQCFHvI)

Join our community of educators committed to cultivating student success, inspired teaching, and creating i

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Why This Art Teacher is Making Kids LOVE Creating

Mon, 01 Dec 2025 00:00:00 -0500

In this S5E14 Schoolutions Teaching Strategies conversation, join me with Kate Driscoll (@art_teacher_life) an Australian art educator whose first Facebook video reached 80 million people! With 37 years in education (23 as a primary teacher, 14 as an art specialist), Kate shares transformative strategies for nurturing creativity in students.

In this episode, discover:
• How to build student engagement through art education strategies
• Innovative teaching methods that foster student motivation and classroom belonging
• Assessment techniques that promote student success while maintaining creative freedom
• The power of connecting students with contemporary artists for authentic learning
• Practical tips for classroom behavior management in creative spaces
• Why teaching students to "notice" is the ultimate educational gift

Kate reveals her approach to inclusive teaching, working with 400 students weekly in hour-long sessions that prioritize joy, autonomy, and storytelling through art. Learn how she creates an inclusive classroom where every child feels proud and empowered.

Some Episode Mentions:
💫Mulga - Australian artist who creates incredible creatures/animals and writes stories about his artwork
💫Anya Brock - West Australian artist with murals around Perth and Fremantle area

Perfect for teachers, education coaches, instructional leaders, school administrators, parents, and homeschoolers seeking effective teaching strategies that inspire student participation and active learning.

Chapters
0:00 Introduction & Kate's Viral Impact
1:00 Kate's Teaching Background
2:00 Professional Development & Teaching Philosophy
3:00 Classroom Structure & Student Numbers
5:00 Daily Routines & Question of the Day
7:00 Teaching Observation & Noticing Skills
8:00 Finding Contemporary Australian Artists
10:00 Making Real-World Art Connections
13:00 Assessment & Self-Evaluation
15:00 Literacy Integration & Storytelling
17:00 Mentoring New Teachers
18:00 Global Art Education Perspectives
20:00 Fostering Lifelong Creativity
22:00 Autonomy in the Art Room
23:00 Art is Everywhere Philosophy
24:00 Lightning Round: Misconceptions & Must-Haves
26:00 The Joy You Bring as an Art Teacher

Join our community of educators committed to cultivating student success, inspired teaching, and creating inclusive classrooms with a pro-kid mindset focused on the whole child.

📧 Connect: schoolutionspodcast@gmail.com
🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

Don't forget to 🔔SUBSCRIBE for more teaching tips, and 💬SHARE with fellow educators!

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

BONUS: How to Raise a Kind, Empathetic Child

Fri, 28 Nov 2025 00:00:00 -0500

In this S5E13 Schoolutions Teaching Strategies BONUS, I unpack 3 game-changing insights from my conversation with attachment expert @attachmentnerd that will transform your approach to classroom behavior, student engagement, and inclusive teaching.

🧠 THE NERVOUS SYSTEM TRUTH: Learn why students laugh during serious lessons (hint: it's not about disrespect) and how this understanding changes everything about classroom behavior, student motivation, and effective teaching strategies.

📓 THE REACTION JOURNAL METHOD: Discover an innovative teaching approach that builds genuine empathy without forcing it - perfect for culturally responsive teaching, student participation, and creating inclusive classrooms where every child can process difficult content authentically.

🐕 THE GOLDEN RETRIEVER GREETING: This simple daily practice literally rewires brains for security and transforms student success, active learning, and attention in class. It's the ultimate pro-kid mindset shift for thriving students.

Whether you're managing low engagement, seeking education strategies for inspiring students, or working on school improvement through better home-school connection, these instructional strategies will revolutionize your teaching impact.

KEY TAKEAWAYS FOR EDUCATORS & CAREGIVERS:
✅ Why "reach before teach" is the foundation of student motivation and whole child development
✅ The critical difference between confidence and arrogance in empowered educators and students
✅ How to decode challenging behaviors as communication (essential for new teachers, teacher coaching, and instructional coaching)
✅ Simple strategies for parent communication and family partnerships that support education at home

Perfect for: teachers, education coaches, school administrators, parents, homeschoolers, teacher mentors, instructional leaders, school counselors, and anyone committed to anti-bias teaching and equity in education.

This episode provides practical instructional leadership insights, coaching strategies, and professional development ideas that support school culture transformation and education transformation at every level.

📧 Email me your biggest takeaway: solutionspodcast@gmail.com
🎧 Listen to the full interview with Eli Harwood: [Link to S5E13]

CHAPTERS:
0:00 Introduction: When Kids Act Out During Serious Lessons
1:02 The Nervous System Response Behind "Inappropriate" Laughter
3:14 The Reaction Journal Method for Building Authentic Empathy
4:45 The Golden Retriever Greeting That Changes Everything
6:38 Confidence vs Arrogance: What We're Really Building
8:12 "Reach Before You Teach" - The Carpenter's Son Story
9:45 Every Behavior is Communication
10:24 Weekend Challenge & Practical Applications

🚀📚 Watch the full S5E13 @schoolutionspodcast interview here (https://youtu.be/PdSf9T4zmQg)

Join our community of educators committed to cultivating student success, inspired teaching, and creating inclusive classrooms with a pro-kid mindset focused on the whole child.

📧 Connect: schoolutionspodcast@gmail.com
🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

Don't forget to 👍LIKE this video if it helped you, 🔔SUBSCRIBE for more teaching tips, and 💬SHARE with fellow educators!

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

What Kids REALLY Need When They Act Out

Mon, 24 Nov 2025 00:00:00 -0500

In this S5E13 Schoolutions Teaching Strategies conversation, join me with attachment expert Eli Harwood ("The Attachment Nerd") as she revolutionizes our understanding of student behavior, classroom belonging, and student engagement. Discover why nervous laughter isn't defiance - it's a cry for help with emotional regulation.

In this transformative episode, you'll learn:
• Why "You're fine" might be damaging student success [33:00]
• The critical difference between confidence and arrogance in inclusive classrooms [8:00]
• How to transform low engagement through pro-kid mindset approaches
• Revolutionary strategies for student motivation and active learning
• The neuroscience behind classroom behavior and attention in class

Key Insights for Education Transformation:
✓ Innovative teaching method: "Reach before you teach" - the foundation of student participation
✓ How to create classroom belonging when students laugh at inappropriate times
✓ Instructional strategies that address tool deficiency, not heart deficiency
✓ Why 80% of brain development happens by age 3 - and what it means for teaching tips

Featured Teaching Strategies:
• One-down curiosity technique for inspiring students [29:00]
• Reaction journals for culturally responsive teaching [21:00]
• Enthusiastic greeting rituals for school culture improvement [33:30]
• Effective teaching approaches for whole child development

Resources Mentioned:
• Book: Raising Securely Attached Kids
• Website: attachmentnerd.com
• Research: Mary Ainsworth's Strange Situation

Chapters
0:00 Introduction: When Students Laugh at Tragedy
1:00 Meet Attachment Expert Eli Harwood
2:00 Research Foundation: Mary Ainsworth & Attachment
5:36 "We Before Me": Understanding Development
7:00 The 80% Brain Development Milestone
8:00 Confidence vs. Arrogance Explained
10:00 The Problem with Praise-Based Feedback
13:00 Real Story: Connecting with Disengaged Students
14:14 "Reach Before You Teach" Philosophy
15:16 Why Students Laugh at Inappropriate Times
17:00 How to Respond to Nervous Laughter
19:00 Understanding Bullying Behavior
21:00 Creating Reaction Journals
22:00 Tool Deficient vs. Heart Deficient
23:00 Structure vs. Suffocation in Teaching
26:00 Setting Clear Expectations
28:00 Allowing Students to Fail Safely
29:00 One-Down Curiosity Technique
32:00 Lightning Round: Stop Saying "You're Fine"
33:30 Enthusiastic Greeting Ritual
35:00 The Secure Parent Program

Join our community of educators committed to cultivating student success, inspired teaching, and creating inclusive classrooms with a pro-kid mindset focused on the whole child. When coaches, teachers, administrators, and families work hand in hand, it fosters a school atmosphere where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged in their learning journey.

📧 Connect: schoolutionspodcast@gmail.com
🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

Don't forget to 🔔SUBSCRIBE for more teaching tips, and 💬SHARE with fellow educators!

#SecurelyAttachedKids #AttachmentNerd #SchoolutionsTeachingStrategies

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

BONUS: Why Students Are So Tired & How to Fix It

Fri, 21 Nov 2025 00:00:00 -0500

In this S5E12 Schoolutions Teaching Strategies BONUS, I unpack three game-changing education strategies from my conversation with Gravity Goldberg that will revolutionize your classroom behavior and student motivation.

🧠 What if everything you've been taught about student engagement and student fatigue is WRONG?
Discover why the glazed eyes and fidgeting you see 15 minutes into independent reading isn't real exhaustion—it's anticipated fatigue.

🎯 THREE BREAKTHROUGH STRATEGIES YOU'LL LEARN:
• The Two-Thirds Rule: Why visible timers sabotage student participation and attention in class
• Movement as Memory: How students retain 76% MORE information through active learning
• Intentional Gestures: Transform low engagement into focused learning with simple hand signals

CHAPTERS:
0:00 Introduction: Rethinking Student Fatigue
1:00 The Two-Thirds Rule Discovery
3:00 Strategy #1: Remove Visible Timers
4:00 Strategy #2: Movement as Memory (76% Better Retention)
5:00 Creating Embodied Memories
6:00 Strategy #3: Intentional Gestures
8:00 Bodies as Learning Pathways
9:00 Monday Implementation Challenge

💡 KEY TAKEAWAYS FOR IMPLEMENTATION:
✓ Remove visible timers for better student engagement and sustained attention in class
✓ Use manipulatives and movement for deeper lesson planning and instructional strategies
✓ Create gesture-based teaching tips that support anti-bias teaching and thriving students

📑 VIDEO CHAPTERS

0:00 Rethinking Everything About Student Fatigue
0:45 Introduction to Three Game-Changing Strategies
1:00 The Two-Thirds Rule: Why Students Check Out
2:30 The Timer Problem: How We Sabotage Stamina
3:00 Strategy #1: Remove Visible Timers
3:30 Vary Duration Without Announcing
4:00 Strategy #2: Movement as Memory (76% Retention Boost)
4:30 How Actors Learn: Blocking as Memory
5:00 Creating Embodied Memories in Your Classroom
5:30 Age-Appropriate Movement Applications
6:00 Strategy #3: Intentional Gesture System
6:30 Creating Your Gesture Vocabulary
7:00 Student-Created Gestures for Ownership
7:30 Bodies as Learning Pathways, Not Obstacles
8:00 Recognizing Natural Movement Learners
8:30 Movement as Rigorous, Sophisticated Work
9:00 Monday Implementation Challenge
9:30 Choose Your Strategy and Transform Your Classroom

🚀📚 Watch the full S5E12 Schoolutions Teaching Strategies interview here (https://youtu.be/4-mosH0raZg)

Join our community of educators committed to cultivating student success, inspired teaching, and creating inclusive classrooms with a pro-kid mindset focused on the whole child.

📧 Connect: schoolutionspodcast@gmail.com
🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

Don't forget to 👍LIKE this video if it helped you, 🔔SUBSCRIBE for more teaching tips, and 💬SHARE with fellow educators!

#BrainBodyConnection #StudentEngagement #ClassroomBehavior #ActiveLearning #TeacherCoaching #InstructionalStrategies #EducationTransformation #InclusiveTeaching #StudentMotivation #TeachingTips #MovementBasedLearning #WholeChild #EffectiveTeaching #SchoolImprovement #ProKidMindset #EmpoweredEducators

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

The Secret Connections Between Your Body & Brain

Mon, 17 Nov 2025 00:00:00 -0500

In this S5E12 Schoolutions Teaching Strategies conversation, literacy expert and author Gravity Goldberg reveals game-changing strategies backed by 25 years of teaching experience. Discover the revolutionary research that explains why student exhaustion isn't about tired brains—it's about expectations.

🎯 KEY INSIGHTS:
✅Students retain 76% MORE information when movement is integrated into learning
✅The "two-thirds rule" explains why students get tired—and how to prevent it
✅Simple gestures can boost memory, engagement, and comprehension across all grade levels
✅Why sitting still actually SABOTAGES student memory and focus

✨ WHAT YOU'LL LEARN:
💡How to use movement to boost comprehension by over 50%
💡The actor's secret to memorization (and how it applies to your classroom)
💡Pre-test warmup strategies based on student anxiety levels
💡Why timers might be sabotaging your students' stamina
💡Simple manipulatives that transform understanding across content areas

Some Episode Mentions:

Ellen Langer - Key Study: Eye exam reversal study (starting with small print vs. large print changed prescriptions)
Arthur Glenberg - Key Study: Reading comprehension with manipulatives vs. rereading (50%+ improvement)
The Noices - Researchers studying actor memorization techniques
The Body-Brain Connection: Evidence-Based Ways to Reduce Anxiety, Boost Engagement, and Increase Comprehension Across Classrooms

CHAPTERS
0:00 Introduction: The Fatigue Paradox
1:00 Movement IS the Learning
2:00 Meet Gravity Goldberg
3:00 Ellen Langer's Eye Exam Study
4:00 The Two-Thirds Rule Explained
5:00 Gravity's Running Discovery
6:00 Mental Fatigue vs Physical Fatigue
8:00 Why Timers Might Be Sabotaging Stamina
9:00 The Broken Clock Advantage
10:00 What's Really Happening During Mental Fatigue
12:00 Stamina vs Willpower
13:00 The 76% Memory Boost from Movement
14:00 The Actor's Secret: Blocking and Memory Tags
16:00 Big Movement to Small Visualization
17:00 Walking with Perspective Exercise
18:00 Reading Comprehension and Facial Expressions
19:00 Envisioning Strategies for Parents
21:00 Decoding with Multisensory Approaches
22:00 Fluency and Physical Tracking
24:00 High-Impact Strategy: Intentional Gesture
25:00 Why Gesture Beats Talking Heads
27:00 The Manipulative Study: 50% Better Comprehension
29:00 What a Body-Brain Classroom Looks Like
31:00 Trust and Student Autonomy
33:00 Play Meets Rigor
34:00 Lightning Round Begins
35:00 Pre-Test Body Strategy Warmups
36:00 The Homework Position Secret
38:00 Gravity's Personal Discovery
39:00 Ending the Body-Brain Dualism
41:00 Closing Challenge and Resources

Join our community of educators committed to cultivating student success, inspired teaching, and creating inclusive classrooms with a pro-kid mindset focused on the whole child. Don't forget to 🔔SUBSCRIBE for more teaching tips, and 💬SHARE with fellow educators!

📧 Connect: schoolutionspodcast@gmail.com
🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

BONUS: Why Every Student IS a Math Person

Fri, 14 Nov 2025 00:00:00 -0500

In this S5E11 Schoolutions Teaching Strategies BONUS, I unpack game-changing insights from math expert Mona Iehl about why student engagement and student motivation actually INCREASE when we give kids harder problems. This counterintuitive approach transforms classroom behavior and builds true classroom belonging through mathematical struggle.

💡 What You'll Discover:

Why rescuing kids from struggle hurts their mathematical identity
The 2 magic phrases that revolutionize student participation and attention in class
How to plan a week of transformative math lessons in ONE prep period
Why wrong answers are actually windows into understanding
The simple shift from math as performance to math as conversation

🌟 Key Takeaways:
This episode challenges traditional instructional strategies and offers practical education strategies for creating inclusive classrooms where every child discovers they ARE a math person. Learn how active learning through productive struggle creates thriving students and inspired teaching.

📚 Resources Mentioned:

Word Problem Workshop by Mona Iehl

📖 CHAPTERS:
0:00 Why We're Hurting Kids By Helping Too Much
1:30 The Math Identity Crisis in Our Classrooms
3:00 Choosing Problems That Challenge Your Top Students
4:00 John Dewey: Learning Through Reflection
4:30 The Forecasting Guide Secret
5:30 Math Narration at Home
6:30 When Kids Rise to Hard Problems
7:00 From Silent Pencils to Mathematical Discourse
8:00 The Two Magic Phrases
9:00 Math as Conversation, Not Performance
10:00 Your Monday Morning Challenge

🚀📚 Watch the full S5E11 interview here (https://youtu.be/HO0l_eyKZPw)

Join our community of educators committed to cultivating student success, inspired teaching, and creating inclusive classrooms with a pro-kid mindset focused on the whole child. When coaches, teachers, administrators, and families work hand in hand, it fosters a school atmosphere where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged in their learning journey.

📧 Connect: schoolutionspodcast@gmail.com
🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

Don't forget to 🔔SUBSCRIBE for more teaching tips, and
💬SHARE with fellow educators!

#MathWorkshop #ProductiveStruggle #MathIdentity #TeachingStrategies #ElementaryMath #GrowthMindset #MathEducation #ActiveLearning #StudentEngagement #InclusiveTeaching #TeacherTips #InstructionalCoaching #EducationPodcast #MathAnxiety #ProblemSolving #WholeChild #EffectiveTeaching #SchoolImprovement #ParentInvolvement #InspiredTeaching #ThrivingStudents #EducationTransformation #ProKidMindset #TeacherSupport #MathDiscourse

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

5 Steps to Creating a Classroom of Problem Solvers

Mon, 10 Nov 2025 00:00:00 -0500

In this S5E11 Schoolutions Teaching Strategies conversation, elementary educator and math coach Mona Iehl shares her transformative 5-step Word Problem Workshop method that's revolutionizing how students engage with mathematics. From "I'm not a math person" to confident problem solver—this conversation will change how you think about teaching math.

🎯 What You'll Learn:

The 5 steps to creating a classroom of problem solvers (Launch, Grapple, Share, Discuss, Reflect)
How to plan an entire week of word problems in ONE prep period
Why student-centered methods foster student engagement and student motivation better than traditional approaches
The forecasting guide that transforms lesson planning and instructional strategies
How to choose problems that challenge WITHOUT overwhelming
Building positive math identities through classroom belonging and student participation

This isn't just about math—it's about effective teaching that builds the whole child through culturally responsive teaching and equity in education.

Resources Mentioned:

📚 Word Problem Workshop by Mona Iehl

📚 Five Practices for Orchestrating Mathematical Discussions by Peg Smith

📚 Adding It Up - Five Strands of Mathematical Proficiency

Chapters:
0:00 Introduction & Preview
2:00 Welcome & Guest Introduction
3:00 Book Reveal: Word Problem Workshop
4:00 Research Foundation: Peg Smith & Five Practices
5:47 Math Identities & Personal Journey
7:00 Project-Based Learning vs. Traditional Math
8:00 Traditional Word Problems vs. Word Problem Workshop
10:00 Student-Centered Learning & Building Confidence
11:00 Five Strands of Mathematical Proficiency
12:00 Conceptual Understanding in Practice
13:00 Strategic Competence & Adaptive Reasoning
15:00 Community-Based Learning Approach
16:00 Step 1: Launch - Packing the Backpack
16:37 Step 2: Grapple - Independent Problem Solving
17:00 The Joy of Figuring It Out
18:00 Step 3: Share - Making Thinking Visible
18:30 Step 4: Discuss - Facilitating Discourse
19:00 Step 5: Reflect - John Dewey's Wisdom
20:00 The Power of Reflection (Nuthall's 20% Research)
21:00 Teacher Roles in Word Problem Workshop
22:00 Getting Curious About Student Thinking
24:00 Teacher as Scribe During Sharing
25:00 Planning Magic: A Week in One Prep
26:00 Choosing Learning Goals & Problems
27:00 The Challenge Problem Philosophy
29:00 The Forecasting Guide Tool
30:00 Planning for All Learners
31:00 Collaborative Planning Time
33:00 Overcoming Fear: First Steps for Teachers
35:00 Administrator Support & Clear Focus
37:00 Supporting Math at Home: Caregiver Tips
38:00 Modeling Mathematical Thinking
39:00 Lightning Round: Math Misconceptions
40:00 Vision for Positive Math Identity Classrooms
42:00 Equitable Access & Confident Communities
43:00 Final Thoughts: Teachers as the Most Important
44:00 Closing & Call to Action

Connect with Mona:

🎙️ Math Chat Podcast

📧 Connect: schoolutionspodcast@gmail.com
🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

BONUS: Drowning in Standards? How to Cut Back to What Matters MOST

Fri, 07 Nov 2025 00:00:00 -0500

In this S5E10 Schoolutions Teaching Strategies BONUS, I break down the Essential Standards Framework from Larry Ainsworth that completely transformed my teaching—and can transform yours too. Stop drowning in standards and start teaching what actually matters.

🎯 The Game-Changer: Research shows students who master 88% of standards perform BETTER on tests than those who skim through 100%. This episode gives you three actionable insights from my conversation with Larry that you can implement Monday morning.

What You'll Learn:
✅ How the 88% solution frees you from coverage panic and improves student success
✅ A breakthrough approach for special education that maintains rigor while ensuring access (7th-grade thinking with 3rd-grade texts!)
✅ How to transform performance tasks from extra work to THE work
✅ The R-E-A-L criteria framework to identify your own essential standards (even if your district hasn't done this work)

Key Topics Covered:
- Overcoming teacher test anxiety through focused instruction and lesson planning
- Using the R-E-A-L criteria: Readiness, Endurance, Assessment, Leverage
- Maintaining rigor for students with disabilities and multilingual learners through inclusive teaching
- Replacing traditional instruction with authentic performance tasks that drive student engagement and active learning
- Creating clarity for student success and thriving students

This isn't about lowering expectations—it's about raising achievement through innovative teaching and a pro-kid mindset. Stop covering content and start uncovering what your students truly need with these practical teaching tips and instructional coaching insights.

Chapters
0:00 - Introduction: The Essential Standards Framework
1:00 - The 88% Solution: Why Less Coverage = Better Results
3:00 - Teacher Test Anxiety & the R-E-A-L Criteria Framework
5:00 - Monday Move: Identifying Your Essential Standards
6:00 - Game-Changer for Special Education & Multilingual Learners
7:00 - The Formula: Grade-Level Thinking with Accessible Texts
8:00 - Performance Tasks: Replacement Work, Not Extra Work
9:00 - Authentic Learning Examples (Instagram Profiles, Podcasts, Community Gardens)
10:00 - Your Practical Roadmap: Where to Start
12:00 - The Power of Clarity in Teaching
13:00 - Challenge: Use the REAL Criteria This Week
14:00 - Final Invitation & Closing Thoughts

🚀📚 Watch the full S5E10 ⁨@schoolutionspodcast⁩ interview here.

Join our community of educators committed to cultivating student success, inspired teaching, and creating inclusive classrooms with a pro-kid mindset focused on the whole child. When coaches, teachers, administrators, and families work hand in hand, it fosters a school atmosphere where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged in their learning journey.

📧 Connect: schoolutionspodcast@gmail.com
🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

#EssentialStandards #TeachingStrategies #EducationPodcast #TeacherLife #InstructionalCoaching #StudentEngagement #ActiveLearning #EffectiveTeaching #LessonPlanning #InnovativeTeaching #InclusiveTeaching #SpecialEducation #TeacherSupport #ProfessionalDevelopment #InstructionalLeadership #StudentSuccess #ThrivingStudents #EmpoweredEducators #EducationTransformation #TeacherImpact #EquityInEducation #InclusiveClassrooms #ProKidMindset #W

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Less is More: Rethinking Essential Standards for Deeper Learning

Mon, 03 Nov 2025 00:00:00 -0500

In this S5E10 Schoolutions Teaching Strategies conversation, join me with Larry Ainsworth, the pioneer of essential standards work, where he reveals why focusing deeply on fewer standards leads to BETTER assessment results than frantically trying to cover everything. Yes, you read that right: 88% focused teaching outperforms 100% surface-level teaching.

What You'll Learn:
✅ The REAL criteria for identifying essential standards (Readiness, Endurance, Assessment, Leverage)
✅ How to support students with disabilities and multilingual learners with essential standards
✅ Why teachers MUST be involved in selecting essential standards (ownership matters!)
✅ How to scaffold instruction for students reading below grade level while maintaining grade-level expectations
✅ The connection between essential standards and project-based learning, classroom engagement, and student motivation
✅ Why Arizona is now weighting its state assessments toward essential standards
✅ How essential standards save time and guide effective teaching, lesson planning, and instructional strategies

Larry has guided educators for over two decades and helped countless schools create culturally responsive teaching environments with equity in education at the center.

Resources from Larry:

💫Inquiring Minds Want to Know: FAQs About Prioritizing Standards

💫Clarity Pathway

💫Integrating Teaching & Learning Newsletter & Books

💫Essential Standards: Pathway to Success for All Students Course

CHAPTERS
0:00 - Introduction: The Standards Struggle
0:41 - The 88% Solution: Focus Over Coverage
3:00 - Meet Larry Ainsworth: Pioneer of Essential Standards
5:00 - Defining Essential Standards: Power, Priority, or Essential?
9:00 - The 88% Question: Will Students Fail the Test?
14:00 - Supporting Students with Disabilities with Essential Standards
17:00 - Scaffolding Strategy: Meeting Students Where They Are
19:00 - The REAL Criteria: Readiness, Endurance, Assessment, Leverage
23:00 - Assessment and the State Testing Reality
25:00 - Project-Based Learning and Essential Standards
27:00 - This IS the Unit: Depth Over Breadth
28:00 - Focus Dispels the Illusion of Coverage
30:00 - The Administrator's Role: Coach, Cheerleader, Quarterback
33:00 - Lightning Round: Essential Standards vs. Backward Design
35:00 - State-Level Essential Standards: Good or Undermining?
37:00 - The Spectacular Failure: When Teachers Aren't Involved
39:00 - Final Takeaway: Essential Standards as the Foundation
41:00 - Closing: Resources and Next Steps

Join our community of educators committed to cultivating student success, inspired teaching, and creating inclusive classrooms with a pro-kid mindset focused on the whole child.

📧 Connect: schoolutionspodcast@gmail.com
🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

BONUS: Rethinking Certainty in Education - Why We’re Doing It All Wrong

Fri, 31 Oct 2025 00:00:00 -0400

In this S5E9 Schoolutions Teaching Strategies BONUS, I break down my conversation with Angela Stockman. Have you ever thought admitting "I don't know" would ruin your credibility as an educator? In this bonus episode, I share the vulnerable moment in 2006 when I believed saying those three words had sabotaged my career—and what actually happened next that transformed my entire teaching practice.

Building on my conversation with Angela about embracing uncertainty, this episode gives you three concrete moves to practice this week: how to pick ONE focal point to study all year, how to document observations without adding compliance burden, and how to share uncertainty in ways that build trust instead of destroying it.

What You'll Learn:
✅ Why performing certainty is ruining teacher credibility and causing burnout
✅ The three-move system for operationalizing uncertainty in your classroom
✅ How pedagogical documentation sustains your energy and curiosity
✅ Why "I don't know" gives students and colleagues permission to actually learn
✅ How to pair uncertainty with structure so it becomes productive, not paralyzing

This isn't about having all the answers—it's about having the courage to study what genuinely fascinates you about student learning. When we stop performing and start documenting, teaching transforms from survival mode to sustainable discovery.

Key Quote: "I don't have to be certain to be credible." - Angela Stockman

CHAPTERS:
0:00 - Introduction: The Power of "I Don't Know"
1:00 - My 2006 Career-Changing Moment
3:00 - When a Teacher Said "That's the Most Honest Thing I've Heard"
4:00 - How to Operationalize Uncertainty
5:00 - Move 1: Name One Thing You're Curious About
6:00 - Move 2: Replace "I Should Know" with "I'm Going to Study This"
7:00 - Move 3: Share Your Uncertainty with One Person
8:00 - The Unintended Gift: Documentation Sustains Your Energy
9:00 - Curiosity as the Antidote to Burnout
10:00 - Call to Action: Your Three Moves This Week

💫Check out linked episode mentions here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1890886/episodes/18106285

🚀📚 Watch the full S5E9 @schoolutionspodcast interview here (https://youtu.be/8omXvWmAPl0)

Join our community of educators committed to cultivating student success, inspired teaching, and creating inclusive classrooms with a pro-kid mindset focused on the whole child. When coaches, teachers, administrators, and families work hand in hand, it fosters a school atmosphere where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged in their learning journey.

📧 Connect: schoolutionspodcast@gmail.com
🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE for more teaching tips, and 💬SHARE with fellow educators!

#TeachingStrategies #TeacherBurnout #PedagogicalDocumentation #EmbracingUncertainty #TeacherCredibility #ProfessionalDevelopment #InstructionalCoaching #EducationPodcast #TeachingStrategies #StudentEngagement #ClassroomCulture #TeacherSupport #NewTeachers #InnovativeTeaching #EducationTransformation #TeacherImpact #EmpoweredEducators #WholeChild #ProKidMindset #InclusiveTeaching #EquityInEducation #CulturallyResponsiveTeaching #ActiveLearning #EffectiveTeaching #InstructionalStrategies #SchoolLeadership #TeacherMentors #CoachingStrategies #InspiredTeaching #StudentSuccess #ThrivingStudents #Schoolutions #SchoolutionsTeachingStrategies

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Stop Drowning in Data: Why Uncertainty Makes Us Better Educators

Mon, 27 Oct 2025 00:00:00 -0400

In this S5E9 Schoolutions Teaching Strategies conversation, join me with Angela Stockman to move beyond feeling overwhelmed with data, thanks to Angela's practical teaching tips that foster student-centered learning. Learn how to refine your classroom practices and assessment strategies for better outcomes. This video provides actionable insights for teachers by improving data analysis to inform teaching strategies.

If you've ever felt like you're drowning in data but starving for actual insights about student engagement and classroom behavior, this conversation with Angela will transform your approach to teaching.

💡 WHAT YOU'LL LEARN:
✓ Why documentation sustains your energy instead of draining it
✓ How to use tools like Otter.ai and Unruler for easy documentation
✓ The difference between compliance paperwork and pedagogical documentation
✓ How to get "under the hood" of quantitative data with student perspectives
✓ Why saying "I don't know" increases your credibility as an educator
✓ How to pick one focal point and document for a full year
✓ Ways documentation improves instructional strategies and student success

Episode Mentions:
💫The Writing Teacher's Guide to Pedagogical Documentation
💫Carla Rinaldi
💫Bill Cope
💫Mary Kalantzis
💫Nell Duke
💫Kelly Cartwright
💫John Hattie

CHAPTERS
0:00 - Introduction: Drowning in Data, Starving for Insights
1:00 - Meet Angela Stockman: 20+ Years of Documentation Research
2:00 - Welcome & Episode Overview
3:00 - Research Foundations: Carla Rinaldi & Reggio Emilia
5:00 - Why Documentation Matters Now More Than Ever
6:00 - Understanding Learning from Students' Perspectives
8:00 - Documentation as Sustaining Energy (Not Draining It)
9:00 - Compliance vs. Pedagogical Documentation
10:00 - Being a Teacher by Learning, Not Just Doing
11:00 - Too Much Data, Not Enough Savvy
12:00 - Getting Under the Hood of Quantitative Data
14:00 - Making Documentation a Routine, Not a Burden
16:00 - Practical Tools: Otter.ai & Speech-to-Text
18:00 - Creating a Documentation System That Works
20:00 - Sharing Documentation with Students & Families
23:00 - Documentation as a Love Language
25:00 - The Power of "I Don't Know" in Teaching
28:00 - Credibility Through Curiosity, Not Certainty
30:00 - When Students Teach Us More Than We Teach Them
32:00 - Messy Implementation & the Beginner's Mind
33:00 - Avoiding "Lift and Drop" Best Practices
34:00 - Lightning Round: Best Documentation Tools
35:00 - Biggest Mistakes in Documentation
36:00 - Advice: Pick ONE Focal Point for the Year
37:00 - Connect with Angela Stockman
38:00 - Final Thoughts & Call to Action
39:00 - Outro & Next Steps

📧 schoolutionspodcast@gmail.com
🎵Benjamin Wahl

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

BONUS: Is Traditional Grammar Instruction Hurting Your Students' Progress?

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 00:00:00 -0400

In this S5E8 Schoolutions Teaching Strategies BONUS, I break down my conversation with Patty McGee about revolutionary grammar instruction that replaces shame with curiosity and memorization with discovery. If you've been struggling with student engagement in grammar lessons or wondering how to make grammar instruction actually stick, this episode will transform your approach..

Stop teaching grammar the way we were taught—there's a better way that takes just 10 minutes a day.

What You'll Learn:
✨ Why treating grammar like math (with manipulatives and exploration) changes everything
✨ The power of "conversationally compatible" grammar partnerships for student participation and classroom belonging
✨ How to implement effective 10-minute daily grammar study sessions that boost student motivation
✨ Why we need to stop expecting mastery after one lesson (active learning strategies that actually work)
✨ How to replace grammar shame with student empowerment and student success

Perfect for: teachers, education coaches, new teachers, mentor teachers, instructional leaders, school administrators, homeschoolers, and anyone passionate about effective teaching and inclusive teaching practices.

This approach supports culturally responsive teaching, equity in education, pro-kid mindset, and whole child education while improving classroom behavior, attention in class, and overall student engagement.

Chapters
0:00 - Welcome & Introduction to Grammar Revolution
1:00 - The Problem with Traditional Grammar Instruction
2:00 - Revelation #1: Treat Grammar Like Math, Not Memorization
4:00 - Grammar Manipulatives: Making Grammar Tangible
5:00 - Revelation #2: Conversationally Compatible Grammar Partners
7:00 - Rethinking Partnerships for Student Success
8:00 - Revelation #3: The 10-Minute Daily Grammar Study Method
9:00 - What 10 Minutes Actually Looks Like in Practice
10:00 - Your Monday Morning Challenge
11:00 - Replacing Shame with Curiosity in Grammar Learning
12:00 - The Gift of Discovery Over Memorization
13:00 - Final Thoughts: Grammar as Power, Not Rules
14:00 - Coming Up Next & Closing

💫Check out linked episode mentions here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1890886/episodes/17989335

🚀📚 Watch the full S5E8 Schoolutions Teaching Strategies interview here.

Join our community of educators committed to cultivating student success, inspired teaching, and creating inclusive classrooms with a pro-kid mindset focused on the whole child. When coaches, teachers, administrators, and families work hand in hand, it fosters a school atmosphere where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged in their learning journey.

📧 Connect: schoolutionspodcast@gmail.com
🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

Don't forget to 🔔SUBSCRIBE for more teaching tips, and💬SHARE with fellow educators!

#TeachingStrategies #GrammarInstruction #StudentEngagement #EffectiveTeaching #TeacherTips #EducationPodcast #ClassroomBelonging #ActiveLearning #StudentMotivation #InstructionalCoaching #TeacherCoaching #NewTeachers #MentorTeachers #ProfessionalDevelopment #InnovativeTeaching #InclusiveTeaching #CulturallyResponsiveTeaching #EquityInEducation #ProKidMindset #WholeChild #StudentSuccess #EmpoweredEducators #InspiredTeaching #EducationTransformation #TeacherImpact #SchoolLeadership #InstructionalLeadership #LessonPlanning #TeacherSupport

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Grammar Instruction Your Students Will Actually Like

Mon, 20 Oct 2025 00:00:00 -0400

In this S5E8 Schoolutions Teaching Strategies conversation, join me with literacy consultant Patty McGee as she reveals how 10-minute daily grammar studies can revolutionize student engagement and writing power. Transform grammar instruction from worksheet dread to engaged discovery!

📚 GET THE BOOK: Not Your Granny's Grammar by Patty McGee & Tim Donohue

In this episode, discover:
• Why traditional grammar worksheets fail and what actually works for student success
• The revolutionary 10-minute grammar study approach that builds thriving students
• How conversational partnerships transform student participation and active learning
• Evidence-based instructional strategies that make grammar meaningful
• Why grammar gives students power to affect change in their lives

🎯 KEY TAKEAWAYS:
- Replace worksheets with hands-on grammar manipulatives
- Build conversationally compatible partnerships for student engagement
- Use inquiry-based learning over direct instruction alone
- Create grammar notebooks for authentic learning
- Implement surface, deep, and transfer learning phases

Episode Mentions:
💫Steve Graham & Karen Harris
💫Jeff Anderson: Mechanically Inclined
💫Whitney La Rocca
💫John Hattie
💫Dr. Rebecca Winthrop - Winthrop's World of Education

This innovative teaching approach addresses low engagement, transforms classroom behavior, and creates inclusive classrooms where every student thrives. Learn effective teaching strategies that honor the whole child while building essential communication skills.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction: Making Grammar Fun & Engaging
01:00 Why Traditional Grammar Instruction Fails
02:00 Meet Patty McGee: Transforming Grammar Education
03:00 The Research Behind Grammar Study
05:00 What's Wrong with "Granny's Grammar"?
07:00 Defining Grammar Study vs Traditional Instruction
09:00 The Power of Comparison in Learning
11:00 Teachers as Facilitators, Not Experts
13:00 The Explorer Mode: Student Agency in Learning
14:00 Immersion Phase: Surface Learning
16:00 Deep Learning: Hypothesis & Discovery
18:00 Play & Experimentation in Grammar
19:00 Grammar Notebooks: Capturing Student Thinking
21:00 Why Worksheets Don't Work
23:00 Grammar Learning Partners vs Peer Editing
25:00 Fitting Grammar Study into Your Day
27:00 Tackling Sentence Construction Challenges
29:00 Communicating with Parents About Grammar Study
31:00 Why Grammar Matters for Student Power
33:00 Resources & Video Tutorials Available

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

BONUS: What REALLY Matters in Student Success Beyond Grades

Fri, 17 Oct 2025 00:00:00 -0400

In this S5E7 Schoolutions Teaching Strategies BONUS, I'm unpacking 3 game-changing insights from my conversation with Stuart Yates about his creation, My Sport Diary.

These ideas apply way beyond sports—we're transforming how we approach education, feedback, student engagement, and what we choose to remember. Because what if we're teaching kids to measure success by all the wrong things? We celebrate the A on the test, the trophy on the shelf—but what about the student who showed up even when struggling, asked for help, or cheered for teammates without playing time?

The 3 Mindset Shifts:
1️⃣ The Process is the Prize – Moving from outcome obsession to celebrating growth
2️⃣ Reflection Before Interrogation – Why students need processing time before feedback
3️⃣ Memory Keepers vs Record Keepers – Documenting what actually matters

What You'll Learn:
✅ How to apply John Hattie's feedback research in practical ways (student success, effective teaching)
✅ Why "the car ride home" conversation needs to change (parent communication, family partnerships, caregiver support)
✅ Innovative teaching strategies that boost student motivation, student participation, and active learning
✅ How to create a classroom culture that values process over outcome (classroom belonging, student engagement, inclusive teaching)
✅ Practical lesson planning tips for reflection-based learning (instructional strategies, teaching tips)
✅ Why documenting the "human stuff" transforms student discipline and classroom behavior
✅ How sports diaries translate to classroom success (whole child, thriving students, pro-kid mindset)

Key Takeaways:
→ Celebrate the process as much as the outcome with your students
→ Build in reflection time before feedback conversations (coaching strategies, teacher coaching)
→ Create memory keepers, not just record keepers
→ Focus on student empowerment over compliance (managing students, classroom control)
→ Document relationships, growth, and joy—not just grades (inspiring students, attention in class)

This isn't just about sports. It's about raising humans who can reflect on experiences, articulate what they need, take ownership of growth, find value in the journey, and build meaningful relationships.

Your Next Step:
Pick ONE area—your classroom, your team, or your family—and try ONE shift this week:
• Add a reflection question to your routine
• Build in 5 minutes of think time before discussions
• Start a "silly awards" or memory-keeping tradition

CHAPTERS:
0:00 – Introduction: Are We Celebrating the Wrong Things?
1:00 – The Problem with Outcome-Based Success
2:00 – Meet Stuart Yates & My Sport Diary
3:00 – The Quote That Changed Everything
4:00 – Mindset Shift #1: The Process is the Prize
5:00 – John Hattie's 3 Essential Feedback Questions
6:00 – Celebrating the "How" Not Just the "What"
7:00 – Mindset Shift #2: Reflection Before Interrogation
8:00 – The Car Ride Home Problem
9:00 – Why Students Need Processing Time
10:00 – Creating the Protective Bubble
11:00 – Mindset Shift #3: Memory Keepers vs Record Keepers
12:00 – What Are We Really Recording?
13:00 – Your Action Steps This Week
14:00 – Final Thoughts & Next Episode Preview

🚀📚 Watch the full S5E7 @schoolutionspodcast interview here (https://youtu.be/a7npy42tJw0)

📧 Connect: schoolutionspodcast@gmail.com
🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

#StudentEngagement #Schoolutions #SchoolutionsTeachingStrategies

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

A Sports Diary That Helps Athletes Love Writing

Mon, 13 Oct 2025 00:00:00 -0400

In this S5E7 Schoolutions Teaching Strategies conversation, Stuart Yates, UK educator and creator of My Sport Diary, shares about creating an innovative tool that's getting students who are reluctant writers to actually ASK for more.

So, what happens when you combine a student's passion for sports with reflective writing? Magic.

Stuart shares how his background in science, his work with disengaged students, and his coaching across New England led him to create reflection journals that work both on the field and in the classroom. These diaries aren't just about sports—they're about student engagement, self-regulation, and empowering students to take ownership of their learning journey.

What You'll Learn:
✅ Why traditional feedback fails and how to make it recursive and student-driven
✅ Innovative teaching strategies that work with resistant students and low engagement
✅ How to bridge the gap between student motivation in sports and classroom behavior
✅ Practical lesson planning tips using reflection as a literacy tool
✅ Teaching tips for inclusive teaching and culturally responsive practices
✅ How to develop student agency, active learning, and student participation
✅ Effective teaching methods that support the whole child approach
✅ Professional learning insights for new teachers and mentor teachers

Stuart's work demonstrates true teacher impact—turning student agency challenges into opportunities for inspiring students, building classroom inspiration through self-reflection, and creating thriving students who are motivated from within.

This conversation explores school improvement, instructional leadership, and how one teacher's innovative approach is creating education transformation one diary entry at a time. It's about more than managing students—it's about student empowerment, inspiring teaching, and building a pro-kid mindset that celebrates every learner.

Episode Mentions & Resources:
🔗 Find the diaries
🔗 Connect with Stuart Yates

Carol Dweck - Researcher (Growth Mindset)
Dr. Steve Peters - Psychologist, author of The Chimp Paradox
Steven Gerrard - Football player (worked with Steve Peters)
Ronnie O'Sullivan - Snooker player (worked with Steve Peters)

CHAPTERS:
0:00 Introduction to Stuart Yates & My Sports Diaries
1:04 Research Foundation: Carol Dweck & Steve Peters
3:31 The Spark: From Personal Struggle to Student Solution
5:26 John Hattie's Feedback Framework in Action
6:20 What's Inside a Sports Diary?
9:19 Re-engaging Students Who Struggle with Writing
12:09 Building Reflection Skills & Emotional Processing
14:06 Cross-Curricular Applications & Classroom Use
17:27 Student Agency: From Passive to Active Learners
19:24 Measurable Outcomes & Student Transformation
22:29 Preparing Students for an AI-Driven Future
24:47 Available Sports Diaries & How to Access Them
26:04 Final Thoughts

Join our community of educators committed to cultivating student success, inspired teaching, and cre

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

BONUS: How to Raise Resilient Kids Who Thrive Beyond Perfect Grades

Fri, 10 Oct 2025 01:00:00 -0400

In this S5E6 Schoolutions Teaching Strategies BONUS, I reflect on my conversation with Dr. Rebecca Winthrop about the shocking truth: 75% of elementary kids love school, but by 10th grade, that drops to just 25%. But disengagement doesn't always look like you think—sometimes it's hiding behind perfect grades.

Is your straight-A student truly thriving, or just performing? This episode reveals the hidden crisis of high achiever burnout and how to raise resilient, curious learners. Discover why the valedictorian headed to Yale might be more fragile than the "problem child," and learn the simple 3-question framework that transforms you from a nagging manager into a guiding consultant your kids actually want to talk to.

What You'll Learn:
✅ The 4 student engagement modes: Passenger, Achiever, Resistor, & Explorer
✅ Why straight-A students often lack agency and may struggle with failure
✅ How "problem children" actually demonstrate hidden strengths
✅ The 3-question homework strategy that builds student agency
✅ Why asking about grades shuts down learning (and what to ask instead)
✅ How to help your child develop resilience before they hit a crisis

Perfect for: teachers, education coaches, school administrators, caregivers, homeschoolers, teacher mentors, instructional leaders, school counselors, and anyone invested in whole child education and student success.

Featured Resource: The Disengaged Teen by Dr. Rebecca Winthrop and Jenny Anderson

Try this tonight: Instead of asking, "Did you do your homework?"

Try these 3 questions:
1. What do you have to do?
2. How long will it take?
3. When will you do it?

Then stick to bedtime anyway—let natural consequences teach the lesson.

Chapters:
0:00 - Introduction: The Hidden Crisis of High Achievers
1:00 - The Shocking Statistic: 75% to 25% Drop in School Engagement
2:00 - Understanding the 4 Student Modes
3:00 - Passenger Mode: Straight A's But Checked Out
4:00 - The Achiever's Dark Side: Amina's Story
6:00 - When Perfect Students Shatter: The Yale Experience
7:00 - The Gift of Failure Therapy
8:00 - Resistor Mode: Why "Problem Kids" Have Hidden Strengths
9:00 - Agency: The Missing Ingredient in High Achievement
10:00 - College Orientation Reality Check
11:00 - Building Explorer Mode: The Goal for All Students
12:00 - The 3-Question Framework: Stop Nagging, Start Guiding
13:00 - Action Steps: What to Do Tonight
14:00 - Final Challenge & Next Steps

🚀📚 Watch the full S5E6 Schoolutions Teaching Strategies interview here (https://youtu.be/-UZuA0qZ7xY)

Join our community of educators committed to cultivating student success, inspired teaching, and creating inclusive classrooms with a pro-kid mindset focused on the whole child.

📧 Connect: schoolutionspodcast@gmail.com
🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

Don't forget to 🔔SUBSCRIBE for more teaching tips, and 💬SHARE with fellow educators!

#TheDisengagedTeen #Schoolutions #SchoolutionsTeachingStrategies #StudentEngagement #ParentingTips #ClassroomManagement #EducationPodcast #TeacherSupport #StudentMotivation #HighAchievers #StudentSuccess #EffectiveTeaching #ParentCoaching #TeacherCoaching #SchoolLeadership #WholechildEducation #GrowthMindset #StudentBehavior #TeachingStrategies #ProfessionalDevelopment #EducationLeadership #InspiredTeaching #EmpoweredEducators

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Engaging Teens: From Bored Passengers to Curious Explorers

Mon, 06 Oct 2025 00:00:00 -0400

In this S5E6 Schoolutions Teaching Strategies conversation, discover why 75% of elementary students love school but only 25% of 10th graders do—and what we can do about it. Dr. Rebecca Winthrop from the Brookings Institution joins me to unpack the hidden disengagement crisis affecting teens everywhere, including straight-A students who appear perfect on paper.

In this episode, Rebecca reveals the four critical modes of student engagement: Passenger Mode (physically present but mentally checked out), Achiever Mode (chasing perfection instead of learning), Resistor Mode (disruptive but showing hidden agency), and Explorer Mode (where curiosity meets drive). Learn why caregivers have equal power to teachers in motivating students and discover practical strategies you can use immediately.

Key Takeaways:
• Why disengagement nosedives in middle school and what's really behind it
• How to identify which engagement mode your child or student is in
• The surprising dark side of being a straight-A student
• Why taking away extracurriculars when grades slip backfires
• Specific questions to ask that spark deeper conversations
• How to break the procrastination-nagging cycle
• Why "failure therapy" matters more than perfect grades

About Dr. Rebecca Winthrop:
Director of the Center for Universal Education at Brookings and adjunct professor at Georgetown University. Co-author of The Disengaged Teen: Helping Kids Learn Better, Feel Better, and Live Better with Jenny Anderson.

Resources Mentioned:
• The Disengaged Teen by Rebecca Winthrop and Jenny Anderson
• Winthrop's World of Education (LinkedIn newsletter)
• Center for Universal Education at Brookings
• Mode Assessment Cheat Sheets (available in the book)

Perfect For:
Teachers, education coaches, school administrators, caregivers, homeschoolers, teacher mentors, instructional leaders, school counselors, and anyone invested in helping students thrive

Chapters:
0:00 Introduction: The Disengagement Crisis
1:00 Meet Dr. Rebecca Winthrop
3:00 The Heartbreaking Statistics
6:00 Why Kids Stop Loving School
9:00 The Four Modes of Engagement Explained
12:00 Passenger Mode: Coasting Through School
13:00 Achiever Mode: The Dark Side of Perfection
16:00 Resistor Mode: Hidden Agency
18:00 Explorer Mode: Where Curiosity Meets Drive
21:00 The Failure Therapy Story
25:00 Breaking the Procrastination-Nagging Loop
28:00 Deep vs. Broad Conversations
30:00 Technology as a Disengagement Enabler
33:00 Global Perspective on Disengagement
36:00 Rapid Fire Questions
38:00 Call to Action & Closing Thoughts

Join our community of educators committed to cultivating student success, inspired teaching, and creating inclusive classrooms with a pro-kid mindset focused on the whole child.

📧 Connect: schoolutionspodcast@gmail.com
🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

#TheDisengagedTeen #RebeccaWinthrop #JennyAnderson #Schoolutions #SchoolutionsTeachingStrategies #StudentEngagement #ClassroomManagement #TeacherTips #ParentingTeens #EducationStrategies #StudentMotivation #DisengagedTeens #TeacherCoaching

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

BONUS: How We're Stifling Curiosity in Kids (Microschool Solution)

Fri, 03 Oct 2025 00:00:00 -0400

In this S5E5 Schoolutions Teaching Strategies BONUS, I reflect on my conversation with David K. Richards—breaking down the three most powerful takeaways about microschools and education transformation and show you how to apply them RIGHT NOW, whether you're in a traditional classroom, homeschooling, or anywhere in between. What if entrepreneurial thinking isn't about starting a business—it's about reclaiming your agency as an educator?

Three Game-Changing Ideas:
✅ The Operating System is Broken - Why we need to stop "fixing" education and start rebooting it entirely
✅ From Compliance to Entrepreneurship - How to shift from "who will fix this?" to "what can I do right now?"
✅ Bringing Back Intimacy - Reclaiming deep knowledge of students in massive bureaucratic systems

You'll Learn:
- Why we can't ask kids to be autonomous when teachers have zero autonomy
- The parallel pedagogy disconnect stifling innovation in schools
- How to identify where you've been waiting for permission (and what to do instead)
- The smallest step you can take RIGHT NOW without asking anyone

Resources:
💫Summit Public Schools' advisory program (14 kids, 4 years):
🌐 Learn more: https://www.changemakereducation.com/
🎧 Changemaker ED "U" Podcast

Key Concepts:
- Parallel pedagogy and modeling for adults what we want for kids
- Education transformation through agency, not permission
- Instructional leadership and empowered educators
- Student success through intimate knowledge and whole child approach
- Effective teaching strategies within system constraints
- Parent communication and home-school connection
- Teacher coaching focused on autonomy and entrepreneurial thinking
- School improvement through small, excellent innovations
- Culturally responsive teaching and inclusive classrooms
- Pro-kid mindset over bureaucratic compliance

Innovation doesn't have to scale to 100% to matter. It just has to exist and be excellent. Stop waiting for permission. Start asking "what can I do right now?"

CHAPTERS:
0:00 - Introduction: Stop Waiting for Permission
1:00 - What We Covered with David K. Richards
2:00 - Welcome to Friday Bonus Episode
3:00 - Big Idea #1: The Operating System is Broken (Not Just "Problems")
4:00 - Montessori's Paradox: The Cognitive Dissonance
5:00 - Parallel Pedagogy: We Can't Ask Kids What We Don't Model
5:30 - Reflection: Where's the Disconnect in Your Sphere?
6:00 - Big Idea #2: From Educator to Entrepreneur
7:00 - The Shift from Compliance to Autonomy
8:00 - Entrepreneurial Thinking = Agency, Not Business
8:30 - Challenge: Identify Where You've Been Waiting for Permission
9:00 - Big Idea #3: Center the Families (Not the Politics)
10:00 - Bringing Back Intimate Knowledge of Students
11:00 - How to Create Smaller Communities Within Large Systems
11:30 - Advisory Programs: Small Innovations That Scale
12:00 - The Three Big Ideas (Recap)
12:30 - David's Vision: 5-10% as Laboratories of Innovation
13:00 - Innovation Doesn't Have to Scale to 100% to Matter
13:30 - Your Next Step: What Will You Do Monday?
14:00 - Email Challenge & Monday's Preview (Dr. Rebecca Winthrop)
14:30 - Final Invitation: Stop Waiting, Start Acting
15:00 - Closing & Resources

🚀📚 Watch the full S5E5 @schoolutionspodcast interview here.
📧 Connect: schoolutionspodcast@gmail.com
🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Why Microschools Offer Big Dreams & Real Results

Mon, 29 Sep 2025 00:00:00 -0400

In this S5E5 Schoolutions Teaching Strategies conversation, join me with David K. Richards, founder of Changemaker Education, as we explore how microschools are revolutionizing classroom belonging, student engagement, and teacher empowerment.

Is the traditional education system stifling your child's natural curiosity? Discover why efforts to improve schools might be missing the point, potentially diminishing students' creativity and motivation to study.

David shares his 25+ years of experience from the classroom to the boardroom, revealing why traditional education strategies aren't working and how microschools offer a breakthrough solution.

What if the secret to fixing education isn't more funding or technology, but completely reimagining how we teach?

What You'll Learn:

💡How to boost student engagement through self-directed, experiential learning
💡Effective teaching techniques for working with students in multi-age environments
💡Instructional strategies that inspire students and increase participation
💡How caregiver involvement and family partnerships transform education outcomes
💡Professional learning insights for teachers ready to embrace education transformation
💡School leadership approaches that create positive school culture and climate

Episode Mentions:

➡️Drive by Daniel Pink
➡️Reinventing Organizations: A Guide to Creating Organizations Inspired by the Next Stage in Human Consciousness by Frederic Laloux

Perfect for teachers, education coaches, school administrators, caregivers, homeschoolers, and anyone passionate about student success and thriving students. David's journey from teaching Spanish to seventh graders to founding innovative schools demonstrates how empowered educators can create lasting teacher impact and school change.

Chapters

0:00 Introduction: The Problem with Traditional Education

1:00 David's Educational Journey: From Banking to Innovation

3:00 25 Years in Education: Classroom to Boardroom Experience

6:00 The Mountaintop Moment: Starting Over at 40

9:00 The Fundamental Flaw in Our Education System

12:00 A Day in a Micro School: Multi-Age Learning Revolution

16:00 From Standards to Passion-Based Learning

18:00 Teacher Transformation: Educator to Entrepreneur

21:00 Overcoming Fear and Embracing Educational Innovation

24:00 Disrupting with Love: Handling Resistance to Change

27:00 The Future Vision: Education in 2035

29:00 Conclusion and Resources

Join our community of educators committed to cultivating student success, inspired teaching, and creating inclusive classrooms with a pro-kid mindset focused on the whole child.

📧 Connect: schoolutionspodcast@gmail.com

🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

#Schoolutions #SchoolutionsTeachingStrategies #EducationReform #MicroSchools #StudentEngagement #ChangemakerEducation #TeacherEmpowerment #EducationalInnovation #SelfDirectedLearning #ParentInvolvement #SchoolLeadership #TeacherCoaching #EducationStrategies

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

BONUS: Why Flashcards Don't Work for Sight Words (& What To Do Instead)

Fri, 26 Sep 2025 01:00:00 -0400

In this S5E4 BONUS @schoolutionspodcast conversation, discover the breakthrough science behind why traditional sight word drilling fails and learn the 4-step process that actually builds reading fluency. If you're frustrated watching students struggle with the same words repeatedly, this episode reveals the missing piece that makes all the difference.

🧠 What You'll Learn:
💫Why 30,000-70,000 words are stored in your brain (without memorization!)
💫The shocking truth about 99% of "sight words"
💫How orthographic mapping creates reading highways in the brain
💫Dr. Molly Ness's proven 4-step process for word recognition
💫Why middle schoolers can't access science content (it's not comprehension!)

Perfect for teachers, education coaches, caregivers, homeschoolers, instructional leaders, and anyone supporting striving readers. This research-backed approach transforms how we think about reading instruction and student success.

🎯 Try the 4-step process tonight and email your results to: schoolutionspodcast@gmail.com
Subscribe for weekly evidence-based teaching strategies that work!

Chapters:
0:00 - Introduction: The Reading Mystery
1:00 - Why Traditional Methods Fail
2:00 - The Orthographic Mapping Breakthrough
3:00 - Real Classroom Example: The Word "Said"
4:00 - Dr. Molly's 4-Step Process Revealed
5:00 - The 99% Rule That Changes Everything
6:00 - Why Middle Schoolers Struggle
7:00 - Tonight's Challenge for Parents & Teachers
8:00 - Building Reading Highways
9:00 - Take Action & Share Your Results

💫Check out linked episode mentions here:
https://www.buzzsprout.com/1890886/episodes/17908212

🚀📚 Watch the full S5E4 @schoolutionspodcast interview with here (https://youtu.be/QwDKde9sHJY)

Join our community of educators committed to cultivating student success, inspired teaching, and creating inclusive classrooms with a pro-kid mindset focused on the whole child. When coaches, teachers, administrators, and families work hand in hand, it fosters a school atmosphere where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged in their learning journey.

📧 Connect: schoolutionspodcast@gmail.com
🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

Don't forget to 🔔SUBSCRIBE for more teaching tips, and 💬SHARE with fellow educators! https://www.youtube.com/@schoolutionspodcast/

#ReadingInstruction #OrthographicMapping #SightWords #TeachingStrategies #ReadingScience #StruglingReaders #Phonics #LiteracyEducation #StudentSuccess #EffectiveTeaching #ClassroomStrategies #ParentSupport #EducationResearch #ReadingFluency #TeacherTips #HomeschoolReading #StudentEngagement #EducationTransformation #InstructionalCoaching #ReadingInterventions #Schoolutions #schoolutionsteachingstrategies #MakingWordsStick

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Why Kids Can't Remember Words: Brain Science Explained

Mon, 22 Sep 2025 00:00:00 -0400

In this S5E4 Schoolutions Teaching Strategies conversation, Dr. Molly Ness challenges what you know about learning to read, sharing insights from her most recent book, co-authored with Dr. Katie Pace Miles, "Making Words Stick." Discover how brain science and the alphabetic principle reveal better teaching reading strategies and build stronger reading skills for kids.

You'll discover why 99% of "impossible" sight words actually follow phonetic rules and how orthographic mapping - not memorization - creates fluent readers. This episode is for teachers, education coaches, caregivers, homeschoolers, and anyone supporting developing readers.

🔥 KEY REVELATIONS:
💡 Why flashcard memorization fails (and what works instead)
💡The 4-step process that makes words "stick" permanently
💡How adult brains store 30,000-70,000 words instantly
💡The rubber band analogy that explains reading vs. spelling
💡Why middle school comprehension struggles start in elementary

Molly breaks down complex brain science into actionable teaching tips that work for new teachers, mentor teachers, and seasoned educators alike.

📚 Make sure to get Making Words Stick: A Four-Step Instructional Routine to Power Up Orthographic Mapping by Dr. Molly Ness & Dr. Katie Pace Miles so that you can implement the 4-step routine tomorrow.

People Mentioned:

Resources from Molly:

Making Words Stick (pdf one-pager)
Building Language Comprehension for Readers in Grades K-2

Chapters:
0:00 - The Flashcard Myth That's Hurting Kids
1:00 - Meet Dr. Molly Ness & "Making Words Stick"
3:00 - The Research Behind Orthographic Mapping
5:00 - Lanaya Ehri's Groundbreaking Discovery
8:00 - Least to Most Reliable Ways to Learn Words
11:00 - The Shocking Truth About Sight Words (99% Are Decodable!)
13:00 - Why Orthographic Mapping Never Stops
16:00 - High Frequency vs. Sight Words Explained
19:00 - The 4-Step Process: See & Say It
21:00 - Step 2: Segment & Spell It
23:00 - Step 3: Study & Suss It Out
25:00 - Step 4: Search & Stick It
27:00 - The Rubber Band Analogy: Reading vs. Spelling
29:00 - Helping Struggling Middle School Readers
33:00 - The Three-Legged Stool of Word Learning
35:00 - Take Action: Your Next Steps

Join our community of educators committed to cultivating student success, inspired teaching, and creating inclusive classrooms with a pro-kid mindset focused on the whole child.

📧 Connect: schoolutionspodcast@gmail.com
🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

BONUS: What Makes a School Feel Great?

Fri, 19 Sep 2025 00:00:00 -0400

In this S5E3 BONUS Schoolutions Teaching Strategies conversation, discover the game-changing difference between "marigold" and "walnut" teachers that transforms student success and school culture forever.

After 30 years in education, Sandy Halpin, a retired Teacher Center Director, reveals why some educators inspire thriving students while others create toxic environments. This isn't just about classroom management or student discipline—it's about collective efficacy, the research-backed strategy with a 1.57 effect size on student achievement.

What You'll Learn:
💫How to identify marigold teachers who enhance school culture vs. walnut teachers who poison it
💫Why collective efficacy beats traditional behavior strategies and classroom control methods
💫Practical tips for new teachers to find mentor teachers and build professional support
💫How effective teaching transforms when educators embrace collaborative leadership
💫 Student engagement secrets that turn low engagement into active learning
💫Why this approach works better than typical education strategies and lesson planning

Whether you're seeking teacher coaching support or looking to improve school leadership, this episode shows how the right mindset creates empowered educators and inspired teaching.

Perfect for teachers, education coaches, school administrators, instructional leaders, and anyone committed to student success and education transformation. No complex behavior strategies needed—just the power of choosing collaboration over competition.

Chapters:
0:00 Introduction: The Teacher Types That Change Everything
1:00 Walnut vs Marigold Teachers Explained
2:00 The Power of Collective Efficacy (1.57 Effect Size!)
4:00 How to Identify Marigold Teachers in Your School
6:00 Becoming a Marigold Teacher Yourself
8:00 Building Collective Efficacy in Your School
10:00 Real Impact: When Students Feel the Difference
12:00 Your Challenge: Find and Be the Marigolds

🚀📚 Watch the full @schoolutionspodcast S5E3 episode with Sandy Halpin here.

Join our community of educators committed to cultivating student success, inspired teaching, and creating inclusive classrooms with a pro-kid mindset focused on the whole child.

📧 Connect: schoolutionspodcast@gmail.com
🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

🔔SUBSCRIBE for more teaching tips, and 💬SHARE with fellow educators!

#MarigoldTeachers #CollectiveEfficacy #TeacherCoaching #StudentSuccess #SchoolCulture #EducationStrategies #NewTeachers #ProfessionalDevelopment #TeachingTips #EffectiveTeaching #ClassroomManagement #StudentEngagement #EmpoweredEducators #EducationTransformation #TeacherSupport #SchoolLeadership #InstructionalCoaching #MentorTeachers #ThrivingStudents #InspiredTeaching

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

The BEST Professional Learning Transforms Teaching (& Learning)

Mon, 15 Sep 2025 00:00:00 -0400

This S5E3 Schoolutions Teaching Strategies conversation with 30-year education veteran, Sandy Halpin, reveals the game-changing approach to professional learning that's revolutionizing teacher support and driving real student success.

Starting as a new teacher can be tough, even with formal teaching qualifications. Many educators feel unprepared, highlighting the need for effective professional learning in school life. This video shares a story about this common challenge and emphasizes the need for better teaching strategies that benefit both the student and the educator.

🎯 What You'll Discover:
💫The "evidence-required" model that transforms teaching tips into measurable classroom impact
💫Why most teacher coaching programs fail and how to fix them
💫The research-backed approach with a massive effect size on student engagement
💫How to support new teachers beyond traditional mentoring
💫Revolutionary strategies for instructional coaching that actually stick

📚 Perfect for: Teachers, education coaches, school administrators, instructional leaders, teacher mentors, school counselors, and anyone passionate about education transformation.

🔑 Key Takeaways:
✅ Professional learning should mirror effective teaching strategies
✅ Collective efficacy has the highest impact on student achievement
✅ Classroom management starts with a collaborative school culture
✅ Evidence-based instructional strategies require ongoing support
✅ Teacher impact multiplies when educators work together, not in isolation

Episode Mentions:

➡️Utica University

➡️John Hattie - Meta-analysis researcher focused on student learning impact

➡️Jenn David Lang - The Main Idea platform creator for educational book recommendations

➡️The Cult of Pedagogy Podcast

Join me and Sandy as we explore how to create professional learning that moves beyond checkbox compliance to genuine teacher growth and student empowerment. Learn the "marigold teacher" concept, discover why lesson planning alone isn't enough, and get actionable strategies you can implement immediately.

And join our community of educators committed to cultivating student success, inspired teaching, and creating inclusive classrooms with a pro-kid mindset focused on the whole child.

Chapters
0:00 Introduction: The Professional Learning Crisis
1:00 Meet Sandy Halpin: 30 Years of Education Excellence
4:00 The Role of Teacher Centers in Professional Development
7:00 What New Teachers Need Most: Beyond Theory to Practice
11:00 Evidence-Required Professional Learning Model
15:00 How to Ensure Professional Learning Reaches Students
18:00 Curating Responsive Professional Development
20:00 When Professional Learning Goes Wrong: Lessons Learned
23:00 Magic Wand Question: Solving Education's Biggest Challenge
26:00 Critical Skills Teachers Need in the Next 5 Years
28:00 Collective Efficacy: The Highest Impact Strategy
30:00 Advice for New Teachers: Find the Marigolds
32:00 Professional Learning Myths Debunked
33:00 Closing Thoughts and Next Steps

📧 Connect: schoolutionspodcast@gmail.com
🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

#EducationPodcast #TeacherTips #InstructionalStrategies #SchoolLeadership #NewTeachers #EducationReform #TeacherGrowth #EffectiveTeaching #EducationStrategy #TeacherImpact #Schoolutions #schoolutionsteachingstrategies

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

BONUS: How One Picture Book is Teaching 105,000 Kids Empathy

Fri, 12 Sep 2025 00:00:00 -0400

This S5E2 BONUS Schoolutions Teaching Strategies conversation explores the sinking feeling of not knowing what to say when someone you care about is hurting. The video highlights how one picture book is teaching empathy to over 105,000 kids, providing tools for how to support others. Silence can feel like abandonment, but even small acts of communication can make a big difference for cancer patients.

Empathy isn't taught—it's caught. I reflect on my transformative conversation with Brett Fox (@Hopecam) and Suzanne Stone (@Livestrong) about their picture book "My Brave Friend" and reveal how we can proactively prepare children for emotional emergencies.

Discover three game-changing revelations: how 105,000 students learned empathy through real experience, why we need proactive versus reactive approaches to crisis support, and how isolation affects entire families—not just patients.

This episode will shift your perspective on classroom management, student engagement, and creating inclusive classrooms where every child learns to approach learning with courage. Make sure to watch the original S5E2 @schoolutionspodcast interview with Brett and Suzanne, including linked show notes.

Perfect for teachers, education coaches, school administrators, caregivers, homeschoolers, and anyone committed to raising compassionate humans.

Learn practical teaching tips for building empathy, effective teaching strategies for emotional preparedness, and how to create a supportive school culture through challenging times.

Don't wait for crisis to strike—get "My Brave Friend" for your classroom or home library today and start these critical conversations now.

Chapters:
0:00 - Introduction: When We Freeze in Crisis
1:00 - The Power of Connection: 105,000 More Empathetic Humans
2:00 - Welcome & Episode Overview
3:00 - Revelation #1: Teaching Empathy Without Knowing It
5:00 - Revelation #2: Proactive vs Reactive Mindset Shift
7:00 - Revelation #3: Isolation Affects Entire Families
9:00 - Three Action Steps You Can Take Right Now
11:00 - Final Thoughts: Courage & Showing Up
12:00 - Call to Action & Closing

Join our community of educators committed to cultivating student success, inspired teaching, and creating inclusive classrooms with a pro-kid mindset focused on the whole child.

📧 Connect: schoolutionspodcast@gmail.com
🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

Don't forget to 👍LIKE this video if it helped you, 🔔SUBSCRIBE for more teaching tips, and 💬SHARE with fellow educators! https://www.youtube.com/@schoolutionspodcast/

#Hopecam #Livestrong #MyBraveFriend #Schoolutions #SchoolutionsTeachingStrategies #EmpathyEducation #ClassroomManagement #StudentEngagement #InclusiveTeaching #TeacherSupport #WholeChild #EducationStrategies #ParentCommunication #SchoolCulture #TeacherCoaching #StudentMotivation #ProfessionalDevelopment #CulturallyResponsiveTeaching #AntiBiasTeaching #ProKidMindset #StudentSuccess #ThrivingStudents #EmpoweredEducators #InspiredTeaching #EducationTransformation #TeacherImpact #SchoolImprovement #FamilyPartnerships #HomeschoolSupport #EffectiveTeaching #InnovativeTeaching #CaregiverSupport #EducationAtHome #InstructionalStrategies

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

How One Picture Book Is Saving Kids From Cancer Isolation

Mon, 08 Sep 2025 00:00:00 -0400

In this S5E2 Schoolutions Teaching Strategies conversation, you'll hear from Brett Fox (Hopecam) and Suzanne Stone (Livestrong), who discovered a shocking gap in resources for teachers and parents dealing with childhood cancer. When a child in your classroom or community is diagnosed with cancer, do you know what to say?

Their collaboration resulted in My Brave Friend: Emma and Noah Face Cancer Together - the first picture book specifically designed to help K-2 students understand cancer in an age-appropriate, non-scary way.

You'll discover:

➡️Why 1 in 285 kids will face cancer and how it affects entire school communities

➡️The exact language to use when talking to young children about cancer

➡️How isolation impacts not just the child, but entire families

➡️Free resources available to teachers and parents right now

➡️The simple action that helps kids feel empowered to help their friends

This isn't just about cancer - it's about building empathy, community, and giving children tools to navigate difficult situations with courage and kindness.

Episode Mentions:

Chapters:

0:00 - Introduction to Brett Fox and Suzanne Stone
2:00 - Community-Based Research Approach
4:30 - Discovering the Resource Gap
7:00 - Real Stories from the Classroom
12:00 - The Impact of Isolation on Families
17:00 - Age-Appropriate Cancer Education
22:00 - Taking Action: How Kids Can Help
26:00 - Childhood Cancer Awareness Month Initiatives

Weekly Episode Release Schedule:
🔥 Guest Episodes: Every Monday
⭐ Highlight Reels: Every Wednesday
💡 Bonus Reflections: Every Friday

Join our community of educators committed to cultivating student success, inspired teaching, and creating inclusive classrooms with a pro-kid mindset focused on the whole child.

📧 Connect: schoolutionspodcast@gmail.com
🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

Don't forget to 👍LIKE this video if it helped you, 🔔SUBSCRIBE for more teaching tips, and 💬SHARE with fellow educators!

#ChildhoodCancer #MyBraveFriend #Hopecam #Livestrong #ChildrensBooks #TeacherResources #CancerAwareness #ElementaryEducation #ParentingAdvice #CommunitySupport #SocialEmotionalLearning #BackToSchool #CancerEducation

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

BONUS: Why Expert Teachers Are 'Nosy' (& You Should Be Too)

Fri, 05 Sep 2025 00:00:00 -0400

Professor John Hattie's research reveals in this S5E1 BONUS Schoolutions Teaching Strategies conversation that teachers only see 20% of what actually happens in their classrooms. This episode breaks down the three daily impact questions that transform good teachers into expert teachers, plus the feedback strategy that's 80% more effective while requiring 80% less effort.

After 5 years of teaching, there's virtually NO correlation between experience and expertise. But here's what separates expert teachers from everyone else: they're professionally "nosy" about their students' learning.

What You'll Discover:
✅ The 3 daily questions expert teachers ask themselves
✅ Why "being nosy" is actually an act of love in teaching
✅ How to make your feedback dramatically more effective
✅ The truth about student engagement and why curiosity beats compliance
✅ Research-backed teaching tips that work immediately

Perfect for teachers, education coaches, school administrators, teacher mentors, instructional leaders, and anyone committed to student success and teacher impact.

🎯 Key Topics Covered:
Effective teaching, instructional strategies, teacher coaching, professional development, student engagement, student motivation, classroom management, teaching tips, instructional coaching, teacher support, mentor teachers, education strategies, student success, thriving students, empowered educators, inspired teaching, education transformation, school improvement, instructional leadership, whole child approach, pro-kid mindset

🔗 Resources Mentioned:
➡️Original S5E1 interview with Professor John Hattie
➡️Three impact questions framework
➡️Feedback effectiveness research

Chapter Timestamps
0:00 - Introduction: The Uncomfortable Truth About Teaching Experience
1:00 - Why We Only See 20% of Our Teaching Impact
2:00 - What Does It Mean to Be "Professionally Nosy"?
3:00 - The Three Daily Impact Questions Expert Teachers Ask
4:00 - Reflection: Moving Beyond Surface-Level Teaching
5:00 - The Power of Evaluative Thinking in Education
6:00 - Real Expertise vs. Years of Experience
7:00 - The 80% of Classroom Impact We're Missing
8:00 - From Curiosity to Compliance: A Heartbreaking Story
9:00 - Why Students Need 5-7 Opportunities to Learn
10:00 - The Art of Effective Feedback: Less is More
11:00 - Checking Our Assumptions: Self-Confirmation Bias
12:00 - Why Learning Isn't Always Joyful (And That's OK)
13:00 - Teachers Deny Their Expertise (Here's Why That Matters)
14:00 - Challenge: Embrace Being Professionally Nosy
15:00 - Call to Action & Next Steps

Join our community of educators committed to cultivating student success, inspired teaching, and creating inclusive classrooms with a pro-kid mindset focused on the whole child.

📧 Connect: schoolutionspodcast@gmail.com
🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

Don't forget to 👍LIKE this video if it helped you, 🔔SUBSCRIBE for more teaching tips, and 💬SHARE with fellow educators! https://www.youtube.com/@schoolutionspodcast/

#JohnHattie #ExpertTeachers #TeachingTips #EducationStrategies #StudentEngagement #TeacherImpact #EffectiveTeaching #InstructionalStrategies #ProfessionalDevelopment #TeacherCoaching #StudentSuccess #ClassroomManagement #StudentMotivation #InstructionalCoaching #TeacherSupport #MentorTeachers #EducationTransformation #ThrivingStudents #EmpoweredEducators #InspiredTeaching #SchoolImprovement #InstructionalLeadership

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

I Just Got My DREAM Book Deal!

Wed, 03 Sep 2025 19:00:00 -0400

🎉 MASSIVE NEWS! I've just signed with Stenhouse Publishers to write my dream book, Forever Getting Better: Mastering the 5 Essential Moves of Expert Teachers!

This book will revolutionize how we think about impactful teaching, classroom management, and student engagement. Drawing from John Hattie's research and rooted in real classroom stories from PreK through 12th grade (across content areas), I'm sharing the five essential qualities that expert educators who cultivate thriving students have.

This isn't just another education book - it's a complete framework for teacher impact, featuring QR codes linking to Schoolutions podcast episodes, real classroom vignettes, and resources to connect you with a global community of empowered educators.

Whether you're a new or veteran teacher, an experienced instructional leader, a teacher mentor, a school counselor, a school administrator, a university-based teacher educator, a caregiver, a homeschooler, or an instructional coach working toward school improvement, this book will help you develop the crucial pro-kid mindset focused on the whole child.

Expected Release: Spring 2027! Join me on this journey of inspired teaching and education transformation! 🚀

Connect with our learning community on social @oliviawahlcoaching&consulting and Schoolutions podcast if you are:
💫Teachers, teacher mentors, school counselors, and instructional coaches in the field
💫Caregivers seeking family partnerships and support
💫School leadership focused on school culture and instructional leadership
💫University-based teacher educators nurturing future teachers
💫Anyone passionate about student success and equity in education

Chapters/Timestamps:
0:00 - HUGE Announcement: Book Deal with Stenhouse!
0:30 - Forever Getting Better (Book) - The Vision
1:15 - John Hattie's Research as the Foundation
2:00 - The Five Essential Moves Framework
2:45 - Real Classroom Stories (Pre-K to 12th Grade)
3:30 - QR Codes & ⁨@schoolutionspodcast⁩ Integration
4:00 - Spring 2027 Release Timeline
4:30 - Join Our Global Learning Community

#ForeverGettingBetter #5EssentialMoves #ExpertTeachers #SchoolutionsTeachingStrategies #Schoolutions #EducationNews #TeachingTips #ClassroomManagement #teachingtips #StudentEngagement #EffectiveTeaching #TeacherCoaching #ProfessionalLearning #SchoolLeadership #StudentMotivation #EducationStrategies #InspiredTeaching #StudentSuccess #EmpoweredEducators #SchoolImprovement #InclusiveTeaching #ProKidMindset #WholeChild #ThrivingStudents #EducationTransformation #TeacherImpact #InstructionalStrategies #TeacherSupport #NewTeachers #SchoolCulture #ParentCommunication #FamilyPartnerships #CulturallyResponsiveTeaching #EquityInEducation #AntibiasTeaching #InstructionalCoaching #educationleadership

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Inside the Secret Moves of Expert Teachers

Mon, 01 Sep 2025 00:00:00 -0400

S5E1 of Schoolutions Teaching Strategies begins with Professor John Hattie, renowned for his groundbreaking Visible Learning work. After analyzing 2,500+ studies with 200 million students, Professor John Hattie discovered something shocking: there's virtually no correlation between teaching experience and effectiveness after 5 years. So what separates expert teachers from the rest?

In this eye-opening conversation, Hattie reveals that expert teachers are "nosy" - obsessed with understanding not just IF students got the right answer, but HOW they're thinking. They constantly ask three essential questions (watch to learn more) that transform their impact on student learning.

Discover why one expert coach reduced feedback by 80% while making it 80% MORE effective, and learn the specific mindframes that turn good teachers into exceptional ones.

This isn't about adding more to your plate - it's about recognizing the expertise that's already within you and learning how to access it.

Key Takeaways:
✅The shocking truth about teaching experience vs. expertise
✅Why "nosy" teachers get better results
✅The 3 questions every expert teacher asks daily
✅How to make feedback 80% more effective with less effort
✅The mindframes that separate expert teachers from the rest

Episode Mentions:

Chapter Timestamps
0:00 Introduction: The "Magic" of Expert Teachers
3:00 Meet Professor John Hattie
5:00 What Makes a Teacher an Expert?
11:00 Experience vs. Expertise: The Shocking Truth
15:00 The Power of Being "Nosy" in Teaching
22:00 The Three Essential Impact Questions
25:00 Rethinking Feedback: Quality Over Quantity
32:00 The Student's Perspective on Feedback
35:00 Reducing Feedback by 80%, Increasing Effectiveness by 80%
38:00 The Danger of Praise in Learning
40:00 Supporting High-Achieving Students
42:00 Call to Action: Celebrating Teacher Expertise

📧 Connect: schoolutionspodcast@gmail.com
🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Exclusive September Sneak Peek! Strategies for the New School Year

Sun, 31 Aug 2025 07:00:00 -0400

🎓 Welcome to Schoolutions Teaching Strategies Season 5! September brings powerful insights from education experts who are transforming classrooms worldwide. This season will share practical advice, grounded in education research, for improving student and caregiver connections.

What You'll Discover:
➡️John Hattie reveals how expert teachers think differently - why curiosity beats credentials in effective teaching and instructional strategies that drive student success.
➡️Brett Fox & Suzanne Stone share their inspiring children's book My Brave Friend - a vital resource supporting students, caregivers, and educators navigating childhood cancer with culturally responsive teaching and whole child support.
➡️Sandy Halpin, retired Teacher Center Director, breaks down what works (and what doesn't) in designing districtwide professional learning opportunities and teacher coaching strategies.
➡️Dr. Molly Ness unveils her breakthrough book, Making Words Stick (co-authored with Dr. Katie Pace Miles), featuring a proven four-step orthographic mapping process for student engagement and active learning.
➡️David K. Richards illuminates the microschool revolution and innovative teaching approaches reshaping education.

Perfect for teachers, education coaches, school administrators, caregivers, homeschoolers, teacher mentors, instructional leaders, and school counselors seeking practical classroom management, behavior strategies, and teaching tips.

Chapters
0:00 - Welcome to Season 5
September kicks off our newest season of teaching strategies
0:12 - Episode 1 Preview: John Hattie
Expert teachers and the power of professional curiosity
0:25 - Episode 2 Preview: My Brave Friend
Brett Fox (Hopecam) and Suzanne Stone (Livestrong) on supporting children with cancer
0:38 - Episode 3 Preview: Professional Development
Sandy Halpin shares insights on effective district-wide learning
0:51 - Episode 4 Preview: Reading Science
Dr. Molly Ness returns with orthographic mapping strategies
1:04 - Episode 5 Preview: Microschools
David K. Richards on educational innovation, microschools, and school choice
1:17 - Season Invitation
Be part of the learning journey this September

📢 Season 5 Launches on September 1st!
📧 Connect: schoolutionspodcast@gmail.com
🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

Don't forget to 👍LIKE this video if it helped you, 🔔SUBSCRIBE for more teaching tips, and 💬SHARE with fellow educators!

#Schoolutions #TeachingStrategies #EducationPodcast

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Schoolutions Season 5 Trailer: Teaching Strategies You Need Now!

Mon, 25 Aug 2025 00:00:00 -0400

🎓 Welcome to Season 5 of Schoolutions Teaching Strategies!🎓

Join me, Olivia Wahl, for the most dynamic season yet, focusing on teaching in the age of change. This season brings you innovative education strategies, effective teaching methods, and teaching tips from education researchers, master teachers, coaches, school administrators, and instructional leaders.

Perfect for new teachers building their toolkit, veteran educators seeking innovative teaching approaches, school leadership supporting their teams, caregivers and homeschoolers understanding learning experiences, and teacher mentors providing guidance.

What You'll Discover:
✅ Classroom management techniques for today's learners
✅ Student engagement and student motivation strategies
✅ Instructional strategies and lesson planning innovations
✅ Professional learning insights from teacher coaching experts
✅ Culturally responsive teaching and inclusive teaching methods
✅ Caregiver communication and family partnerships building
✅ School improvement and education transformation approaches

New Weekly Episodes Schedule 📅 Starting September 1st:
🔥 Guest Episodes: Every Monday
⭐ Highlight Reels: Every Wednesday
💡 Bonus Reflections: Every Friday

Join our community of educators committed to cultivating student success, inspired teaching, and creating inclusive classrooms with a pro-kid mindset focused on the whole child.

📧 Connect: schoolutionspodcast@gmail.com
🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

Don't forget to 👍LIKE this video if it helped you, 🔔SUBSCRIBE for more teaching tips, and 💬SHARE with fellow educators!
https://www.youtube.com/@schoolutionspodcast/

Chapters
0:00 - Welcome & Season 5 Introduction
0:15 - Teaching in the Age of Change Theme
0:30 - Who You'll Hear From This Season
0:45 - Try-It-Tomorrow Strategies Preview
1:00 - Who This Season Is For
1:15 - New Episode Schedule & Call to Action
1:30 - Community & Closing Message

#SchoolutionsTeachingStrategies #TeachingStrategies #EducationPodcast #TeacherTips #ClassroomManagement #StudentEngagement #TeacherCoaching #SchoolLeadership #ParentCommunication #InclusiveTeaching #ProfessionalLearning #EducationTransformation #TeacherSupport #InnovativeTeaching #StudentSuccess #TeachersOfYouTube #EducatorsUnite #BackToSchool #TeachingLife #ClassroomTips #EducationMatters #TeacherCommunity #LearningStrategies #TeachingPodcast #EducationLeadership

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Classroom Layout Hacks for Maximum Student Success

Fri, 22 Aug 2025 00:00:00 -0400

Let's transform your classroom together into a learning powerhouse with these 3 strategic design pillars! In this final episode of my summer series, discover how your classroom layout becomes an invisible curriculum that either supports or sabotages student success every day. I'll share how to use classroom design ideas to aid student progress. This video also covers strategic pillars like traffic flow and classroom management.

What You'll Learn:
🏫 Pillar 1: Traffic Flow - Create a "highway system" with clear pathways for seamless movement and reduced disruptions
👥 Pillar 2: Collaborative Spaces - Design flexible zones that reconfigure in 20 seconds for maximum student engagement and active learning
♿ Pillar 3: Accessibility - Implement universal design principles for inclusive classrooms that work for every learner

Perfect for teachers, education coaches, new teachers, instructional leaders, and anyone focused on effective teaching strategies and classroom management. Whether you're dealing with disruptive students or looking to boost student motivation and participation, your physical space is a powerful tool for student success.

Chapters:
0:00 - Introduction: Your Classroom's Invisible Curriculum
1:00 - Welcome to Schoolutions Teaching Strategies Summer Series
2:00 - The Restaurant Analogy: Why Layout Matters
3:00 - Pillar 1: Traffic Flow - Creating Your Highway System
4:00 - Pillar 2: Collaborative Spaces - Flexible Design for Learning
5:00 - The 20-Second Rule for Group Formation
6:00 - Pillar 3: Accessibility - Universal Design Principles
7:00 - Your Summer Layout Strategy: 4-Step Process
8:00 - Testing Your Layout: Traffic Light Test & More
9:00 - Next Steps: Sketch Your Vision
10:00 - Season 5 Preview & Wrap-up

🎧 Schoolutions Teaching Strategies Podcast 🎙️Season 5🎙️
New every week ➡️
✅Monday guest interviews
✅Wednesday guest highlight reels
✅Friday bonus episodes!

📧 Connect: schoolutionspodcast@gmail.com
🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

Don't forget to 👍LIKE this video if it helped you, 🔔SUBSCRIBE for more teaching tips, and 💬SHARE with fellow educators!
https://www.youtube.com/@schoolutionspodcast/

#ClassroomManagement #TeachingStrategies #ClassroomDesign #StudentEngagement #EducationTips #TeacherLife #ClassroomSetup #InclusiveEducation #TeacherCoaching #SchoolLeadership #EffectiveTeaching #ClassroomOrganization #LearningEnvironment #TeacherSupport #EducationTransformation #StudentSuccess #TeachingTips #ClassroomLayout #ProfessionalLearning #InstructionalStrategies

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

How To Never Panic On Sick Days Again!

Mon, 18 Aug 2025 00:00:00 -0400

Transform your 5 AM sick day panic into peaceful confidence with this foolproof emergency substitute plan system!

Are you tired of frantically texting lesson plans from your phone while running a fever? In this episode of Schoolutions Teaching Strategies, I'll show you how to create a comprehensive emergency sub plan system that works for any grade level or subject - even when you can't think clearly.

What You'll Learn:
✅ How to create self-contained activities that pass the "substitute success test"
✅ Three types of backup plans: Any Day, Subject Continuation, and Fun Friday plans
✅ Perfect substitute instructions that set subs up for success
✅ Organization systems for quick access when you're sick
✅ Summer action plan to prep everything before school starts

Perfect for: teachers, education coaches, new teachers, mentor teachers, school administrators, and anyone involved in lesson planning and instructional strategies.

This practical teaching tip will save you hours of stress and help you maintain effective teaching even when you're absent. No more classroom management nightmares or worried thoughts about student engagement while you're home sick!

Time Investment: Just 3-4 hours this summer eliminates 5 AM panic forever!

Chapters
0:00 - Introduction: The 5 AM Sick Day Panic
1:00 - Why You Need an Emergency Sub Plan System
2:00 - The Reality of Teacher Sick Days
3:00 - Welcome to Summer Series
4:00 - Step 1: Create Your Emergency Kit Foundation
5:00 - Step 2: Design Self-Contained Activities
6:00 - Elementary Activity Ideas
7:00 - Step 3: Create Perfect Sub Instructions
8:00 - Golden Rules for Sub Instructions
9:00 - Step 4: Organize for Quick Access
10:00 - Step 5: Your Summer Action Plan
11:00 - Wrap-up and Challenge

🎧 Schoolutions Teaching Strategies Podcast New episodes every Monday & Friday this summer!
📧 Connect: schoolutionspodcast@gmail.com
🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

#EmergencySubPlans #TeachingTips #ClassroomManagement #LessonPlanning #SubstituteTeacher #TeacherPrep #EducationStrategies #EffectiveTeaching #InstructionalStrategies #TeacherSupport #ProfessionalDevelopment #NewTeachers #TeacherCoaching #SchoolLeadership #StudentEngagement #ClassroomControl #TeacherImpact #EducationTransformation #InspiredTeaching #EmpoweredEducators #TeacherLife #BackToSchool #SummerPrep #TeachingHacks #EducationPodcast

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

How to Make Your Professional Learning Stick This Year!

Fri, 15 Aug 2025 00:00:00 -0400

Let's focus your professional learning into intentional strategies that improve teaching practice, turning scattered learning into focused classroom tips. This episode helps you be strategic about connecting your learning directly to your classroom. Discover effective teaching strategies and what it means to have continuous learning and teacher growth.

🎯 What You'll Learn:
• How to conduct an honest self-assessment of your teaching strengths and growth areas
• Strategic goal-setting with SMART criteria and measurable outcomes
• Implementation triggers that connect new learning to existing routines
• Timeline for sustainable professional development throughout the school year
• Accountability systems that ensure lasting classroom impact

Perfect for: teachers, education coaches, school administrators, instructional leaders, teacher mentors, new teachers, and anyone committed to education transformation and teacher impact.

Whether you're focusing on classroom management, student engagement, instructional strategies, or culturally responsive teaching, this episode provides the roadmap for professional learning that creates real school change. Stop letting great workshop ideas gather dust – start building teaching practices that truly support student success!

Key Topics Covered:
✅ Self-assessment strategies for effective teaching
✅ Choosing 2-3 focused professional development areas
✅ Creating implementation plans with built-in accountability
✅ Collaborative learning approaches for sustained growth
✅ Connecting learning to classroom control, student motivation, and lesson planning

Ready to become one of those empowered educators who never stops growing?

This framework works for classroom behavior strategies, innovative teaching methods, inclusive teaching practices, and building that pro-kid mindset that transforms school culture.

🎧 Schoolutions Teaching Strategies Podcast New episodes every Monday & Friday this summer!
📧 Connect: schoolutionspodcast@gmail.com
🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

Chapters
0:00 Introduction: From Scattered to Strategic Learning
1:00 The Problem with Random Professional Learning
2:00 Welcome to Schoolutions Teaching Strategies Summer Series
3:00 The Power of Intentional Summer Learning
4:00 Honest Self-Assessment Questions for Teachers
5:00 Popular Focus Areas: Curriculum, Environment, Assessment
6:00 Setting SMART Goals with Measurable Success Criteria
7:00 8-Week School Year Learning Timeline
8:00 Creating Implementation Triggers That Work
9:00 Building Accountability and Collaborative Learning
10:00 Progress Over Perfection: Your Growth Journey
11:00 Wrap-up and Next Steps

Free Resources:
💫Edutopia and Teaching Tolerance websites
💫Coursera and edX free education courses
💫YouTube channels like Cult of Pedagogy
💫Teacher blogs and podcasts
💫Your school or district's professional library

Low-Cost Options:
💫Professional learning networks on Twitter or Facebook
💫Local university extension courses
💫Education conferences (many offer virtual options)
💫Professional books from your library or used book stores

Investment Options:
💫Graduate courses for credit
💫National conferences and workshops
💫Coaching or mentoring programs
💫Subscription-based platforms like Teaching Channel

Don't Forget:
💫Colleagues who excel in your focus areas
💫Your instructional coach or mentor
💫Local education cooperatives
💫Community partnerships

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

How To Organize Your Digital Classroom Fast!

Mon, 11 Aug 2025 00:00:00 -0400

Streamline your school year with a digital teaching infrastructure organization! This episode shares practical teaching tips for how to declutter your digital files and create a command center that saves time. Learn file management techniques to keep your lesson plans and resources at your fingertips and boost teacher organization.

Transform your chaotic digital overwhelm into a streamlined command center that saves hours during the school year! In this episode of Schoolutions Teaching Strategies Summer Series, I reveal the secret to building three interconnected systems that work together as your digital infrastructure.

What You'll Learn:
✅ How to create an organized file folder system that makes finding any teaching material take seconds instead of minutes
✅ Strategic email management techniques to keep your inbox empty at the end of each day
✅ Purposeful bookmark organization for instant access to your most-used resources
✅ The two-minute rule that transforms email chaos into clarity
✅ Weekly maintenance tips to prevent digital clutter from building up again

Perfect for: Teachers, education coaches, instructional leaders, new teachers, teacher mentors, and school administrators looking to improve their digital organization and teaching tips.

This practical, try-it-tomorrow approach to education strategies will help you spend your energy on effective teaching and lesson planning instead of searching for files. No more Sunday night scrambles looking for that perfect resource!

Summer Action Steps Included:
• Build your master folder structure (Teaching 2025-2026)
• Set up essential email folders with automated rules
• Organize bookmarks that mirror your real teaching needs
• Create maintenance routines that stick

Ready to build your digital command center? Grab your coffee, open your laptop, and let's get your digital house in order!

Chapters
0:00 Introduction - Welcome to Summer Series
1:00 The Problem - Digital Overwhelm & Chaos
2:00 Solutions Teaching Strategies Introduction
3:00 Foundation - Computer File Organization System
5:00 Email Management - Essential Folders & Rules
7:00 Bookmark Organization - Strategic Categories
9:00 Digital Command Center - How Systems Connect
10:00 Weekly Maintenance & Visual Organization
11:00 Three-Step Summer Challenge Recap
12:00 Wrap Up & Contact Information

When coaches, teachers, administrators, and families work hand in hand, it fosters a school atmosphere where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged in their learning journey.

🎧 Schoolutions Teaching Strategies Podcast New episodes every Monday & Friday this summer!
📧 Connect: schoolutionspodcast@gmail.com
🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

Don't forget to 👍LIKE this video if it helped you, 🔔SUBSCRIBE for more teaching tips, and 💬SHARE with fellow educators!
https://www.youtube.com/@schoolutionspodcast/

#TeachingTips #EducationStrategies #TeacherProductivity #ClassroomManagement #DigitalOrganization #TeacherLife #EffectiveTeaching #LessonPlanning #InstructionalStrategies #TeacherCoaching #ProfessionalDevelopment #NewTeachers #EducationCoaches #InstructionalLeaders #TeacherMentors #SchoolAdministrators #TeacherSupport #EmpoweredEducators #InspiredTeaching #BackToSchoolPrep #SummerTeacherPrep #TeacherWorkflow #EducationalTechnology #TeacherEfficiency #SolutionsTeachingStrategies

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Progress Tracking That Actually Works!

Fri, 08 Aug 2025 00:00:00 -0400

Discover a new way to approach student progress with streamlined data collection! In this episode, learn valuable teaching tips for creating a student data system that benefits both you and your students. This approach simplifies data visualization and enhances your instructional strategies.

Transform your classroom with a data tracking system that actually works! In this episode, I share my revolutionary "most-some-one" framework that will change how you approach student progress tracking forever.

🎯 What You'll Learn:
• The most-some-one framework for analyzing student needs in seconds
• How to focus on power standards instead of drowning in unused data
• The 30-second update rule that keeps you teaching, not tracking
• Building decision-making directly into your tracking systems
• Creating systems that drive immediate instructional action

This practical approach helps with student engagement, effective teaching, instructional strategies, and student success by giving you real-time insights into learning. Perfect for teachers, education coaches, instructional leaders, and anyone focused on student motivation and classroom management through data-driven decisions.

Whether you're planning lessons, forming groups, or supporting individual students, this system transforms how you use data to inspire students and create thriving classrooms. Ideal for new teachers, mentor teachers, and anyone committed to innovative teaching and education transformation.

Chapters:
0:00 Introduction - Transform Your Data Tracking
1:00 The Most-Some-One Framework Explained
2:00 Why Current Systems Don't Work
3:00 Building Responsive Tracking Systems
4:00 What Data Actually Matters
5:00 Focus on Power Standards
6:00 Designing Systems That Fit Your Teaching Life
7:00 Digital vs Paper: What Works Best
8:00 Making Data Actionable
9:00 Color Coding for Immediate Decisions
10:00 Student Ownership of Progress
11:00 Summer Implementation Plan
12:00 Starting Simple and Staying Consistent
13:00 Wrap Up and Next Steps

🎧 Schoolutions Teaching Strategies Podcast New episodes every Monday & Friday this summer!
📧 Connect: schoolutionspodcast@gmail.com
🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

Don't forget to 👍LIKE this video if it helped you, 🔔SUBSCRIBE for more teaching tips, and 💬SHARE with fellow educators!
https://www.youtube.com/@schoolutionspodcast/

#StudentSuccess #EffectiveTeaching #DataTracking #ClassroomManagement #EducationStrategies #TeachingTips #StudentEngagement #InstructionalStrategies #TeacherCoaching #ProfessionalLearning #StudentMotivation #InnovativeTeaching #EducationTransformation #ThrivingStudents #EmpoweredEducators

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Genius Hacks to Integrate All School Subjects

Mon, 04 Aug 2025 01:00:00 -0400

Imagine if all subjects connected around a single, engaging theme! This episode discusses the benefits of a thematic approach and integrated curriculum. By using a cross-curricular teaching method, you can boost student engagement and provide teaching strategies that make learning more meaningful.

Transform your teaching with cross-curricular integration! This episode reveals how to connect subjects naturally while reducing your planning burden and boosting student engagement.

🎯 What You'll Learn:
✅ How to conduct a standards audit to find natural subject connections
✅ Backward design techniques for authentic integration
✅ 3 proven strategies that work across all grade levels
✅ Step-by-step mapping process using anchor themes
✅ How to create meaningful assessments across subjects

Whether you're dealing with lesson planning challenges, looking to improve student motivation, or seeking effective teaching methods that inspire students, this episode provides practical instructional strategies you can implement immediately.

Perfect for: new teachers, mentor teachers, instructional coaches, homeschoolers, and anyone focused on student success and education transformation. These teaching tips will help you create inclusive classrooms where every student can thrive through connected learning experiences.

Ready to revolutionize your approach to lesson planning and student engagement? Hit play and discover how small intentional connections can transform both your teaching and your students' learning!

🎧 Schoolutions Teaching Strategies Podcast New episodes every Monday & Friday this summer!
📧 Connect: schoolutionspodcast@gmail.com
🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

Don't forget to 👍LIKE this video if it helped you, 🔔SUBSCRIBE for more teaching tips, and 💬SHARE with fellow educators!
https://www.youtube.com/@schoolutionspodcast/

Chapters
0:00 Introduction: The Power of Connected Learning
1:00 Why Integration Simplifies Teaching
2:00 Welcome to Schoolutions Summer Series
3:00 The Cross-Curricular Connection Vision
4:00 Step-by-Step Standards Mapping Process
5:00 Choosing Your Anchor Theme
6:00 Three Proven Integration Strategies
7:00 Project Bridge Strategy Examples
8:00 Starting Small: Practical Implementation
9:00 4-Week Summer Planning Timeline
10:00 Closing & Next Steps

#CrossCurricularTeaching #IntegratedLearning #TeachingStrategies #LessonPlanning #StudentEngagement #EducationPodcast #TeacherTips #InstructionalStrategies #EffectiveTeaching #StudentMotivation #ActiveLearning #InspiringStudents #TeacherCoaching #InstructionalCoaching #NewTeachers #ProfessionalDevelopment #SchoolLeadership #EducationTransformation #ThrivingStudents #EmpoweredEducators #InspiredTeaching #TeacherImpact #InclusiveTeaching #WholeChild #StudentSuccess #EducationCoaches #SchoolAdministrators #Homeschoolers #MentorTeachers #InstructionalLeadership

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

The Field Trip Formula: Unforgettable Student Experiences

Fri, 01 Aug 2025 01:00:00 -0400

Ever find yourself scrambling because the field trip you wanted for your ecosystems unit is booked solid? This video shares relatable moments with teacher humor and insights on lesson planning to avoid such situations. Learn tips for teachers and strategies to make your lessons more exciting, so you can avoid school life disappointments and keep your students engaged.

Transform your teaching year with strategic summer planning! In this episode of Schoolutions Teaching Strategies, I share the "Field Trip Formula" - a proven system for building an incredible network of field trips and guest speakers that will make your lessons come alive.

What You'll Learn:
✅ How to turn curriculum standards into engaging real-world experiences
✅ The secret to finding hidden educational gems in your community
✅ Smart strategies for connecting with expert guest speakers (including tapping into student families!)
✅ Summer action plans that save you stress come September
✅ Budget-friendly alternatives and funding options
✅ Organization systems that make planning effortless

Perfect for: teachers, education coaches, school administrators, parents, homeschoolers, teacher mentors, instructional leaders who want to boost student engagement, improve lesson planning, and create memorable learning experiences.

Stop scrambling for last-minute field trips! This teaching tips episode shows you how a little summer preparation creates classroom magic all year long. Whether you're a new teacher or veteran educator, these education strategies will help you move from reactive to proactive, transforming your instructional strategies and boosting student participation.

Chapters
0:00 - Introduction: The Field Trip Scramble Problem
1:00 - Why September Hits Like a Freight Train
2:00 - The Magic of Real-World Learning Connections
3:00 - Welcome to Solutions Teaching Strategy Summer Series
4:00 - Building Your Educational Resource Network
5:00 - Curriculum Alignment: Your Planning Roadmap
6:00 - Finding Hidden Gem Field Trip Destinations
7:00 - Building Your Guest Speaker Network
8:00 - Tapping Into Student Families as Resources
9:00 - Summer Outreach Strategy & Templates
10:00 - Organization Systems That Actually Work
11:00 - Building Long-Term Educational Partnerships
12:00 - Budget Considerations & Funding Options
13:00 - Your Complete Summer Action Plan
14:00 - The Transformation: From Reactive to Proactive
15:00 - Why This Investment Pays Long-Term Dividends
16:00 - Wrap-up & Contact Information

When coaches, teachers, administrators, and families work hand in hand, it fosters a school atmosphere where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged in their learning journey.

🎧 Schoolutions Teaching Strategies Podcast New episodes every Monday & Friday this summer!
📧 Connect: schoolutionspodcast@gmail.com
🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

Don't forget to 👍LIKE this video if it helped you, 🔔SUBSCRIBE for more teaching tips, and 💬SHARE with fellow educators!
https://www.youtube.com/@schoolutionspodcast/

#FieldTrips #GuestSpeakers #TeachingTips #LessonPlanning #EducationStrategies #StudentEngagement #TeacherResources #SummerPlanning #EffectiveTeaching #ClassroomActivities #InstructionalStrategies #TeacherCoaching #ProfessionalDevelopment #SchoolYearPrep #RealWorldLearning #CommunityPartnerships #TeacherSupport #EducationLeadership #ParentInvolvement #EmpoweredEducators #ThrivingStudents #EducationTransformation #TeacherImpact #InnovativeTeaching #ActiveLearning #StudentMotivation #TeacherMentors #NewTeachers #SchoolImprovement #FamilyPartnerships

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Master Formative Assessment: No More Grading Burnout

Mon, 28 Jul 2025 00:00:00 -0400

Transform your classroom this fall with 5 game-changing formative assessment strategies that go beyond traditional quizzes!

🎯 In this episode of Schoolutions Teaching Strategies, discover my innovative teaching tips and instructional strategies that help you catch learning gaps in real-time and boost student engagement.

Perfect for teachers, new teachers, education coaches, and instructional leaders looking for effective teaching methods that actually work!

These education strategies will revolutionize your lesson planning and help you create more inclusive classrooms where every student thrives.

What You'll Learn:
✅ 5 innovative formative assessment categories that take 30 seconds or less
✅ Digital tools that make assessment engaging instead of stressful
✅ Peer assessment strategies that boost student participation
✅ Quick check techniques for real-time classroom management
✅ How to assess more efficiently without creating more grading

These innovative teaching approaches support student success, improve attention in class, and help you build stronger student motivation. Whether you're a classroom teacher, teacher mentor, school administrator, or instructional coach seeking professional development, this episode provides practical strategies you can implement tomorrow!

🎧 Subscribe for more teacher coaching content, instructional coaching tips, and strategies that put students first!

Chapters:
00:00 - Introduction: The Quiz Grading Weekend Problem
01:00 - What is Innovative Formative Assessment?
03:00 - Strategy 1: Reimagined Exit Tickets
05:00 - Strategy 2: Digital Check-ins That Engage
07:00 - Strategy 3: The Power of Peer Assessment
08:00 - Strategy 4: Quick Check Techniques (30 seconds or less)
09:00 - Strategy 5: Making Assessment Feel Like Learning
10:00 - Implementation Tips: Start Small, Build Confidence
12:00 - Key Takeaways for September Success
13:00 - Wrap-up and Call to Action

When coaches, teachers, administrators, and families work hand in hand, it fosters a school atmosphere where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged in their learning journey.

🎧 Schoolutions Teaching Strategies Podcast New episodes every Monday & Friday this summer!
📧 Connect: schoolutionspodcast@gmail.com
🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

Don't forget to 👍LIKE this video if it helped you, 🔔SUBSCRIBE for more teaching tips, and 💬SHARE with fellow educators!
https://www.youtube.com/@schoolutionspodcast/

Hashtags:
#FormativeAssessment #TeachingTips #ClassroomManagement #StudentEngagement #EducationStrategies #InstructionalStrategies #TeacherCoaching #ProfessionalDevelopment #EffectiveTeaching #InnovativeTeaching #StudentSuccess #LessonPlanning #TeacherSupport #EducationCoaches #NewTeachers #ClassroomStrategies #StudentMotivation #ActiveLearning #TeacherMentors #InstructionalCoaching

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

The Preassessment Strategy That Boosts Student Achievement

Fri, 25 Jul 2025 00:00:00 -0400

Stop scrambling in September and start the school year with confidence!

In this episode of Schoolutions Teaching Strategies Summer Series, discover how strategic preassessment design during your summer planning can transform your classroom from day one. Learn the research-backed approach that increases student achievement through targeted, responsive instruction.

What You'll Learn:
✅ 3 essential types of preassessments every teacher needs
✅ How to identify students' background knowledge before you start teaching
✅ Practical tools and workflows for efficient assessment creation
✅ Digital solutions including Google Forms, Flipgrid, and Padlet
✅ Common mistakes to avoid (and how to fix them)
✅ Flexible grouping strategies based on student readiness

Perfect for teachers, education coaches, instructional leaders, new teachers, teacher mentors, and school administrators looking to improve student engagement, lesson planning, teaching tips, effective teaching, instructional strategies, student success, professional development, and education strategies.

Whether you're dealing with low engagement, student motivation challenges, or need better classroom management approaches, this summer planning strategy will help you meet every student where they are so you can take them where they need to go.

00:00 Introduction - The September Scramble Problem
00:47 Why Preassessment Matters (30% Achievement Boost!)
01:51 Summer: The Perfect Planning Time
02:46 3 Essential Types of Preassessments
04:08 Setting Up Low-Stakes Success
05:41 Practical Design Workflow
06:54 Using Data Strategically
07:53 Digital Tools That Work
08:36 Common Mistakes to Avoid
09:27 Building Long-Term Resources
10:47 Your Summer Challenge
11:13 Wrap-Up & Next Steps

When coaches, teachers, administrators, and families work hand in hand, it fosters a school atmosphere where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged in their learning journey.

🎧 Schoolutions Teaching Strategies Podcast New episodes every Monday & Friday this summer!
📧 Connect: schoolutionspodcast@gmail.com
🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

Don't forget to 👍LIKE this video if it helped you, 🔔SUBSCRIBE for more teaching tips, and 💬SHARE with fellow educators!
https://www.youtube.com/@schoolutionspodcast/

#TeachingTips #LessonPlanning #StudentEngagement #EducationStrategies #TeacherCoaching #ProfessionalDevelopment #InstructionalStrategies #StudentSuccess #EffectiveTeaching #NewTeachers #EducationCoaches #InstructionalLeaders #TeacherSupport #StudentMotivation #ClassroomManagement #EmpoweredEducators #InspiredTeaching #EducationTransformation #TeacherImpact #ThrivingStudents

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

The Unit Planning Mistake 90% of Teachers Make (+ The Simple Fix)

Mon, 21 Jul 2025 00:00:00 -0400

Transform your teaching with strategic summer unit planning!

🌟 Stop the last-minute Sunday night scramble and walk into September feeling confident, organized, and excited about your lessons.

In this episode of I share my game-changing 3-pillar framework for effective teaching and lesson planning that will revolutionize your classroom management and boost student engagement. Learn how thoughtful summer planning creates better learning experiences and saves you countless hours during the school year.

What You'll Learn:
✅ The 3-pillar framework: Clear learning targets, authentic assessments, and engaging tasks
✅ Step-by-step summer planning process that actually works
✅ How to create flexible unit plans without perfectionist overwhelm
✅ Practical tools and templates for instructional strategies
✅ Why December/January units should be your summer priority

Perfect for teachers, education coaches, instructional leaders, new teachers, mentor teachers, and anyone focused on student success and education transformation. Whether you're implementing innovative teaching methods, working on inclusive teaching approaches, or seeking professional development, this episode provides teaching tips that support the whole child and create thriving students.

CHAPTERS
0:00 Introduction - End the Sunday Night Planning Panic
1:00 The Secret of Strategic Summer Planning
2:00 Welcome to Summer Series - Your Teaching Reset
3:00 Why Summer is Perfect for Unit Planning
4:00 The Problem with Survival Mode Planning
5:00 Three-Pillar Framework Introduction
6:00 Pillar 1: Clear Learning Targets & Objectives (Bloom’s Taxonomy of Measurable Verbs)
7:00 Pillar 2: Authentic Assessments That Matter
8:00 Pillar 3: Engaging Tasks That Bridge Learning
8:30 Step-by-Step Summer Planning Process
9:00 Assessment Design - Start with the End
10:00 Why Start with December/January Units
11:00 Building Flexibility Into Your Plans
12:00 Practical Tools for Summer Planning
13:00 Wrap-Up - Your Foundation for Success
14:00 Closing & Connect with Olivia

When coaches, teachers, administrators, and families work hand in hand, it fosters a school atmosphere where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged in their learning journey.

🎧 Schoolutions Teaching Strategies Podcast New episodes every Monday & Friday this summer!
📧 Connect: schoolutionspodcast@gmail.com
🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

Don't forget to 👍LIKE this video if it helped you, 🔔SUBSCRIBE for more teaching tips, and 💬SHARE with fellow educators!
https://www.youtube.com/@schoolutionspodcast/

#TeachingStrategies #LessonPlanning #UnitPlanning #ClassroomManagement #StudentEngagement #TeacherPlanning #SummerPlanning #EducationStrategies #TeachingTips #ProfessionalDevelopment #TeacherCoaching #InstructionalStrategies #StudentSuccess #EffectiveTeaching #NewTeachers #MentorTeachers #InstructionalCoaching #SchoolLeadership #EducationTransformation #TeacherImpact #EmpoweredEducators #InspiredTeaching #ThrivingStudents #ActiveLearning #StudentMotivation #InnovativeTeaching #SchoolImprovement #InstructionalLeadership #TeacherSupport #EducationCoaches

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When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

The Summer Reading Strategy That Changes Everything

Fri, 18 Jul 2025 00:00:00 -0400

Transform your teaching practice this summer with strategic professional reading! Join me as I reveal why most educators approach summer reading completely wrong and the simple strategy that turns overwhelming book lists into genuine classroom breakthroughs.

🎯 What You'll Learn:
➡️The strategic approach to choosing 2-3 books that create real impact
➡️Essential reading categories: classroom management, student engagement, subject-specific pedagogy, and educational technology
➡️How to bridge theory and practice with active reading strategies
➡️Creating sustainable reading habits that fit your summer schedule

Perfect for: teachers, education coaches, school administrators, instructional leaders, teacher mentors, new teachers, and anyone committed to professional development and student success.

Key Topics Covered:
✅ Classroom management and student engagement strategies
✅ Effective teaching and instructional strategies
✅ Professional development through intentional reading
✅ Teacher coaching and mentor teachers support
✅ Inspiring students and student motivation techniques
✅ Education strategies that transform practice
✅ Empowered educators and teacher impact

Stop drowning in endless reading lists and start making your summer professional development count! Your students deserve a teacher who never stops learning and growing.

Chapter Timestamps
0:00 - Introduction: Why Most Summer Reading Fails
1:00 - The Strategic Approach to Educational Reading
2:00 - Welcome to Solutions Teaching Strategies
3:00 - Three Essential Reading Categories
4:00 - Making Research Practical and Digestible
5:00 - Creating Your Summer Reading Plan
6:00 - Bridging Theory and Practice
7:00 - The Power of Professional Learning Communities
8:00 - Investing in Your Teaching Journey
9:00 - Closing & Next Steps

#TeacherReading #ProfessionalDevelopment #SummerReading #EducationStrategies #TeacherGrowth #ClassroomManagement #StudentEngagement #EffectiveTeaching #InstructionalStrategies #TeacherCoaching #EmpoweredEducators #TeacherImpact #StudentSuccess #ThrivingStudents #NewTeachers #MentorTeachers #InstructionalLeaders #TeacherSupport #InnovativeTeaching #StudentMotivation #ActiveLearning #InspiringStudents #LessonPlanning #TeachingTips #EducationalResearch #TeacherMentors #EducationCoaches #InstructionalCoaching #SchoolLeadership #EducationLeadership #WholeChild

🔔 SUBSCRIBE to never miss an episode of Schoolutions Teaching Strategies Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@schoolutionspodcast/

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When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Turn Any Teaching Conference Into Classroom Success

Mon, 14 Jul 2025 00:00:00 -0400

🌟 Transform Your Teaching This Summer - Strategic Professional Learning That Actually Works!

Are you tired of overwhelming yourself with random workshops or skipping professional development entirely? This episode reveals the game-changing 80/20 rule for summer learning that will energize (not drain) you while transforming your September classroom.

What You'll Learn:
✅ The strategic framework that prevents professional learning burnout
✅ Why timing your conferences matters more than you think
✅ How to choose between virtual vs. in-person learning opportunities
✅ The 3-goal implementation system that ensures lasting change
✅ Networking strategies that build meaningful educator connections

Perfect for: teachers, education coaches, school administrators, instructional leaders, new teachers, teacher mentors, and anyone committed to effective teaching and professional development.

Whether you're struggling with classroom management, student engagement, or looking for innovative teaching strategies, this episode provides the roadmap for strategic summer learning that leads to real classroom transformation.

Key Topics Covered:
- Professional development planning and education strategies
- Teacher coaching and instructional coaching approaches
- School leadership and instructional leadership insights
- Teaching tips for student motivation and active learning
- Lesson planning and instructional strategies
- Teacher support systems and mentor teachers guidance

Research shows that teachers who engage in targeted summer learning report higher job satisfaction, better student outcomes, and increased teacher impact. Don't let another amazing conference go to waste - learn how to implement what you learn for lasting school change.

Chapter Timestamps
0:00 - Introduction: Energizing Summer Learning
1:00 - The Problem with Random Professional Development
2:00 - Welcome & Reality Check: Strategic Learning Choices
3:00 - The 80/20 Rule Framework for Summer Learning
4:00 - Timing Matters: When to Schedule Professional Learning
5:00 - Virtual vs. In-Person Learning Opportunities
6:00 - Subject-Specific and Pedagogical Conferences
7:00 - Maximizing Your Investment: Note-Taking & Networking
8:00 - The Implementation Planning Moment
9:00 - Creating Your Professional Learning Portfolio
10:00 - Implementing Learning: Start Small, Build Momentum
11:00 - The Ripple Effect: Maximizing Learning Impact
12:00 - Wrap-Up: Strategic Summer Learning Success

When coaches, teachers, administrators, and families work hand in hand, it fosters a school atmosphere where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged in their learning journey.

🎧 Schoolutions Teaching Strategies Podcast New episodes every Monday & Friday this summer!
📧 Connect: schoolutionspodcast@gmail.com
🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

Don't forget to 👍LIKE this video if it helped you, 🔔SUBSCRIBE for more teaching tips, and 💬SHARE with fellow educators!
https://www.youtube.com/@schoolutionspodcast/

#ProfessionalLearning #TeacherTraining #SummerLearning #EducationStrategies #EffectiveTeaching #InstructionalStrategies #TeacherCoaching #ClassroomManagement #StudentEngagement

& 👉Follow Schoolutions Teaching Strategies Podcast on social:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/olivia-wahl-4300811a/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/schoolutionspodcast/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/schoolutionspodcast/
Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/olivia-wahl.bsky.social
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@schoolutionspodcast

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

How Data Can Make Your Teaching Year Awesome!

Fri, 11 Jul 2025 00:00:00 -0400

Turn last year's classroom data into September success! 🎯

Start your next school year strong by focusing on data-informed student growth, moving beyond expensive materials to what truly helps students thrive. Discover effective instructional strategies to foster academic growth and maximize student engagement. This episode provides essential teacher professional development to help refine your pedagogy and positively impact your students.

Discover the summer strategy that transforms struggling classrooms into thriving learning environments. In this 10-minute episode, I reveal how to analyze your previous year's data to create breakthrough moments for your next group of students.

What You'll Learn:
✅ How to gather and organize your teaching data treasure trove
✅ The detective method for spotting student engagement patterns
✅ Why celebrating your classroom management wins is crucial
✅ Strategic planning for difficult students and behavior strategies
✅ Concrete steps to boost student motivation and participation
✅ How to translate data insights into effective teaching strategies

Perfect for teachers, education coaches, instructional leaders, and school administrators who want to make data-driven decisions that actually work. Whether you're planning lesson planning improvements, developing coaching strategies, or seeking professional development insights, this episode provides actionable teaching tips you can implement immediately.

Chapters
0:00 - Introduction: Why Summer Data Analysis Matters
1:25 - Step 1: Gather Your Data Treasure Trove
2:43 - Step 2: The Trend Detective Work
4:32 - Step 3: Celebrate Your Strengths
5:27 - Step 4: Identify Growth Opportunities
7:07 - Step 5: Connect Dots to September Planning
9:17 - Realistic Summer Planning Action Steps
10:26 - Mindset Shift: Data as GPS
11:12 - Summer Data Analysis Toolkit
12:32 - Wrap-Up: Progress Over Perfection

When coaches, teachers, administrators, and families work hand in hand, it fosters a school atmosphere where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged in their learning journey.

🎧 Schoolutions Teaching Strategies Podcast New episodes every Monday & Friday this summer!
📧 Connect: schoolutionspodcast@gmail.com
🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

Don't forget to 👍LIKE this video if it helped you, 🔔SUBSCRIBE for more teaching tips, and
💬SHARE with fellow educators!
https://www.youtube.com/@schoolutionspodcast/

#TeachingTips #ClassroomManagement #StudentEngagement #EducationStrategies #TeacherCoaching #ProfessionalDevelopment #InstructionalStrategies #StudentMotivation #EffectiveTeaching #SchoolLeadership #DataAnalysis #SummerPlanning #TeacherSupport #StudentSuccess #EducationLeadership #ThrivingStudents #EmpoweredEducators #InspiredTeaching #TeacherImpact #classroombehavior

& 👉Follow Schoolutions Teaching Strategies Podcast on social:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/olivia-wahl-4300811a/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/schoolutionspodcast/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/schoolutionspodcast/
Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/olivia-wahl.bsky.social
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@schoolutionspodcast

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Summer Teacher Meetups That Actually Work

Mon, 07 Jul 2025 00:00:00 -0400

Avoid the chaos of inconsistent teaching! This episode explains the importance of teacher collaboration to ensure curriculum coherence across grade levels. Discover how vertical and horizontal alignment can prevent student confusion and promote consistency in instruction, supporting a positive school culture.

In this episode of Schoolutions Teaching Strategies, I reveal why the best time to align your teaching approaches isn't during the busy school year—it's during summer when you can think clearly about big-picture planning.

What You'll Learn:
✅ How spending just a few hours collaborating this summer can save you dozens of hours during the school year
✅ 5 essential areas to align with colleagues (standards, expectations, assessments, vocabulary, and resources)
✅ Practical tools and systems for sustainable collaboration
✅ How to create "The Vault" - a shared resource system that cuts planning time in half
✅ Simple strategies for reaching out to colleagues and scheduling productive meetings

Perfect for: Elementary teachers, middle school teachers, department heads, grade-level teams, and any educator looking to create consistency and reduce workload through collaboration.

Don't let September chaos derail your year. Start building your collaborative foundation today!

🎧 Schoolutions Teaching Strategies Podcast New episodes every Monday & Friday this summer!
📧 Connect: schoolutionspodcast@gmail.com
🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

Don't forget to 👍LIKE this video if it helped you, 🔔SUBSCRIBE for more teaching tips, and💬SHARE with fellow educators!
https://www.youtube.com/@schoolutionspodcast/

Video Chapters
0:00 - Introduction: The September Scramble Scenario
1:00 - Why Summer Collaboration Beats School Year Planning
2:00 - Welcome to Solutions Teaching Strategies
3:00 - The Real Cost of Misaligned Teaching
4:00 - Benefits of Summer Teacher Collaboration
5:00 - How to Reach Out to Colleagues
6:00 - Essential Areas to Align On
7:00 - Creating Shared Vocabulary and Resources
8:00 - Practical Collaboration Tools
9:00 - Building "The Vault" Resource System
10:00 - Maintaining Collaboration All Year Long
11:00 - Closing and Next Steps

#TeacherCollaboration #SummerPlanning #TeacherTips #EducatorLife #TeachingStrategies #GradeLevelTeam #TeacherSupport #BackToSchool #TeacherCommunity #EducationalPodcast #TeacherResources #ClassroomManagement #TeacherWellness #EducatorProfessionalDevelopment #TeachingTogether #TeacherBurnout #EducatorSupport #TeachingLife #SchoolYear2025 #TeacherMotivation

& 👉Follow Schoolutions Teaching Strategies Podcast on social:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/olivia-wahl-4300811a/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/schoolutionspodcast/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/schoolutionspodcast/
Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/olivia-wahl.bsky.social
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@schoolutionspodcast

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Summer Communication Secrets for Teachers & Caregivers

Fri, 04 Jul 2025 00:00:00 -0400

Transform your September launch with a strategic summer communication plan! In this episode of Schoolutions Teaching Strategies, I reveal my three-phase framework for building strong teacher-caregiver partnerships before school even begins.

🎯 What You'll Learn:
➡️Why summer silence creates anxiety while summer communication builds confidence
➡️The complete three-phase communication framework: Welcome Wave, Bridge Builder, and Final Countdown
➡️Specific timing strategies for maximum impact
➡️Practical delivery methods and response systems
➡️How to address common caregiver concerns proactively

Research shows that strong teacher-caregiver partnerships can increase student achievement by up to 30% - but these relationships don't magically appear in September. They're built through intentional summer communication.

Whether you're a new teacher or experienced educator, this episode provides concrete, try-it-tomorrow strategies that will set you up for success. No more overwhelming communication - just clear, purposeful connection that builds trust and excitement for the year ahead.

🎧 Schoolutions Teaching Strategies Podcast New episodes every Monday & Friday this summer!
📧 Connect: schoolutionspodcast@gmail.com
🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

Don't forget to 👍LIKE this video if it helped you, 🔔SUBSCRIBE for more teaching tips, and 💬SHARE with fellow educators!
https://www.youtube.com/@schoolutionspodcast/

Chapters
00:00 - Introduction: Why Summer Communication Matters
01:00 - The Problem with Summer Silence
02:00 - Research on Teacher-Caregiver Partnerships
03:00 - Three-Phase Communication Framework Overview
04:00 - Phase 1: The Welcome Wave (Early July)
05:00 - Personal Introduction Strategies
06:00 - Phase 2: Bridge Builder (Mid-Late July)
07:00 - Academic Preparation Tips
08:00 - Phase 3: Final Countdown (Late August)
09:00 - Communication Channel Strategy
10:00 - Timing and Frequency Best Practices
11:00 - Managing Responses and Follow-Up
12:00 - Action Plan for Implementation
13:00 - Conclusion and Next Steps

#TeacherTips #ParentCommunication #BackToSchoolPrep #TeachingStrategies #EducatorLife #ClassroomSuccess #TeacherPodcast #SchoolutionsTeachingStrategies #SummerTeacherPrep #FamilyPartnership #EducationalPodcast #TeachingCommunity #EducatorResources #SummerPlanning #EducationalLeadership #SchoolCommunication #classroomculture

& 👉Follow Schoolutions Teaching Strategies Podcast on social:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/olivia-wahl-4300811a/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/schoolutionspodcast/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/schoolutionspodcast/
Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/olivia-wahl.bsky.social
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@schoolutionspodcast

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Stop Teaching Alone: Find Your Community (Step-by-Step)

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 00:00:00 -0400

Feeling isolated in your classroom? Discover how joining a Professional Learning Community (PLC) this summer can completely transform your September teaching experience!

In this episode of Schoolutions Teaching Strategies, I reveal why the most successful educators never teach alone and how you can build your support network during the summer when you actually have time to engage meaningfully.

What You'll Learn:
➡️How to find and join the perfect PLC for your specific teaching needs
➡️Why summer is the ideal time to build your professional support network
➡️Actionable strategies to actively participate in PLCs and maximize benefits
➡️Real teacher success stories from Marcus (high school English) and Elena (kindergarten)

Key Takeaways:
🗝️Online PLC options: Blue Sky, Facebook groups, EdWeb, Voxer
🗝️Local networking: District offices, state associations, universities, and coffee shop meetups
🗝️Active participation strategies that create lasting professional relationships

Whether you're a veteran teacher looking to reignite your passion or a new educator seeking support, this episode provides your roadmap to finding your professional family and walking into September feeling confident, prepared, and supported.

🎯 Action Step: Identify one growth area, research relevant PLCs, join one community, and ask one genuine question this week!

🎧 Schoolutions Teaching Strategies Podcast New episodes every Monday & Friday this summer!
📧 Connect: schoolutionspodcast@gmail.com
🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

Don't forget to 👍LIKE this video if it helped you, 🔔SUBSCRIBE for more teaching tips, and
💬SHARE with fellow educators!
https://www.youtube.com/@schoolutionspodcast/

Video Chapters
0:00 - Introduction: Transform Your September Experience
1:00 - Why Successful Teachers Don't Teach Alone
2:00 - The Power of Professional Learning Communities
3:00 - Why Summer is Perfect for Joining PLCs
4:00 - Finding Online PLCs: Global Connections
5:00 - Building Local Networks in Your Community
6:00 - Active Participation: Beyond Being a Lurker
7:00 - Success Stories: Marcus & Elena's Transformations
8:00 - Your Action Plan: Getting Started This Week
9:00 - Wrap-up & Next Steps

#PLC #TeacherSupport #EducatorNetworking #TeachingStrategies #TeacherTips #EducationPodcast #TeacherGrowth #ClassroomPrep #TeacherCommunity #SummerPD #TeacherCollaboration #EducatorSupport #TeachingLife #ProfessionalLearning #ProfessionalLearningCommunity #ProfessionalDevelopment #ClassroomPreparation #TeachingCommunity #TeacherResources #EducationLeadership

& 👉Follow Schoolutions Teaching Strategies Podcast on social:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/olivia-wahl-4300811a/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/schoolutionspodcast/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/schoolutionspodcast/
Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/olivia-wahl.bsky.social
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@schoolutionspodcast

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

From Classroom to Community: The Connection Revolutionizing Education

Fri, 27 Jun 2025 00:00:00 -0400

Transform your teaching with the 5-Circle Community Connection Strategy! 🎯

Tired of feeling disconnected from your community? In this episode of Schoolutions Teaching Strategies Summer Series, I reveal the powerful yet underutilized strategy that will revolutionize your classroom experience.

Discover how community engagement can completely change your teaching! This episode will show you how to strategically build public partnerships that bring real-world learning into the classroom. Learn how to connect with your local farmers market this summer to bring learning directly to your students, while also building business networking skills and boosting personal development!

What You'll Learn:
✅ The 5-Circle Strategy for mapping community connections
✅ 4-step summer action plan to build lasting partnerships
✅ How to overcome common barriers and fear of rejection
✅ Templates and scripts for reaching out to organizations
✅ Why summer is the PERFECT time to start this work

The 5 Circles:
🔵 Direct Service Providers (food banks, tutoring centers)
🔵 Educational Enrichment Partners (museums, libraries)
🔵 Career & Life Skills Connectors (local businesses, trade orgs)
🔵 Cultural & Arts Communities (theaters, art studios)
🔵 Civic & Leadership Organizations (city council, volunteer groups)

Stop spending your summer just planning lessons - start building bridges that will benefit your students all year long!

Challenge: This week, pick ONE circle and make ONE connection. That's it!

🎧 Schoolutions Teaching Strategies Podcast New episodes every Monday & Friday this summer!
📧 Connect: schoolutionspodcast@gmail.com
🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

Don't forget to 👍LIKE this video if it helped you, 🔔SUBSCRIBE for more teaching tips, and 💬SHARE with fellow educators!
https://www.youtube.com/@schoolutionspodcast/

Chapters
00:00 - Welcome & Introduction
00:18 - Why Summer is Perfect for Community Building
01:10 - The 5-Circle Strategy Explained
02:00 - Circle 1: Direct Service Providers
02:30 - Circle 2: Educational Enrichment Partners
03:00 - Circle 3: Career & Life Skills Connectors
03:40 - Circle 4: Cultural & Arts Communities
04:10 - Circle 5: Civic & Leadership Organizations
04:45 - 4-Step Summer Action Plan
05:15 - Step 1: Research & Map
05:45 - Step 2: Make the Connection (Email Template)
06:20 - Step 3: Meet & Listen
06:50 - Step 4: Follow Up & Plan
07:40 - Making It Manageable (Time Management Tips)
08:40 - Overcoming Common Barriers
09:35 - Your Weekly Challenge
10:20 - Wrap Up & Call to Action

#TeacherTips #CommunityPartnerships #EducationStrategy #TeacherLife #ClassroomSuccess #StudentEngagement #TeachingHacks #EducatorGrowth #SchoolCommunity #TeacherSummer #ProfessionalDevelopment #EducationalNetworking #TeachingStrategy #CommunityConnections #teachertraining

& 👉Follow Schoolutions Teaching Strategies Podcast on social:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/olivia-wahl-4300811a/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/schoolutionspodcast/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/schoolutionspodcast/
Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/olivia-wahl.bsky.social
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@schoolutionspodcast

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Stop Losing 100+ Pencils Per Year: The System That Actually Works

Mon, 23 Jun 2025 00:00:00 -0400

🎯 Transform Your Pencil Chaos Into a Self-Managing System!

Tired of picking up pencils like confetti? Discover how to implement Mrs. Wheeler's brilliant solution - a simple number system and toothbrush holders to manage classroom pencils and foster student responsibility. This behavior management strategy shifts the locus of control to the students, promoting a positive classroom culture. Say goodbye to pencil chaos with this simple, effective solution that emphasizes autonomy and education matters!

In this episode, I share veteran teacher Mrs. Wheeler's brilliant solution, which transforms pencil management from a daily struggle into a system that students can maintain themselves.

What You'll Learn:

➡️The numbered pencil system using toothbrush holders

➡️How individual ownership eliminates floor pencil pickups forever

➡️The brilliant backup method that keeps instruction flowing

➡️Weekly check-in system that builds responsibility without punishment

➡️Summer setup guide to be ready for September

Materials Needed:

✅Toothbrush holders (2 per student)

✅Fresh pencils (10 per student)

✅Dot labels & black Sharpie

✅Packaging tape

✅Simple tracking chart

🎯 Perfect For: Elementary teachers, middle school educators, classroom management struggles, new teachers, veteran teachers looking for better systems

📅 Summer Implementation Timeline:

Phase 1️⃣ (July): Gather materials

Phase 2️⃣ (August): Choose a setup weekend

Phase 3️⃣ (Late August): Classroom integration

Stop letting pencil management disrupt your teaching! This system creates independent learners while giving you back precious instructional time.

🎧 Schoolutions Teaching Strategies Podcast New episodes every Monday & Friday this summer!

📧 Connect: schoolutionspodcast@gmail.com

🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl

Don't forget to 👍LIKE this video if it helped you, 🔔SUBSCRIBE for more teaching tips, and 💬SHARE with fellow educators who need this pencil peace!
https://www.youtube.com/@schoolutionspodcast/

Chapter Timestamps

00:00 - Introduction: End Your Pencil Chaos

01:00 - The Problem: When Good Systems Go Bad

02:00 - Welcome to Solutions Teaching Strategies

03:00 - Mrs. Wheeler's Story: The Pencil Nightmare

04:00 - The Brilliant Solution: Individual Accountability

05:00 - Materials & Setup Process

06:00 - How the System Works in Practice

07:00 - Building Community & Positive Reinforcement

08:00 - Summer Implementation Guide

09:00 - Psychology Behind Why This Works

10:00 - Wrap-up & Next Steps

11:00 - Credits & Contact Information

#ClassroomManagement #TeacherTips #PencilManagement #ElementaryTeaching #StudentResponsibility #BackToSchool #TeachingStrategies #ClassroomOrganization #TeacherHacks #EducationPodcast #TeacherResources #ClassroomSystems #BehaviorManagement #IndependentLearners #SummerTeacherPrep #Teaching #Education #Teachers #ClassroomLife #TeacherLife #ElementaryEducation #MiddleSchool #BackToSchoolPrep #TeacherCommunity #ToothbrushHolderHack #NumberedPencilSystem #SolutionsTeachingStrategies #OliviaWahl #PencilPeace #ClassroomHacks #TeacherPodcast #EducationalContent

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

You Can't Pour From an Empty Cup: Essential Self-Care for Teachers

Fri, 20 Jun 2025 00:00:00 -0400

Sustainable self-care for educators doesn't require costly spa days, but rather a practical approach tailored to your life. Learn how to implement a simple wellness plan and prioritize teacher wellbeing to avoid burnout. Discover actionable self-care tips for teachers that will help you maintain resilience throughout the school year.

What You'll Learn:
✅ The 4 Pillars of Sustainable Self-Care (works even on your worst days!)
✅ How to set boundaries that feel strategic, not selfish
✅ Your bare minimum backup plan for overwhelming days
✅ 8-week summer implementation guide

The 4 Pillars I Share:
1. Physical Restoration - Simple movement, sleep hygiene, and nutrition strategies
2. Emotional Boundaries - Learning to say no and creating transition rituals
3. Mental Space & Creativity - Non-teaching activities and mindfulness techniques
4. Social Connection - Building relationships beyond the classroom

Perfect for teachers heading into summer break who want to reset and rebuild their reserves for the upcoming school year. Remember: self-care isn't selfish - it's essential!

Connect with me and Schoolutions Teaching Strategies:
📧 Email: schoolutionspodcast@gmail.com
🎵 Background music by Benjamin Wahl

Don't forget to 👍LIKE this video if it helped you, 🔔SUBSCRIBE for more teaching tips, and 💬COMMENT below with your best classroom library organization hacks!
https://www.youtube.com/@schoolutionspodcast/

Chapter Timestamps:
0:00 - Introduction: Self-Care Isn't About Perfection
1:00 - What You'll Learn: 3 Key Takeaways
2:00 - Welcome to Solutions Teaching Strategies
3:00 - The Reality of Teacher Burnout
4:00 - Pillar 1: Physical Restoration
5:00 - Movement & Sleep Strategies
6:00 - Pillar 2: Emotional Boundaries
7:00 - Transition Rituals & Emotional Processing
8:00 - Pillar 3: Mental Space & Creativity
9:00 - Pillar 4: Social Connection & Community
10:00 - Your 8-Week Personal Action Plan
11:00 - Weeks 1-4: Assessment & Experimentation
12:00 - Weeks 5-8: Integration & Preparation
13:00 - Final Thoughts: You're More Than Just a Teacher
14:00 - Closing & Contact Information

#TeacherSelfCare #EducatorWellbeing #TeacherBurnout #SelfCareForTeachers #TeacherMentalHealth #EducatorWellness #TeachingTips #SummerBreak #TeacherSupport #Education #BurnoutPrevention #WorkLifeBalance #TeacherStress #EducatorTips #TeachingPodcast #SchoolYearPrep #TeacherWellness #EducatorMentalHealth #TeachingStressRelief #TeachersOfYouTube #TeacherCommunity #EducatorLife #TeacherStruggles #TeachingReality #SelfCareMatters #TeacherMotivation #EducatorSupport #TeachingJourney #teacherlifestyle

& 👉Follow Schoolutions Teaching Strategies Podcast on social:
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Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/schoolutionspodcast/
Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/olivia-wahl.bsky.social
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When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

3 Easy Steps to Fix Your Classroom Library Fast!

Mon, 16 Jun 2025 00:00:00 -0400

Transform Your Chaotic Classroom Library into an Organized System in 3 Simple Phases! 📚

Is your classroom library a mess? Discover how to turn that literary tornado into an organizational system with simple steps for classroom management. Discover how this organizational system can make your teaching life easier and set you up for a successful September. What if the mess isn't the problem?

What You'll Learn:
✅ The Great Sort System - 4 simple categories to triage your entire collection without decision fatigue
✅ Strategic Summer Packing Secrets - Why packing by category (not size) saves hours in September
✅ September Success Blueprint - Design your system around students' actual browsing behaviors

Perfect for: Elementary teachers, middle school educators, librarians, homeschool parents, and anyone managing a classroom book collection.

No more putting off this overwhelming task! This step-by-step roadmap will have your library organized, protected, and ready for an amazing new school year.

Resources mentioned:
- Clear plastic storage bins
- Book repair supplies
- Inventory tracking systems
- Organization planning templates

Connect with me and Schoolutions Teaching Strategies:
📧 Email: scihoolutionspodcast@gmail.com
🎵 Background music by Benjamin Wahl

Don't forget to LIKE this video if it helped you, SUBSCRIBE for more teaching tips, and COMMENT below with your best classroom library organization hacks!

Chapter Timestamps:
0:00 Introduction - Transform Your Literary Tornado
1:00 The Problem with Fixing Everything at Once
2:00 Welcome to Solutions Teaching Strategies Summer Series
3:00 Phase 1: The Great Sort - Keepers vs Casualties
4:00 Four Categories System: Keep, Repair, Donate, Trash
5:00 Three Key Questions for Every Book
6:00 Organizing Your "Keep" Pile by Type
7:00 Phase 2: Strategic Summer Packing
8:00 Packing by Category, Not Size
9:00 Phase 3: September Success System Planning
10:00 Designing Around Student Browsing Behaviors
11:00 Your Immediate Action Plan
12:00 Why Organization Matters for Your Learning Community
13:00 Outro & Next Episode Preview

#ClassroomLibrary #TeacherTips #ClassroomOrganization #TeacherSummerPrep #ElementaryEducation #MiddleSchoolTeacher #TeachingStrategies #ClassroomManagement #BookOrganization #TeacherProductivity #EducationPodcast #ClassroomSetup #TeacherLife #LiteracyEducation #ReadingClassroom #TeacherPlanning #ClassroomDeclutter #SchoolOrganization #TeacherHacks #EducationalTips #TeachersOfYouTube #EducatorsUnite #TeachingCommunity #ClassroomGoals #TeacherMotivation #BackToSchool #TeacherSupport #EducationMatters #TeachingLife #ClassroomInspiration

& 👉Follow Schoolutions Teaching Strategies Podcast on social:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/olivia-wahl-4300811a/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/schoolutionspodcast/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/schoolutionspodcast/
Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/olivia-wahl.bsky.social
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@schoolutionspodcast

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

BONUS: Teacher Hacks to Preserve Your Sanity

Fri, 13 Jun 2025 00:00:00 -0400

This bonus episode highlights how the Danish education system's focus on community well-being can inspire change. Pernille Ripp's insights emphasize that teachers need to embrace good enough for effective teacher well-being. By experimenting with boundaries, educators can prioritize teacher wellness and individual achievement.

🎯 Feeling burned out as an educator? Tune in for game-changing insights from Danish education expert Pernille Ripp that will transform how you approach teaching and work-life balance!

Discover why "good enough is okay" and learn 5 powerful micro-experiments that will help you reclaim your time and energy without sacrificing your effectiveness in the classroom.

What You'll Learn:
✅ Why perfectionism is stealing your precious time and energy
✅ How to create sustainable teaching practices that actually work
✅ The Danish approach to education that prioritizes community wellbeing
✅ 5 micro-experiments you can try TODAY to reduce overwhelm
✅ How to set strategic boundaries without guilt
✅ Why you're a human being who teaches, not a teaching robot

Perfect for K-12 teachers, educators, school administrators, homeschool caregivers, and anyone in education feeling overwhelmed by endless perfectionism.

Ready to try a micro-experiment? Email me at schoolutionspodcast@gmail.com and share your experience!

🔔 Subscribe for more teaching strategies and join our summer series starting Monday with bite-sized tips to make September's school year launch feel lighter!

Connect with me: 📧 Email: schoolutionspodcast@gmail.com 🎵 Music by Benjamin Wahl

Don't miss the full interview with Pernille (Season 4, Episode 40)

Chapters:
0:00 - Introduction: Why "Good Enough" Changes Everything
1:00 - The Problem with Perfectionism in Education
2:00 - Micro-Experiment #1: Simple Slideshow Solutions
3:00 - Micro-Experiment #2: Emergency Sub Plans That Work
4:00 - Micro-Experiment #3: Setting After-Hours Boundaries
5:00 - Micro-Experiment #4: Community-Focused Problem Solving
6:00 - Micro-Experiment #5: Daily Work Timer Strategy
7:00 - You're Human, Not a Teaching Robot
8:00 - Taking Action: Choose Your Experiment
9:00 - Summer Series Preview & Closing

#TeacherBurnout #EducationPodcast #TeachingStrategies #WorkLifeBalance #TeacherWellbeing #EducatorLife #TeachingTips #ClassroomManagement #TeacherSelfCare #ProfessionalDevelopment #TeacherMentalHealth #SustainableTeaching #EducationReform #TeachingBoundaries #EducatorSupport #BackToSchool #TeacherPrep #SummerPD #EducationGoals #teachingcommunity

🔔 SUBSCRIBE to never miss an episode of Schoolutions Teaching Strategies Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@schoolutionspodcast/

& 👉Follow Schoolutions Teaching Strategies Podcast on social:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/olivia-wahl-4300811a/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/schoolutionspodcast/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/schoolutionspodcast/
Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/olivia-wahl.bsky.social
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@schoolutionspodcast

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

How One Teacher Fought Back Against Burnout with Pernille Ripp

Mon, 09 Jun 2025 00:00:00 -0400

In this episode featuring Pernille Ripp, discover how the Danish education system values community well-being over individual success, fostering a supportive environment for educators. You will gain practical ideas to improve your teacher well-being, and implement strategies to foster supported learning. This conversation highlights the importance of teacher wellness and the positive impact of sustainability in the teaching profession.

In this powerful conversation, you'll learn:
➡️How Denmark's "community first" approach transforms education
➡️Why Danish teachers get hours of prep time weekly
➡️The shocking differences in teacher working conditions
➡️How to protect yourself from burnout in any system
➡️Practical micro-experiments to create a better work-life balance

Whether you're considering leaving education or looking for ways to sustain your teaching career, this episode offers hope and practical strategies for educators worldwide.

Episode Mentions:

Denmark’s Well-Being Commission
The Global Read Aloud

🎯 Perfect for: Teachers, educators, administrators, parents interested in education reform

Chapter Timestamps:
0:00 - Introduction: Why Danish Education is Different
2:30 - Culture Shock: Rediscovering Teaching Identity
7:00 - Community First vs Individual Achievement
12:00 - A Day in the Life: Danish Teacher Schedule
18:00 - Work-Life Balance
23:00 - Healthcare and Support Systems
27:00 - Relearning "Good Enough" and Self-Care
32:00 - Advice for Educators Considering Change
38:00 - Protecting Yourself in Unsustainable Systems
42:00 - Finding Joy and Community in Teaching

#TeacherBurnout #EducationReform #DanishEducation #TeacherWellbeing #WorkLifeBalance #TeachingAbroad #EducationSystem #TeacherLife #SustainableTeaching #CommunityEducation #TeacherSupport #educationpolicy

✨Tune in every Monday and Friday this summer, when I'll offer a new task to help you get set up for success in the fall. If you have ideas, reach out. Send me an email at schoolutionspodcast@gmail.com. I can't wait to hear from you.

🌞Spend lots of days in the sunshine - rest, rejuvenate, and I hope you tune in this summer. Take care.

🔔 SUBSCRIBE to never miss an episode of Schoolutions Teaching Strategies Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@schoolutionspodcast/

& 👉Follow Schoolutions Coaching & Teaching Strategies Podcast on social:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/olivia-wahl-4300811a/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/schoolutionspodcast/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/schoolutionspodcast/
Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/olivia-wahl.bsky.social
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@schoolutionspodcast

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

BONUS: Why School Leaders Need to Be Vulnerable

Fri, 06 Jun 2025 01:00:00 -0400

In this bonus episode, discover how transformational change in education requires three essential elements and a strategic approach. Based on a conversation with Stephen Polera and Dr. Wendy Bunker, the episode highlights the importance of a data-driven approach in effective literacy instruction. It's an essential insight for education leadership seeking school improvement, taking a playbook page from Westmoreland's district-wide literacy transformation.

Discover why their approach worked when so many literacy initiatives fail, and learn the three critical elements every educational leader needs for successful implementation:
✅ Vulnerability in Leadership - Why naming problems out loud is the foundation of real change
✅ Understanding the Science - How knowing the "why" transforms resistance into advocacy
✅ System-Wide Alignment - Breaking down silos for maximum impact

Perfect for: Superintendents, principals, literacy coaches, reading specialists, elementary teachers, and anyone leading educational change.

Key Takeaways:
➡️How to have courageous conversations about struggling readers
➡️The power of orthographic mapping in reading instruction
➡️Why including ALL teachers (not just reading teachers) multiplies success
➡️How to use data strategically for literacy implementation
➡️Finding joy in reading outcomes beyond test scores

Connect with me: 📧 Email: schoolutionspodcast@gmail.com 🎵 Music by Benjamin Wahl

Don't miss the full interview with Stephen Polera and Dr. Wendy Bunker (Season 4, Episode 39) for the complete literacy transformation story!

Next Episode: Season 4 Finale with Pernille Ripp - Monday!

Chapters
00:00 - Introduction & Episode Overview
01:00 - Welcome Back to Solutions Coaching
02:00 - Element #1: Vulnerability in Leadership
03:00 - Naming the Problem Out Loud
04:00 - Element #2: Understanding the Science of Reading
05:00 - From Resistance to Advocacy
06:00 - Element #3: System-Wide Alignment
07:00 - The Joy Factor in Reading Success
08:00 - Your Next Steps for Implementation
09:00 - Closing & Next Episode Preview
10:00 - Credits & Contact Information

#ScienceOfReading #LiteracyInstruction #EducationalLeadership #ReadingIntervention #ElementaryEducation #ProfessionalDevelopment #EducationalPodcast #TeacherTraining #SchoolImprovement #LiteracyCoaching #EducationalChange #ReadingStrategies #DataDrivenInstruction #EarlyLiteracy #PhonicsInstruction #TeachersOfYouTube #EducatorsUnite #ReadingIsFun #EducationMatters #TeachingTips #SchoolLeaders #LiteracyMatters #EducationReform #TeacherLife #principallife

When coaches, teachers, administrators, and families work hand in hand, it fosters a school atmosphere where everyone is inspired, and every student is fully engaged in their learning journey.

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

From Red Flags to Reading Success: The Audit Every School Needs with Stephen Polera & Dr. Wendy Bunker

Mon, 02 Jun 2025 00:00:00 -0400

When K-2 intervention numbers and 3rd-grade reading struggles reached crisis levels, Westmoreland Central School took action. Stephen Polera and Dr. Wendy Bunker explain how aligning district systems with Science of Reading practices creates collaborative cultures that drive measurable reading improvements.

Stephen and Wendy share their revolutionary process for:
✅ Conducting classroom audits with expert teams
✅ Implementing phased Science of Reading training
✅ Creating 4-day teacher bootcamps
✅ Restructuring schedules for high-dosage tutoring
✅ Building co-teaching models that work

Episode Mentions:

0:00 - Introduction & Background
2:13 - Research Foundations
4:23 - The Problem: Red Flags in Reading Data
7:14 - Science of Reading Framework Overview
9:30 - Classroom Audit Process
12:34 - Audit Implementation & Team Calibration
16:32 - Four-Day Teacher Bootcamp
20:13 - Scheduling & Staffing Changes
22:46 - Classroom Activities That Work
24:37 - Early Results & Student Joy
27:36 - Measuring Success: Metrics That Matter
29:23 - Parent & Caregiver Connections

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

BONUS: The Secret Toolkit Every Teacher Needs

Fri, 30 May 2025 01:00:00 -0400

This bonus episode emphasizes why educators need to go beyond passively accepting policies and instead become informed advocates. Learn how federal education policy directly impacts classrooms and why teacher leadership is essential for student engagement. Discover how to support students effectively by becoming an advocate.

Want to become a powerful advocate for your students?

This episode reveals five practical tasks every teacher can do this summer to build their advocacy toolkit and speak up effectively for education policies that actually help kids.

What You'll Learn:
✅ How to understand your school's funding streams (Title I, IDEA, federal grants)
✅ Which information sources actually matter for education policy
✅ How to document student impact stories that change minds
✅ Simple ways to connect with your local representatives
✅ Why joining professional organizations amplifies your voice

Perfect for: K-12 teachers, administrators, education advocates, and anyone who wants to make a real difference in education policy.

Ready to turn your classroom expertise into policy influence? Watch now and pick ONE task to start with this summer.

📧 Email your summer prep tips: schoolutionspodcast@gmail.com

Subscribe for more practical teaching strategies and education advocacy tips!

Episode Mentions:

International Literacy Association (ILA)
National Association Of Elementary School Principals (NAESP)
American Federation of Teachers (AFT)
National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM)
National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE)
International Society for Technology and Education (ISTE)

Chapters
00:00 - Introduction: Why Teachers Need an Advocacy Toolkit
01:56 - Task 1: Understand Your School's Funding Streams
04:14 - Task 2: Build Your Information Network
06:28 - Task 3: Document Student Impact Stories
08:40 - Task 4: Connect with Local Representatives
11:52 - Task 5: Join Professional Organizations
12:09 - Why This Matters: Policy Affects Everything
15:07 - The Power of Evidence-Based Advocacy
17:38 - Summer Challenge: Pick One Task
19:12 - Wrap-up and Next Steps

#TeacherAdvocacy #EducationPolicy #TeacherVoice #EducationReform #StudentAdvocacy

Make sure to listen to my full interview (Season 4, Episode 38) before diving into this bonus content! (https://pod.fo/e/2da8d1).

New episodes are released every Monday, with a bonus solo episode on Fridays featuring research-backed coaching and teaching strategies you can apply right away to better serve the children in your care.

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Exclusive Sneak Peek at What's Coming This Summer with Schoolutions Teaching Strategies!

Wed, 28 May 2025 00:00:00 -0400

🍎✨ Teachers, you've almost made it to summer break! 🌟

Instead of taking a podcast hiatus, I'm creating 20 mini episodes packed with actionable tasks to set you up for fall success, while still prioritizing your much-needed rest and rejuvenation.

Let's share our wisdom!

What are your go-to end-of-year tasks that make September SO much smoother? From simple classroom prep like labeling supplies to bigger decisions about curriculum planning, I want to hear YOUR end-of-year and summer strategies that make September smoother. What tasks do you tackle now that save you time later?

I'm curious about your strategies for:
✨Systems you set up now to save time later
✨Templates or resources you create during summer break
✨How you balance thorough prep with actually enjoying your time off
✨Ways you prepare while staying flexible for your new students' needs

Drop your best tips in the comments below! Let's help each other work smarter, not harder. 👇

(And remember - protecting your rest and rejuvenation time is just as important as any prep work you do!)

Chapters:

0:00 - Summer Break is Almost Here!
0:15 - 20 Mini Episodes Coming This Summer
0:30 - Help Me Help You - Share Your Tips!
0:45 - From Small Tasks to Big Planning
1:00 - Let's Connect in the Comments

#TeacherLife #EndOfYear #SummerPrep #BackToSchool #TeacherTips #ClassroomOrganization #TeacherPodcast #EducationTips #TeachingStrategies #TeacherCommunity #ProfessionalDevelopment #ClassroomManagement #TeacherProductivity #SummerPlanning #TeachersOfYouTube #TeacherSupport #EducatorLife #TeachingHacks #ClassroomPrep #TeacherWisdom

New episodes every Monday, with bonus episodes on Fridays.

🌟Whether you're an educator, administrator, or coach, these conversations offer practical strategies to enhance your educational practice. Don't miss these inspiring discussions that bridge the gap between theory and real-world implementation in our schools.

🔔 SUBSCRIBE to never miss an episode of Schoolutions Teaching Strategies Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@schoolutionspodcast/

👉Follow Schoolutions Teaching Strategies Podcast on social:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/olivia-wahl-4300811a/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/schoolutionspodcast/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/schoolutionspodcast/
Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/olivia-wahl.bsky.social
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@schoolutionspodcast

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Federal Judge BLOCKS Trump's Plan to Shut Down Education Department with Olivia Wahl

Mon, 26 May 2025 00:00:00 -0400

This episode shares how federal policies impact real students in classrooms, emphasizing educators' role in advocating for services. Learn why teachers have the power to advocate effectively for essential services by using evidence-based arguments about student well-being rather than political positioning, and the importance of support services. You'll leave the episode understanding why community support is essential and how the federal education role impacts classrooms.

A federal judge in Massachusetts just made a ruling that will impact every educator and student in America. Over 1,300 Department of Education employees who were laid off in March have been ordered back to work, and the administration's plan to dismantle the department has been blocked.

In this episode, I explain exactly what happened, why it matters for your classroom, and what this means for students who depend on federal education services. From special education funding to student loans to civil rights protections, this ruling affects real students in real schools.

What You'll Learn:
✅ The facts behind the massive DOE layoffs and court ruling
✅ How federal education cuts impact your students directly
✅ Why 1,300 employees getting fired matters for classroom teachers
✅ Evidence-based advocacy strategies that actually work
✅ How to stay engaged in education policy as a professional

Episode Mentions:

Federal judge blocks Trump’s Education Dept. shutdown, orders reinstatement of laid off staff by Amy Zimmer | May 22, 2025, 3:01pm EDT
Judge Blocks Trump Administration From Dismantling Education Department by Michael C. Bender May 22, 2025
Individuals with Disabilities Education Act

Whether you're a teacher, administrator, parent, or education advocate, this analysis will help you see the bigger picture while staying focused on what matters most—supporting student success.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction - Why This Ruling Matters for Educators
01:00 Breaking Down What Actually Happened
03:00 The Mass Layoffs - 1,300 Education Workers Terminated
04:00 Federal Judge's Ruling and Legal Requirements
05:00 Real Impact on Students and Classrooms
07:00 The Contradiction in Trump's Executive Order
08:00 Lessons in Effective Education Advocacy
10:00 Evidence-Based Arguments vs Political Positioning
11:00 What This Means Moving Forward
12:00 Federal vs State Education Responsibility Debate
13:00 You Can't Improve by Destroying Without a Plan
14:00 Practical Steps for Educators
16:00 Why the System Worked in This Case
18:00 Challenge for Educators - Stay Engaged Professionally
19:00 Wrap-Up and Call to Action

#EducationPolicy #DepartmentOfEducation #TeacherAdvocacy #FederalEducation #EducationNews #TeachingStrategies #StudentRights #EducationFunding #TeacherSupport #EducationReform #PolicyAnalysis #StudentSuccess #EducatorPodcast #ClassroomImpact #SpecialEducation #EducationLaw #TeacherProfessionalDevelopment #EducationAdvocacy #SchoolFunding #educatorresources

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

BONUS: School Attendance Reform That Works!

Fri, 23 May 2025 00:00:00 -0400

Learn about a school attendance reform that actually works! Discover strategies to combat chronic absenteeism and increase student engagement.

In this bonus episode, I discuss my conversation with Naomi Tolentino Miranda from Kansas City, Kansas Public Schools, about transforming student attendance through compassion, not punishment.

What You'll Learn:
✅ Why punitive attendance policies are failing our students
✅ The "We Missed You Today" strategy that works better than detention
✅ 5 practical interventions you can implement immediately
✅ Data-driven approaches to identify attendance patterns
✅ How sleep schedules impact high school attendance
✅ Building family partnerships that actually work

💫Episode Mentions:

Attendance Works Infographic (Attendance in the Early Grades)
Stay in the Game! Attendance Network
The Disengaged Teen: Helping Kids Learn Better, Feel Better, and Live Better by Jenny Anderson and Rebecca Winthrop
Attendance Works
AAP's Earlier Bedtime and Its Effect on Adolescent Sleep Duration
The Education Trust
American Enterprise Institute (AEI)

💫Six Questions for Reflection:

How does your school or district currently approach chronic absenteeism? Is it primarily punitive or preventative?
What data are you collecting about attendance, and how are you using it to identify patterns and develop targeted interventions?
How are you building and maintaining relationships with chronically absent students and their families?
What barriers to attendance exist in your specific community, and how might you address them?
How are you celebrating and recognizing improvements in attendance, even small ones?
Most importantly, is your school a place worth showing up to for every student?

Chapters
00:00 - Introduction: Shifting from Punitive to Preventive
01:00 - Meet Naomi Lenina Miranda & Her Transformative Work
02:00 - The Power of Preventative vs Punitive Approaches
03:00 - Success Stories: Stay in the Game Network Results
04:00 - 6 Key Barriers to Student Attendance
05:00 - Sleep & Attendance: The Biological Mismatch
06:00 - 5 Practical Strategies for Schools
07:00 - The Power of Data: Attendance Dashboards
08:00 - School Climate & Culture Impact 09:00 - Family Partnerships That Work
10:00 - The "We Missed You Today" Strategy
11:00 - Trauma-Informed Attendance Approaches
12:00 - Parent Voice in Systemic Change
13:00 - Making School Worth Showing Up To
14:00 - Reflection Questions for Your Context
15:00 - Closing & Call to Action

#ChronicAbsenteeism #StudentAttendance #EducationStrategy #SchoolLeadership #TraumaInformed #StudentSupport #AttendanceMatters #EducationPodcast

Make sure to listen to my full interview with Naomi (Season 4, Episode 37) before diving into this bonus content! (https://pod.fo/e/2d747f).

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

How This School District Cut Chronic Absenteeism 40% with Naomi Tolentino Miranda

Mon, 19 May 2025 00:00:00 -0400

Learn how this school district cut chronic absenteeism by 40% through community outreach and building connectedness. Find out the attendance solutions they implemented to make a positive impact on school attendance.

In this powerful final episode, Naomi Tolentino Miranda, Coordinator of Student Support Programs with Kansas City, Kansas Public Schools, shares how to shift from punitive to proactive approaches when addressing chronic absenteeism - a crisis affecting 1 in 4 students nationwide.

Naomi shares research-backed strategies for understanding the "why" behind each student's absence and building school connectedness through trauma-informed practices. Learn how creating welcoming school environments empowers families to share their challenges and collaborate on personalized solutions.

This conversation reveals why data isn't something to fear but a powerful tool that helps identify hidden patterns and tailor interventions for different communities. Naomi explains how her innovative attendance dashboard transformed her district's approach, moving beyond average daily attendance to address the deeper issues of chronic absenteeism.

Whether you're an educator, administrator, or caregiver, you'll gain actionable insights to help every student feel connected, supported, and motivated to attend school.

💫Episode mentions

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Overview

01:00 Meet Naomi Tolentino Miranda

02:58 Key Research and Researchers on Absenteeism

05:44 Defining Chronic Absenteeism: Beyond Truancy

08:39 Student Barriers Across Grade Levels

11:42 Moving from Punitive to Proactive Approaches

13:26 The Importance of Finding the "Why"

16:58 Individualizing Solutions for Student Needs

19:12 Creating Welcoming Spaces for Parents

22:03 Empowering Parent Voice

23:55 The Power of Data: Creating an Attendance Dashboard

27:30 Why Data Should Be a Tool, Not a Threat

29:33 Final Thoughts: Every Student Has Different Needs

31:08 Episode Wrap-Up

#ChronicAbsenteeism #TraumaInformedEducation #SchoolAttendance #EducationReform #StudentSuccess #DataDrivenEducation #SchoolConnectedness #ParentEmpowerment #EducatorResources #EveryStudentMatters

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

BONUS: Rethinking PTA Fundraising: 5 Ways to Create Fair School Funding

Fri, 16 May 2025 00:00:00 -0400

In this bonus episode, I reflect on my conversation with journalist Tom Hayden about the PTA Equity Project (PEP) in Evanston, Illinois. This groundbreaking initiative pooled $650,000 from wealthy school PTAs to help underserved schools but revealed unexpected challenges in balancing equity with school autonomy.

🎓 What You'll Learn:
➡️Why good intentions don't guarantee good outcomes in education
➡️How to balance equity with local autonomy in schools
➡️The real challenges of centralized vs. local school funding
➡️5 key takeaways for sustainable equity initiatives
➡️Why universities and broader communities need to be part of the solution

📚 About This Episode: This reflection dives deep into the complex ripple effects of the Evanston experiment, from hidden fundraising to community tensions. I share personal experiences from teaching in wealthy and underserved schools, offering unique insights into funding disparities.

💡 Key Topics Covered:
✨The PTA Equity Project's successes and failures
✨Balancing centralized funding with school autonomy
✨Building sustainable equity initiatives
✨Community partnerships for educational equity
✨Real-world examples from San Diego and NYC schools

Chapters
00:00 Introduction & What You'll Learn
01:00 About the PTA Equity Project in Evanston
02:00 Implementation Challenges & Hidden Consequences
03:00 Balancing Equity with Local Autonomy
04:00 Five Key Takeaways from Evanston's Experience
05:00 Practical Implications for Communities
06:00 Personal Teaching Experiences & Universities' Role
07:00 Conclusion & Community Call to Action

#EducationalEquity #PTAFunding #SchoolFinance #EvanstonIllinois #TeachingStrategies #EducationPodcast #SchoolFunding #EquityInEducation #PublicSchools #EducationReform #SchoolAutonomy #CommunityPartnerships #PTAEquityProject #EducationalPolicy #TeacherResources #SchoolImprovement #EducationLeadership #EquityVsEquality #SustainableEducation #SchoolGovernance

Make sure to listen to my full interview with Tom (Season 4, Episode 36) before diving into this bonus content!

When coaches, teachers, administrators, and families work hand in hand, it fosters a school atmosphere where everyone is inspired, and every student is fully engaged in their learning journey.

New episodes are released every Monday, with a bonus solo episode on Fridays featuring research-backed coaching and teaching strategies you can apply right away to better serve the children in your care.

🔔 SUBSCRIBE to never miss an episode of Schoolutions Coaching & Teaching Strategies Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@schoolutionspodcast/

& 👉Follow Schoolutions Coaching & Teaching Strategies Podcast on social:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/olivia-wahl-4300811a/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/schoolutionspodcast/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/schoolutionspodcast/
Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/olivia-wahl.bsky.social
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@schoolutionspodcast

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Rich Schools vs. Poor Schools: What is a PTA Equity Fund? with Tom Hayden

Mon, 12 May 2025 00:00:00 -0400

In this eye-opening episode, I speak with Tom Hayden, an adjunct professor at Northwestern University School of Journalism, about the controversial PTA Equity Project (PEP) in Evanston, Illinois.

We dive deep into how this well-intentioned initiative pooled $650,000 from wealthy school PTAs to redistribute resources across the district, but is now burning through $50,000 annually without sustainable fundraising.

Tom reveals the unexpected consequences: conflicts of interest with board members, disincentivized fundraisers, and "black market PTAs."

Discover what really happens when equity initiatives meet complex community dynamics and learn valuable lessons about effective educational funding that balances equity with sustainability.

A must-watch for caregivers, educators, and anyone concerned about educational equity and school funding disparities.

Episode Mentions:

Chapters
00:00 - Introduction to the PTA Equity Project
02:00 - Evanston's Educational Landscape & Context
05:30 - How the PEP Fund Was Created During COVID
10:15 - The Pooled Funding Model: $650,000 Collected
14:00 - Galas, Fundraising, and Class Divisions
17:30 - The "Black Market PTAs" Problem
20:00 - School Board Conflicts of Interest
23:45 - Capital Improvements: Who Should Pay?
27:15 - Black Student Achievement & Political Solutions
31:00 - Finding Balance in Polarized Conversations
34:20 - Universities' Responsibility in Education Funding
38:00 - Conclusion: Community-Wide Solutions

#EducationalEquity #SchoolFunding #PTAEquityProject #EducationReform #SchoolBoardPolitics #AchievementGap #EducationalJustice #CommunityCollaboration #EvanstonSchools #RacialEquity #EducationPolicy #SchoolResources #FundraisingEthics #ParentInvolvement #EducationalDisparity

✨Tune in every Monday for the best research-backed coaching and teaching strategies you can apply right away to better the lives of the children in your care.

⭐....& stay tuned for my bonus episode every Friday, where I'll share how I applied what I learned from the guests in schools that week.

🔔 SUBSCRIBE to never miss an episode of Schoolutions Teaching Strategies Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@schoolutionspodcast/

& 👉Follow Schoolutions Teaching Strategies Podcast on social:
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When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

BONUS: Coaching Mistakes I've Made That Actually Improved My Teaching

Fri, 09 May 2025 00:00:00 -0400

Discover why learning through mistakes is the foundation of effective instructional coaching! In this bonus episode, I explore Jim Knight's seven essential success factors for instructional coaching and how they create conditions for both teachers and students to flourish.

Learn how vulnerability powers growth, why partnership principles transform coaching relationships, and how addressing power dynamics creates the psychological safety necessary for genuine improvement.

I share my own coaching journey mistakes and what they taught me about equality, choice, voice, reflection, and true partnership.

You'll discover practical strategies to create a culture where mistakes are welcomed as learning opportunities, empowering both coaches and teachers to experiment, reflect, and grow together.

Chapters:
0:00 - Introduction: The Value of Learning Through Mistakes
1:00 - Setting the Stage: Jim Knight's Seven Success Factors
2:00 - Personal Coaching Mistakes That Transformed My Practice
4:00 - Partnership as the Foundation of Effective Coaching
5:00 - Key Partnership Principles: Equality, Choice, Voice & Reflection
7:00 - Addressing Power Dynamics in Coaching Relationships
8:00 - Creating a Culture Where Mistakes Are Welcome

#InstructionalCoaching #PartnershipPrinciples #TeacherDevelopment #CoachingMistakes #ProfessionalGrowth #EducationalLeadership #JimKnight #PsychologicalSafety #SchoolCoaching #TeacherVoice

Make sure to listen to my full interview with Jim (Season 4, Episode 35) before diving into this bonus content!

When coaches, teachers, administrators, and families work hand in hand, it fosters a school atmosphere where everyone is inspired, and every student is fully engaged in their learning journey.

New episodes are released every Monday, with a bonus solo episode on Fridays featuring research-backed coaching and teaching strategies you can apply right away to better serve the children in your care.

🔔 SUBSCRIBE to never miss an episode of Schoolutions Coaching & Teaching Strategies Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@schoolutionspodcast/

& 👉Follow Schoolutions Coaching & Teaching Strategies Podcast on social:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/olivia-wahl-4300811a/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/schoolutionspodcast/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/schoolutionspodcast/
Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/olivia-wahl.bsky.social
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@schoolutionspodcast

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

The 7 MUST-HAVE Factors for Successful Instructional Coaching with Jim Knight

Mon, 05 May 2025 00:00:00 -0400

Learn the 7 must-have factors for successful instructional coaching in this video featuring Jim Knight. From the Impact Cycle to the partnership approach, these tips will help you coach for success!

Join me in this enlightening conversation with instructional coaching pioneer Jim Knight, founder of the Instructional Coaching Group. We explore his book, The Definitive Guide to Instructional Coaching: Seven Factors for Success.

Jim shares wisdom from his 25+ years of research, revealing how the partnership approach makes teachers 4.5 times more likely to implement new strategies compared to directive approaches.

Learn practical communication techniques, how to navigate system challenges, and why focusing on student outcomes is the true measure of coaching success.

Jim's pioneering work has shaped how instructional coaching is implemented in schools worldwide, making this episode valuable for education professionals at all levels.

Perfect for instructional coaches, educational leaders, and anyone interested in improving teaching practices through collaborative professional development.

Episode Mentions:

Mark Rothko
The New Classroom Instruction That Works by Bryan Goodwin and Kristin Rouleau
Don Deshler Leadership Award
Lean Design Research
European Mentoring and Coaching Council
International Coaching Federation
Christian van Nieuwerburgh
Dr. Haesun Moon
Karrie Fansler’s Responsive Coaching Cycle
The Knowing-Doing Gap: How Smart Companies Turn Knowledge Into Action by Jeffrey Pfeffer and Robert Sutton

Jim’s Mentioned Books:

Chapters:

00:00 - Introduction to Jim Knight

02:00 - Overview of the Seven Success Factors

05:25 - The Foundation of Partnership in Coaching

11:25 - Communication Skills for Effective Coaching

16:45 - Leadership Approaches for Coaches

20:30 - The Impact Cycle and Flexibility

24:25 - Using Data to Drive Coaching Conversations

33:10 - Creating and Maintaining Instructional Playbooks

38:45 - Navigating Systemic Challenges in Coaching

43:15 - Learning from Mistakes and Continuous Growth

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

BONUS: Why Belonging Matters: The Science Behind Inclusion in Education

Fri, 02 May 2025 00:00:00 -0400

Discover the science behind why belonging matters in education. Learn about inclusion strategies, diversity in schools, and how to boost student engagement.

In this bonus episode, I explore the critical concept of belonging in education and why creating inclusive environments is essential for both students and educators.

Drawing from extensive research, I break down how genuine belonging significantly impacts academic performance, mental health, and overall well-being for everyone in school communities.

As education policy becomes increasingly politicized, understand why representation matters and how inclusive practices create spaces where all students can thrive as their authentic selves.

Episode Mentions:

The Instructional Playbook: The Missing Link for Translating Research Into Practice by Ann Hoffman, Jim Knight, and Michelle Harris
Belonging One-Pager (Sample)
The Hattie Check and Visible Learning:
- Teacher-student relationships .62; Belonging .46
The Extended Research Check:
- Agents of Change: How Content Coaching Transforms Teaching and Learning by Lucy West and Antonia Cameron (setting intentions)
- Coaching A-Z: The Extraordinary Use of Ordinary Words by Haesun Moon: (V=value) and (W=Wonder)
- The Thin Book of Trust, Third Edition: An Essential Primer for Building Trust at Work by Charles Feltman → (trust language) Chapter 1
- Intro to Trust by Dan Newbie (layers of trust)
- Brené Brown About Fitting in and True Belonging (YouTube short 37 seconds)
Samantha Bennett’s Circles of Engagement
The Importance of Representing Everyone in Today’s Classroom by Diana Brannon (2024)
Mirrors, Windows, and Sliding Glass Doors by Dr. Rudine Sims Bishop (1990)

Make sure to listen to my full interview with Erica (Season 4, Episode 34) before diving into this bonus content!

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

They Gave Schools An Impossible Choice: What You Need to Know with Erica Meltzer of Chalkbeat

Mon, 28 Apr 2025 00:00:00 -0400

In this powerful interview, Erica Meltzer from Chalkbeat discusses the Trump administration's controversial efforts to reinterpret Title VI of the Civil Rights Act and eliminate DEI programs in schools.

Learn how recent legal injunctions have temporarily blocked these attempts, why Title I funding for high-poverty schools hangs in the balance, and what this means for students and educators across America.

Essential viewing for parents, teachers, administrators, and anyone concerned about educational equity.

💫Check out these resources from Erica here:

➡️States sue Trump Education Department to defend school diversity efforts (4/25/25)

➡️Trump gave states 10 days to sign an anti-DEI policy. NY Education Department is refusing (4/4/25)

➡️Indiana plans to comply with Trump push to ban DEI from schools (4/9/25)

⭐And then two ways that are showing up at the school district and classroom level in IN:

➡️Lawmakers end racial and ethnic studies course mandate, make more education changes as session ends (4/25/25)

➡️Wayne Township schools ends diverse-business policy following Trump guidance (4/22/25)

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction: Title VI and Civil Rights in Education

02:00 Welcome and Introduction of Erica Meltzer

03:00 Recent Developments with the Trump Education Department

04:00 Research on Diversity in Education and Student Outcomes

05:00 Background on Title VI of the Civil Rights Act

07:00 The Dear Colleague Letter and Legal Challenges

09:00 Recent Court Injunctions and Temporary Holds

10:00 Practical Impacts on Schools and Title I Funding

12:00 How Institutions Are Responding Across the Spectrum

14:00 Complexities for Districts in Red and Blue States

17:00 Legal Lines: What's Allowed and What's Potentially Problematic

20:00 Self-Censorship and Unclear Guidance for Educators

23:00 Final Thoughts and Closing Remarks

#Chalkbeat #EducationPolicy #TitleVI #DEIinSchools #FederalFunding #EducationEquity #CivilRightsAct #SchoolFunding #EducationJustice #SchoolCompliance #TeacherSupport #TitleIFunding #EducationLaw #StudentOutcomes

🔔 SUBSCRIBE to never miss an episode of Schoolutions Coaching & Teaching Strategies Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@schoolutionspodcast/

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When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

BONUS: Real-World Learning Experiences Students Actually Care About

Fri, 25 Apr 2025 00:00:00 -0400

Transform your classroom with real-world learning experiences that ignite student curiosity and foster deep learning. From one-on-one meetings to transferable skills, create a classroom community that students actually care about!

In this bonus episode, I unpack the powerful second mantra from The Limitless Classroom by Julie Wright and James Goldberg: "Kids deserve the why and the how, not just the what."

Learn practical strategies for creating meaningful learning experiences that connect to real-world applications, understand individual student needs through one-on-one meetings, and intentionally shift from teacher-centered to student-centered approaches. Perfect for educators looking to move beyond surface learning to help students develop deeper understanding and skills that last a lifetime.

00:00 - Introduction & Episode Overview
01:00 - The Second Mantra: Kids Deserve the Why & How, Not Just the What
02:00 - Planning Questions for Meaningful Learning Experiences
05:00 - Student Exhibitions of Learning: Process & Reflection
07:00 - Moving from Surface to Deep Learning
10:00 - The Power of One-on-One Student Meetings
13:00 - Final Thoughts & Conclusion

#EducationTransformation #DeepLearning #ClassroomCommunity #TeacherCoaching #StudentEngagement #MeaningfulLearning #OneOnOneMeetings #RealWorldLearning #TeachingStrategies #LimitlessClassroom #SimonSinek #WhyNotJustWhat #StudentCuriosity #EducationBeyondTheClassroom

Make sure to listen to my full interview with Julie and James (Season 4, Episode 33) before diving into this bonus content!

When coaches, teachers, administrators, and families work hand in hand, it fosters a school atmosphere where everyone is inspired, and every student is fully engaged in their learning journey.

New episodes are released every Monday, with a bonus solo episode on Fridays featuring research-backed coaching and teaching strategies you can apply right away to better serve the children in your care.

🔔 SUBSCRIBE to never miss an episode of Schoolutions Coaching & Teaching Strategies Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@schoolutionspodcast/

& 👉Follow Schoolutions: Coaching & Teaching Strategies Podcast on social:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/olivia-wahl-4300811a/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/schoolutionspodcast/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/schoolutionspodcast/
Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/olivia-wahl.bsky.social
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@schoolutionspodcast

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Why Students Should Own Their Learning Journey with Julie Wright and James Goldberg

Mon, 21 Apr 2025 00:00:00 -0400

Discover why true educational transformation happens when we shift from content-centered to student-centered learning! In this insightful conversation, educators Julie Wright and James Goldberg share wisdom from their book The Limitless Classroom: Mantras to Deepen Learning. Learn how giving students time, purpose, and ownership develops genuine curiosity and transferable skills.

Julie and James explain their three powerful mantras:

Kids deserve more time to think and do
Kids deserve the why and how, not just the what
Kids deserve to own their learning journey

Whether you're a teacher, coach, or administrator, you'll leave with practical strategies to prioritize student voice, create menus of opportunities, and embrace responsive instruction that meets learners where they are.

Check out these resources from Julie and James!

Chapters:

00:00 - Introduction and Overview

01:59 - Meet Julie Wright and James Goldberg

03:50 - The Purpose of "The Limitless Classroom"

04:40 - How Julie and James Met and Collaborated

07:54 - Why Mantras for Teaching?

09:40 - Mantra 1: Kids Deserve More Time to Think and Do

13:55 - Responsive Classroom Approach

17:02 - Mantra 2: Kids Deserve the Why and How, Not Just the What

21:55 - Surface to Deep Learning

24:00 - Mantra 3: Kids Deserve to Own Their Learning Journey

27:00 - Student Ownership Revelation Story

28:30 - Creating Menus of Opportunities

34:35 - Call to Action for Educators

40:00 - Conclusion and Contact Information

#LimitlessClassroom #EducationalMantras #StudentCenteredLearning #EducationTransformation #TeachingMantras #ClassroomStrategies #DeepLearning #StudentVoice #ResponsiveTeaching #TeacherProfessionalDevelopment #MathEducation #LiteracyInstruction #MeaningMaking #CurriculumIntegration #LimitlessClassroom #EducationalCoaching #TeacherCollaboration #ContentIntegration #TeachingStrategies #StudentAgency #MeaningfulLearning #EducationTransformation #ResponsiveTeaching

✨Tune in every Monday for the best research-backed coaching and teaching strategies you can apply right away to better the lives of the children in your care.

⭐....& stay tuned for my bonus episode every Friday, where I'll share how I applied what I learned from the guests in schools that week.

🔔 SUBSCRIBE to never miss an episode of Schoolutions Coaching & Teaching Strategies Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@schoolutionspodcast/

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

BONUS: Struggling with Your Team? Here's How You Can Transform Group Dynamics

Fri, 18 Apr 2025 00:00:00 -0400

In this bonus episode, I discuss Dr. Haesun Moon's revolutionary Dialogic Orientation Quadrant (DOQ) model for powerful team coaching.

Discover how this approach creates meaningful conversations by allowing participants to explore preferred futures, resourceful pasts, troubled pasts, and dreaded futures.

Learn practical strategies for implementing DOQ in both professional coaching settings and classroom environments.

I share specific "curiosities" (powerful questions) for each quadrant that stimulate deep reflection and agency among participants.

This episode complements Season 4, Episode 32 featuring Dr. Moon herself.

Perfect for coaches, educators, and anyone who facilitates group conversations!

00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview

01:00 Welcome to the Podcast

02:00 Dr. Haesun Moon's DOQ Model Article

04:00 Setting the Scene for the Team Coaching Demo

06:00 Understanding the DOQ Quadrants

08:00 Quadrant-Specific Questions and Curiosities

11:00 Flow and Movement Between Quadrants

13:00 Final Reflection Questions

14:00 Commitments and Moving Forward

15:00 Tips for Implementing the DOQ Model

16:00 Closing and Contact Information

💫Episode Mentions:

Team Coaching with the DOQ: Learning with the Hungarian Team by Dr. Haesun Moon

#TeamCoaching #DOQModel #DialogicOrientation #CoachingTechniques #EducatorTools #ClassroomCommunity #ProfessionalDevelopment #ConversationSkills #FacilitationStrategies #PrefutureThinking #SolutionFocused #EducationalLeadership #TeamDialogue

New episodes are released every Monday, with a bonus solo episode on Fridays featuring research-backed coaching and teaching strategies you can apply right away to better serve the children in your care.

🔔 SUBSCRIBE to never miss an episode of Schoolutions: Coaching & Teaching Strategies Podcast:

https://www.youtube.com/@schoolutionspodcast/

👉 FOLLOW me on social:

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When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

The Secret to Meaningful Coaching Conversations with Dr. Haesun Moon

Mon, 14 Apr 2025 00:00:00 -0400

In this transformative conversation, Dr. Haesun Moon reveals how her Dialogic Orientation Quadrant (DOQ) model can revolutionize difficult conversations in polarized environments. Learn how to navigate from troubled pasts and dreaded futures toward resourceful pasts and preferred futures.

Dr. Moon, a Harvard faculty member at the Institute of Coaching and a leading expert on evidence-based coaching, shares practical techniques for transforming dialogues in schools, workplaces, and personal relationships.

Discover why acknowledging negative experiences without exploring them creates powerful connections and how finding calibration points in polarized conversations can bridge even the most divided perspectives.

This episode offers essential strategies for educators, coaches, parents, and anyone seeking to improve dialogue in our increasingly polarized world.

Episode Mentions:

Check out Some of Dr. Moon’s Published Writing:

Coaching A to Z: The Extraordinary Use of Ordinary Words by Dr. Haesun Moon
Team Coaching with the DOQ: Learning with the Hungarian Team by Dr. Haesun Moon

Chapters:

0:00 - Introduction to Dr. Haesun Moon

2:08 - Research foundations and influences

3:28 - Origin story of the DOQ model

7:24 - Evolution and structure of the four quadrants

12:25 - Dialogue in polarized environments

17:00 - Navigating disagreement through calibration

22:10 - Specific techniques for intentional dialogue

27:40 - How to respond to dreaded futures

32:30 - Applying the model with children and students

35:40 - New frontiers: politics and semiotic warfare

38:40 - Conversation as our dwelling place

#DialogicCoaching #DOQModel #HaesunMoon #CoachingTechniques #DifficultConversations #SolutionFocused #TeamCoaching #CommunicationSkills #ActiveListening #TransformativeDialogue #EducatorCoaching #DialogueTechniques

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

BONUS: Why Children Fear Making Mistakes

Fri, 11 Apr 2025 00:00:00 -0400

Discover why children fear making mistakes and how to help them embrace setbacks and learn from them. Nurturing curious minds is essential for growth and development.

In this powerful bonus episode, I delve deeper into my conversation with Lily Howard Scott, author of The Words That Shape Us.

Discover how the language educators and caregivers use profoundly impacts children's emotional development, self-perception, and willingness to take risks.

Learn practical strategies for building emotional vocabulary, reframing mistakes as learning opportunities, and using language that honors children's autonomy.

Whether you're a teacher, parent, or caregiver, these evidence-based approaches will transform how you communicate with the children in your care and help them develop the emotional intelligence needed to thrive in school and beyond.

Episode Mentions:

➡️ Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence

➡️ Carol Dweck - Even Geniuses Work Hard

Chapters:

00:00 - Introduction and Episode Overview

01:00 - Overview of "The Words That Shape Us" Book Structure

04:00 - Developing Children's Emotional Vocabulary

07:00 - Helping Children Become Comfortable with Discomfort

09:00 - Reframing Mistakes as "Brilliant" Learning Opportunities

11:00 - Building a Culture of Fearless Learners

12:00 - Final Thoughts and Poem "On Children"

#TheWordsThatShapeUs #TeacherLanguage #EmotionalIntelligence #GrowthMindset #BrilliantMistakes #ChildDevelopment #ClassroomCommunity #TeachingStrategies #SEL #EmotionalVocabulary #PerfectionismInKids

Check out my full S4E31 interview with Lily Howard Scott (https://youtu.be/3UGl2D9VKg8).

🔔 SUBSCRIBE to never miss an episode of Schoolutions: Coaching & Teaching Strategies Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@schoolutionspodcast/

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When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

The Power of Language: How Our Words Shape Kids' Inner Worlds with Lily Howard Scott

Mon, 07 Apr 2025 00:00:00 -0400

Discover the profound impact of language on children's development with educator and author Lily Howard Scott. In this insightful conversation, Lily reveals how the words we use with children become their inner voice, shaping their thinking patterns and sense of self. Learn practical strategies to help children develop self-trust, move beyond binary thinking, and embrace a "birder mindset" that empowers them to appreciate life’s small wonders.

Lily shares powerful concepts from her book, The Words That Shape Us: The Science-Based Power of Teacher Language, including outer shell vs. inner swirls, creating safe classroom environments, and why the most powerful learning happens between ages 0-10.

This episode offers transformative language tools for educators and caregivers to nurture children's authentic selves beyond achievement metrics.

Episode Mentions:

Chapters:

0:00 Introduction to Lily Howard Scott

1:40 The Power of Words in Shaping Children's Brains

3:00 Dr. Lisa Feldman Barrett's Research on Emotions

5:32 Helping Children Discern Authentic Thoughts from External Pressures

8:05 Creating Safe Spaces in the Classroom

11:20 Teaching Beyond Metrics and Compliance

13:52 Harper's Story: Achievement Pressure's Hidden Toll

16:05 The Birder Mindset: Appreciating Life's Small Details

20:35 Practical Applications of the Birder Mindset

23:10 The Connection Between Bird Watchers and Wisdom

25:30 Moving Beyond Binary Thinking with Children

28:15 The Critical Learning Period (Ages 0-10)

30:30 Outer Shell vs. Inner Swirls

33:40 Closing Thoughts: The Lasting Impact of Our Words

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

BONUS: Practical Strategies to Stop Avoiding Difficult Conversations

Fri, 04 Apr 2025 00:00:00 -0400

In this S4E30 bonus episode, I reflect on my conversation with Dr. Katy Anthes about her Forward Framework for moving from polarization to progress. Drawing from the classic book Difficult Conversations, I consider the gap between intentions and impact, explaining why we often misinterpret others' motives and how avoiding difficult conversations damages relationships.

Learn practical strategies for:
➡️recognizing your contribution to conflicts,
➡️understanding your emotions,
➡️and addressing issues directly to create meaningful progress.

Whether you're an educator, parent, or leader, these evidence-based techniques will transform how you approach challenging conversations and build stronger connections.

📚 Featured Book: Difficult Conversations: How to Discuss What Matters Most by Douglas Stone, Bruce Patton, and Sheila Heen

00:00 - Introduction: Moving from Polarized Mindsets to Progress
01:00 - The Schoolutions: Coaching and Teaching Strategies Podcast
01:40 - Dr. Katy Anthes's Forward Framework
02:10 - "Difficult Conversations": A Classic Resource
03:00 - Why Assumptions About Intentions Are Often Wrong
04:00 - How We Assume Intentions from Impact
05:30 - Digital Communication and Misinterpreting Intentions
07:00 - How Accusing Others Creates Defensiveness
08:30 - The Toxicity of Avoiding Difficult Conversations
10:00 - Tools for Spotting Your Contribution: Role Reversal
11:00 - The Observer's Insight Technique
12:00 - Understanding Your Own Emotions
14:00 - Final Thoughts: Being Understood vs. Being Right
14:30 - Outro and Contact Information

#DifficultConversations #IntentionsVsImpact #ConflictResolution #EducationPodcast #CommunicationSkills #ForwardFramework #EmotionalIntelligence #LeadershipDevelopment #TeachingStrategies #ParentingTips #WorkplaceRelationships #PersonalGrowth #AssumedIntentions #ProfessionalDevelopment #EducatorResources

Check out my full S4E30 interview with Dr. Katy Anthes!

When coaches, teachers, administrators, and families work hand in hand, it fosters a school atmosphere where everyone is inspired, and every student is fully engaged in their learning journey.

New episodes are released every Monday, with a bonus solo episode on Fridays featuring research-backed coaching and teaching strategies you can apply right away to better serve the children in your care.

🔔 SUBSCRIBE to never miss an episode of Schoolutions: Coaching & Teaching Strategies Podcast:
https://www.youtube.com/@schoolutionspodcast/

👉 Follow us on social:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/olivia-wahl-4300811a/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/schoolutionspodcast/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/schoolutionspodcast/
Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/olivia-wahl.bsky.social
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@schoolutionspodcast

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

From Polarization to Progress: How to Navigate Difficult Conversations with Dr. Katy Anthes

Mon, 31 Mar 2025 00:00:00 -0400

In this powerful conversation with former Colorado Commissioner of Education Dr. Katy Anthes, we explore her groundbreaking "Forward Framework" for navigating polarization and finding productive middle ground in education and beyond.

Dr. Anthes shares research-backed strategies to move from destructive conflict to productive disagreement, explaining why curiosity and humanity are essential for progress. Learn practical skills to address divisive topics in your classroom, school, or community, and discover why 87% of Americans are tired of division and ready for a better way forward.

Whether you're an educator dealing with polarizing issues or anyone seeking to have more meaningful conversations across differences, this episode offers hope and practical tools to create positive change.

Episode Mentions:

Check out Katy’s writing and work with PEBC:

00:00 - Introduction to Dr. Katy Anthes & Forward Initiative

05:00 - Research on Conflict: William Ury's "Possible"

09:00 - Destructive vs. Productive Conflict

13:00 - Finding Humanity and Common Ground

17:00 - Examples of Polarization in Education

21:00 - Hope in Numbers: 87% Want Less Division

25:00 - The Forward Framework Part 1: Preparation & Listening

32:00 - The Forward Framework Part 2: Connecting & Complicating

37:00 - The Forward Framework Part 3: Rethinking & Creating Space

41:00 - Closing Thoughts: Progress Through Humanity

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

BONUS: 3 Ways Just-In-Time Scaffolding Helps Struggling Math Students

Fri, 28 Mar 2025 00:00:00 -0400

Learn how Just-In-Time Scaffolding can support struggling math students in this video. Discover three effective ways to provide math intervention for students who need extra help in understanding mathematical concepts.

In this S4E29 bonus episode, I unpack the critical differences between "just-in-time" and "just-in-case" scaffolding. Discover why timing is everything when supporting struggling math students and how traditional intervention models often fail at the secondary level.

Learn practical strategies for maintaining cognitive demand while providing appropriate support, ensuring equity in mathematics education, and balancing academic intervention with social-emotional awareness.

This episode offers invaluable insights for educators seeking to transform their approach to supporting striving students in grades 6-12, with research-backed methods that preserve productive struggle while providing targeted assistance.

Episode Mentions:

00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview
01:00 Introducing the Bonus Episode Focus
02:00 Understanding Just In Time vs Just In Case Scaffolding
04:00 How Premature Scaffolding Reduces Cognitive Demand
06:00 Maintaining Learning Goals While Scaffolding
07:00 Real-World Example: Holocaust Unit Scaffolding
08:00 Challenges with RTI at the Secondary Level
10:00 Team Concepts and Student-Centered Approaches
11:00 Proactive Intervention: Catching Students Early
13:00 Rethinking the RTI Triangle Model
14:00 Social-Emotional Support in Intervention
15:00 Closing Thoughts and Call to Action

#MathIntervention #JustInTimeScaffolding #ProductiveStruggle #EquityInEducation #BreakItMath #TeacherPD #SecondaryEducation #MathTeaching #RTImodels #DifferentiatedInstruction

Want to learn more about Juliana 's B.R.E.A.K. it Math Intervention Framework™? Check out my full S4E29 interview with her (https://youtu.be/Nvb8ePouHbA).

When coaches, teachers, administrators, and families work hand in hand, it fosters a school atmosphere where everyone is inspired, and every student is fully engaged in their learning journey.

New episodes are released every Monday, with a bonus solo episode on Fridays featuring research-backed coaching and teaching strategies you can apply right away to better serve the children in your care.

🔔 SUBSCRIBE to never miss an episode of Schoolutions: Coaching & Teaching Strategies Podcast:
https://www.youtube.com/@schoolutionspodcast/

👉 Follow us on social:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/olivia-wahl-4300811a/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/schoolutionspodcast/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/schoolutionspodcast/
Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/olivia-wahl.bsky.social
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@schoolutionspodcast

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Ending Math Anxiety: Practical Strategies for Everyone with Juliana Tapper, M.Ed

Mon, 24 Mar 2025 00:00:00 -0400

Join me as I speak with Juliana Tapper, M.Ed, founder of CollaborateEd and author of Teaching 6-12 Math Intervention: A Practical Framework To Engage Students Who Struggle. Discover Juliana’s revolutionary B.R.E.A.K. it Math Intervention Framework™, designed specifically for students who have experienced math trauma or anxiety.

Juliana reveals why Algebra 1 is a critical gatekeeper for educational success and how her evidence-based approach helps break down barriers for historically underserved students. Learn practical techniques to build math confidence, engage reluctant learners, and elevate student status in mathematics.

🔑 Topics:

Understanding and addressing math trauma and anxiety
The five-step B.R.E.A.K. it Math Intervention Framework™
How to implement the innovative "Math Wars" teaching method
Why building community must come before content
Just-in-time vs. just-in-case intervention approaches
Strategies for maintaining high expectations for all students

Episode Mentions:

From Juliana:

Free PDF: 10 Math intervention strategies
Free Mini-Workshop: Surprisingly easy ways to engage apathetic students

#6Through12MathIntervention #MathTrauma #AlgebraGatekeeping #MathEquity #TeacherSupport #MathWars #MathFramework #BREAKIT #MiddleSchoolMath #HighSchoolMath #MathTeaching #MathCoaching

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

BONUS: The End of Free School Lunches (and What Comes Next)

Fri, 21 Mar 2025 00:00:00 -0400

Learn about the potential end of free school lunches and what could come next. Stay informed on Department of Education news and potential cuts.

In this urgent S4E28 bonus episode, I examine how Republican budget proposals threaten universal free school meals for 12 million students nationwide. Based on senior Chalkbeat reporter Kalyn Belsha's investigative reporting, this episode breaks down the academic, administrative, and financial consequences of these proposed cuts.

Learn why universal free school meals improve attendance, test scores, and student behavior, and discover how these cuts would create significant burdens for schools already facing resource challenges. This episode provides essential information for educators, parents, and community members concerned about child nutrition and educational equity.

For more resources, including Kalyn's full article and Jennifer Gaddis' book "The Labor of Lunch," visit the show notes. Join me every Monday for research-backed strategies and Friday for bonus reflections to support the children in your care.

Episode Mentions:

00:00 - Introduction: The Threat to Universal Free School Meals
01:00 - About Skolution's Coaching and Teaching Strategies Podcast
01:45 - Kalyn Belshaw's Investigation into School Meal Cuts
03:00 - Impact of Universal Meals: Removing Stigma and Supporting Families
04:00 - Administrative Burdens and Nutrition Quality Concerns
05:30 - GOP Proposals: Community Eligibility Requirements Increase
07:00 - Income Verification Requirements and Paperwork Burden
08:00 - Financial Impact on Families and School Meal Debt
09:30 - Immigration Concerns and Tariff Effects
10:45 - Book Recommendation: "The Labor of Lunch" by Jennifer Gaddis
12:30 - Moving Away from "Or" Mentality in Public Support
13:30 - Advocacy Work of Food Service ESPs
14:15 - Closing and Call to Action

#SchoolMealCrisis #SaveSchoolLunches #FeedingStudents #EducationCuts #StudentHunger #SchoolLunchProgram #UniversalFreeMeals #ChildNutrition #FoodInsecurity #SchoolMealDebt #EquitableEducation #StudentSuccess #EducationPolicy #SchoolMealEquity #ChildrenFirst #EducationAdvocacy #TeacherVoices #SchoolFunding #NutritionMatters #KidsNeedFood

Want to learn more about how the budget cuts will impact children in your care? Check out my full S4E28 interview with Kalyn.

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Education Cuts Explained: What We All Need to Know with Chalkbeat Senior National Reporter, Kalyn Belsha

Mon, 17 Mar 2025 00:00:00 -0400

Join me as I interview Chalkbeat senior national reporter Kalyn Belsha for an urgent update on the Trump administration's education cuts. This follow-up to Kalyn’s Episode 18 appearance covers the rapid dismantling of the Department of Education.

Discover which vital programs have been terminated, how research benefiting thousands of students has been abruptly halted, and what these cuts mean for vulnerable populations including children with disabilities.

This conversation reveals how federal education funding is being used as leverage against schools and universities, and why the biggest concerns lie ahead with potential cuts to Title I and IDEA funding.

Episode Mentions:

Trump expected to sign executive order on U.S. Department of Education. Here’s what we know by Erica Meltzer
Parent groups and organizations that support families of children with disabilities by state
National Disability Rights Network (NDRN)
The Hechinger Report's tracker of Trump's education actions
The New York Times' tracker on lawsuits against the Trump administration
Columbia University's response to the Trump administration saying it would withhold $400M in federal funds from the University
The University of Kansas Self-Determined Learning Model of Instruction -This link has a teacher's guide & earlier research on the strategy

00:00 Introduction: Why This Conversation Matters

01:00 Overview of Recent Department of Education Cuts

02:00 Kalyn Belsha Returns with Critical Updates

03:00 Department of Education Confirmation Hearings

04:35 Linda McMahon's Limited Knowledge of Education Law

05:25 Major Cuts to Teacher Training and Research Programs

07:15 Impact on Students with Disabilities' Transition Programs

08:30 Research Projects That Cannot Be Restarted

09:30 The "End DEI" Portal and Its Real Purpose

11:15 Where Are the Guardrails? Understanding Funding Types

12:45 The Future of Title I and IDEA Funding

14:15 Implications for Colleges and Universities

15:40 Federal Funding Used as Leverage Against Schools

17:00 Executive Order to Dismantle the Education Department

18:30 Withholding Federal Funds as a New Enforcement Tactic

19:30 School Meal Program Rollbacks on the Horizon

20:45 The Connection Between Education and Democracy

22:15 How to Stay Informed Without Being Overwhelmed

24:00 Resources for Tracking Education Policy Changes

25:15 How to Advocate for Education Funding

26:30 Moving Beyond Our Bubbles to Support All Children

27:30 Closing Thoughts and Contact Information

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

BONUS: Unlocking the Power of Students Who Learn Differently

Fri, 14 Mar 2025 00:00:00 -0400

In this bonus episode I break down the groundbreaking "Forward Together" report from the National Center for Learning Disabilities (NCLD) shared by Sarah Sandelius and Kristen N. Briggs during their S4E27 Episode: How The Ability Challenge is Transforming Special Education. Discover the three essential mindsets and eight key practices that benefit not just the one in five students with learning differences, but ALL learners.

I share practical strategies for:

➡️explicit instruction,

➡️Universal Design for Learning,

➡️strategy instruction,

➡️flexible grouping,

➡️positive behavior strategies,

➡️collaboration,

➡️culturally responsive teaching,

➡️and evidence-based content instruction.

Learn how to create equitable learning environments where every student can thrive despite political pushback against inclusive education initiatives.

Episode Mentions:

Perfect for educators, administrators, and caregivers committed to supporting diverse learners.

00:00 - Introduction and Episode Overview

01:00 - About the Forward Together Report

03:00 - Understanding the "One in Five" Students

05:00 - Three Essential Mindsets for Effective Teaching

06:00 - Self-Efficacy: Believing in Your Ability to Teach All Students

08:00 - Positive Orientation Toward Inclusion and Belonging

09:00 - Growth Mindset for Teachers and Students

10:00 - Eight Key Practices That Benefit All Learners

11:00 - Explicit Targeted Instruction and Universal Design for Learning

12:00 - Strategy Instruction for Independent Learning

14:00 - Positive Behavior Strategies and PBIS

15:00 - Flexible vs. Fixed Grouping Approaches

16:00 - Collaboration Between Educators and Caregivers

17:00 - Culturally and Linguistically Responsive Pedagogy

19:00 - Evidence-Based Content Instruction

20:00 - What Science Says About Neurodiversity in Learning

22:00 - Moving Forward Together and Finding Purpose

23:00 - Closing Thoughts and Next Episode Preview

#TheAbilityChallenge #SpecialEducation #InclusiveTeaching #LearningDifferences #EquitableEducation #TeachingStrategies #EducatorResources #NCLD #UniversalDesignForLearning #CulturallyResponsiveTeaching #EducationPodcast

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

How The Ability Challenge is Transforming Special Education with Sarah Sandelius & Kristen N. Briggs

Mon, 10 Mar 2025 00:00:00 -0400

Join me as I speak with Sarah Sandelius and Kristen N. Briggs from The Ability Challenge about revolutionizing special education through their groundbreaking THRIVE Framework. We need to shift from deficit-based thinking to presuming competence in all learners.

You'll Learn:

Why focusing on Tier 1 instruction is essential for ALL students
How to move beyond compliance metrics to meaningful student outcomes
The critical difference between visible and invisible disabilities
Why "kids will meet whatever bar you set for them, low or high"
Practical strategies for creating truly inclusive learning environments

Sarah Sandelius, a former lawyer who founded The Ability Challenge, shares her personal journey from witnessing educational inequity to creating systems-level change. Kristen N. Briggs brings her invaluable perspective as a special education teacher and school leader, highlighting how intentional support systems can transform educational experiences for students with disabilities.

Episode Mentions:

Chapters:

00:00 - Introduction and overview
01:00 - Meet Sarah Sandelius and Kristen Briggs
02:00 - Research that informs their work
03:50 - Kristen on lived experience vs. academic research
06:10 - Sarah's journey to founding The Ability Challenge
09:56 - Understanding visible vs. invisible disabilities
11:59 - What schools could do better to support students
13:21 - The problem of "Tier 2 and 3 ourselves out of a Tier 1 challenge"
17:23 - The importance of collaborative professional learning
19:29 - The THRIVE Framework explained
21:50 - Taking a systems-level approach to special education
24:40 - Moving beyond compliance metrics to meaningful assessment
27:46 - Grade-level content access for all students
29:08 - The "what, so what, now what" data analysis protocol
31:32 - Setting high expectations and checking educator biases
34:34 - Future vision and emerging trends in special education
37:17 - Building teacher knowledge around specialized instruction
38:37 - Resources for understanding functions of behavior
39:12 - Reimagining staffing approaches

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

BONUS: Power of Writer's Notebooks: Spaces Where Students Write Freely

Fri, 07 Mar 2025 00:00:00 -0500

Discover how writer's notebooks create essential spaces for student creativity and authentic expression in this S4E26 bonus episode featuring insights from Ralph Fletcher's book, A Writer's Notebook: Unlocking the Writer Within You. Learn practical strategies for implementing writer's notebooks in your classroom and providing meaningful feedback that empowers rather than constrains young writers.

🔑 In this episode:

🌟Why writer's notebooks serve a distinct purpose beyond assignments

🌟How to shift from formulaic writing to authentic expression

🌟The difference between "done" and "done for now" in the writing process

🌟Practical ways to provide feedback that focuses on growth, not just praise

🌟John Hattie's research on effective feedback for student learning

I share my experience implementing writer's folders and notebooks across grade levels and explain how giving students freedom transformed their writing. This episode is perfect for K-12 teachers, instructional coaches, and anyone interested in helping students develop authentic writing voices.

00:00 - Introduction: The power of greenbelt writing

01:00 - Schoolutions podcast overview

01:43 - Ralph Fletcher's concept of greenbelt writing

02:00 - Writing folders vs. writer's notebooks

03:12 - Breaking free from genre constraints

04:32 - The problem with writing formulas

05:12 - Ralph's definition of a writer's notebook

07:00 - Choosing the right people for writing feedback

08:23 - Creating in-person writing groups

10:15 - The writer should control the feedback process

11:32 - You don't have to accept all feedback

12:58 - John Hattie's research on effective feedback

14:25 - Why "great job" isn't helpful feedback

15:32 - Connecting feedback to zones of proximal development

Episode Mentions:

A Writer's Notebook: Unlocking the Writer Within You by Ralph Fletcher
Visible Learning for Teachers: Maximizing Impact on Learning by John Hattie
Lev Vygotsky’s Zones of Development

Want to learn more about Greenbelt writing and offering students choice as writers? Check out my full S4E26 interview with Ralph Fletcher.

#WritersNotebook #TeachingWriting #LiteracyInstruction #RalphFletcher #GreenbeltWriting #StudentWriters #TeacherPD #WritingWorkshop #JohnHattie #WritingFeedback #ElementaryWriting #MiddleSchoolELA #WritingProcess #LiteracyCoaching #AuthenticWriting

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

The Secret Writing Space Your Students Need: Greenbelt Writing Revolution with Ralph Fletcher

Mon, 03 Mar 2025 00:00:00 -0500

In this inspiring conversation, I sit down with renowned author and educator Ralph Fletcher to discuss his book, Joy Write: Cultivating High-Impact, Low-Stakes Writing and why the concept of greenbelt writing is crucial for developing authentic student voices.

Greenbelt writing serves as a designated creative space where students can write freely without constraints, similar to how greenbelts in nature create essential passages for wildlife to thrive.

Ralph, who has also written numerous books for young readers and teachers, shares his perspective on how scripted curricula and commercial writing programs have squeezed choice and joy out of classroom writing experiences.

The conversation explores:

Why choice is fundamental to developing strong writers
How academic writing has overshadowed expressive writing in classrooms
The importance of pleasure and joy in the writing process
Practical ways teachers can incorporate greenbelt writing alongside required curriculum
How student-initiated writing reveals skills, humor, and collaboration that often remain hidden

Episode Mentions:

What is Greenbelt Writing? by Ralph Fletcher
The World's Loneliest Elephant by Ralph Fletcher (illustrated by Naoko Stoop)
Craft and Process Studies by Matt Glover
Misreading Masculinity by Thomas Newkirk
Boy Writers by Ralph Fletcher
Barry Lane (educator)
Katie Wood Ray (educator who discusses writing stamina)
Malcolm Gladwell (reference to his 10,000 hours concept)
John Carroll (professor at University of New Hampshire)

Ralph offers examples of how teachers can validate and affirm student writing without feeling pressured to grade or critique it heavily, suggesting that sometimes benign neglect allows creativity to flourish.

The episode concludes with a discussion about writing identity and how teachers can help all students see themselves as writers by providing opportunities for authentic expression.

Perfect for teachers, coaches, and caregivers looking to restore creativity and joy to writing instruction while balancing curricular demands.

#GreenbeltWriting #JoyWrite #RalphFletcher #WritersCraft #WritersNotebook #WritingMentor #LowStakesWriting #WritingWorkshop #StudentChoice #AuthenticWriting #TeachersOfTwitter #TeachWriting #WritingTeacher #LiteracyMatters #WritingInstruction #ELA #ElementaryELA #StudentVoice #WritingJoy #CreativeWriting #WriteFromTheHeart #WritersIdentity #WritingCommunity #ReclaimWriting #TeacherLife #EdChat #LiteracyEducation #ChoiceMatters #StudentEngagement #WritingFreedom

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

BONUS: The RIGHT TOOLS for Effective Teacher Teams | A Collaboration Masterclass

Fri, 28 Feb 2025 00:00:00 -0500

In this bonus episode, I highlight Chapter 5 of Dr. Towanda Harris's book, The Right Tools: A Guide to Selecting, Evaluating, and Implementing Classroom Resources and Practices. Building on my previous conversation with Dr. Harris about nurturing teacher candidates, I explore the essential elements of effective collaboration among education professionals.

Learn why:

💡purposeful collaboration requires clear focus and structure,
💡how bringing diverse educational perspectives to the planning table strengthens instructional approaches,
💡and why individual reflection is a necessary complement to collaborative work.

Discover practical strategies for:

✨ identifying the right collaborators,
✨ establishing meaningful focus areas for teamwork,
✨ and implementing conversation starters that drive productive professional discussions.

Whether you're a classroom teacher navigating boxed curricula, an instructional coach supporting teacher teams, or an administrator building collaborative school culture, this episode offers valuable insights on harnessing the power of intentional collaboration to better serve all students.

00:00 Introduction

01:00 Overview of The Right Tools

02:00 Dr. Harris's journey to valuing collaboration

04:00 Who to invite to the collaborative planning table

06:00 Serving diverse student populations through collaboration

08:00 Focus areas for effective collaboration

10:00 Different planning structures

11:00 Powerful conversation starters

12:00 Putting collaborative practices into action

#DrTowandaHarris #TheRightTools #TeacherCollaboration #EducationalLeadership #ProfessionalLearning #SchoolPlanning #TeacherTeams #EffectiveCollaboration #TeacherReflection #InstructionalCoaching #EducationResources #TeamPlanning #TeacherCandidates #SchoolImprovement #StudentSuccess #CollaborativePlanning #GradeLevelTeams #VerticalPlanning #ProfessionalLearning #ClassroomStrategies #EducatorResources #TeachingStrategies #SchoolSolutions #EducationPodcast #SchoolImprovement #TeacherSupport #InstructionalStrategies #SchoolLeadership #EducationalTeams

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

What New Teachers Need to Succeed with Dr. Towanda Harris

Mon, 24 Feb 2025 00:00:00 -0500

In this powerful episode of Schoolutions, I sit down with Dr. Towanda Harris of the Harris Innovation Consulting Group , an influential educator with over 20 years of experience who's impacted more than 10,000 educators nationwide. Dr. Harris shares her journey from third-grade teacher to university professor, offering invaluable insights about preparing the next generation of teachers. Learn why questioning the status quo should be celebrated, how to redefine success in education beyond traditional metrics, and why developing a teaching philosophy must start with personal reflection. Whether you're a new teacher, veteran educator, or educational leader, this conversation offers fresh perspectives on creating more responsive, student-centered classrooms.

Key Topics Discussed:

➡️Dr. Harris's journey from classroom teacher to university professor

➡️The importance of questioning and unlearning in education

➡️Redefining success beyond traditional metrics

➡️Developing meaningful teaching philosophies

➡️Creating inclusive classroom environments

Research & Resources Mentioned:

💫Dr. Rudine Sims Bishop's work on mirrors, windows, and sliding glass doors

💫Dr. Gholnescsar (Gholdy) Muhammad's work on transactional learning

💫Zaretta Hammond's Ready 4 Rigor Framework

💫Dr. Carla España and Dr. Luz Yadira Herrera's work on translanguaging

💫Aeriale N. Johnson

💫Arlène Elizabeth Casimir's Holding Space Protocol

💫The Georgia Literacy Act

Dr. Harris’s Recommended Resources:

📚A Love Letter to Teachers by Patrick Harris II

📚3 Ways to Take Charge of Your Personal Growth As an Educator by Dr. Towanda Harris

📚Meaningful Learning Experiences: Teaching the Student and not the Content CCRIA blog by Dr. Towanda Harris

📚Student Agency: Strategies to Build a Strengths-Based Classroom by Dr. Towanda Harris

📚The Right Tools: A Guide to Selecting, Evaluating, and Implementing Classroom Resources and Practices by Dr. Towanda Harris

Timestamps:

[00:00:00] Episode Introduction
[00:02:00] Dr. Harris's Educational Journey
[00:09:00] Changes in Teacher Candidates
[00:15:00] Redefining Success in Education
[00:24:00] Developing Teaching Philosophies
[00:34:00] Inclusive Teaching Practices
[00:37:00] Closing Thoughts

#DrTowandaHarris #TheRightTools #EdChat #TeacherEducation

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

BONUS: What Happens When You Let Go of CONTROL in the Classroom?

Fri, 21 Feb 2025 00:00:00 -0500

✨ In this S4 E24 bonus episode, discover how student-centered learning and innovative teaching can create meaningful classroom success through collaborative agreements. By focusing on personalized learning and active learning strategies, educators can build stronger connections with their students. This episode explores how cooperative learning transforms traditional classroom dynamics into spaces where every student thrives. 🌱

I explore insights from Kwame Sarfo-Mensah's book Learning to Relearn: Supporting Identity in a Culturally Affirming Classroom. Discover how to shift from traditional classroom control to collaborative agreements empowering students and teachers. Learn practical strategies for letting students take the lead, including student-led teaching opportunities and peer tutoring.

Whether you're an educator struggling with classroom dynamics or a school leader looking to strengthen communities, this episode offers concrete tools for creating spaces where all voices are heard and valued. It also explores how repairing harm through education can strengthen classroom relationships and why vulnerability in teaching matters.

Listen in to understand how you can transform your classroom into a space where both students and teachers thrive through mutual respect, shared responsibility, and authentic community building. Want to learn more about nurturing culturally affirming learning communities? Check out my full interview with Kwame (https://youtu.be/tNg3icwk-bs).

When coaches, teachers, administrators, and families work hand in hand, it fosters a school atmosphere where everyone is inspired, and every student is fully engaged in their learning journey.

New episodes are released every Monday, with a bonus solo episode on Fridays featuring research-backed coaching and teaching strategies you can apply right away to better serve the children in your care.

🔔 SUBSCRIBE to never miss an episode of Schoolutions: Coaching & Teaching Strategies Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@schoolutionspodcast/

👉 Follow us on social:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/olivia-wahl-4300811a/
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TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@schoolutionspodcast

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

How Teachers Can Create Identity-Affirming Classrooms with Kwame Sarfo-Mensah

Mon, 17 Feb 2025 00:00:00 -0500

You will learn practical strategies and frameworks to create inclusive, identity-affirming spaces throughout this S4E24 conversation with Kwame Sarfo-Mensah. This episode highlights Kwame’s book, Learning to Relearn: Supporting Identity in a Culturally-Affirming Classroom. Kwame brings seventeen years of education experience, including nine years as a middle school math teacher in Philadelphia and Boston. He is the founder of Identity Talk Consulting and host of the Identity Talk 4 Educators podcast. As a former middle school math teacher, Kwame discusses the journey from classroom teaching to global education advocacy.

Key Topics:

➡️The three P's of intersectional awareness: Privilege, Power, and Positionality

➡️Strategies for being an authentically active community-engaged educator

➡️The importance of origin stories in teaching

➡️Counter-storytelling and celebrating marginalized communities

➡️Creating culturally affirming classroom environments

Highlighted Frameworks:

💫Origin Story Components (STORI):

💫Racial Literacy Development Framework:

Practical Strategies:

✨The "Me Bag" activity for celebrating student identities

✨Reflective questions for educator development

✨Community engagement at multiple levels

✨Ways to incorporate counter-storytelling

Tune in to explore how educators can use intentional, inclusive practices to strengthen student engagement, emotional wellness, and academic success, creating classrooms that are not just places of learning but spaces of healing, growth, and transformation.

#IdentityTalk4Educators #IdentityAffirmingEducation #CulturallyResponsiveTeaching #TeacherDevelopment #EducationalEquity #TeacherLife #TeacherPD #EducationalLeadership #InstructionalCoaching #TeacherCommunity #ProfessionalLearning #StudentIdentity #CounterStorytelling #IntersectionalAwareness #CulturalCompetency #SchoolTransformation #EdChat #SchoolCommunity #StudentVoices #ClassroomCommunity #TeacherGrowth #TeacherReflection #EducationMatters #K12Education #SchoolCulture

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

BONUS: How Trauma-Responsive Teaching Transforms Classrooms

Fri, 14 Feb 2025 00:00:00 -0500

In this S4E23 bonus episode, I break down key insights from Arlène Elizabeth Casimir's book Trauma-Responsive Pedagogy: Teaching for Healing and Transformation (co-authored with Courtney Baker). The episode focuses on Casimir's seven-stage framework for weaving trauma-responsive practices into instruction. This episode accompanies Season 4, Episode 23, featuring the full interview with Arlène Elizabeth Casimir.

KEY CONCEPTS:

➡️Distinction between bearing witness and empathy

➡️Healing as a parallel process

➡️Creating restorative and transformative practices in schools

Arlène’s Seven-Stage Framework:

1. Know Thyself

2. Know Thy Content

3. Bearing Witness

4. Feel

5. Grieve

6. Initiate the Archetypes

7. Heal and Transform

#TheAwakenedTeacher #TraumaResponsiveTeaching #TeacherPD #EducatorPodcast #TeacherResources #TraumaInformedEducation #TeacherGrowth #TeacherWellness #EducatorSupport #TeacherMentalHealth #ProfessionalDevelopment #BraveSpaces #ClassroomCulture #HoldingSpace #SEL #WholeChildEducation #TeacherCommunity #TeachersOfInstagram #TeacherLife #EducatorsOfInstagram #TeacherTribe #HealingCenteredEducation #StudentSupport #TraumaResponse #ClassroomManagement #EarlyChildhoodEd

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

9 Hidden Trauma Responses in Students: Creating Brave Spaces for Healing with Arlène Elizabeth Casimir

Mon, 10 Feb 2025 00:00:00 -0500

In this transformative episode, Olivia welcomes Arlène Elizabeth Casimir —author, healer, The Awakened Teacher, and CEO/founder of Reveye—to share essential insights on co-creating classrooms that support self-regulation, co-regulation, and meaningful connection. As the co-author of Trauma-Responsive Pedagogy: Teaching for Healing and Transformation, Arlène breaks down the nine different trauma responses educators should recognize and offers actionable strategies to design learning spaces where both students and teachers can flourish academically, emotionally, and socially.

Through Reveye, Arlène brings together trauma-responsive teaching, culturally relevant pedagogy, healing-centered education, and multimedia literacy to help educators foster environments where students feel seen, heard, and valued. She integrates spirituality in education as a grounding force, offering practical ways to support reflection, resilience, and well-being in learning spaces.

🔑 CORE INSIGHTS:

Traditional teaching methods focusing solely on academic outcomes and compliance are insufficient

➡️Trauma can be a gateway for healing and transformation

➡️The classroom can be an incubator for elevating consciousness

➡️Teachers must practice inner work for outer change

➡️Holding space is about creating containers for full humanity

Episode Mentions:

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

BONUS: College Prep That Actually Works: AVID & STEP's Proven Success Formula

Fri, 07 Feb 2025 02:00:00 -0500

In this bonus episode, I explore two transformative educational programs - AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination) and STEP (Student Expedition Program). Building on my S4E22 conversation with Tracy Baynes, I break down how these programs are revolutionizing college preparation and achieving remarkable success rates among students.

Discover how AVID and STEP are closing the opportunity gap by preparing students for college success through academic skill building, relationship development, and systemic change in schools. Learn about their approach to equity in education, the importance of student-driven learning, and how these programs are helping educators create sustainable change in their classrooms.

Whether you're an educator, administrator, or caregiver, this episode offers valuable insights into proven strategies that help students thrive academically and beyond. From elementary school foundations to college graduation success, learn how these programs are transforming education one student at a time.

Key Insights:

STEP's impressive 96% college graduation success rate in Arizona
AVID's reach: 8,000 schools and 2 million+ students
Essential academic behaviors taught starting in elementary school:
- Note-taking strategies
- Organization skills
- Time management
- Critical thinking
- How these programs transform teacher-centered instruction to student-driven learning

Want to learn more about STEP? Check out my full interview with Tracy Baynes (https://youtu.be/d0grSKM3exQ).

New episodes are released every Monday, with a bonus solo episode on Fridays featuring research-backed coaching and teaching strategies you can apply right away to better serve the children in your care.

🔔 SUBSCRIBE to never miss an episode of Schoolutions: Coaching & Teaching Strategies Podcast:
https://www.youtube.com/@schoolutionspodcast/

& 👉Follow Schoolutions: Coaching & Teaching Strategies Podcast on social:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/olivia-wahl-4300811a/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/schoolutionspodcast/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/schoolutionspodcast/
Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/olivia-wahl.bsky.social
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@schoolutionspodcast

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

96% College Success Rate: Inside the Program Transforming Low-Income Students' Lives with Tracy Baynes

Mon, 03 Feb 2025 00:00:00 -0500

Why do 96% of STEP students graduate college when the national average is far lower? In this eye-opening conversation with Tracy Baynes, founder of the Student Expedition Program (STEP), discover how experiential learning and comprehensive support are transforming college access for low-income Arizona students.

Join our S4E22 conversation to discover how Tracy Baynes is revolutionizing college access for low-income students! From teaching oceanography on tall ships and instructing with the with National Outdoor Leadership School (NOLS) and Outward Bound to reenvisioning education in Arizona, Tracy shares powerful insights on:

Why going to college isn't enough - it's about getting the degree
The truth about community college vs. 4-year universities
How standardized testing acts as a gatekeeper
Breaking down barriers in college admissions
The myth of AP exam scores
Building self-advocacy skills for college success
Creating generational change through education

Tracy offers many strategies and even an invitation to connect about transforming college access and creating pathways to success for all students!

#STEPProgram #CollegeSuccess #HigherEducation #CollegeAccess #Education #StudentSuccess #CollegePrep #FirstGeneration #EducationalEquity #CollegeAdvising #FirstGen #APClasses #CollegeBound #UnderservedStudents #EducationalOpportunity #CollegeGuidance #StudentMentorship

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

BONUS: Cheers to States That Make Child Care Accessible!

Fri, 31 Jan 2025 00:00:00 -0500

Cheers to states that make child care accessible! In this S4E21 bonus episode, I explore groundbreaking research and state-level solutions transforming early childhood education in America.

Thanks to Dr. Dan Wuori, you'll discover:
➡️James Heckman's revolutionary findings on early childhood ROI
➡️The Perry Preschool Project's 60-year multigenerational impact
➡️New Mexico's game-changing free childcare program
➡️South Carolina's innovative Pre-K to Kindergarten transition framework
➡️Real solutions for the childcare cost crisis

🔑 Key Highlights:
➡️How early intervention creates lasting generational change
➡️New Mexico's $150M+ childcare funding solution
➡️Why childcare costs 8-19% of household income
➡️South Carolina's successful family engagement strategies
➡️Breaking down barriers in early childhood education

💡 Featured Research:
➡️The Heckman Curve
➡️Perry Preschool Project's 60-year study
➡️Labor Department childcare cost data
➡️South Carolina's Birth Through Five Plan

#earlychildhoodeducator #ChildcareReform #Education #EarlyEducation #ChildcareSolutions #PreschoolEducation #EducationPolicy #FamilyPolicy #ChildDevelopment #EarlyLearning

Want to learn more about transforming early childhood education? Check out my S4E21 full interview with Dr. Dan Wouri and visit your state's early childhood education resources to get involved locally.

Subscribe for more insights on education, policy, and creating positive change for our children! 🔔

New episodes are released every Monday, with a bonus solo episode on Fridays featuring research-backed coaching and teaching strategies you can apply right away to better serve the children in your care.

When coaches, teachers, administrators, and families work hand in hand, it fosters a school atmosphere where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged in their learning journey.

🔔 SUBSCRIBE to never miss an episode of Schoolutions: Coaching & Teaching Strategies Podcast:
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When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

The TRUTH About Daycare (Myths & Misconceptions) with Dr. Dan Wuori

Mon, 27 Jan 2025 00:00:00 -0500

In this episode (S4E21), I welcome Dr. Dan Wuori, founder of Early Childhood Policy Solutions and strategic advisor at The Saul Zaentz Charitable Foundation™, to discuss his book, The Daycare Myth: What We Get Wrong About Early Care and Education (and What We Should Do About It).

Key Discussion Points:

➡️The three simple truths of early development: learning begins in utero, the prenatal to age 3 period is uniquely consequential, and brain development is optimized through stable one-on-one interactions

➡️Why terms like "daycare" and "childcare" need to be reconceptualized to reflect their true educational nature

➡️The crisis in early childhood education, including 40% annual teacher attrition and severe wage disparities

➡️State-level innovations in early childhood policy, highlighting initiatives in New Mexico, Vermont, Washington D.C., and North Dakota

➡️The economic case for investing in early childhood education, featuring research by Nobel laureate James Heckman showing a 13.1% annual return on investment

Striking Statistics:

💡1 in 4 American mothers must return to work within two weeks of giving birth

💡Early childhood educators earn 59 cents per hour less than dog walkers

💡40% of early childhood teachers leave the field annually

Some Episode Mentions:

➡️ Research by Dr. James Heckman, Nobel Prize-winning economist

➡️ New Mexico's free child care program is bringing relief that millions of U.S. families need

➡️ The Vermont Child Care Contribution

➡️ Washington D.C. Early Childhood Educator Pay Equity Fund

➡️ North Dakota - Governor Doug Burgum

➡️ South Carolina Pre-K to Kindergarten Transition Plan: Family Engagement

#TheDaycareMyth #EarlyChildhood #ECE #ChildDevelopment #EarlyLearning #EducationPolicy #TeacherPay #WorkingParents #ParentingResources #EarlyEd #ChildCareReform #BrainDevelopment #EarlyYears #PreschoolTeacher #EducationEquity #InfantCare #TeacherRights #FamilyPolicy #PaidLeave #StatePolicy #EducationInvestment #PreK #ECETeachers #ChildrensRights #EarlyIntervention #EducationReform

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

BONUS: Why Nature is the FUTURE of Education

Fri, 24 Jan 2025 00:00:00 -0500

A bonus episode where I read selected entries from Gwyneth Hagan's Substack microblog Starting Small. The episode explores how natural patterns like bubbles, chaos, and flow can serve as metaphors for transforming education from a factory model to a forest model.

Gwyneth's work combines poetry, educational theory, and observations of nature to envision more organic, interconnected learning systems. The readings include reflections on finding joy in learning, embracing uncertainty, and accepting periods of withdrawal (what Hagan calls "snail mode") as natural parts of growth and change in education.

#EducationTransformation #NatureBasedLearning #ForestModel #TeacherGrowth #ProfessionalLearning #PatternsinNature #SustainableEducation #CollectiveLearning #EdLeadership #TeacherWellbeing #OrganicLearning #EducationEcosystem #TeacherPoetry #MindfulTeaching #LearningDesign #EducationalChange #TeacherReflection #HolisticEducation #SystemicChange #TeacherAgency

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Discover How Natural Patterns Can Transform Teaching & Student Growth with Gwyneth Hagan

Mon, 20 Jan 2025 00:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I speak with educator, designer, and facilitator Gwyneth Hagan about transforming education from a traditional factory model to what she beautifully describes as a forest model. Drawing on patterns found in nature, Gwyneth shares powerful insights about creating more organic, interconnected learning systems that honor both educators' and students' natural growth processes.

Key Topics Discussed:

Moving beyond the factory model of education to embrace a more ecosystem-based approach
How natural patterns like spirals, waves, and fractals can inform better learning design
Why educators need to experience the same wonder-filled, permission-free learning they want to create for students

Gwyneth also shares her personal journey of incorporating poetry and natural observation into her professional work, challenging traditional boundaries between artistic and educational practices. The episode concludes with her moving poem "Small Things," which beautifully encapsulates her philosophy of taking time to notice and appreciate the smaller moments in learning and life.

Gwyneth's Substack, Starting Small & Recommendations:

Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer
Design for Belonging by Susie Wise
Emergent Strategy by adrienne maree brown
Letters from the Future (of Learning) by Sam Chaltain

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

BONUS: Coaching, Teaching, & Classroom Management Strategies Sparked From My Conversation with Leah Mermelstein & Dr. Jen Gioia (❤️Olivia Wahl)

Fri, 17 Jan 2025 00:00:00 -0500

In this bonus episode of Schoolutions: Coaching and Teaching Strategies, I follow up on my conversation with Leah Mermelstein and Dr. Jennifer Gioia (S4E19) to explore critical aspects of educational support systems. The episode breaks down three main areas:

✨Recent developments in tutoring programs, including insights from a 2024 New York Times article (With Speech to Teachers, Harris Waded into a Fiery Education Debate) about Kamala Harris's education stance and challenges highlighted in The Hechinger Report (Students aren’t benefiting much from tutoring, one new study shows) about scaling tutoring effectively.
➡️P-3 Literacy Instructional best practices guide

✨An in-depth exploration of John Sweller's Cognitive Load Theory and its practical classroom applications (Cognitive Load Theory: A Practical Guide And Tips For Teachers), including:

➡️The relationship between sensory, short-term, and long-term memory

➡️Understanding working memory's limited capacity (5-9 pieces of information for ~30 seconds)

➡️Practical tips for teachers to reduce cognitive load

➡️Strategies for students to optimize their learning environment

✨ An introduction to MagicSchool, a free AI tool for educators that offers:

➡️Rubric generation

➡️Automated feedback assistance

➡️Text-dependent question creation

➡️AI-resistant assignment development

➡️Creation of exemplar and non-exemplar responses

#EducatorPodcast #LiteracyEducation #StudentSupport #TeacherPD #ReadingInstruction #SchoolPsychologist #EquitableEducation #TeacherCollaboration #LearningSupport #OrthographicMapping #EducationalTeams #FamilyEngagement #InclusiveEducation #LiteracyCoach #ReadingSpecialist #StudentSuccess #SchoolLeadership #InterventionStrategies #teamworkmakesthedreamwork

👉Check out my episode with Leah and Jen here: (https://youtu.be/Yc-Gkq2zwhw)!

When coaches, teachers, administrators, and families work hand in hand, it fosters a school atmosphere where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged in their learning journey.

🔔 SUBSCRIBE to never miss an episode of Schoolutions: Coaching & Teaching Strategies Podcast:

https://www.youtube.com/@schoolutionspodcast/

& 👉Follow Schoolutions: Coaching & Teaching Strategies Podcast on social:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/olivia-wahl-4300811a/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/schoolutionspodcas

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Educational Teams Bridging School and Family Communication with Leah Mermelstein and Dr. Jennifer Gioia

Mon, 13 Jan 2025 00:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I sit down with literacy expert Leah Mermelstein and school neuropsychologist Dr. Jennifer Gioia to explore how educators can better support students who are "stuck" in their learning journey. Together, we unpack how schools can build effective support systems directly into their educational framework through three core elements: dedicated time for team dialogue, appropriate resources and curriculum, and shared knowledge of research-based practices.

The conversation delves into practical strategies for:

➡️breaking down educational silos
➡️fostering family-school collaboration
➡️ensuring equitable student support

Leah brings insights from literacy consulting and tutoring, while Jen shares perspectives on neuropsychological evaluation and empowering families with educational knowledge.

Join us for actionable strategies to create unified teams that support every student's learning journey while addressing both individual needs and systemic barriers.

Mentions:

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

BONUS: Coaching, Teaching, & Classroom Management Strategies Sparked From My Conversation with Kalyn Belsha (❤️Olivia Wahl)

Fri, 10 Jan 2025 00:00:00 -0500

In this bonus episode I reflect on my S4E18 interview with Kalyn Belsha, a senior national reporter for Chalkbeat, focusing on Trump's campaign promise to dismantle the Department of Education and its potential impact on students with disabilities.

I break down Erica Meltzer's article about ending the U.S. Department of Education and share Kalyn’s valuable recommended resources for you to take action, including links to:
➡️the Senate HELP Committee,
➡️disability advocacy groups,
➡️and state-specific parent support organizations.

#Chalkbeat #SpecialEducation #IDEA #EducationPolicy #TeacherShortage #SpecialEd #Advocacy #StudentRights #DisabilityRights #SchoolStaffing #EducationEquity #TeacherSupport #ParentAdvocacy #CivilRights #EducationNews #SpecialEducationTeacher #ParaProfessional #SchoolPolicy #StudentServices #InclusiveEducation #EducationReform #K12Education

👉Check out my episode with Kalyn here!

New episodes are released every Monday, with a bonus solo episode on Fridays featuring research-backed coaching and teaching strategies you can apply right away to better serve the children in your care.

When coaches, teachers, administrators, and families work hand in hand, it fosters a school atmosphere where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged in their learning journey.

🔔 SUBSCRIBE to never miss an episode of Schoolutions: Coaching & Teaching Strategies Podcast:
https://www.youtube.com/@schoolutionspodcast/

& 👉Follow Schoolutions: Coaching & Teaching Strategies Podcast on social:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/olivia-wahl-4300811a/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/schoolutionspodcast/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/schoolutionspodcast/
Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/olivia-wahl.bsky.social
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@schoolutionspodcast

Thank you for listening!

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Trump Education Department Dismantling: Special Education Impact with Kalyn Belsha

Mon, 06 Jan 2025 01:00:00 -0500

In this timely and crucial episode, I sit down with Kalyn Belsha, senior national reporter for Chalkbeat, to unpack the potential impacts of Trump's campaign promise to dismantle the Department of Education. We explore how this could specifically affect students with disabilities, from changes in civil rights complaint processes to funding distributions and staffing challenges. Kayln breaks down complex policy implications into clear, actionable insights, explaining how the shift could transform education from federal to state control.

Our conversation covers critical topics for you, including:

➡️How civil rights complaints might shift from investigations to lawsuits

➡️The potential move to state-controlled block grants for education funding

➡️Current staffing shortages in special education and potential solutions

➡️The role of advocacy at state and local levels

Whether you're an educator, administrator, or caregiver, this episode offers valuable perspective on navigating potential changes while continuing to support students with disabilities. We conclude the episode with an uplifting discussion about educator resilience and the importance of supporting teachers during challenging times.

Episode Mentions:

Kalyn’s Recommended Resources:

Senate HELP committee (senators to write to with suggested questions for Linda McMahon on serving children with disabilities)
parent groups and organizations that support families of children with disabilities by state
National Disability Rights Network (NDRN)
The Center for Learner Equity
Special education staffing shortages put students’ futures at risk. How to solve that is tricky. By Kalyn Belsha | November 19, 2024
Ending the U.S. Department of Education: What it would mean and why Trump and Project 2025 want it By Erica Meltzer | August 23, 2024
Many young kids missed early special ed services due to COVID, compounding work for schools By Kalyn Belsha | May 24, 2023
Educators see struggling students. After a pandemic year, do they need extra help or services for a disability? By Kalyn Belsha | September 1, 2021

#Chalkbeat #SpecialEducation #IDEA #EducationPolicy #TeacherShortage #SpecialEd #Advocacy #StudentRights #DisabilityRights #EducationEquity #ParentAdvocacy #CivilRights #EducationNews #SpecialEducationTeacher #ParaProfessional #SchoolPolicy #StudentServices #InclusiveEducation #EducationReform #K12Education

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Coaching, Teaching, & Classroom Management Strategies Sparked From My Conversation with Kass Minor (❤️Olivia Wahl)

Fri, 03 Jan 2025 00:00:00 -0500

In this bonus episode, I reflect on my S4E17 conversation with educator Kass Minor and explore the urgent need for transformative education in 2025. I discuss The Minor Collective's community-based approach to education and highlight key insights from Kass's blog about preparing students for real-world challenges alongside revisions to the NYS Portrait of a Graduate. Drawing from recent research and a New York Times guest essay, Giving Kids Some Autonomy Has Surprising Results by Jenny Anderson and Rebecca Winthrop, the co-authors of The Disengaged Teen: Helping Kids Learn Better, Feel Better, and Live Better.

I examine why student autonomy and agency are crucial for engagement and success. I share practical strategies for educators and caregivers to create learning environments where students can:

➡️develop essential life skills,

➡️navigate diverse perspectives,

➡️and pursue their curiosities while meeting academic goals.

This episode offers a hopeful yet pragmatic vision for education that extends beyond traditional academics to help students thrive in an increasingly complex world.

#KassMinor #CorneliusMinor #TheMinorCollective #RadicallyProKid #TeachingFiercely #TeacherAgency #SocialJusticeEducation #EdChat #Education #StudentAgency, #AuthenticLearning

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Teaching Fiercely: Justice, Joy, & Transformation with Kass Minor

Mon, 30 Dec 2024 01:00:00 -0500

Join me in conversation with educator and author Kass Minor as we explore the intersection of justice, joy, and transformative teaching practices. Kass, the author of Teaching Fiercely: Spreading Joy and Justice in Our Schools, shares powerful insights about creating inclusive classroom environments that honor students' whole selves while empowering teachers to trust their professional judgment.

Key topics include:

➡️Why teacher agency is critical for meaningful educational transformation

➡️The importance of integrating foundational teaching frameworks with justice-oriented practices

➡️ How somatic literacy and body awareness impact teaching effectiveness

➡️Using six-word stories as a powerful assessment tool

➡️Creating a curriculum that responds to student needs and community context

Drawing from her experience as a New York City Teacher and her extensive work in educational development, Kass offers practical strategies for building more equitable and joyful learning spaces. This conversation bridges theory and practice, offering you concrete ways to create classrooms where both teachers and students can thrive.

Whether you're a classroom teacher, administrator, or education advocate, this episode provides valuable insights for reimagining education through a lens of justice, community, and collective action.

Some Episode Mentions:

Kass’s Recommendations & Published Works:

#TeachingFiercely #TeacherAgency #SocialJusticeEducation #EquitableEducation #CulturallyResponsiveTeaching #InclusiveEducation #SomaticLearning #CommunityBasedLearning #TeacherLeadership #CurriculumDesign #StudentVoice #TeacherReflection #JoyfulLearning

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

BONUS: Coaching, Teaching, & Classroom Management Strategies Sparked From My Conversation with Jennifer McCarty Plucker, Ed.D.(❤️Olivia Wahl)

Fri, 27 Dec 2024 01:00:00 -0500

In this bonus episode of Schoolutions: Coaching and Teaching Strategies, I expand on my conversation with Jennifer McCarty Plucker, Ed. D. about book access and classroom libraries. Drawing from experts like Tammy Mulligan, Clare Landrigan, Towanda Harris, Cris Tovani, Kate Roberts, Donalyn Miller, Colby Sharp, and Molly Ness, I explore strategies for building effective classroom libraries, empowering students to create their own text sets, and ensuring equitable book access.

You’ll learn about the importance of strategic partnerships, diverse representation in book selections, and community engagement in addressing book deserts. Essential listening for educators, librarians, and caregivers interested in fostering literacy development through thoughtful curation of reading resources.

Episode Mentions:

S4 E16: Mackin Educational Resources: Digital Learning Platforms & Library Services with Jennifer McCarty Plucker, Ed.D.
It’s All About the Books: How to Create Bookrooms and Classroom Libraries That Inspire Readers by Tammy Mulligan and Clare Landrigan
The Right Tools: A Guide to Selecting, Evaluating, and Implementing Classroom Resources and Practices by Towanda Harris
Why Do I Have to Read This? Literacy Strategies to Engage Our Most Reluctant Students by Cris Tovani
The Heart of Fiction: Reading for Character, Theme, & Craft by Kate Roberts
Game Changer: Book Access for All Kids by Donalyn Miller and Colby Sharp
S3 E5: The Role of Read Alouds in the Science of Reading with Dr. Molly Ness
End Book Deserts

#BookAccess #LiteracyEducation #ClassroomLibraries #TextSets #TeacherResources #StudentEmpowerment #BookDeserts #ReadingEquity #LiteracyDevelopment #EducatorPodcast #BookCuration #SchoolLibraries #DiverseBooks #TeachingStrategies #EdChat #Mackin

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Mackin Educational Resources: Digital Learning Platforms & Library Services with Jennifer McCarty Plucker, Ed.D.

Mon, 23 Dec 2024 01:00:00 -0500

Discover how Mackin Educational Resources partners with educators to provide comprehensive support for classroom and library resources. In this episode, Jennifer McCarty Plucker, Ed.D., Director of Learning and Development at Mackin reveals invaluable free services and tools available to educators, including:

➡️Access to a catalog of over 3 million titles

➡️Expert help with curating classroom resources and text sets

➡️Free Storyteller Spotlight events featuring authors like Jeff Kinney

➡️Technical support for processing, barcoding, and labeling

➡️Digital integration through MackinVIA and MackinVision platforms

➡️Makerspace resources and hands-on learning materials

➡️Collection analysis services

➡️Family engagement resources

Perfect for teachers, librarians, and education leaders looking to save time and money while enhancing student engagement. Learn how Mackin's "let's find a way to yes" approach helps educators build diverse, standards-aligned collections that serve all learners.

Drawing on foundational research from John T. Guthrie and real classroom experience, this episode offers you practical solutions for getting quality materials into students' hands. Whether you're managing a school library, building classroom collections, or supporting family literacy initiatives, you'll discover tools and strategies you can implement right away.

Episode Mentions:

S3 E39: Using Inquiry to Inspire Lifelong Readers with Dr. Jennifer McCarty Plucker
Engagement With Young Adult Literature: Outcomes and Processes by Gay Ivey, Peter H. Johnston 20 March 2013 https://doi.org/10.1002/rrq.46 or https://ila.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/rrq.46
Teens Choosing to Read by Gay Ivey and Peter Johnston https://a.co/d/e4K9Q5s
Mackin website and catalog: www.mackin.com
Library Custom List Request form: https://search.mackin.com/list-request
Classroom Custom Book List Request form: https://home.mackin.com/classroom/classroom-custom-book-list-request/
Storyteller Spotlight: https://home.mackin.com/resources/storyteller-spotlight/
To Reach Jen: jenniferplucker.com or MackinLearning.com

Jen’s Other Recommended Resources:

Link to blog writing: https://mackinlearning.com/author/jennifer-mp/
Link to order Inspiring Lifelong Readers https://a.co/d/9xIeTUK
Baiting the Reading Hook: https://ascd.org/el/articles/baiting-the-reading-hook

#EdChat #SchoolLibrary#LibraryLife #LibraryResources #Librarians #SchoolLibrarians #LibraryLove #Literacy #ReadingCommunity #LiteracyMatters #EdTech #DigitalLearning #ELearning #TechInEd #ClassroomLibrary #TextSets #MakerSpace #ClassroomResources #TeachingResources #BookLists #MackinEd #MackinVIA #MackinResources #StorytellerSpotlight

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

BONUS: Coaching, Teaching, & Classroom Management Strategies Sparked From My Conversation with Stephanie Leavell (❤️Olivia Wahl)

Fri, 20 Dec 2024 01:00:00 -0500

In this bonus episode of Schoolutions: Coaching and Teaching Strategies, I explore the fascinating science and power of repetition in learning. Following my conversation with Stephanie Leavell, creator of Music for Kiddos, I dive into how repetition impacts brain development, memory retention, and skill mastery across all age groups.

Drawing from multiple research sources, I break down key concepts like active recall, the spacing effect, and spaced repetition learning. I share a compelling classroom observation of how repetition helped both a teacher and his students build confidence through multiple presentation practices. The episode also covers how repetition benefits early childhood development, the importance of repeated read-alouds for young children, and why we find repetition in music so appealing.

Whether you're an educator, caregiver, or lifelong learner, this episode offers practical insights into how strategic repetition can enhance learning outcomes and why "practice makes perfect" is more than just a saying – it's backed by neuroscience. I conclude the episode with valuable tips for implementing repetitive practice effectively in both classroom and home environments.

Episode Mentions:

➡️S4 E15: Music Therapy in Schools: Strategies for Teachers and Child Development with Stephanie Leavell, Creator of Music for Kiddos

➡️Unlock the power of repetition: A groundbreaking learning method - Traverse 10/2023

➡️Eva Keiffenheim’s The Feynman Technique Can Help You Remember Everything You Read

➡️9 Benefits of Repetition for Learning - Iris Reading

➡️The Power of Repetition - Queensland Government - Department of Early Childhood Education and Care 8/2023

➡️Repeated Read Alouds May Lead to Reading Success for Young Children by Timothy Rasinski

➡️Why we love repetition in music - TED-Ed by Elizabeth Hellmuth Margulis

➡️Hot Chocolate song reel

#TeacherResources #TeacherTips #TeachingStrategies #EducationPodcast #TeacherLife #EduTalk #EducatorResources #K12Education #LearningScience #BrainDevelopment #CognitiveScience #SpacedRepetition #ActiveRecall #LearningStrategies #StudyTips #MemoryTechniques #BrainScience #LearningProcess #EarlyChildhood #EarlyLearning #ReadAloud #EarlyLiteracy #ChildDevelopment #EarlyEducation #PreschoolActivities #KidsLearning #ParentingTips #EarlyYears #MusicEducation #MusicTherapy #MusicAndLearning #ArtsEducation #MusicInSchools #ChildrensMusic #MusicForKids #MusicTeacher #MusicClassroom #MusicLearning

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Music Therapy in Schools: Strategies for Teachers and Child Development with Stephanie Leavell, Creator of Music for Kiddos

Mon, 16 Dec 2024 01:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I dive deep into the transformative power of music education with my guest Stephanie Leavell, creator of Music for Kiddos and board-certified music therapist. You’ll discover how music serves as more than just entertainment, acting as a vital tool for child development, emotional regulation, and academic learning.

Stephanie shares practical strategies for incorporating music into early childhood education, including lesson planning tips and the critical role of repetition in learning. From her journey as a reluctant performer to becoming a passionate music educator, Stephanie offers valuable insights for teachers, therapists, and caregivers about creating engaging musical experiences.

Whether you're an educator looking to enhance your classroom practices or a caregiver interested in supporting your child's development, my conversation with Stephanie illuminates the multifaceted impact of music on young minds.

Join us to learn how to build a more musical environment that supports children's growth, emotional well-being, and learning potential.

Key topics include:

➡️Simplifying music lesson planning for early childhood

➡️Understanding children's music processing and engagement

➡️Creating supportive learning environments through music

➡️Balancing structure and flexibility in music education

➡️The emotional impact of music on child development

Episode Mentions:

Slow Down song
Watermelon Watermelon song
Berklee College of Music
Music for Kiddos community, blog, & podcast
Dr. Sarah Gulish
Rosie Rocks!

Stephanie’s Other Recommended Resources:

#StephanieLeavell #MusicforKiddos #TeachingStrategies #EarlyChildhoodEducation #TeacherResources #TeacherTips #PreschoolTeacher #MusicEducation #MusicTherapy #ChildrensMusic #MusicTeacher #MusicForKids #ChildDevelopment #EarlyLearning #ChildhoodEducation #PlayBasedLearning #SensoryProcessing #TeacherPD #TeacherGrowth #EducatorResources #TeacherCommunity #MusicCommunity

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

BONUS: Coaching, Teaching, & Classroom Management Strategies Sparked From My Conversation with Denise Goldin-Dubois (❤️Olivia Wahl)

Fri, 13 Dec 2024 09:00:00 -0500

In this bonus episode of Schoolutions: Coaching and Teaching Strategies, I reflect on my recent conversation with Denise Goldin-Dubois about her Three Student Protocol.

I explore essential aspects of building trust and relationships in educational settings, drawing insights from influential books and my mentors in the coaching field.

I delve into the importance of distinguishing between facts and inferences when working with teachers, the hidden values behind complaints, and the art of genuine listening in coaching relationships.

I share practical wisdom from works like Agents of Change by Lucy West and Toni Cameron,Coaching A-Z by Haesun Moon, PhD, and The Thin Book of Trust by Charles Feltman, offering valuable perspectives on developing meaningful connections in educational environments.

Perfect for educators, coaches, and administrators, this episode provides actionable insights on:

➡️ building trust,

➡️ understanding the developmental landscape of teaching,

➡️and creating stronger relationships in educational settings.

I end with Charles Feltman’s practical steps for cultivating trust through care and transparency in professional relationships.

#EdChat #TeacherCoaching #EducationalLeadership #ThreeStudentProtocol #TrustInEducation #SchoolCoach #ProfessionalDevelopment #TeacherPD #RelationshipBuilding #SchoolCulture #TeacherSupport #InstructionalCoaching #AssetBasedThinking #EducatorWellness #CoachingConversations #SchoolImprovement #TeacherMentoring #StudentSuccess #TeacherEffectiveness #SchoolLeadership

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Teacher Planning Revolution: Using the Three Student Protocol to Improve Student Outcomes with Denise Goldin-Dubois

Mon, 09 Dec 2024 01:00:00 -0500

Join me in conversation with veteran educator Denise Goldin-Dubois to explore her innovative three student protocol – a powerful planning and reflection tool that helps teachers deepen their practice. With over 25 years of experience in public education, Denise shares how focusing intentionally on three specific students can transform instruction for an entire classroom.

Learn how to move beyond broad generalizations and track observable facts about your students rather than making inferences. Discover practical strategies for making your planning more concrete and actionable, whether you're a classroom teacher, instructional coach, or administrator. Denise explains how this protocol can be adapted for multiple contexts, from individual classroom planning to professional learning communities and teacher evaluations.

This episode offers valuable insights for educators looking to humanize their practice while improving outcomes for all learners. Whether you're teaching math, literacy, or any other subject, you'll come away with practical tools to better understand and support your students' unique needs and potential.

Highlights include:

How to select and track three focus students without falling into high/medium/low categorizations
Ways to anticipate and plan for student responses to tasks
Strategies for using the protocol in professional learning teams
Tips for making evaluation data more meaningful through student-centered narratives
Methods for shifting from teacher-centered to student-centered instruction

Episode Mentions:

Denise’s Other Resources:

#ThreeStudentProtocol #FivePromisesofMathClass #TeacherTips #StudentCenteredLearning #DifferentiatedInstruction #InstructionalCoaching #TeacherPlanning #ProfessionalLearning #TeacherPD #EquitableEducation #TeacherReflection #DataDrivenInstruction #EdChat #PedagogyMatters #StudentSuccess #TeachingStrategies #HumanizedLearning #PLCs #PLTs #TeacherCommunity #MathTeachers #K12Education

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

BONUS: Coaching, Teaching, & Classroom Management Strategies Sparked From My Conversation with Tyler Rablin (❤️Olivia Wahl)

Fri, 06 Dec 2024 01:00:00 -0500

In this bonus episode, I delve deeper into transformative approaches to feedback and assessment in education. Building on my conversation with Tyler Rablin (S4E13), I share crucial insights from my recent experiences coaching middle school teachers and explore why less is often more when it comes to student feedback. I challenge traditional notions of mastery-based assessment, advocating instead for a growth-focused approach that recognizes each student's unique learning journey.

Drawing from respected educational research and my hands-on coaching experience, l discuss why formative assessment should be viewed as an ongoing action rather than a mere task. I explore practical strategies for making feedback more meaningful and share a powerful story about co-teaching and student self-assessment.

Whether you're an educator, administrator, or caregiver, this episode offers valuable perspectives on creating more effective and student-centered assessment practices.

Key topics:

👉The optimal amount of feedback students can effectively use

👉Rethinking formative assessment as a verb rather than a noun

👉The importance of prioritizing growth over mastery

👉Practical strategies for implementing student-driven assessment

👉Real-world examples of effective co-teaching and feedback models

Episode Mentions:

➡️Angela Stockman’s blog post: 10 things you don’t know about formative assessment

➡️S2 E6: No More "Point-Less" Grading Systems with Dr. Sarah M. Zerwin

➡️Sarah Zerwin’s book: Point-Less: An English Teacher’s Guide to More Meaningful Grading

➡️Eva Keiffenheim’s The Feynman Technique Can Help You Remember Everything You Read

#FormativeAssessment #tudentFeedback #TeacherCoaching #GrowthMindset #StudentCenteredLearning #EdChat #TeacherPodcast #FormativeAssessment #StudentFeedback #TeacherCoaching #MiddleSchoolTeaching #GrowthMindset #StudentGrowth #CoTeaching #EducationalLeadership #TeachingStrategies #StudentCenteredLearning #ProfessionalLearning #AssessmentPractices #TeacherTips #EducationInnovation #SchoolLeadership #KidsDeserveIt

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Revolutionizing Student Motivation: Assessment Strategies That Actually Work with Tyler Rablin

Mon, 02 Dec 2024 01:00:00 -0500

Join me in conversation with coach and author Tyler Rablin to explore transformative approaches to student motivation and learning. Focusing on his book Hacking Student Motivation: 5 Assessment Strategies That Boost Learning Progression and Build Student Confidence (Hack Learning Series), Tyler shares innovative strategies for assessment, feedback, and building student confidence.

Drawing from his experience as a high school English teacher, he discusses how educators can move beyond traditional grading to create learning environments that empower students, foster autonomy, and help them see their own potential.

You will gain practical insights into creating meaningful learning progressions, providing effective feedback, and motivating students through choice and personalized learning approaches.

Episode Mentions:

Some of Tyler’s favorite resources that connect to our conversation:

Tyler’s published writing and work:

#Education #HackingStudentMotivation #StudentMotivation #AssessmentStrategies #TeacherInspiration #LearningProgressions #Feedback #StudentConfidence #EducationalTechnology #TeachingMethods #StudentEmpowerment

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

BONUS: Coaching, Teaching, & Classroom Management Strategies Sparked From My Conversation with Morgan Davis (❤️Olivia Wahl)

Fri, 29 Nov 2024 00:00:00 -0500

In this bonus episode, I share insights from my recent work with school district coaches, highlighting the importance of flexibility, responsive coaching, and building professional communities.

I detail a transformative week of coaching labs and one-on-one sessions, exploring innovative approaches to supporting educators. The episode offers a deep dive into how coaches can:

➡️Create more adaptive professional learning structures

➡️Develop collaborative thought partnerships

➡️Design flexible coaching cycles

➡️Support teachers in reimagining classroom interactions

You will gain practical strategies for creating more responsive and supportive educational environments, with a focus on truly meeting the needs of both teachers and students.

Whether you're an educator, coach, or administrator, this episode provides valuable insights into modern educational support methodologies.

Episode Mentions:

S4 E12: Coaching Impact Circles: Transforming Team Feedback Through Learning Labs with Morgan Davis
Vander Ark, T. (2018, August 22). Personalize learning and build agency by using the 4 PLC questions. Education Week.
Knight, J., Hoffman, A., Harris, M., & Thomas, S. (2020). The instructional playbook: The missing link for translating research into practice. ASCD.

#InstructionalCoaching #TeacherCoaching #CoachingImpact #ProfessionalLearning #TeacherPD #CoachingNotes #LearningLabs #TeacherCollaboration #CoachingCycles #PLCs #EdLeadership #CoachingLeadership #SchoolLeaders #InstructionalLeadership #TeacherLeader #CoachBetter #CoachingCommunity #TeacherCommunity #EdChat #TeacherLife #EdTech #FutureOfEducation#EducatorsOfInstagram #TeacherGrowth #TeamCoaching #CoachingImpactCycles #TeacherReflection #CollectiveLearning #CoachingRisks #JeffcoSchools #ColoradoTeachers #COedu #PublicEducation #K12Education

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Coaching Impact Circles: Transforming Team Feedback Through Learning Labs with Morgan Davis

Mon, 25 Nov 2024 01:00:00 -0500

Join me in conversation with Morgan Davis, a coach's coach from Jeffco Public Schools, about reimagining coaching support through coaching impact circles. Morgan shares how her district is blending learning labs, research-based practices, and team coaching to create more effective professional development experiences. She discusses her innovative approach to "team coaching notes" and explains why maintaining a spirit of inquiry, rather than showcasing perfection, leads to more authentic teacher growth.

The conversation explores how creating spaces for genuine teacher collaboration doesn't always require heavy structure, and why the most effective coaching frameworks emphasize vulnerability and continuous learning. Morgan also offers practical insights into how coaches can balance being both facilitators and learners while supporting teacher development across 166 buildings serving 81,000 students.

Episode Mentions:

Karrie Fansler’s Responsive Coaching Cycle
BOCES
Previous Episodes
Morgan Davis & It’s About Making Space
Jeffco Public Schools
Morgan’s Coaches - Vicki Reed and Katie Grisham
Ron Ritchhardt’s - Cultures of Thinking in Action
Jim Knight’s Impact Cycle
Communities of Practice
Sam Bennett
Huang, J. W. (2023, November 28). 4 practices of warm demander teachers: A well-known approach that combines high expectations with a firm belief in students’ ability to succeed can guide them to deeper learning. The Learning Professional.
Killion, Joellen. (2024, August). Coaching heavy, coaching light: How to deepen professional practice. The Learning Professional, 45(4).
Denise Goldin-Dubois
Team Coach Notes (Sample)
Cognitive Coaching & Reflecting Map Questions:
- Decisions: What decisions were you making before the lesson or in the moment?
- Others: What are you noticing about students or other teachers in the classroom; other adults you are working or who are working with students?
- Compare: How did this lesson compare to the design that was i

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

BONUS: Coaching, Teaching, & Classroom Management Strategies Sparked From My Conversation with Christa Núñez (❤️Olivia Wahl)

Fri, 22 Nov 2024 01:00:00 -0500

In this BONUS episode of Schoolutions: Coaching and Teaching Strategies, I explore the transformative power of growth mindset, community building, and shared meals. I reflect on my conversation with community leader Christa Núñez, diving deep into how educators, organizations, and individuals can foster continuous learning, equity, and meaningful connections. Drawing from insights by Carol S. Dweck and inspirational resources, I discuss the importance of viewing challenges as opportunities, valuing effort, and building trust through intentional community engagement.

Episode Mentions:

➡️Christa Núñez

➡️S4 E11: Urban Agriculture Education: Building Equitable Food Systems Through Community Grants with Christa Núñez

➡️Khuba International

➡️The Learning Farm

➡️Dweck, C. S. (2010). Even Geniuses Work Hard. Educational Leadership, 68(1), 9.

➡️EL Education. (Updated in 2023). Core Practices: A vision for improving schools.

➡️The Power of Sharing a Meal | Laura Flosi | TEDxYouth@Upanga

➡️The Unifying Power of Food: How Sharing a Meal Brings Us Together

#EducationPodcast #GrowthMindset #CommunityBuilding #TeachingStrategies #UrbanAgriculture #FoodAndCommunity #ProfessionalDevelopment #EducatorInspiration #SchoolCulture #MeaningfulLearning #KhubaInternational #FarmerScholar #UbuntuLibrary #TheLearningFarm #FoodJustice #LandAccess #CommunityEmpowerment #EquitableAgriculture #LiteracyMatters #BlackFarmersUnited #CommunityGrants #LocalPolitics #GrantStory #WomenInAgriculture

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Urban Agriculture Education: Building Equitable Food Systems Through Community Grants with Christa Núñez

Mon, 18 Nov 2024 01:00:00 -0500

In this inspiring episode, I sit down with Christa Núñez, a transformative force in community agriculture and education. As founder of KHUBA International, Christa shares how she's revolutionizing access to land ownership and literacy through innovative programs like the Ubuntu Library and The Learning Farm. From securing a groundbreaking $700,000 grant for farm-stay housing to creating home libraries for underserved children, Christa reveals her strategic approach to building equitable food systems and empowering farmer-scholars.

You will gain practical insights into:

➡️Successful grant writing

➡️Community partnership building

➡️Nonprofit development

Christa also discusses her upcoming Fulbright Fellowship to Ghana, where she'll research historical connections between African American civil rights and Ghanaian independence movements.

This episode offers a masterclass in combining social justice, education, and agriculture to create lasting community change. Whether you're a nonprofit leader, educator, or community advocate, you'll find valuable strategies for turning visionary ideas into funded realities.

Join us for this powerful discussion about cultivating literacy, land access, and cross-cultural understanding in the next generation of community leaders.

Some Episode Mentions:

#KhubaInternational #FarmerScholar #UbuntuLibrary #TheLearningFarm #FoodJustice #LandAccess #CommunityEmpowerment #EquitableAgriculture #LiteracyMatters #BlackFarmersUnited #CommunityGrants

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

BONUS: Coaching, Teaching, & Classroom Management Strategies Sparked From My Conversation with Karrie Fansler (❤️ Olivia Wahl)

Fri, 15 Nov 2024 01:00:00 -0500

In this bonus episode, I delve into the art of collaborative coaching through the lens of personal experience and relationship-building. I discuss how the universe brings people together at the right moments, particularly highlighting my connection with Karrie Fansler and our work with her responsive coaching cycle.

I share how I have implemented the innovative eight-phase responsive coaching model developed by Karrie and her 36 Evergreen Public Schools district coaches, explaining how it can be flexibly implemented in five practical sessions.

Key topics include
➡️The importance of choice and autonomy in coaching relationships
➡️How to document and track coaching progress effectively
➡️Practical strategies for implementing coaching cycles
➡️Building trust between coaches and teachers
➡️Maintaining confidentiality while keeping administrators informed using Learning Forward's 4Ts of Confidentiality
➡️The parallel between coaching teachers and conferring with students

The episode offers valuable insights for instructional coaches, teachers, and educational leaders looking to enhance their coaching practice while keeping students at the center of their work.

Check out my episode with Karrie here!

#InstructionalCoaching #ResponsiveCoachingCycle #CoachingCycle #EDUCoach #TeacherCoaching #TeacherPD #StudentLearning #TeacherLeadership #SchoolLeadership #EDULeadership #TeacherDignity #TeacherAgency #CoachingInEducation #TeachingAndLearning #K12Education #EDUChat #CoachingConversations #TeacherSupport #InstructionalLeadership #CoachingPractice #CoachingFramework #StudentCentered #CoachingPartnership #RealityBasedCoaching #ResponsiveCoaching #TeacherInquiry #CoachingDocumentation #ClassroomReality #TeacherReflection #CoachingSparkMoments

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Student-Centered Coaching: Building Effective Teacher Partnerships with Karrie Fansler

Mon, 11 Nov 2024 00:00:00 -0500

Join me in conversation with Karrie Fansler, Learning Design Specialist with Evergreen Public Schools, as we explore her innovative eight-phase coaching cycle that transforms traditional instructional coaching. Karrie shares how her team of 36 coaches developed this dynamic framework that puts student learning at the center while honoring teacher dignity and inquiry.

Learn about each phase of the cycle - from capturing initial "sparks" of teacher interest to establishing shared classroom reality, refining focus areas, and setting intentional next steps. Karrie explains how coaches can make this cycle responsive to individual teachers' needs, whether working through a quick 15-minute conversation or engaging in deeper long-term partnerships.

This episode offers practical strategies for instructional coaches looking to:

➡️Build stronger coaching partnerships grounded in student learning

➡️Make coaching conversations more intentional and impactful

➡️Balance structure and flexibility in coaching cycles

➡️Document and capture learning in ways that work for different teachers

➡️Center teacher agency while maintaining a clear coaching purpose

Whether you're new to instructional coaching or looking to refine your practice, this conversation provides a fresh framework for making coaching more responsive, collaborative, and focused on what matters most - student learning.

Episode Mentions:

Responsive Coaching Cycle (graphic)
Evergreen Public Schools
That Workshop Book by Sam Bennett & Sam’s Circles of Engagement
Why Do I Have to Read This? Literacy Strategies to Engage Our Most Reluctant Students by Cris Tovani
How to use both print and digital notebooks to organize your coaching practice by Matt Renwick
Reggio Emilia Documentation Panels

Get in touch with Karrie @kafansler@gmail.com

#InstructionalCoaching #ResponsiveCoachingCycle #CoachingCycle #EDUCoach #TeacherCoaching #TeacherPD #StudentLearning #TeacherLeadership #SchoolLeadership #EDULeadership #TeacherDignity #TeacherAgency #CoachingInEducation #TeachingAndLearning #K12Education #EDUChat #CoachingConversations #TeacherSupport #InstructionalLeadership #CoachingPractice #CoachingFramework #StudentCentered #CoachingPartnership #RealityBasedCoaching #ResponsiveCoaching #TeacherInquiry #CoachingDocumentation #ClassroomReality #TeacherReflection #CoachingSparkMoments

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

BONUS: Coaching, Teaching, & Classroom Management Strategies Sparked From My Conversation with Ari Gerzon-Kessler (❤️ Olivia Wahl)

Fri, 08 Nov 2024 01:00:00 -0500

In this bonus episode of Schoolutions: Coaching and Teaching Strategies, I discuss creating safe, inclusive school environments during election season. Following my interview with Ari Gerzon-Kessler, I explore how educators can lean on the strategies and writing of experts to support students and families during politically sensitive times. Drawing from various education experts and authors, I examine the importance of welcoming all perspectives while maintaining professional boundaries, processing fear productively, and fostering genuine curiosity. Rather than promoting specific political views, I urge us to consider the educator's role in facilitating thoughtful discussions and ensuring every student and caregiver feels seen, heard, and valued in school spaces.

Episode Mentions:

#Education #FamilyEngagement #EducatorResources #SchoolLeadership #FETteams #TeacherPodcast #FamilyPartnerships #EquitableEducation #SchoolCommunity #TeacherResources #EdLeadership #SchoolAdmin #K12 #TeacherPD #ParentEngagement #Schoolutions #UnderrepresentedFamilies #EducationalEquity #CommunityEngagement #SchoolCulture #BetterTogether #TeachersOfInstagram #EdChat #PrincipalLife #SchoolSuccess #FamilyPartnerships #EducatorPodcast #ProfessionalDevelopment #SchoolImprovement #EquitableSchools

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Building Authentic Family-School Partnerships: FET Teams to Transform Engagement with Ari Gerzon-Kessler

Mon, 04 Nov 2024 01:00:00 -0500

In this powerful episode, Ari Gerzon-Kessler shares practical strategies for creating meaningful connections between schools and underrepresented families through his innovative Families and Educators Together (FET) teams model. Drawing from his experience as a teacher, principal, and current leader of the Family Partnerships Department for Boulder Valley School District, Ari discusses:

➡️The critical difference between family involvement versus authentic partnership

➡️How to successfully launch and sustain FET teams

➡️The importance of moving beyond traditional involvement to true collaboration

➡️Practical ways to build trust through intentional practices

➡️Creating sustainable structures for family-school partnerships

➡️Seven key strategies for promoting positive family communication

➡️Real examples of successful action projects and outcomes

➡️The value of flattening hierarchies and creating psychological safety

🌟Ari’s Book: On the Same Team: Bringing Educators and Underrepresented Families Together, won the Independent Publishers Book Awards 2024 IPPY Gold Medal for outstanding education book.

↪️Other Resources Mentioned:

Ari’s Bio:

Ari Gerzon-Kessler is author of On The Same Team: Bringing Educators & Underrepresented Families Together, which won the Independent Publishers Book Awards 2024 IPPY Gold Medal for outstanding education book. He is a speaker, trainer, and coach working with schools and districts committed to forging stronger school-family partnerships. Ari also leads the Family Partnerships department for the Boulder Valley School District (CO).

🎙️New episodes release every Monday featuring research-backed coaching and teaching strategies you can apply right away to better serve the children in your care.

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

How to Organize Coaching Notes: Insights from Matt Renwick

Mon, 28 Oct 2024 01:00:00 -0400

Join instructional coaching expert Matt Renwick as he shares practical strategies for organizing your coaching practice using print and digital notebooks. Drawing from research like the Zeigarnik effect and his extensive experience in education, Matt offers you invaluable insights on:

➡️When to use print vs. digital documentation

➡️Creating effective daily coaching logs

➡️Maintaining teacher trust while taking notes

➡️Providing meaningful post-observation feedback

➡️Managing confidentiality with administrators

➡️Building sustainable documentation systems

Whether you're a new coach struggling with note-taking or a veteran looking to streamline your practice, this episode provides concrete strategies you can implement right away. Matt shares his personal system for using both physical and digital tools to create a "second brain" that helps manage the complexity of instructional coaching.

Perfect for:

⏩Instructional Coaches

⏩Teacher Leaders

⏩Administrators

⏩Professional Learning Specialists

⏩Anyone supporting teacher growth

Don't miss this practical conversation about building effective coaching documentation practices while maintaining trust and confidentiality with teachers.

Mentions:

The Zeigarnik effect
Matt’s blog
Why Writing by Hand Is Better for Memory and Learning (Scientific American - February 21, 2024)
Why writing by hand beats typing for thinking and learning (NPR - May 11, 2024)

Don’t forget to check out my last conversation with Matt, S2 E33: How to Support Educators Resistant to Change.

Matt’s other recommended resources:

Matt’s book and companion resources:

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Empowering Educators: Rethinking Smartphone Policies in the Classroom with Michael B. Horn

Mon, 21 Oct 2024 01:00:00 -0400

In this episode of Schoolutions: Coaching and Teaching Strategies, I have an insightful discussion with education expert Michael B. Horn about the complex issue of smartphone bans in schools. Horn, a co-founder, distinguished fellow, and chairman at the Clayton Christensen Institute for Disruptive Innovation, offers a balanced perspective on this hot-button topic.

Our conversation explores:

➡️Effective strategies for implementing smartphone restrictions in schools

➡️The importance of community involvement in decision-making

➡️Potential positive uses of smartphones in educational settings

➡️The impact of smartphone use on student well-being and learning

➡️The need for nuanced, context-specific approaches rather than blanket bans

Horn advocates for empowering educators to make decisions about technology use in their classrooms rather than relying on top-down policy mandates. He also discusses the broader implications of smartphone use among young people and the role of parents in navigating this challenging landscape.

You will leave our conversation with valuable insights on how to grapple with the role of technology in education and young people's lives. You'll also come away with a more nuanced understanding of the smartphone debate and practical considerations for addressing this issue in your communities.

Send me a voice memo or email me at schoolutionspodcast@gmail.com to share your strategies for navigating restrictions and innovations with technology in your home, school, or district.

🌟Episode Mentions:

#MichaelBHorn #ChristensenInstitute #DisruptiveInnovation #SmartphonesinSchools #WaitUntil8th #YondrPouch #JonathanHaidt #AnxiousGeneration #JeanTwenge #DigitalDetox #MindfulTech #EdTech #DigitalCitizenship #TeachingStrategies #ClassroomManagement #EducationInnovation #SchoolPolicy #TechInEducation #StudentEngagement #21stCenturyLearning #DigitalLiteracy #SchoolLeadership #ParentingTech #TeacherAutonomy #BlendedLearning #ScreenTime #DigitalWellbeing #FutureofEducation #K12Education #EducatorEmpowerment

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Empowering Coaches: Strategies for Impactful Data Team Participation with Julie Wright

Mon, 14 Oct 2024 01:00:00 -0400

In this episode of Schoolutions: Coaching and Teaching Strategies, I welcome back Julie Wright, a veteran educator and instructional coach, for an insightful discussion on the role of coaches in data meetings.

Together, we unpack the evolving terms RtI (Response to Intervention) and MTSS (Multi-Tiered System of Support) and delve into how coaches can use qualitative and quantitative data to enhance their impact.

Julie shares actionable strategies for fostering collaboration, balancing coaching approaches, and ensuring that every student's strengths are at the forefront of educational planning.

Coaches, teachers, and administrators alike will walk away with fresh insights and tools to better support their school communities.

✨Don’t forget to check out my last conversation with Julie, S2 E24: Solving Problems of Practice When It Comes to Our Current RtI Models. Here are Julie’s other recommended resources.

#InstructionalCoaching #RTI #MTSS #DataDrivenTeaching #EducationPodcast #CoachingInEducation #StudentSuccess #CollaborativeTeaching #TeacherSupport #EducationStrategies #StudentCenteredLearning #ProfessionalDevelopment #K12Education #InstructionalStrategies #PodcastForEducators #WhatsOurResponse #JulieWright #JulieWrightConsulting

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Teaching Reading Across the Day: Strategies for Engaging Instruction with Jennifer Serravallo

Mon, 07 Oct 2024 01:00:00 -0400

In this episode of Schoolutions: Coaching and Teaching Strategies, I welcome back New York Times bestselling author and educator Jennifer Serravallo to discuss her latest book, Teaching Reading Across the Day: Methods and Structures for Engaging Explicit Instruction.

Jen shares insights on:

The importance of balancing research-based practices with teacher autonomy
Nine different lesson structures for teaching reading throughout the school day
How to use various grouping strategies like focus groups, guided inquiry, and conversation groups
Incorporating socio-cultural context into reading instruction
Practical tips for implementing these structures in the classroom

Whether you're a seasoned educator looking to enhance your practice or a pre-service teacher seeking guidance, this episode offers valuable strategies for effective reading instruction. Jen and I discuss the research behind these methods and how teachers can adapt them to meet the needs of their students.

Tune in for an enlightening conversation on making reading instruction more meaningful and complete by acknowledging students' diverse backgrounds and funds of knowledge.

Jen’s Research Recommendations:

The Science of Reading Progresses: Communicating Advances Beyond the Simple View of Reading by Nell K. Duke & Kelly B. Cartwright (2021)
Principles of Instruction: Research-Based Strategies That All Teachers Should Know by Barak Rosenshine (2012)

#JenniferSerravallo #TeachingReadingAcrossTheDay #ReadingStrategies #WritingStrategies #ReadingInstruction #Corwin #TeacherPD (Professional Development) #LiteracyEducation #TeachingStrategies #EducatorResources #ClassroomIdeas #ReadingTeacher #TeacherAutonomy #TeacherTips #EducationInnovation #TeacherResources #LiteracyMatters #EdChat #DifferentiatedInstruction #LiteracyAcrossTheCurriculum #TeacherEmpowerment #TeacherPodcast

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Beyond Labels: How Words Shape Classroom Dynamics and Family Trust with Nawal Qarooni & Sarah Schlessinger, Ed.D.

Mon, 30 Sep 2024 01:00:00 -0400

In this episode of Schoolutions, host Olivia Wahl engages in a thought-provoking conversation with educators Nawal Qarooni and Sarah Schlessinger, Ed.D., about the crucial impact of language in educational settings. Drawing from their ASCD article Consider Your Words, they discuss:

The importance of mindful language when discussing students and families
Strategies for avoiding harmful labels and preconceived notions
Practical steps for educators to reflect on and improve their use of language
The role of coaches in facilitating these important conversations

Key topics include:

Critical disability studies and linguistic justice in education
Techniques for reframing discussions about student abilities and needs
Engaging families as experts on their children
Building trust and vulnerability in coaching relationships

This episode offers valuable strategies for teachers, coaches, and administrators looking to create more inclusive and supportive learning environments through thoughtful communication.

Featuring research insights from Dr. Sami Schalk, Dr. Subini Ancy Annamma, and Dr. April Baker-Bell, this conversation provides both theoretical grounding and practical advice for educators at all levels.

✨Check Out Nawal and Sarah’s Recommended Researchers & Resources:

Dr. Sami Schalk, who wrote Bodyminds Reimagined and Black Disability Politics
Dr. Subini Ancy Annamma, who was part of the team that coined DisCrit as a term, particularly this piece on DisCrit Classroom Ecology
Dr. April Baker-Bell's Black Linguistic Justice
The Resilient Teacher: Creating Positive Change through Inclusive Classrooms, authored by Sarah L. Schlessinger, collection edited by Janise Hurtig

📣More Episode Mentions:

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Building Military Communities: Connection Strategies for Frequently Relocating Families with Meg & Brett Reichert

Mon, 23 Sep 2024 00:00:00 -0400

Join host Olivia Wahl as she sits down with Meg and Brett Reichert, a military family navigating the unique challenges and unexpected joys of frequent relocation. In this heartfelt episode of Schoolutions: Coaching & Teaching Strategies, the Reicherts open up about:

The realities of moving 6-9 times during a child's K-12 education
Strategies for helping kids build friendships across distances
Balancing career purpose with family needs
Adapting parenting styles to different communities
Finding stability amidst constant change

Meg, a health and wellness coach, and Brett, an Army officer pursuing a Ph.D., share candid insights on raising two young boys while embracing a nomadic lifestyle. Their story illuminates the resilience of military families and offers valuable perspectives on creating "home" wherever you land. Whether you're a military family yourself or simply curious about this unique way of life, this episode provides an intimate look at the sacrifices, adventures, and unexpected gifts of frequently uprooting your family for service.

Meg and Brett offer several strategies for managing life as a military family with frequent moves:

Community Building:
- Joining local mom's Facebook groups to gather information about the new area
- Researching and enrolling in summer camps for kids before moving
- Joining gyms or fitness groups to meet like-minded people and build community
Maintaining Connections:
- Using social media to stay in touch with friends from previous locations
- Setting up video game accounts for kids to play with distant family members and friends
- Encouraging pen pal relationships for children
Education and Transition:
- Researching school districts and academic standards before moving
- Communicating with teachers about the unique needs of military children
- Focusing on the quality of education and community fit rather than just test scores
Home Setup:
- Prioritizing setting up the children's rooms quickly to provide a sense of familiarity and stability
- Creating a "home base" feeling in each new location
Emotional Support:
- Framing moves as adventures to help children view them positively
- Having open conversations about the challenges and benefits of their lifestyle
- Encouraging acceptance and adaptability in different communities
Continuity in Interests:
- Researching opportunities to continue children's hobbies in new locations (e.g., horseback riding for their son)
Parenting Approach:
- Adapting parenting styles to fit into new communities while maintaining core family values
- Balancing work commitments with family time (e.g., Brett consistently putting the kids to bed)
Preparing for Moves:
- Involving children in discussions about potential future locations
- Reflecting on positive aspects of previous homes to create excitement for new possibilities

These strategies focus on maintaining stability, building connections, and fostering resilience in both parents and children as they navigate frequent relocations.

#MilitaryFamily #MilKids #ArmyLife #FrequentMoves #MilitarySpouse #ParentingOnTheMove #ResilienceInKids #MilitaryCommunity #ServiceAndSacrifice #AdventureLifestyle #BalancingCareerAndFamily #MakingFriendsOnTheGo #EducationAcrossBorders #MilitaryChildEducation #AdaptableKids #FamilyResilience #ServeAndParent

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

The Art of the Classroom Visit: Insights from Morgan Davis on Effective Coaching Practices

Mon, 16 Sep 2024 00:00:00 -0400

In this episode of Season 4, Episode 2, I welcome back Morgan Davis, a coach with Jeffco Public Schools in Colorado. Join us as Morgan dives into her insightful strategies for supporting teachers and fostering a thriving classroom environment. 🏫

Morgan shares her approach to starting the school year strong by visiting every classroom and integrating herself as a coach into the daily life of the school. Discover how she uses research-based methods to identify strengths and build on them, ensuring teachers feel supported rather than evaluated. 📚✨

In this episode, you'll learn about:

Morgan's Classroom Visits: How she makes initial visits meaningful and non-evaluative.
The Role of Coaching: Balancing support and observation without adding to teacher stress.
Confidentiality and Transparency: How Morgan maintains trust while navigating her supportive role as a coach separate from the evaluative role of administrators.
Effective Communication: Strategies for providing feedback that truly supports teacher growth and development.

Plus, get a glimpse into Morgan’s successful integration of new resources and how she bridges the gap between teachers and caregivers. Whether you’re a coach, teacher, or administrator, you’ll find valuable insights to enhance your practice and support your team.

✨Check Out Morgan’s Recommended Resources to Support Your Classroom Visits:

📣Episode Mentions:

#EducationPodcast #CoachingStrategies #ClassroomManagement #TeachingTips #EducationalLeadership #TeacherSupport #ProfessionalDevelopment #ClassroomVisits #TeachingResources #FlexibleTeaching #CoachingInEducation #TeacherEngagement #EducationInnovation #LearningEnvironments #EdChat #TeacherCommunity #InstructionalCoaching #EducationExcellence #TeacherGrowth #ClassroomDynamics #TeacherProfessionalGrowth #ClassroomDynamics #TeachingTips #ParallelPractice #Schoolutions #MorganDavis #MorganDavisConsulting #OliviaWahl

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

From Student to Teacher: Trevor Muir's Journey and Insights on Education

Mon, 09 Sep 2024 01:00:00 -0400

Welcome to Season 4, Episode 1 of Schoolutions, the podcast where education transcends the classroom. I’m your host, Olivia Wahl, and in this episode, we’re thrilled to kick off the new school year with a truly inspiring guest, Trevor Muir.

Trevor is an acclaimed educator, author, and founder of the Epic Classroom and Epic PBL. His innovative teaching methods and impactful videos have garnered international acclaim.

Join us as Trevor shares insights from his new book,New Teacher Mindset: Practical and Innovative Strategies to Be Different from Day One, co-authored with John Spencer.

We'll dive into Trevor’s Epic Classroom platform, explore what makes a classroom truly "epic," and discuss the essential distinction between engagement and mere excitement in teaching.

Discover how Trevor’s experiences, from his impactful student teaching years to his evolution as an educator, shape his approach to fostering meaningful and memorable learning experiences.

Whether you’re a seasoned teacher or just starting out, this conversation will provide valuable perspectives and practical strategies to inspire and engage your students.

Tune in to learn how to create classroom environments where every student can thrive and find their own success story.

Check out these resources from Trevor!

New Teacher Academy
(FREE) New Teacher Toolkit

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Season 4 Trailer - Schoolutions: Coaching and Teaching Strategies

Sat, 07 Sep 2024 06:00:00 -0400

Get ready for a new chapter in educational excellence! Season 4 of Schoolutions: Coaching and Teaching Strategies launches Monday, September 9th, with a fresh look and an invigorated mission.

Join us every Monday throughout the school year for powerful insights and practical strategies from the frontlines of education. This season, dive into the minds of exceptional coaches, teachers, administrators, and caregivers as they share their inspirational stories and actionable tips to transform the lives of the students and children in your care.

This month’s highlights include:

Trevor Muir, offering innovative strategies for classroom management and boosting student engagement.
Meg and Brett Reichert, a resilient military family sharing their unique approach to raising their two young boys amidst constant relocations.
Coaches Morgan Davis, Nawal Qarooni, and Sarah Schlessinger, discussing the art of intentional coaching and the importance of thoughtful language in nurturing young minds.

Prepare for a season filled with motivation, insights, and practical advice to set you up for a successful school year. Tune in every Monday and elevate your approach with Schoolutions: Coaching and Teaching Strategies. Here’s to a fantastic school year ahead! 🌟📚🎓

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

S3 E40: My Belief Statements with Olivia Wahl (Schoolutions® Podcast Host)

Mon, 17 Jun 2024 01:00:00 -0400

With many school districts dedicating concentrated time to drafting their vision and mission statements, more time should instead be spent on crafting their belief statements. Vision and mission statements focus on the “what” and “where” but not the “why” that describes behaviors and practices that will serve our children and their teachers well every day. I wanted to end Season 3 of Schoolutions® by sharing my belief statements (my “why”) and offering some thoughts to leave you inspired heading into summer 2024. Stay tuned for Season 4 of Schoolutions®, releasing on September 9, 2024. Until then, catch up on episodes and get inspired this summer by subscribing to my Schoolutions® Podcast YouTube Channel. Take care -❤️ Olivia

Episode Mentions:

My Belief Statements (for students) (for teachers)
John Guthrie’s Research on Number of Reading Minutes
Michael Fullan on Being a “System’s Player” (The Main Idea Summary of The Principal)

Connect & Learn with Me & Wahl Educational Consulting, Inc.

Be Inspired by Finding Solutions with Schoolutions® Podcast

#wahleducationalconsultinginc #beliefstatements #knowyourwhy #agency #autonomy #6Ts #engagement #play #inquiry #workshopstructure #phonics #targets #feedbackloop #reflection #collectiveefficacy #strongandweakwork #listening #stories #coachesneedcoaches #coachesfollowcoaches #teachersneedteachers #teachersfollowteachers #studentsneedstudents #beliefspracticesandresearch #teachers #education #learning #school #schoollife #instructionalcoaching #whatweknownow

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

S3 E39: Using Inquiry to Inspire Lifelong Readers with Dr. Jennifer McCarty Plucker

Mon, 10 Jun 2024 01:00:00 -0400

Dr. Jennifer McCarty Plucker leaned on her 20+ years in education as an English teacher, speech coach, reading specialist, and district administrator while writing her new book, Inspiring Lifelong Readers. Listeners will leave this conversation inspired to try Jen’s tried-and-true, evidence-based strategies.

Episode Mentions:

Jen’s Writing:

Connect with Jen:

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

S3 E38: What We Know Now...Series Reflection with Olivia Wahl & Dr. Wendy Bunker

Mon, 03 Jun 2024 01:00:00 -0400

Olivia Wahl and Dr. Wendy Bunker share what matters most to them right now after a year of instructional coaching and collaboration. The Schoolutions® What We Know Now… series has offered a space for reflection and dialogue around high-impact coaching practices and troubleshooting support. Stay tuned for more coaching conversations when Schoolutions® Season 4 releases this September.

Episode Mentions:

Connect & Learn with Olivia & Wahl Educational Consulting, Inc.

Connect & Learn with Wendy

on Facebook
on LinkedIn

#wahleducationalconsulting#whatweknownow #discoursenotdebate #oliviawahl #drwendybunker #comprehensiveliteracy #highimpactpractices #whenyouknowbetterdobetter #thoughtpartners #instructionalcoaches #conversationinspiration #parallelpractice #collectiveefficacy #professionalcapital #reading #writing #talking #problemsolving #tasks #teachers #learning #education #practice #teachersfollowteachers #coachesfollowcoaches #edchat

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

S3 E36: Science of Reading & Leading for Literacy (NYSED Literacy Brief 7~Part II) with Olivia Wahl & Dr. Wendy Bunker

Mon, 20 May 2024 01:00:00 -0400

Olivia Wahl and Dr. Wendy Bunker wrap up their conversations about the recently released Science of Reading Literacy Briefs by the New York State Education Department, produced for NYSED by Nonie K. Lesaux, PhD and Katie C. Carr, M.Ed. This episode is part two of two episodes that focus on Literacy Brief 7: Science of Reading: Leading for Literacy.

Connect with Olivia & Wahl Educational Consulting, Inc.

Connect with Wendy

on Facebook
on LinkedIn

#wahleducationalconsulting#whatweknownow #discoursenotdebate #oliviawahl #drwendybunker #scienceofreading #leadingforliteracy #nysed #NYSLiteracyInitiative #ReadNY

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

S3 E35: Reenvisioning the MTSS Process in Service of Students with Amanda Green, Madison St. Louis, & Heather Saft

Mon, 13 May 2024 01:00:00 -0400

Teachers Amanda Green, Madison St. Louis, and Heather Saft share their insights about how the MTSS process best serves students when quantitative and qualitative data highlight students’ assets and are used to plan for future intervention needs. Amanda, Heather, and Madison share what matters most to them as educators and how they collaborate as a team within their microschool community at Briarcliff Elementary in Kansas City, Missouri. The episode will inspire listeners to advocate for their students and reenvision their district’s MTSS framework for their learners.

Episode Mentions:

Connect and Learn with Madison:

on Instagram @madisonstl

Connect and Learn with Amanda:

on Twitter @MrsGreenNKC

Connect and Learn with Heather:

on Twitter @heather_aft

Connect and Learn with The Den at Briarcliff:

on Instagram @thedenatbriarcliff
on Twitter @TheDenatBR

Connect and Learn with Briarcliff Bears:

on Facebook @Briarcliff Bears
on Twitter @BRES_Bears

#students #mtss #multitieredsystemofsupports #kansascityteachers #amandagreen #madisonstlouis #heathersaft #briarcliffbears #thedenatbriarcliff #teachersfollowteachers #responsetointervention #rti #teachersintouch #specialeducation #teachers #pbis #problemsolvingprocess #classroom #teacherlove #followateacher #innovativeschooltools #teachertribe #allin #readingspecialist #education

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

S3 E34: Science of Reading & Leading for Literacy (NYSED Literacy Brief 7~Part I) with Olivia Wahl & Dr. Wendy Bunker

Mon, 06 May 2024 01:00:00 -0400

Olivia Wahl and Dr. Wendy Bunker continue their conversation about the recently released Science of Reading Literacy Briefs by the New York State Education Department, produced for the NYSED by Nonie K. Lesaux, PhD and Katie C. Carr, M.Ed. This episode is one of two episodes that focus on Literacy Brief 7: Science of Reading: Leading for Literacy.

Episode Mentions:

NYSED Literacy Briefs & Literacy Brief 7: Science of Reading: Leading for Literacy
Dr. Nonie K. Lesaux
Katie C. Carr, M.Ed.
Comprehensive Research-Informed Literacy Instruction
S3E22: (Brief 1) & S3E24: (Brief 2)
Even Geniuses Work Hard by Carol S. Dweck
Culturally Responsive-Sustaining Education Framework
Social Emotional Learning Framework
Nourishing Caregiver Collaborations by Nawal Qarooni
On the Same Team by Ari Gerzon-Kessler

Connect & Learn with Olivia & Wahl Educational Consulting, Inc.

Connect & Learn with Wendy

on Facebook
on LinkedIn

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

S3 E33: Why Instructional Coaches Need Their Own Coaches with Sam Bennett and Morgan Davis

Mon, 29 Apr 2024 01:00:00 -0400

Coaches Sam Bennett and Morgan Davis offer insights into what makes instructional coaching such a powerful way to build collective efficacy and professional capital within schools. When grown-ups take risks while studying and growing together, their students are more engaged and apt to take risks themselves.

Sam's S1E1 & Morgan's S2E14 Schoolutions Episodes
That Workshop Book by Sam Bennett
Ron Berger
Amy Ellerman
Dr. Jim Knight

Connect and Learn with Sam via Email & Check Out Her Recommendations:

Why Do I Have to Read This? Literacy Strategies to Engage Our Most Reluctant Students by Cris Tovani (This book captures our most current thinking and work with schools.)
What’s the Best that Can Happen: New Possibilities for Teachers and Readers by Debbie Miller (Chapter 2 in this book captures our thinking about the flexibility and promise of workshop as a structure of time for students to engage behaviorally, emotionally, and cognitively).
Elena Aguilar hosts live coaching events through her Bright Morning organization every month that I always prioritize on my calendar for her use of language and prioritizing human connection and authenticity.
Podcasts: Unlocking Us, ReThinking, The New Yorker Radio Hour, Talk Easy with Sam Fragoso, and The Ezra Klein Show
I am hosting a Maker Summer Camp for Grown Ups in Denver in the Summer of 2025 … people can email me to make sure they get the announcement and sign-ups

Connect with Morgan & Check Out Her Recommendations:

at her blog
on Twitter
on Facebook
on Instagram
on Threads
Cultures of Thinking in Action: 10 Mindsets to Transform our Teaching and Students' Learning by Ron Ritchhart is my current read and parallels many of the ideas we talked about in drawing on parallel practices as coaches.
"Coaching IS Teaching" was the first post in my Parallel Practice series on It's About Making Space. It features my own context letter from a few years back. Listeners can search the "Parallel Practice" tag for more in the series.

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

S3 E32: Science of Reading & The Secondary Years (NYSED Literacy Brief 6) with Olivia Wahl & Dr. Wendy Bunker

Mon, 22 Apr 2024 01:00:00 -0400

Olivia Wahl and Dr. Wendy Bunker continue their conversation around the recently released Science of Reading Literacy Briefs by the New York State Education Department, produced for the NYSED by Nonie K. Lesaux, PhD and Katie C. Carr, M.Ed. This episode focuses on Literacy Brief 6: Science of Reading: The Secondary Years. Literacy Brief 6 centers around how the Science of Reading underscores that literacy is for ideas and identities. Lesaux and Carr begin this Brief by reminding us, "During the secondary years, students embark on a journey of self-discovery, ideally engaging in collaborative and individual learning experiences that shape them as both scholars and citizens.”

Episode Mentions:

NYSED Literacy Briefs & Literacy Brief 6: Science of Reading: The Secondary Years
Dr. Nonie K. Lesaux, Professor of Education and Human Development at the Harvard Graduate School of Education
Katie C. Carr, M.Ed.
The Brief Series Presentation: High-Impact Practices (Page 10/58)
Dr. Tanya S. Wright
Why Do I Have to Read This? Literacy Strategies to Engage Our Most Reluctant Students - (Appendix E Includes Cris Tovani’s Connect Two Vocabulary Builder Think Sheet)

Connect & Learn with Olivia & Wahl Educational Consulting, Inc.

Connect & Learn with Wendy

on Facebook
on LinkedIn

#wahleducationalconsulting#whatweknownow #discoursenotdebate #oliviawahl #drwendybunker #scienceofreading #thesecondaryyears #connecttwo #nysed #NYSLiteracyInitiative #ReadNY #comprehensiveliteracy #drnonielesaux #katiecarr #highimpactpractices #CRSE #SEL #MTSS #whenyouknowbetterdobetter #thoughtpartners #instructionalcoaches #conversationinspiration #parallelpractice #collectiveefficacy #professionalcapital #reading #writing #talking #problemsolving #tasks #teachers #learning #education #practice #teachersfollowteachers #coachesfollowcoaches #edchat

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

S3 E31: Your AI-Powered UDL Thought Partner: LUDIA with Beth Stark and Jérémie Rostan

Mon, 15 Apr 2024 01:00:00 -0400

Changemakers and innovators Beth Stark and Jérémie Rostan introduce their AI-powered Universal Design for Learning thought partner, LUDIA, to Schoolutions followers. Beth and Jérémie describe how and why LUDIA “was created as a new entry point and scaffold for developing a Universal Design for Learning mindset, intentionally designing to reduce learning barriers, and discovering the power of Artificial Intelligence.”

Episode Mentions:

Connect and Learn with Beth:

at her website
on LinkedIn

Connect and Learn with Jérémie:

at his website
on LinkedIn

#bethstark #jérémierostan #LUDIA #UDL #AI #universaldesignforlearning #artificialintelligence #play #thoughtpartner

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

S3 E30: Science of Reading & The Elementary Years with Olivia Wahl & Dr. Wendy Bunker

Mon, 08 Apr 2024 00:00:00 -0400

Olivia Wahl and Dr. Wendy Bunker continue their conversation around the recently released Science of Reading Literacy Briefs by the New York State Education Department, produced for the NYSED by Nonie K. Lesaux, PhD and Katie C. Carr, M.Ed. This episode focuses on Literacy Brief 5: Science of Reading: The Elementary Years. Literacy Brief 5 centers around how the Science of Reading underscores that “Developing strong literacy skills in the elementary years (K-6) is crucial for setting students on a path towards academic and personal success.”

Olivia and Wendy offer their perspectives and connect the research and Brief information with the students, educators, and caregivers most impacted by them.

Episode Mentions:

Connect & Learn with Olivia & Wahl Educational Consulting, Inc.

Connect & Learn with Wendy

on Facebook
on LinkedIn

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

S3 E29: The NeuroWild Shift for Neurodivergent Kids at School with Emily (Em) Hammond of NeuroWild

Mon, 01 Apr 2024 01:00:00 -0400

Emily (Em) Hammond is the incredible human behind NeuroWild - an illustrated movement to better the learning experiences for neurodivergent children across the globe. In this episode, Em introduces her NeuroWild Shift - “a new education shift for neurodivergent kids at school. If you are a teacher, this is for you. If you have a neurodivergent kid at school, this is for you (to give to the teacher). If you are a coordinator or principal or work in a school- have a read.”

Listeners will leave the conversation inspired to advocate for all learners, knowing they (and their unique qualities) are essential assets to their learning communities.

Episode Mentions:

The NeuroWild Shift
Dr. Ross Greene - Children will do well if they can.
Vygotsky’s Zones of Development
Neuro-affirming vs. neuro-damaging responses
UDL
Drive (excerpt) by Daniel Pink
Em’s Teachers Pay Teachers Shop
- NeuroWild Shift: NeuroWild Shift Information Packet (49 pages) by Emily Hammond -NeuroWild (teacherspayteachers.com) (This is the full-priced one.)
- NeuroWild Shift Information Packet (49 pages), Parent Discount | TPT (teacherspayteachers.com) (This is the parent discount one.)
- Free Executive functioning handout for classrooms: Regulation and Executive Function Handout (7-page colored document) (teacherspayteachers.com)
- Free handout for supporting ND students in classrooms: Helping Neurodivergent Students Find Success in the Classroom | TPT (teacherspayteachers.com)

Connect and Learn with Em:

on Instagram
on Facebook

#neurowildshift #neurowild #autismunderstanding #autisminfo #autismsupport #audhd

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

S3 E27: A New Adventure in Taking Play Seriously: Teacher Tom’s Podcast with Tom Hobson

Mon, 18 Mar 2024 01:00:00 -0400

The infamous and endearing Teacher Tom Hobson released a podcast: Teacher Tom’s Podcast! This episode focuses on what matters most to Teacher Tom - that “Community is absolutely essential. Learning to get your own needs met while also creating space and opportunities for others to get their needs met. That is one of the greatest skills any of us can have.”

Listeners will be inspired by Tom’s early childhood beliefs and practices, and thankfully, Tom reminds us of that with his words, “The secret to success in life is working well with others and being self-motivated. And those are the two things that play teaches without us doing anything at all.”

Episode Mentions:

Connect and Learn with Tom:

at Teacher Tom’s website & Teacher Tom’s Linktree
on Twitter
on Instagram
on Facebook at Teacher Tom & Teacher Tom’s Play Summit
on LinkedIn

#teachertom #teachertomhobson #tomhobson #teachertomsworld #teachertomspodcast #teachertomsplaysummit #takingplayseriously #earlychildhood #earlychildhoodeducation #preschool #earlylearning #education #learningthroughplay #kindergarten #childcare #earlyyears #parenting #kids #playbasedlearning #children #learning #toddler #preschoolactivities #kidsactivities #playmatters #montessori #childdevelopment #earlychildhoodeducator #play #toddlerlife #school #sensoryplay #toddlers #prek

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

S3 E26: Science of Reading & The Role of Writing (NYSED Literacy Brief 3) with Olivia Wahl & Dr. Wendy Bunker

Mon, 11 Mar 2024 01:00:00 -0400

Olivia Wahl and Dr. Wendy Bunker continue their conversation around the recently released Science of Reading Literacy Briefs by the New York State Education Department, produced for the NYSED by Nonie K. Lesaux, PhD and Katie C. Carr, M.Ed. This episode focuses on Literacy Brief 3: Science of Reading: The Role of Writing. Literacy Brief 3 centers around the reading-writing relationship, reciprocity, and teaching writing in the content areas. Olivia and Wendy offer their perspectives and connect the research and Brief information with the students, educators, and caregivers most impacted by them.

Episode Mentions:

Connect & Learn with Olivia & Wahl Educational Consulting, Inc.

Connect & Learn with Wendy

on Facebook
on LinkedIn

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

S3 E25: Nourishing Caregiver Collaborations with Nawal Qarooni

Mon, 04 Mar 2024 05:00:00 -0500

With her recently released book, Nourishing Caregiver Collaborations, visionary Nawal Qarooni illuminates why we all need to follow her lead to:

Embrace “a holistic approach to literacy instruction and family experiences in schools across the country.”
Rethink “how schools can identify and celebrate what families already inherently bring to their children’s literacy learning.”

In this episode, Nawal explains why it matters HOW families engage with school and how to shift our classroom practices to value process over perfectionism. Nawal shares stories about shared literacy experiences, highlighting her brilliant collective care work with family labsites. Listeners will be inspired and excited to purchase Nawal’s book using promo code (AFL04) on Routledge.com for 20% off (*** promo code expires March 31, 2024).

Episode Mentions:

Nourishing Caregiver Collaborations: Elevating Home Experiences and Classroom Practices for Collective Care
Cornelius Minor
Kilim Rugs
White Supremacy Culture (from Dismantling Racism: A Workbook for Social Change Groups by Kenneth Jones and Tema Okun, ChangeWork, 2001) ***updated 2021 White Supremacy Culture - Still Here

Resources from Nawal:

Connect and Learn with Nawal:

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

S3 E24: Debunking Common Myths About the Science of Reading (NYSED Literacy Brief 2) with Olivia Wahl & Dr. Wendy Bunker

Mon, 26 Feb 2024 01:00:00 -0500

Olivia Wahl and Dr. Wendy Bunker continue their conversation around the recently released Science of Reading Literacy Briefs by the New York State Education Department, produced for NYSED by Nonie K. Lesaux, PhD and Katie C. Carr, M.Ed. This episode focuses on Literacy Brief 2: Science of Reading: Debunking Common Myths. Literacy Brief 2 centers around four key myths that Olivia and Wendy break down and connect to the students, educators, and caregivers most impacted by them.

Episode Mentions:

Connect & Learn with Olivia & Wahl Educational Consulting, Inc.:

Connect & Learn with Wendy:

on Facebook
on LinkedIn

#wahleducationalconsulting #whatweknownow #discoursenotdebate #oliviawahl #drwendybunker #scienceofreading #debunkingmyths #nysed #NYSLiteracyInitiative #ReadNY #comprehensiveliteracy #drnonielesaux #katiecarr #drmarenaukerman #edchat #ithacacollegedepartmentofeducation

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

S3 E23: Providing Healthy School Meals to All Students with Food Service ESP, Talisa Jones

Mon, 19 Feb 2024 01:00:00 -0500

“Students can’t learn if their stomachs are grumbling. Universal school meals are proven to reduce child hunger.” (National Education Association) Infamous lunch lady Talisa Jones (@tj_thatsit) shares stories about her role as a Food Service ESP. Talisa lives her mission every day…ensuring the students in her school receive healthy, delicious school meals that represent their cultures and heritage. Talisa’s advocacy work stretches far beyond the walls of her school kitchen as a popular spokesperson for the National Education Association (@NEAToday). Talisa is focused on ensuring that Congress passes the Universal Meals Program Act S. 1568/H.R. 3204. Make that happen by taking less than five minutes to vote via this link: https://www.nea.org/advocating-for-change/action-center/take-action/provide-healthy-school-meals-all-students

Episode Mentions:

Connect and Learn with Talisa:

#tj_thatsit #thelunchlady #talisanicole #universalmealsprogramact #foodservice #foodserviceesp #schoolmeals #breakfast #lunch #schoolmealideas #kidslunch #lunchideas #breakfasttime #lunchtime #schoollife #schoollunchbox #healthykids #kidsfood #food #healthymeals #healthyfood

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

S3E22: What We Know Now About the Science of Reading (NYSED Literacy Brief 1) with Olivia Wahl & Dr. Wendy Bunker

Mon, 12 Feb 2024 01:00:00 -0500

Olivia Wahl and Dr. Wendy Bunker introduce the seven recently released Science of Reading Literacy Briefs by the New York State Education Department. The briefs were produced for the NYSED by Nonie K. Lesaux, PhD and Katie C. Carr, M.Ed. This episode focuses on Literacy Brief 1: Science of Reading: What is it? Literacy Brief 1 centers around five key ideas that Olivia and Wendy break down and connect to the students, educators, and caregivers most impacted by them.

Episode Mentions:

Connect & Learn with Olivia & Wahl Educational Consulting, Inc.

Connect & Learn with Wendy

on Facebook
on LinkedIn

#wahleducationalconsulting#whatweknownow #discoursenotdebate #oliviawahl #drwendybunker #scienceofreading #nysed #collectiveefficacy #whenyouknowbetterdobetter #thoughtpartners #instructionalcoaches #conversationinspiration #parallelpractice #collectiveefficacy #professionalcapital #reading #writing #talking #problemsolving #tasks#teachers #learning #education #teachersfollowteachers #coachesfollowcoaches #edchat #NYSLiteracyInitiative #ReadNY

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

S3 E21: Securely Attached with the Creator of Attachment Nerd, Eli Harwood, MA, LPC

Mon, 05 Feb 2024 01:00:00 -0500

Renowned therapist and attachment theory expert Eli Harwood (a.k.a. "The Attachment Nerd") shares her journey and insights with listeners. Eli offers advice about navigating tantrums, allowing space for teenagers to practice making mistakes and condoning vs. accepting behaviors. Listeners will leave wanting to become members of Eli's Nerd Herd and empowered by understanding their attachment patterns thanks to Eli's recently released guided journal, Securely Attached.

Episode Mentions:

Dr. Karyn Purvis
The Verdict Is In - The Case for Attachment Theory by Dr. Dan Siegel 1/30/2020
Affect Regulation, Mentalization, and the Development of Self by Peter Fonagy, Gyorgy Gergely, Elliot Jurist, and Mary Target 4/17/2005
Some of Eli's Reels That Will Rock Your World:
Brené Brown

Connect and Learn with Eli:

#eliharwood #attachment #securelyattached #attachmentnerd #nerdherd #parenting #loveon #attachmenttheory #studentsupport #teachersupport #parentingsupport #parentinghacks #parentsfollowparents

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

S3 E20: What We Know Now - A Conversation About Research with Olivia Wahl & Dr. Wendy Bunker

Mon, 29 Jan 2024 01:00:00 -0500

Olivia Wahl and Dr. Wendy Bunker discuss different types of research that can support the practices and beliefs of educators. Their work as instructional coaches focuses on helping educators, coaches, and administrators label and align what is seen and heard within the walls of classrooms with experts and current research. Through this labeling process, educators, coaches, and administrators understand why their practices and beliefs matter and impact their students’ growth.

Episode Mentions:

Connect & Learn with Olivia & Wahl Educational Consulting, Inc.

Connect & Learn with Wendy

on Facebook
on LinkedIn

#solutionsfromschoolutions #schoolutionsinspires #schoolutionspodcast #wahleducationalconsulting#whatweknownow #discoursenotdebate #oliviawahl #drwendybunker #research #empiricalresearch #quantitativeresearch #qualitativeresearch #actionresearch #evidencebasedresearch #collectiveefficacy #whenyouknowbetterdobetter #thoughtpartners #instructionalcoaches #conversationinspiration #learninglabs #parallelpractice #collectiveefficacy #professionalcapital #reading #writing #talking #problemsolving #tasks#teachers #learning #education #practice #conferring #modeling #teachersfollowteachers #coachesfollowcoaches #edchat

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

S3 E19 Building Thinking Classrooms in Mathematics with Peter Liljedahl

Mon, 22 Jan 2024 01:00:00 -0500

Math influencer and visionary Dr. Peter Liljedahl offers insights on how his Building Thinking Classrooms framework transforms mathematics teaching. Peter reflects on years of research and leaves listeners with a great starting point to ensure they successfully implement the “what” and “how” when facilitating a thinking classroom. Thank you to Peter and Corwin Press, who are so generous in offering a 25% discount & free shipping PROMO CODE (CORWIN25) for Building Thinking Classrooms in Mathematics, Grades K-12: 14 Teaching Practices for Enhancing Learning.

Episode Mentions:

Connect & Learn with Peter

at his website
on Twitter

#solutionsfromschoolutions #schoolutionsinspires #schoolutionspodcast #buildingthinkingclassrooms #btc #peterliljedahl #mathematics #math #problemsolving #thinkingclassrooms #nctm #principlestoactions #teachersfollowteachers #edchat

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

S3 E18: What We Know Now - A Thought Partnership with Olivia Wahl & Dr. Wendy Bunker

Mon, 15 Jan 2024 01:00:00 -0500

Olivia Wahl and Dr. Wendy Bunker are embarking on a new adventure. Every other Monday, Schoolutions followers can now look forward to a new series: What We Know Now. Olivia and Wendy will engage in discourse around current topics in education. Episodes will stay laser-focused on the week’s chosen topic and run only 10-15 minutes. Tune in and look forward to gaining insights from Olivia and Wendy’s diverse perspectives based on their vast professional backgrounds.

Olivia Wahl has been an educator for over twenty years and leads institutes for teachers nationwide. She provides PreK-12 professional learning in leadership, coaching, and literacy instruction. Her work supports teachers with conferring and using student work to drive instruction while supporting culturally responsive practices. Olivia advocates for play and inquiry-based learning experiences alongside reconceptualizing the Gradual Release of Responsibility to enhance student voice and engagement. She is the creator, producer, editor, and host of Schoolutions - a podcast to inspire and connect PreK-12 educators, administrators, caregivers, and community members as they identify and share solutions for issues in public education.

Dr. Wendy Bunker has been an educator for over thirty years. She has served as a secondary English teacher and a K-12 Reading Specialist. Currently, she works as an ELA curriculum specialist for Oneida-Herkimer-Madison BOCES (Board of Cooperative Educational Services), serving districts as an instructional coach and facilitator of professional learning. Wendy is a proponent of instruction that gives all learners equitable access to literacy. Her work as a coach with administrators and teachers focuses on building instructional systems that engage all learners. Wendy acquired her Doctorate in Literacy from Syracuse University. She is deeply grateful to Kathleen Hinchman, Ph.D., and Benita Blachman, Ph.D., whose knowledge and contributions to the field of literacy provide daily inspiration for her work.

Episode Mentions:

Connect w/ Olivia:

Connect w/ Wendy:

on Facebook

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

S3 E17: Streamlining Your Curriculum with the Storyboard Approach with Allison Zmuda and Dr. Heidi Hayes Jacobs

Mon, 08 Jan 2024 01:00:00 -0500

The extraordinary Allison Zmuda and Dr. Heidi Hayes Jacobs have collaborated to co-create a fresh approach to curriculum design. Allison and Heidi inspire in this episode as they share critical elements of their recently released book, Streamlining Curriculum: Using the Storyboard Approach to Frame Compelling Learning Journeys. Listeners will leave the conversation motivated and with a reenvisioned understanding of streamlining and storyboarding regarding curriculum development.

A big thank you to Allison, Heidi, and ASCD, who are so generous in offering a 25% off PROMO CODE (STREAM25), active 1/2/24–4/2/24, for Streamlining Curriculum: Using the Storyboard Approach to Frame Compelling Learning Journeys via ASCD.org.

Episode Mentions:

Connect & Learn with Allison

at her website & Learning Personalized
on Twitter
on LinkedIn
on YouTube (Learning Personalized)

Connect & Learn with Heidi

#curriculum #curriculumdesign #streamliningcurriculum #curriculumstoryboards #storyboardapproach #thoughtpartners #allisonzmuda #heidihayesjacobs #ascd #edchat

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

S3 E16: The OT Toolbox: Making Occupational Therapy Resources Accessible for All with Colleen Beck

Mon, 01 Jan 2024 01:00:00 -0500

Colleen Beck, OTR/L, has been an Occupational Therapist since 2000. As the creator and author of The OT Toolbox, LLC, she has written thousands of blog posts on occupational therapy, created thousands of accessible resources and tools for therapy professionals, and strived to advocate for the profession as well as those we serve (children, families, educators) on The OT Toolbox social media channels. In this episode, Colleen describes her tailored toolboxes, OT interventions that should be on listeners’ radars, and her favorite blog posts. Listeners even get a sneak preview into a day in the life of Colleen Beck and learn more about how she has built her team over time.

Episode Mentions:

Learn More from The OT Toolbox About:

Connect and Learn with Colleen & The OT Toolbox:

#theottoolbox #occupationaltherapy #occupationaltherapist #ot #therapy #autism #physiotherapy #otstudent #pediatricoccupationaltherapy #sensoryplay #finemotorskills

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

S3 E15: Expanding Opportunities for Homeless Students with Erin Patterson of SchoolHouse Connection

Mon, 25 Dec 2023 01:00:00 -0500

Erin Patterson is the Director of Education Initiatives with SchoolHouse Connection. In this episode, Erin illuminates what makes SchoolHouse Connection the nation’s leading expert on the early care and education of children and youth experiencing homelessness. Listeners learn how SchoolHouse Connection supports infants, toddlers, and pregnant and expectant parents, along with statistics and consequences children struggle with when experiencing homelessness. Erin inspires through her mission to overcome homelessness through education and works to expand opportunities for the most underserved students – those experiencing homelessness, in foster care, and in the juvenile justice system.

Episode Mentions:

Learn More:

New Data Show Dramatic Increase in Families and Youth in Homeless Shelters, Even While Dramatically Undercounting Families and Youth Experiencing Homelessness: https://schoolhouseconnection.org/2023-hud-data/
Infants and Toddlers Experiencing Homelessness: Prevalence and Access to Early Learning Across Twenty States: https://schoolhouseconnection.org/infant-and-toddler-homelessness/
New Federal Guidance Urges Expediting ARP-HCY Funds. Now What? https://schoolhouseconnection.org/expediting-arp-hcy-funds/

Connect and Learn with Erin & SchoolHouse Connection:

at SchoolHouse Connection’s website
on Twitter: SHC & Erin Patterson
on Instagram: SHC & Erin Patterson
on LinkedIn: SHC & Erin Patterson
on Threads: SHC
on Facebook: SHC
on TikTok: SHC
on YouTube: SHC

#schoolhouseconnection #homeless #homelessness #education #community #nonprofit #homelessnessawareness #support #volunteer #helpingothers #endhomelessness #humanity #mentalhealth

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

S3 E14: Knowing When It's Time for a Tutor with Caitlin Greer Meister

Mon, 18 Dec 2023 01:00:00 -0500

Caitlin Greer Meister is a specialist in strengths-based learning, giftedness, and neurodiversity-affirming practices. She is a mom of two and the Founding Director of The Greer Meister Group educational consultancy and Joyfully Learning, a New York City-based private tutoring practice. In this episode, Caitlin offers insights about the benefits of tutoring and collaborative home-school relationships. Caitlin illuminates her simple yet essential premise: Kids learn best when they’re having fun.

Episode Mentions:
- Lev Vygotsky's Zones of Development
- Four Thousand Weeks by Oliver Burkeman
Connect and Learn with Caitlin:
- at The Greer Meister Group
  - on Instagram
  - on Facebook
  - on LinkedIn
- at Joyfully Learning
  - on Instagram
  - newsletter

#caitlingreermeistergroup #joyfullylearning #strengthsbasedparenting #school #neurodiversity #neurodivergent #parenting #parentingtips #tutoring

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

S3 E13: The Worth of Gaming & Screen Time with The Gamer Educator, Ash Brandin

Mon, 11 Dec 2023 01:00:00 -0500

The Gamer Educator (Ash Brandin) offers caregivers and educators tips for managing screens that benefit everyone involved. Ash speaks to the importance of understanding how various studies frame anti-screen rhetoric. Listeners will leave the conversation inspired to engage with the children in their lives about screen time and tackle the societal challenges that anti-screen rhetoric distracts our attention from. Ash asks us to reconsider seeing screen time as a waste of time and instead consider the life skills developed through leisure activities.

Episode Mentions:

Commentary on Radio in the 1920s
Ohio State University Study: Screen time not harmful for academic skills of preschoolers

Connect & Learn with Ash:

at their website
on Instagram

#solutionsfromschoolutions #schoolutionsinspires #schoolutionspodcast #thegamereducator #gaming #gamer #videogames #game #gamers #gamingcommunity #screentime #parenting #digitalwellbeing #onlinesafety #digitalparenting #parentingtips #technology #internetsafety #digitalsafety #digitaldetox #socialmedia #kids #parents #screentimelimits #parenthood #parentalcontrols #cybersafety #family #mentalhealth #children #cyberbullying #unplug #mindfulness #familytime

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

S3 E12: Living as Poets All Year Long with Amy Ludwig VanDerwater

Mon, 04 Dec 2023 01:00:00 -0500

The magnificent Amy Ludwig VanDerwater’s humor and authenticity enchant as she shares intimate stories from her life as a poet and teacher. Amy generously offers a myriad of her favorite poets and resources. Listeners have the gift of hearing Amy read poetry aloud and leave the conversation with a clear vision of why we all need poetry throughout the year.

Thank you to Amy and the American Psychological Association/Magination Press, who are so generous in offering a 25% off & free shipping PROMO CODE (FLYER 25) for The Sound of Kindness (listen HERE)

Episode Mentions:

Amy’s Books (w/ MANY teacher resources)

Poetry Websites & Books:

Awakening the Heart by Georgia Heard
Poems Please by Bill Moore & David Booth
Immersed in Verse by Allan Wolf
Naming the World by Nancie Atwell
Starting with Little Things by Ingrid Wendt

Connect w/ Amy:

at her website & The Poem Farm & Amy LV's School Visits
on Twitter
on Instagram
on Pinterest
on YouTube
on SoundCloud

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

S3 E11: Self & Co-Regulation Strategies That Work: No More Quick Fixes with Counselor & Coach Zack Kasabo

Mon, 27 Nov 2023 01:00:00 -0500

Certified school counselor and coach Zack Kasabo offers students, caregivers, and fellow educators strategies to manage difficult behaviors without enabling them. Zack designs behavior management plans from the ground up with all involved. Although Zack’s strategies may seem unconventional at times, he stays current on the latest behavior trends that parents and teens face to design behavior support plans tailored to individual needs.

Episode Mentions:

Connect and Learn with Zack:

#schoolutionsinspires #schoolutionspodcast #coachkasabo #schoolcounselor #coach #teenmentalhealth #traumainformed #behaviormanagement #parentingtips #challengingbehavior #kidswithanxiety #communitycoaching #teachers #teachersfollowsteachers

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

S3 E10: Fired for Being an Inclusivity Advocate with Teacher Katie Rinderle, Dr. Roberta Price Gardner, and Author Scott Stuart

Mon, 20 Nov 2023 01:00:00 -0500

Ever wonder what it feels like to be a teacher who has to worry about being inclusive and ensuring all children feel safe within their classroom? Teacher Katie Rinderle sure does. As an American former elementary school teacher in Cobb County, Georgia, Katie is the first known public school teacher fired under Georgia's 2022 student protection laws for reading aloud Scott Stuart’s book, My Shadow is Purple, to her students. Join Katie, Scott, and Dr. Roberta Price Gardner as they share their hopes for the global future of inclusive education impacting the lives of our children, public education systems, and higher education.

Episode Mentions:

My Shadow is Purple by Scott Stuart
Southern Poverty Law Center (article)
My Shadow is Pink by Scott Stuart
Morgan Jackson - Schoolutions Episode S1E7
Stacey's Extraordinary Words by Stacey Abrams
Board Meeting Where Beth Hudson Speaks
Helen Ruffin Reading Bowl

Connect and Learn with Teacher Katie Rinderle:

support through GoFundMe
at her LInktree
on Twitter
on Instagram
on Threads
on LinkedIn

Connect and Learn with Dr. Roberta Price Gardner:

on Twitter
on LinkedIn

Connect and Learn with Author Scott Stuart:

#teachinclusion #teachinclusive #inclusiveeducation #standwithkatie #myshadowispurple #myshadowispink #teachersfollowsteachers

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

S3 E9: Music is Healing with 2023 Grammy Music Educator of the Year, Pamela Elizabeth Dawson

Mon, 13 Nov 2023 01:00:00 -0500

Pamela Elizabeth Dawson innovates and inspires as the 2023 Grammy Music Educator of the Year. As choir director, her mission to share the healing power of music has had a tremendous impact on the lives of her Desoto High School Choir students. In this episode, Pamela shares stories about her Grammy win experience, her students, and her hopes for the future of fine arts and music education. Listeners have the privilege of hearing Pamela’s choir performance ofI Thank You God.

Episode Mentions:

Connect and Learn with Pamela:

at pamelaelizabeth.org
on Instagram @ Desoto High School Choir & Pamela Elizabeth
on Facebook
on LinkedIn

#grammywinner #grammymuseum #musiceducatorawardwinner #desotohschoir #desotoisdeagles #musicishealing #musicisjoy #musiceducation #music #teachers #teachersfollowteachers

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

S3 E8: There's a Teacher Shortage and It's Very Real - Warning Bell Substack with Stephen Noonoo

Mon, 06 Nov 2023 04:00:00 -0500

Stephen Noonoo is an editor and journalist who's covered education for more than a decade. Now a tech editor at Edutopia, he was previously the K–12 editor for EdSurge and has also worked at eSchool News, THE Journal, CUE, and SmartBrief. Stephen created the Warning Bell Substack to look honestly at today's teaching profession. He is dedicated to cataloging the stresses & problems that teachers face. In this episode, Stephen illuminates the driving forces behind the very real teaching shortage and offers solutions to change course. Educators and supporters of public education will leave the conversation feeling seen and heard for all they do.

Episode Mentions:

Connect w/ Stephen:

#warningbell #teachershortage #TEACHers #EDUcators #teachersfollowteachers

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

S3 E7: Patterns of Power: Authentic Grammar Instruction in High School with Holly Durham & Travis Leech

Mon, 30 Oct 2023 01:00:00 -0400

This conversation with Patterns of Power grammar extraordinaires Holly Durham and Travis Leech will leave you ready to dive into authentic grammar instruction! Let go of ineffective worksheets and skill-and-drill grammar instruction as Holly and Travis describe the Patterns of Power Process with a focus on grades 9-12. They explain why traditional grammar instruction focuses too often on rules and what’s right or wrong instead of a true understanding of usage. In Kylene Beers’s words, “...master teachers, Jeff, Travis, and Holly, make things such as colons and commas, apostrophes and appositives, phrases and fragments, become more than things to be learned. Instead, they were turning conventions of language into conversations I wanted to have with kids.”

Episode Mentions:

Holly and Travis Recommend:

Everyday Editing by Jeff Anderson
Image Grammar by Harry Noden
Teaching Grammar in Context by Constance Weaver
180 Days by Penny Kittle & Kelly Gallagher

Connect and Learn with Holly:

Connect and Learn with Travis:

#solutionsfromschoolutions #schoolutionsinspires #schoolutionspodcast #patternsofpower #grammarinstruction #authenticgrammarinstruction #grammarusageoverrules #POPteacher #teachersfollowteachers #education #student #school

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

S3 E6: Mathematics As An Essential Life Tool with José Luis Vilson

Mon, 23 Oct 2023 01:00:00 -0400

José Luis Vilson is best known as an architect for a hopeful future and an advocate for teacher voice. José describes his math pedagogy in this episode and why math is a social justice lever. He illuminates the restrictions we put on mathematics unknowingly as a society. José encourages us to ensure our classrooms and learning communities are interconnected and to look to the future with hope. José is also an integral part of the EduColor Community, which amplifies the works and ideas of students, educators, and communities of color through supportive on- and off-line networks and professional development.

Episode Mentions:

Connect and Learn with José:

#thejosevilson #mathpedagogy #architectforahopefulfuture #educolor #educolormvmt #mathcommunity #teachersfollowteachers #education #mathteacher #student #school

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

S3 E5: The Role of Read Alouds in the Science of Reading with Dr. Molly Ness

Mon, 16 Oct 2023 05:00:00 -0400

The renowned Dr. Molly Ness shares key points from her most recent book, Read Alouds for All Learners: A Comprehensive Plan for Every Subject, Every Day. Molly helps listeners understand the critical role read alouds play in the science of reading, along with current research and trends. Listeners will leave informed and inspired with a process and plan for integrating read alouds across all content areas.

⭐Discount valid on SolutionTree.com only. Enter promo code Schoolutions20 at checkout to receive a 20% discount on the paperback version of Read Alouds for All Learners. Offer expires 12/15/23. Not valid for bookstores, distributors, or resellers. Continental US only. Cannot be combined w/ other offers. For customers submitting a purchase order, payment must be received by 12/15/23 to qualify for this offer.

Episode Mentions:

Be Inspired by Molly’s Writing:

Connect w/ Molly:

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

S3 E4: Humanities in High School: Making History Relevant with Heather Roberts and Tom Bateson

Mon, 09 Oct 2023 08:00:00 -0400

Are you dreaming about creating a humanities course for students in your high school? Learn from teachers Heather Roberts and Tom Bateson how to turn that dream into reality! Heather and Tom describe their first-year step-by-step process for designing their co-taught humanities course. They offer detailed strategies alongside struggles and successes to support colleagues in beginning their journey to making history engaging and relevant for learners.

Episode Mentions:
Connect and Learn with Heather:
- at her email: HeatherRoberts045@gmail.com
- on Instagram
- on Facebook
Connect and Learn with Tom:
- at his email: thomasbateson@yahoo.com
- on Facebook

#humanities #highschoolteacher #makinghistoryrelevant #coteaching #planning

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

S3 E3: Ensuring Long-Term Success for Experienced Multilinguals with Tan Huynh & Beth Skelton

Mon, 02 Oct 2023 01:00:00 -0400

Beth Skelton and Tan Huynh call for us to shift the long-term English learner (LTEL) label and mindset to honor multilinguals’ valuable life experiences and academic potential instead. Beth and Tan’s book, Long-Term Success for Experienced Multilinguals, offers a brilliant and accessible guide for cross-curricular implementation - designed explicitly for secondary content teachers.

Thank you to Tan, Beth, and Corwin, who are so generous in offering a 25% off PROMO CODE (C23104) for Long-Term Success for Experienced Multilinguals.

Episode Mentions:
Connect and Learn with Tan:
- on his website
- on Twitter
Connect and Learn with Beth:
- on her website
- on Twitter
- on Facebook
- on LinkedIn

#experiencedmultilinguals #assetbasedthinking #heritageculture

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

S3 E2: The Literacy Studio: Redesigning the Workshop for Readers & Writers with Ellin Oliver Keene

Mon, 25 Sep 2023 01:00:00 -0400

Renowned literacy expert, Ellin Oliver Keene, welcomes us into her Literacy Studio - a new, integrated approach to reader’s and writer’s workshop. Her latest book, The Literacy Studio: Redesigning the Workshop for Readers and Writers, offers a practical step-by-step approach to providing more autonomy and choice to students while gaining back time by combining reading and writing instruction.

Episode Mentions:

Connect and Learn with Ellin:

at her website & email (ellinkeene1@gmail.com)
on Twitter
on Instagram
on Facebook
on LinkedIn

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

S3 E1: Risk. Fail. Rise.: A Teacher's Guide to Learning from Mistakes with M. Colleen Cruz

Mon, 18 Sep 2023 01:00:00 -0400

Join the brilliant M. Colleen Cruz as she illuminates why mistakes are not the problem but part of learning. Colleen’s most recent book, Risk. Fail. Rise.: A Teacher's Guide to Learning from Mistakes offers strategies for exploring why mistakes happen and how we can destigmatize mistake-making to encourage a risk-taking learning culture.

Thank you to Colleen and bookshop.org, who are so generous in offering a 10% off PROMO CODE (RISK10) for Risk.Fail.Rise.: A Teacher’s Guide to Learning from Mistakes.

Episode Mentions:

Connect and Learn with Colleen:

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

S2 E38: Here's to Whole-School Mindfulness with School Counselor & Mindfulness Director, Christy Lynn Anana

Mon, 12 Jun 2023 01:00:00 -0400

Christy Lynn Anana is a Mindfulness Director with Whole School Mindfulness at Quil Ceda Tulalip Elementary, located on the land of The Tulalip Tribes in Washington State, north of Seattle. In this episode, Christy offers listeners two guided meditations alongside a peek into her published book series called I Am Healing.

Episode Mentions:

Connect with Christy:

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

S2 E37: Maracujá: Giving Kids the Time and Space to Discover Who They Are with Rebekah Macden

Mon, 05 Jun 2023 01:00:00 -0400

Rebekah Macden is a globally-renowned international educator, consultant, speaker, and coach. In this episode, she offers listeners an overview of Maracujá, her co-created, character-driven SEL program that continues to have a life-changing impact on thousands of students in schools around the globe. Listeners will leave inspired by Rebekah’s commitment to students feeling safe within their authentic selves in an environment where relationships are prioritized.

Episode Mentions:

Connect and Learn with Rebekah:

at her website
on Twitter (@rebekahmacden)
on Instagram (@rebekahmacden)
on Facebook (@macdenr)
on LinkedIn

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

S2 E35: It's Time to Bend Curriculum & Create Our Own Integrated Units of Study with Leah Mermelstein

Mon, 22 May 2023 01:00:00 -0400

Leah Mermelstein, the author of“We-Do” Writing and many other renowned professional books, shares her secrets for creating integrated units of study. Listeners will learn her step-by-step process to bend or create their own integrated curricula.

Episode Mentions:

Connect & Learn with Leah:

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

S2 E34: To the Classroom Podcast and Reading Strategies 2.0: Behind the Scenes with Jennifer Serravallo

Mon, 15 May 2023 01:00:00 -0400

Jennifer Serravallo shares what inspired her to publish her most recent book, The Reading Strategies Book 2.0, and launch her ground-breaking literacy podcast for educators, To the Classroom. With each episode, Jen interviews leading researchers and scholars, seeking answers to all things literacy, and then processes the research with colleagues, leaning on the question, “How will we take what we’ve learned to the classroom?”

Episode Mentions:

Jen’s Current Podcast Playlist:

Connect and Learn with Jen:

on her website & To the Classroom Podcast (Spotify & Apple Podcasts)
on Twitter (@JSerravallo)
on Instagram
on Facebook

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

S2 E33: How to Support Educators Resistant to Change with Matt Renwick

Mon, 08 May 2023 01:00:00 -0400

Change is a journey and can be complex. Matt Renwick inspires listeners with his article:7 Questions I Ask Myself When Working with Educators Resistant to Change (derived from his book, Leading Like a C.O.A.C.H.: 5 Strategies for Supporting Teaching and Learning). Matt's authentic approach and questions get to the heart of knowing each educator deeply for who they are both in and out of their classrooms.

Episode Mentions:

Matt's school - Mineral Point Elementary School (Wisconsin)
Cognitive Coaching: Developing Self-Directed Leaders and Learners (Christopher-Gordon New Editions) 3rd Edition by Arthur L. Costa
Regie Routman - Read, Write, Lead: Breakthrough Strategies for Schoolwide Literacy Success (2014)
Micki Uppena Mineral Point Elementary School (Librarian)
The Marshall Memo
Heather Fisher
Jennifer Garvey Berger

Matt's Publications:

7 Questions I Ask Myself When Working with Educators Resistant to Change (February 2023)
Leading LIke a C.O.A.C.H.: 5 Strategies for Supporting Teaching and Learning (2022)
Classroom Libraries: Who Owns the Reading? (WSRA Journal, 2019)
Busting Myths, Telling Truths (Language Magazine, January 2018)
Digital Portfolios in the Classroom: Showcasing and Assessing Student Work (2017)
Five Myths About Classroom Technology: How do we integrate digital tools to truly enhance learning? (ASCD Arias) (2015)

Connect and Learn with Matt:

on his website & newsletter
on Twitter (@ReadByExample)
on LinkedIn

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

S2 E32: Building a Community of Inclusion: Autism Advocacy and Awareness with Sara Bradford (aka S.J. Childs)

Mon, 01 May 2023 01:00:00 -0400

Sara Bradford is an autistic woman and advocate. She is a member of the Autism Council of Utah and also the owner of the SJ Childs LLC Facebook Autism Advocate Support Group. In this episode, Sara shares her experience and perspective as a mother and partner to her husband and children, who are all on the autism spectrum. She is a global autism speaker and the podcast host of The SJ Childs Show. Sara offers resources and shares advice for caregivers and educators regarding autism awareness and advocacy.

Episode Mentions:

Get in touch and learn with Sara (aka S.J. Childs) via linkfly

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

S2 E31: Using Micro Mentor Texts: Standing Next to & Teaching Beautiful Writing with Penny Kittle

Mon, 24 Apr 2023 01:00:00 -0400

Penny Kittle lives by her words, "When you stand next to beautiful writing, your writing is just kind of set free." Penny shares how her latest book, Micro Mentor Texts: Using Short Passages From Great Books to Teach Writer's Craft offers a process for studying and teaching on the shoulders of incredible authors as mentors to transform student writing.

Ep. Mentions:

Penny's Recommendations:

Penny's Selected Writing:

Connect:

via Website
on Instagram (Penny&Book Love Foundation)
on Twitter
on LinkedIn
on YouTube
on Mighty Networks

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

S2 E30: Why School Boards Fail & How Yours Can Be Effective with A.J. Crabill

Mon, 10 Apr 2023 01:00:00 -0400

A.J. Crabill lives by his mantra: "Student outcomes don't change until adult behaviors change." In this episode, A.J. explains why changing adult behaviors (especially regarding school boards) requires new mindsets, knowledge, and skills. His latest book, Great on Their Behalf: Why School Boards Fail, How Yours Can Be Effective, provides a step-by-step guide to transforming student outcomes through the transformation of adult mindsets, knowledge, and skills -- starting with our own.

Episode Mentions:

Pamela "Mama" Dawson - Choir Director at DeSoto High School (just won a Grammy)
Mrs. Murphy (A.J.'s Economics Teacher)
Document for Coding Board Minutes

A.J.'s Recommendations:

Learn more about the book or get it: http://www.GreatOnTheirBehalf.com
Read a preview of the book: http://tinyurl.com/Great-On-Their-Behalf-sample

Get in touch and learn with A.J.:

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

S2 E29: Finding Joy with Kindergarteners: A Conversation with Mr. Greg Smedley-Warren, Creator of The Kindergarten Smorgasboard

Mon, 03 Apr 2023 01:00:00 -0400

Kindergarten teacher extraordinaire "Mr. Greg" of The Kindergarten Smorgasboard and ELEVATE Conference shares why being a teacher matters most. Listeners will leave inspired by Greg's hilarious tales from the classroom and practical tips to try right away with their students!

Episode Mentions:

Greg's Recommendations:

Connect and learn with Greg:

via website The Kindergarten Smorgasboard
on Twitter
on Instagram
on Facebook
on Pinterest
on YouTube

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

S2 E28: The Benefits of Teaching Writing Through a Workshop Approach with Stacey Shubitz & Melanie Meehan

Mon, 20 Mar 2023 01:00:00 -0400

Chief of Operations and Lead Writer for Two Writing Teachers, Stacey Shubitz, and Two Writing Teachers Co-Author, Melanie Meehan share beliefs, practices, and research around the benefits of teaching writing through a workshop approach. Stacey and Melanie also shine as authors of groundbreaking professional books and co-hosts of the Two Writing Teachers Podcast!

Episode Mentions:

Connect with Stacey & Melanie via:

Websites: Stacey & Melanie
Twitter: Stacey & Melanie
Facebook: Stacey & Melanie
Instagram: Stacey & Melanie
Pinterest: Stacey & Melanie
LinkedIn: Stacey & Melanie

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

S2 E27: Talk to Me! Leave a Voice Message Via My New SpeakPipe Widget ~ Olivia Wahl

Mon, 13 Mar 2023 01:00:00 -0400

Try out my new SpeakPipe widget! Leave a voice memo about a Schoolutions episode that has inspired you or a PK-12 public education issue/solution. Make sure to let me know your role or connection with public education.

Here’s to continuing to find inspiration together!

Connect with Schoolutions Podcast:

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

S2 E25: The Content Shop: Kate and Maggie Roberts Are Putting Professional Learning Back into Teachers’ Hands

Mon, 27 Feb 2023 01:00:00 -0500

Innovative thought partners Kate and Maggie Roberts share their newest venture to put professional learning back into teachers’ hands via The Content Shop. They offer simple, practical, and bite-sized tools to optimize our teaching.

Episode Mentions:

The Content Shop
- Membership Options
Greg Michie (Twitter) & (Facebook)
Gail Dahling-Hench
Falling in Love with Close Reading: Lessons for Analyzing Texts--and Life by Christopher Lehman & Kate Roberts (2013)
DIY Literacy: Teaching Tools for Differentiation, Rigor, and Independenceby Kate Roberts & Maggie Beattie Roberts (2016)
A Novel Approach: Whole-Class Novels, Student-Centered Teaching, and Choice by Kate Roberts (2018)

Connect with Kate & Maggie:

at their website: Kate & Maggie
on Twitter: Maggie & Kate
on Facebook
on Instagram
on TikTok

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

S2 E24: Solving Problems of Practice When It Comes to Our Current RtI Models with Julie Wright

Mon, 20 Feb 2023 01:00:00 -0500

Teacher, instructional coach, educational consultant, and author Julie Wright shares her brilliant solutions and protocols to address common problems of practice regarding our current RtI models. Julie’s book,What’s Our Response: Creating Systems and Structures to Support ALL Learners, is an invaluable resource filled with tips for breaking out of the RtI box that we sometimes unintentionally corner children into. Julie reminds listeners that teacher autonomy and agency are at the heart of serving and meeting ALL students’ needs.

Episode Mentions:

Connect with Julie:

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

S2 E23: Schoolutions & Shifting Schools Collaboration: What is the Role of the Educational Podcast? with Olivia Wahl & Co-hosts Jeff Utecht and Tricia Friedman

Mon, 13 Feb 2023 01:00:00 -0500

This week is a special collaborative episode with the co-hosts of the Shifting Schools podcast, Jeff Utecht and Tricia Friedman. We reflect on our journeys as podcasters - offering up podcasts that have influenced us most, stand-out episodes from our own podcasts, and lessons learned from our guests. Listen to be inspired and hear what we value and believe to be true in order to do right by you, our listeners.

Connect with Jeff and Tricia:

website: Shifting Schools
on Twitter
on YouTube
on Instagram
on TiktTok
on LinkedIn (Jeff) & (Tricia)

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

S2 E22: The Sharing Place: Supporting Children as They Process and Move Through Their Grief with Jill Macfarlane

Mon, 06 Feb 2023 01:00:00 -0500

Jill Macfarlane shares about supporting children and their families with the grieving process in her role as the Program Director at The Sharing Place since 2003. Jill’s gift for explaining how and why people die in developmentally kid-sized ways is incredible and necessary. In addition, Jill highlights resources for families and schools looking to support their communities as they process and move through grief when their loved ones die.

Episode Mentions:

Connect with The Sharing Place:

at their website: The Sharing Place
on Twitter
on Facebook
on Instagram

Connect with Jill:

on Facebook
on Instagram

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

S2 E21: Raising Children with Disabilities: Caregiving & Parenting Are Not the Same - A Conversation with Advocate and Mom, Erin Croyle

Mon, 30 Jan 2023 06:00:00 -0500

Erin Croyle offers listeners her perspective on the differences between caregiving and parenting when it comes to being an advocate for disability rights and a mother to three children, one of them having Down syndrome. Erin helps listeners understand how they can both support the disability community and caregivers of children with disabilities as well. Listeners must take a moment also to be inspired by Emily Perl Kingsley’s poem, Welcome To Holland.

Episode Mentions:

Connect with Erin:

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

The Secret to Making Technology Actually Improve Student Learning

Mon, 23 Jan 2023 01:00:00 -0500

In this eye-opening conversation, technology integration coach Anna Davis and veteran educator Lainie Levin reveal the Triple E Framework (Extend, Enhance, Engage) that's revolutionizing classrooms. Learn how their powerful partnership approach turns struggling students into confident writers and transforms classroom management through innovative teaching strategies.

🎯 What You'll Learn:
➡️The Triple E Framework that makes technology actually work for student engagement
➡️How to support disruptive students and difficult students through digital writing communities
➡️Effective teaching strategies that boost student motivation and active learning
➡️Professional learning insights for teachers, education coaches, and instructional leaders
➡️Classroom behavior management through authentic audience writing
➡️Student discipline approaches that inspire students rather than punish them

Key Takeaways:
✅ Move from technology dependency to meaningful integration
✅ Create "Trusted Reader Circles" for student participation and peer feedback
✅ Navigate platform transitions (Seesaw → Fanschool → WordPress)
✅ Build teacher coaching partnerships that actually work
✅ Support new teachers with practical instructional strategies
✅ Develop inclusive teaching approaches for the whole child

Episode Mentions:

CHAPTERS:
0:00 - Introduction: Meet the Dream Team
2:15 - What is a Technology Integration Coach?
5:30 - The Partnership Approach to Teaching
8:45 - Triple E Framework Explained (Extend, Enhance, Engage)
12:20 - Student Success Stories: From Perfectionist to Confident
16:10 - Platform Evolution: When Students Outgrow Tools
19:30 - Digital Writing vs Traditional Methods
23:15 - Parent Concerns About Screen Time
26:40 - Privacy Laws and Platform Compliance
29:20 - Recommended Platforms and Learning Management Systems
33:45 - Apps That Transform Writing Instruction
37:30 - Real Student Transformations
41:15 - Call to Action: Starting Your Tech Partnership

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

5-Minute Math Conferences That Create Independent Problem Solvers

Mon, 16 Jan 2023 01:00:00 -0500

Transform your math classroom with 5-minute conferring strategies that build confident, independent mathematicians! In this episode of Schoolutions, I interview Dr. Gina Picha, author of "Conferring in the Math Classroom," to reveal how brief, intentional conversations can revolutionize student engagement, student motivation, and mathematical thinking.

Discover how to shift from answer-focused instruction to identity-building practices that create empowered educators and thriving students. Learn the difference between "within task" and "beyond task" conferences, master questioning techniques that inspire students rather than funnel thinking, and build a classroom culture where every child sees themselves as a mathematician.

Perfect for teachers, education coaches, instructional leaders, new teachers, and anyone seeking effective teaching strategies that support the whole child through innovative teaching approaches.

Chapters:
0:00 Introduction to Math Conferring
2:30 What is Math Identity?
8:45 Comparing Literacy vs Math Conferences
15:20 Conference Structures: Within vs Beyond Task
22:10 The Power of Questioning in Math
28:40 Asset-Based vs Deficit-Based Teaching
35:15 Building Strong Math Communities
42:30 Developing Mathematical Conjectures
48:20 Creating Independent Problem Solvers

Episode Mentions:

Gina’s Recommended Resources:

#MathEducation #ElementaryMath #TeachingStrategies #StudentEngagement #MathConferring #ClassroomManagement #ProfessionalDevelopment #EducationPodcast #MathIdentity #InstructionalCoaching #TeacherTraining #StudentSuccess #MathAnxiety #EffectiveTeaching #ElementaryEducation

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Reading Wars: The $1 BILLION Industry That's Failing Students

Mon, 09 Jan 2023 01:00:00 -0500

Are reading wars destroying our children's education? In this eye-opening conversation, Dr. P.L. Thomas, a former high school English teacher with 18 years of classroom experience, exposes how education strategies, effective teaching, and instructional strategies are being replaced by one-size-fits-all programs that ignore what we know about student engagement, student motivation, and inclusive teaching.

What You'll Learn:
✅ Why the reading wars keep repeating every decade (it's not what you think!)
✅ The REAL reasons Mississippi's reading scores improved (hint: it's not just phonics)
✅ How teacher autonomy is being destroyed by scripted programs
✅ Why balanced literacy isn't the enemy educators claim it is
✅ The hidden costs of over-labeling students with reading difficulties

Perfect for:
- Teachers struggling with mandated reading programs
- School administrators seeking evidence-based solutions
- Parents questioning their child's reading instruction
- Education coaches supporting teacher development
- Instructional leaders wanting to understand the research

Key Topics Covered:
- Teacher coaching and professional development alternatives
- Culturally responsive teaching vs. scripted curricula
- Equity in education and inclusive classrooms
- Student success through empowered educators
- Education transformation and teacher impact
- School change that prioritizes thriving students

This conversation challenges the narrative that phonics-only instruction is the solution to literacy challenges, instead advocating for inspired teaching that meets individual student needs through innovative teaching practices and teacher support.

CHAPTERS
0:00 - Introduction: Meet Dr. P.L. Thomas
2:15 - The Inspiring Teacher That Changed Everything
5:30 - Teacher Autonomy: Then vs Now
8:45 - The Reading Wars: Core Problems Explained
15:20 - Historical Context: 1940s to Today's Third Reading War
22:30 - Mississippi's Reading Gains: The Real Story
28:10 - England's Phonics Mandate: What Really Happened
32:45 - Defining Reading in the 21st Century
38:20 - Workshop Teaching vs Scripted Programs
45:15 - The Role of Standards and Assessment
50:30 - What Counts as "Scientific" Research?
57:40 - Media Influence and Market Forces
64:25 - Supporting Students with Reading Difficulties
70:10 - Building Community and Resistance
75:30 - Hope and Action Steps for Educators
78:45 - Final Thoughts: Putting Students First

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Why This Teenager's Approach to Digital Literacy is Genius

Mon, 02 Jan 2023 01:00:00 -0500

Meet Olivia "Liv" Van Ledtje, the remarkable 15-year-old who transformed her experience with bullying into a global movement for digital literacy and student empowerment. In this inspiring conversation, discover how one student's journey from victim to victor is revolutionizing education and changing how we think about student engagement, classroom behavior, and the power of student voices.

🎯 What You'll Learn:
• How to turn difficult students into empowered educators through passion-based learning
• Revolutionary approaches to student motivation and classroom engagement that work
• Digital citizenship strategies that inspire rather than intimidate students
• Building authentic teacher-student connections that transform classroom culture
• Creating inclusive classrooms where every student voice matters
• Innovative teaching methods that spark student participation and active learning

✨ Key Takeaways for Educators:
Liv's story proves that effective teaching starts with believing in our students. Her journey from a bullied third-grader to an international speaker demonstrates the transformative power of student-centered education, culturally responsive teaching, and a pro-kid mindset. Whether you're dealing with disruptive students, low engagement, or seeking fresh education strategies, this conversation offers hope and practical solutions.

Chapters
0:00 - Introduction: Meet 15-Year-Old Global Speaker Liv
2:15 - From Bullying Victim to Confident Creator
5:30 - The Birth of Liv Bits: Turning Pain into Purpose
8:45 - Inspiring Educators Who Changed Everything
12:20 - The Power of Teacher-Student Connections
16:10 - Gaming in Education: Changing Minds at NCTE
19:25 - Digital Literacy Without Fear: A New Approach
23:40 - Heart Beeps: Creating Emotional Connection
27:15 - Humanity and Activism in Education
31:50 - Keynote Speaking Around the World
36:20 - Pop-Tarts and Authentic Connections (Fun Segment!)
40:15 - The Importance of Digital Crews and Safety
44:30 - Hashtags and Building Your Brand
48:45 - Block and Bloom: Handling Online Negativity
52:20 - Feedback as Fuel for Growth
56:35 - Spotlights: Lifting Others Up
60:10 - Technology Beyond Assessment
63:25 - Spark Hope, Story, and Action
67:40 - Future Projects: STEAM Club and Long Liv Books
72:15 - The Meaning of "Refulgent" - A Beautiful Story
75:30 - Final Thoughts and Call to Action

Episode Mentions:

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

23 Students Share What Makes Teachers Unforgettable

Mon, 26 Dec 2022 01:00:00 -0500

What Students REALLY Want from Teachers (23 Kids Reveal the Truth)

Discover what truly matters to students through authentic voices from kindergarten to 12th grade! In this powerful episode of Schoolutions podcast, 23 students share heartfelt messages about the teachers who make the biggest impact in their lives.

What You'll Learn:
➡️Real student perspectives on effective teaching and student engagement
➡️How simple acts of kindness transform classroom culture and student motivation
➡️The power of humor, patience, and respect in managing students and classroom behavior
➡️Why choice and autonomy boost student participation and active learning
➡️How teachers create inclusive classrooms that make every student feel valued

Perfect For:
Teachers, education coaches, school administrators, parents, homeschoolers, teacher mentors, instructional leaders, school counselors, and anyone passionate about inspiring students and education transformation.

From students who love teachers that "don't get mad the first time" to those who appreciate fresh-baked bread and morning Wordle games, these authentic voices reveal the teaching strategies that truly work. Whether you're focused on classroom management, student discipline, or simply want to improve your teacher impact, these insights will inspire your approach to education.

Key Themes: Student success, thriving students, empowered educators, inspired teaching, pro-kid mindset, whole child approach, culturally responsive teaching, equity in education, inclusive teaching, teacher support, and building strong home-school connections.

Chapters
0:00 - Welcome to Schoolutions Podcast
1:30 - The Mission: Finding Solutions in Education
2:45 - Student Messages Begin (Grades K-12)
8:20 - What Students Really Value in Teachers
10:15 - The Power of Kindness & Humor in Teaching
12:30 - Choice, Respect & Inclusion Matter Most
14:45 - Parker Palmer's Wisdom for Educators
16:00 - Moving Forward: Sharing Stories for Solutions

#Teachers #Education #StudentVoices #ClassroomManagement #TeachingTips #StudentEngagement #EducationPodcast #TeacherSupport #StudentMotivation #InclusiveTeaching #TeacherImpact #SchoolCulture #EducationStrategies #InspiredTeaching #StudentSuccess #ProfessionalDevelopment #EducationTransformation #TeacherMentors #ClassroomBehavior #EffectiveTeaching

👉 LINKED EPISODE SHOWNOTES:
https://www.buzzsprout.com/1890886/11927822

🔔 SUBSCRIBE to never miss an episode of Schoolutions Teaching Strategies Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@schoolutionspodcast/

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When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Why Books in Bedrooms Matter More Than You Think!

Mon, 19 Dec 2022 01:00:00 -0500

Join bestselling author and nationally syndicated advice columnist Amy Dickinson as she shares her powerful "Put a Book on Every Bed" Christmas tradition that's transforming family literacy across America. In this inspiring conversation, Amy reveals how a simple wrapped book can revolutionize student engagement, student motivation, and create lasting home-school connections.

Discover evidence-based education strategies that teachers, parents, and homeschoolers can implement immediately to boost student participation and foster a love of reading. Amy's journey from a struggling late reader to NYT bestselling author offers hope and practical teaching tips for supporting difficult students and inspiring students of all backgrounds.

This episode is perfect for empowered educators seeking innovative teaching approaches, parents wanting to strengthen family partnerships, and anyone committed to education transformation. Learn how Amy's advocacy for fine-free libraries removes barriers to student success and creates more inclusive classrooms.

Whether you're dealing with low engagement, seeking professional development ideas, or looking for ways to support the whole child, this conversation provides actionable strategies for thriving students and inspired teaching.

Chapters:
0:00 Introduction to Amy Dickinson
1:54 Inspiring Educators: Mrs. Jones Story
4:15 The Power of Reading Aloud to Older Children
5:54 Put a Book on Every Bed Christmas Tradition
9:01 Growing Up with a Reader: Basketball Game Story
11:22 Library Advocacy and Book Bundles During COVID
12:07 Giving Books to Families in Need
14:19 Selecting Age-Appropriate Books
17:43 Visiting Elder Communities and Assisted Living
18:30 Working with Schools and Organizations
22:44 Connecting with Young Readers and Authors
26:36 Fine-Free Libraries: Removing Barriers to Literacy
29:55 Call to Action: Supporting the Book on Every Bed Movement

Episode Mentions:

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Build Stronger Teacher Teams with Bite-Sized Coaching

Mon, 12 Dec 2022 01:00:00 -0500

Tired of overwhelming your teachers with endless professional development? Discover the game-changing "Coaching à la Carte" approach that's transforming how instructional coaches support educators!

In this episode of Schoolutions, instructional coaches and Two Writing Teachers Blog authors Amy Ellerman and Morgan Davis share revolutionary strategies for building stronger teacher teams through bite-sized professional development and innovative learning labs. If you're struggling with teacher burnout, low engagement in PD, or need effective coaching strategies that actually work, this conversation is for you.

What You'll Learn:
✅ How to implement "Coaching à la Carte" for busy, depleted teachers
✅ The power of learning labs to transform teacher collaboration
✅ Why turning teachers into "risk-takers" (not experts) creates better outcomes
✅ Practical strategies for instructional coaching that drive student success
✅ How to build collective efficacy through parallel practices

Chapters:
0:00 Introduction to Amy Ellerman & Morgan Davis
2:04 Inspiring Educators: Katie Wood Ray & Sam Bennett
4:33 The Shift in Teacher Capacity for Professional Learning
5:43 What is "Coaching à la Carte"?
7:21 Teacher Teams & Risk-Taking in Learning Labs
9:50 Understanding Learning Labs Structure
11:06 Pre-Unit Planning: Building Clarity Together
12:55 Teacher as Writer: Living the Experience
15:28 Pre-Brief: Setting Up Learning Lab Success
20:46 Mid-Unit Collaboration & Feedback Palooza
24:20 Observation: Growing Teacher Learning
27:00 The Critical Debrief Process
30:12 Finishing Units Strong: Reflection & Celebration
35:07 Commitment & Follow-Up in Learning Labs
39:33 Call to Action: Building Collective Efficacy
42:11 Getting Started: Breaking Down Big Work
45:09 Closing & Two Writing Teachers Blog

Episode Mentions:

Coaching à la Carte: Stronger Together Blog Series by Amy Ellerman (10/31/22)
Teacher Teams: Stronger Together Blog Series by Morgan Davis (11/5/22)
Katie Wood Ray
Sam Bennett
Learning Lab Structure
Professional Learning Community (PLC)
Vicki Collet’s 2022 CCIRA session based on her book, Collaborative Lesson Study: ReVisioning Teacher Professional Development (2019)

Other Recent Blog Posts by Amy & Morgan:

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

How a Music Teacher Created His Own AI Co-Teacher

Mon, 05 Dec 2022 01:00:00 -0500

Transform Your Overcrowded Classroom with the "Cyber-Teachey" Co-Teaching Method!

Discover how music educator Noah Teachey revolutionized his approach to classroom management and student engagement when faced with 30+ students and no co-teacher. This innovative teaching strategy combines effective teaching with instructional strategies that work for ANY subject!

What You'll Learn:
✅ How to create your own "co-teacher" using video instruction
✅ Behavior strategies for managing students in large classes
✅ Active learning techniques that boost student participation
✅ Lesson planning methods that maximize student engagement
✅ Innovative teaching approaches for inclusive classrooms
✅ Professional development strategies you can implement immediately

Noah's journey from teaching in India to the South Bronx showcases how culturally responsive teaching and a pro-kid mindset can create thriving students through education transformation. His method addresses low engagement, difficult students, and attention in class challenges while promoting student success and whole child development.

Chapters
0:00 - Introduction to Noah Teachey
1:25 - Noah's Inspiring Orchestra Teacher
2:13 - The "Co-teaching with Myself" Article Discovery
3:30 - Noah's Journey from India to NYC Teaching
5:19 - Why Create the Co-Teaching Model?
8:56 - Defining Co-Teaching Models vs. Station Teaching
11:12 - Introducing "Cyber-Teachey" to Students
13:22 - YouTube-Style Instructional Videos
15:15 - Technical Setup: Green Screen and Production
17:24 - Evolution After Year One
18:29 - Adapting for Different Student Groups
22:29 - When to Post Videos: Student Agency
24:39 - Non-Linear Curriculum and Student Choice
25:34 - Call to Action: Nurturing Student Creativity
27:16 - Final Thoughts on Applied Learning

Episode Mentions:

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

How Can We Help LGBTQ+ Kids Feel Safe at School?

Mon, 28 Nov 2022 01:00:00 -0500

🏳️‍🌈 Creating Safe Spaces for LGBTQ+ Youth: A Critical Conversation for Educators

Join award-winning educator and Professor Emeritus Lester Laminack in this powerful discussion about supporting LGBTQ+ students in our schools. With suicide rates 3x higher among LGBTQ+ youth, creating inclusive classrooms has never been more urgent.

What You'll Learn:
✅ Why traditional "coming out" should shift to "inviting in"
✅ The devastating impact of book banning on student identity
✅ How to create safe spaces using inclusive teaching practices
✅ Practical strategies for student engagement and student motivation
✅ Building strong parent communication and family partnerships
✅ Developing a pro-kid mindset for whole child support

Lester shares his 46-year journey in education, from classroom management to teacher coaching, emphasizing how culturally responsive teaching and equity in education can transform school culture.

Chapters:
0:00 - Introduction & Lester's Background
2:46 - The Inspiring Educator: Fred Rogers
4:30 - How Personal Experience Shapes Writing
8:07 - The Tapestry of Identity
10:06 - The Reality of Being Unseen
15:16 - Challenging the Concept of "Coming Out"
17:43 - From "Coming Out" to "Inviting In"
20:01 - The Ordinary Life Reality
22:28 - Hope Amidst Fear and Silence
25:39 - Call to Action: What We Can Do Now
26:52 - Opening Hearts and Creating Spaces
30:22 - The Role of Adults in Setting Tone
33:16 - Building Understanding Through Connection
34:19 - Closing Thoughts & Resources

Resources to Help You Support LGBTQ+ Youth:

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Students Walked Out - Here's What the Superintendent Did Next

Mon, 21 Nov 2022 01:00:00 -0500

🎓 When Students Feel Safe Enough to Share Their Truth - Everything Changes

In this powerful conversation, Dr. Cosimo Tangorra Jr. shares his transformative journey from privilege to becoming an equity champion in education. As a superintendent with nearly 20 years of experience, he reveals how listening to students completely changed his approach to school leadership, classroom management, and student discipline.

🔑 What You'll Learn:
• How student voices exposed hidden classroom behavior issues and systemic inequities
• Revolutionary approaches to student discipline that focus on learning, not punishment
• Why traditional grading systems predict failure and how to flip them for student success
• Strategies for managing difficult students through restorative justice and student engagement
• How to build inclusive classrooms that serve every child's needs
• Effective teaching methods that remove barriers to learning
• School leadership techniques that transform school culture through equity

CHAPTERS:
0:00 - Introduction: Meet Dr. Cosimo Tangorra Jr.
1:04 - The Inspiring Educator Question
1:57 - Personal Equity Journey: From Privilege to Awareness
3:40 - Taking Action: The Niskayuna Experience
6:21 - Student Voice: How Learners Drive Change
8:33 - Navigating Family Pushback on Equity Work
10:21 - Getting Comfortable with Discomfort
12:00 - Equity vs. Equality: Why Fair Isn't Always Equal
13:16 - Revolutionizing Grading Policies
14:31 - DEI, SEL, and Restorative Justice Integration
16:25 - Teaching Students How to Protest Effectively
17:13 - Recruitment and Retention for Diverse Workforce
19:19 - Final Thoughts and Gratitude

Cos's Recommendations:

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

The Shocking Truth About Teen Sleep Deprivation

Mon, 14 Nov 2022 01:00:00 -0500

Are your students falling asleep in class? This groundbreaking conversation with sleep specialists Heather Turgeon and Julie Wright reveals the shocking truth: 95% of high school seniors are severely sleep deprived, and it's destroying their ability to learn.

What You'll Learn:
➡️Why teens biologically can't fall asleep before 11 PM (it's not rebellion!)
➡️How sleep deprivation creates difficult students and impacts classroom management
➡️The "perfect storm" destroying teen sleep: technology, homework overload, and early start times
➡️Practical teaching tips for educators working with sleep-deprived students
➡️Family strategies for parent involvement and home-school connection
➡️Why later school start times improve student participation and reduce behavioral issues

Chapters
0:00 Introduction & Expert Credentials
1:27 Meet the Sleep Specialists
5:16 The Teen Sleep Crisis: Shocking Statistics
7:29 Understanding Teen Brain Clocks & Biology
10:10 The Sleep Camp Studies: How Much Sleep Teens Actually Need
12:37 Sleep Discrimination & Mental Health Connection
14:06 Social Jet Lag Explained
16:26 REM Sleep & Why Teens Are "Missing Their Dreams"
18:32 The Missing Link: Technology's Real Impact on Sleep
20:06 Flow State & Gaming: Why Teens Lose Track of Time
23:41 Practical Screen Time Do's and Don'ts
30:18 Sleep-Friendly Schools: The Case for Later Start Times
34:21 Addressing School Concerns: Busing & Sports
37:01 Academic Overload: The Homework Crisis
42:24 The Parent Fade: Shifting to Consultant Role
44:36 FOND Families & Sleep-Forward Mentality
47:37 Five Habits of Happy Sleepers
48:21 Top Takeaways & Action Steps

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Why Education Needs More Field Work (and Less Theory)

Mon, 07 Nov 2022 01:00:00 -0500

🌍 Discover how Presidential Award winner Helen Corveleyn revolutionizes elementary STEM education through international fieldwork and outdoor learning! From swimming with whale sharks in Baja to studying orangutans in Borneo, Helen brings real-world science experiences to her K-5 classroom.

In this inspiring interview, Helen shares her innovative teaching strategies that transform student engagement and motivation. Learn how she takes students outside 50% of the time, integrates social-emotional learning with STEM, and creates authentic fieldwork experiences using professional scientific tools. Her approach to active learning and student participation has earned recognition from the White House!

🔥 What You'll Learn:
• How to increase student engagement through outdoor education
• Effective teaching strategies for inspiring students in STEM
• Professional development opportunities through Project Dragonfly
• Innovative teaching methods that connect classroom to real world
• Student motivation techniques using hands-on experiences
• Lesson planning ideas that promote student participation
• Education strategies for whole child development

Chapters:
0:00 Introduction to Helen Corveleyn
2:08 Helen's Educational Background & Inspiration
5:16 The STEM Education Crisis: Only 17 Minutes Daily
9:14 Reimagining School: Indoor vs Outdoor Learning
12:23 Creating STEM Units with NGSS Standards
17:42 Presidential Award Application & White House Experience
22:41 Outdoor Learning Philosophy: 50/50 Indoor/Outdoor Split
23:51 Project Dragonfly International Fieldwork Program
26:57 Swimming with Whale Sharks in Baja, Mexico
28:04 Life-Changing Moment in Borneo Rainforest
30:49 Bringing International Experiences to Elementary Students
34:58 Call to Action: Global Conservation & STEM Pipeline
39:00 Closing Thoughts & Appreciation

Helen's Publications:

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

One Book, One World: How This Global Initiative is Uniting Classrooms

Mon, 31 Oct 2022 01:00:00 -0400

Join us for an eye-opening conversation with Pernille Ripp, the visionary educator behind the Global Read Aloud that connects over 1 million students across 85 countries. In this powerful interview, Pernille shares her journey from teacher burnout in America to finding renewed purpose in Denmark, while revolutionizing how we think about student engagement, classroom management, and global education.

What You'll Learn:
✅ How to transform student motivation through authentic audiences and global collaboration
✅ Effective teaching strategies that prioritize student voice over traditional classroom control
✅ Education strategies for creating inclusive classrooms that honor every child
✅ Professional development insights for empowered educators seeking education transformation
✅ Innovative teaching approaches that turn difficult students into engaged learners
✅ Teacher coaching wisdom from someone who's mentored thousands globally

Chapters:
00:00 Introduction & Pernille's Background
02:03 Kids as Inspiring Educators
04:12 The Greatest Gap in American Education
05:47 Decision to Leave America for Denmark
10:39 Differences in Danish vs American Education Systems
14:35 Defining Global Citizenry
18:08 Adult Voice & Teacher Empowerment
20:22 Collaborate, Connect, Create Framework
25:45 Building Classroom Collaboration Skills
33:38 The Global Read Aloud Project Origin & Evolution
42:18 Choosing Books & Managing Global Distribution
44:42 Blogging with Students & Digital Citizenship
49:39 Instagram Hack Story & Digital Security
55:48 Call to Action: Small Changes for Big Impact

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

When to Quit: Pulitzer Winner Explains

Mon, 24 Oct 2022 01:00:00 -0400

When should you quit? Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and UC Berkeley Dean Geeta Anand shares the Buddhist-inspired framework that transformed her career and can revolutionize yours.

In this powerful interview, Geeta reveals how "wise seeing, wise being, and wise effort" helped her make impossible decisions - from quitting swimming as a national champion to leaving the New York Times to care for family. Her story offers profound insights for teachers, education coaches, school administrators, parents, homeschoolers, teacher mentors, instructional leaders, and school counselors facing burnout and difficult choices.

Perfect for educators struggling with:
➡️Student engagement and student motivation challenges
➡️Classroom management and behavior strategies with difficult students
➡️Professional development and teacher support decisions
➡️Education transformation and school improvement initiatives
➡️Parent communication and family partnerships
➡️Inclusive teaching and culturally responsive teaching approaches

Geeta's journey from swimming champion to foreign correspondent to dean demonstrates how effective teaching and instructional leadership require knowing when to persist and when to pivot. Her pro-kid mindset and whole child approach offers teaching tips for inspiring students and creating thriving students.

Key Topics:
➡️Buddhist wisdom for decision-making
➡️Teacher coaching and mentor teachers' strategies
➡️School leadership and education leadership insights
➡️Student success through empowered educators
➡️Innovative teaching and instructional strategies
➡️School culture transformation
➡️Teacher impact and inspired teaching

Whether you're dealing with classroom behavior issues, low engagement, or considering major career changes, this conversation provides the framework for making wise decisions that honor both your calling and your well-being.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction: Meeting Geeta Anand
02:48 The Magic Carpet Story
03:04 Inspiring Educator: Mary Kelly
04:18 The Quitting Confession
05:25 Wise Seeing, Wise Being, Wise Effort Explained
07:26 Quitting Swimming as National Champion
09:04 Parenting and Wise Seeing
12:02 Seeing Truth as Caregivers and Educators
13:36 $25 Million Grant Success Story
15:44 Leaving New York Times for Family
17:20 Becoming Berkeley Journalism Dean
18:46 Teaching Writing Without Formulas
19:12 Curiosity Over Opinion
20:03 Seeing Through Our Own Prisms
21:52 Information Literacy in Dangerous Times
23:00 Why Assessing All Sides Matters
24:09 Hope for Educators at Breaking Point
24:25 Closing and Gratitude

Episode Mentions & Publications:

Book:

The Cure: How a Father Raised $100 Million--and Bucked the Medical Establishment--in a Quest to Save His Children(2009)

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

How to Stop Point-Chasing & Start Learning

Mon, 17 Oct 2022 01:00:00 -0400

In this S2E6 Schoolutions Teaching Strategies conversation, Sarah M. Zerwin reveals why traditional grading systems are failing our students and how to create classrooms where real learning thrives. Discover how one master educator transformed her classroom by eliminating the "points for compliance" system that's been damaging student motivation and engagement for decades. Sarah shares practical strategies that work across all grade levels and content areas.

🔥 What You'll Learn:
• Why traditional grading systems reward compliance over learning
• The historical origins of our broken educational measurement system
• How to shift from evaluation to meaningful feedback that inspires students
• Practical strategies for managing the gradebook without destroying student motivation
• The coaching metaphor that will revolutionize your teaching approach
• How to navigate district requirements while prioritizing student engagement

Sarah's approach addresses low engagement by focusing on intrinsic student motivation rather than external rewards. Her methods support culturally responsive teaching, equity in education, and creating inclusive classrooms where every student can thrive.

Chapters:
0:00 Introduction to Sarah M. Zerwin
2:19 The Problem with Point-Chasing Behaviors
5:11 Historical Origins of Traditional Grading
8:14 Compliance vs. Proficiency in Education
10:47 Navigating District Obstacles to Change
13:12 The Myth of Standards-Based Grading
15:16 The Coach-Athlete Teaching Metaphor
18:14 What's Actually Required vs. Phantom Policy
20:48 Reimagining Assignments Without Reinventing Everything
24:59 How to Use Your Gradebook Differently
31:56 Redefining Feedback as Description, Not Evaluation
35:46 Sharing the Feedback Load with Students
39:29 Spreading Pointless Grading Across Content Areas
42:15 Final Thoughts on Process Over Product

Episode Mentions:

Sarah’s Website Resource Page: Point-less Grading in General, Language Arts, Science, and Math; Teaching Writing; Teaching Reading; Workshop
Alfie Kohn - The Case Against Grades
Phantom Policy
Learning Goals (AP Lit / 9th-12th Grades)
Grading Explanations (LA 12 / AP Lit)
For Students and Caregivers:
- Regarding Grades
- Key to What You’ll See in the Gradebook
Infinite Campus Gradebook
Developing Grading and Reporting Systems for Student Learning
Point-Less: An English Teacher’s Guide to More Meaningful Grading (2020)

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

I Watched Kids Learn to Read (and it was beautiful)

Mon, 10 Oct 2022 01:00:00 -0400

In this S2E5 Schoolutions Teaching Strategies conversation, reading intervention specialist Linda Farrell reveals the assessment-driven approach that's helping struggling readers across America. From her unique journey as a former investment banker turned reading expert, Linda shares game-changing strategies that every educator and parent needs to know.

What You'll Learn:
✅ The critical difference between teaching typical vs. struggling readers
✅ How proper assessment drives effective teaching (not guessing!)
✅ Why early intervention before age 8 is crucial for student success
✅ The Simple View of Reading that transforms instructional strategies
✅ Free assessment tools you can use immediately

Perfect for: teachers, education coaches, school administrators, parents, homeschoolers, teacher mentors, instructional leaders, school counselors seeking effective teaching methods and professional development.

Linda's work demonstrates how proper assessment leads to targeted instruction, improved student engagement, and lasting student success. Her Reading Rockets video series shows real results with real kids, proving that with the right approach, we can help every child become a thriving student.

Chapters:
0:00 Introduction to Linda Farrell
1:26 Inspiring Educator: Rossi King
4:24 Linda's Journey: From Investment Banking to Reading
9:49 Red Flags for Parents
11:29 Reading Rockets Video Series
16:59 What Would You Change About Education?
19:42 Favorite Assessment Tools
22:07 Success Stories That Change Lives

Episode Mentions:

Articles by Linda Farrell:

Webinars by Linda Farrell:

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Unmasking the Hidden Biases in Our Classrooms

Mon, 03 Oct 2022 01:00:00 -0400

In this S2E4 Schoolutions Teaching Strategies conversation with Dr. Fabiola Bagula, Superintendent of San Diego Unified, discover why traditional one-shot implicit bias training doesn't work and learn the proven 30-hour method that's transforming schools across California. Fabiola reveals the psychological safety framework that's revolutionizing classroom management, student engagement, and school culture.

🎯 What You'll Learn:
• The 6 outcomes of adult learning (andragogy) that transform professional development
• How to create psychological safety for difficult conversations about classroom behavior
• The Cognitive Bias Codex: 180 ways your brain affects student discipline decisions
• Otto Scharmer's listening framework for inclusive teaching and culturally responsive teaching
• Why grading zeros harm student motivation and what to do instead
• The IKEA Effect and Decoy Effect in education strategies

This isn't just theory - it's practical teacher coaching that addresses disruptive students, low engagement, managing students, and building an anti-bias teaching approach. Perfect for teachers, education coaches, school administrators, principal strategies, teacher mentors, instructional leaders, and anyone focused on equity in education.

🎬 Chapters:
0:00 - Introduction to Dr. Fabiola Bagula
2:35 - The Mr. Rowie Story: Teacher Impact That Lasts
5:13 - Why Traditional Bias Training Fails
8:12 - Building Psychological Safety for Behavior Strategies
10:04 - The Foundation: Trust Without Shame
12:31 - Andragogy: How Adults Actually Learn
15:22 - Setting Up Professional Development Sessions
17:42 - Constructivist Listening & Theory U
21:09 - The Four Levels of Listening
23:42 - Introducing the Cognitive Bias Codex
26:00 - The Decoy Effect in Classroom Management
26:48 - The IKEA Effect and Student Participation
27:46 - Biases That Harm: Empathy and Just World Effect
30:15 - Grading Systems and Student Discipline
34:32 - Book Banning and Student Belonging
37:00 - Closing Thoughts on Education Transformation

Research & Researchers Mentioned Throughout the Episode:

Publications by Dr. Fabiola Bagula:

Belonging and Being Enough within Latinas Leading Schools
Leadership and Latina topics: https://bagula.medium.com/

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Speech Therapy Secrets: What Every Caregiver Needs to Know

Mon, 26 Sep 2022 01:00:00 -0400

In this S2E3 Schoolutions Teaching Strategies conversation, join me as I interview veteran speech pathologist Susie Betancourt, who shares crucial insights every parent and educator needs to know about speech development. With 22 years in North Carolina public schools and experience serving over 220,000 students, Susie reveals the key developmental milestones, when to seek help, and inspiring success stories.

What You'll Learn:
• Critical speech milestones by age (1, 2, 3, and 4 years)
• When stuttering is normal vs. concerning
• Why middle schoolers often succeed better in speech therapy
• Professional resources for parents and teachers
• Accommodations for students with speech challenges
• Success stories including a stuttering valedictorian

Perfect for: teachers, caregivers, homeschoolers, school counselors, instructional leaders, education coaches, and anyone supporting student success through a pro-kid mindset and whole child approach.

Key Topics: Speech therapy, child development, student support, inclusive teaching, parent communication, family partnerships, teacher support, professional development, student engagement, culturally responsive teaching, equity in education, inclusive classrooms, empowered educators, thriving students, education transformation

Chapters:
0:00 Introduction & Guest Background
1:21 Inspiring Educator Story
2:12 COVID Impact on Speech Services
3:01 Normal vs. Concerning Stuttering
5:16 Speech Development Milestones by Age
7:05 Articulation Development Timeline
8:49 Why Older Students Succeed in Speech Therapy
10:54 Resources for Parents (ASHA)
12:19 Phonics & Reading Connection
13:25 Success Stories: Autism & Communication
14:27 Stuttering Success: The Confident Valedictorian
16:07 Large School System Challenges
18:58 What She'll Miss Most About Teaching
19:59 Final Thoughts & Resources

Episode Mentions:

ASHA.org (American Speech & Hearing Association)
Characteristics of Typical Disfluency & Stuttering
Typical Speech and Language Development
Stuttering Resources
Stimulability and Treatment Outcomes
Response to Intervention
Fast ForWord (Auditory Processing & Phonics)
Autism & Autism Speaks
Wake County Public School System

#SpeechTherapy #ChildDevelopment #ParentingTips #SpecialEducation #Stuttering #SpeechPathology #InclusiveTeaching #StudentSuccess #EarlyIntervention #ProfessionalDevelopment #EducationPodcast #TeacherSupport #ParentCommunication #FamilyPartnerships #ProKidMindset #WholeChild #EmpoweredEducators #ThrivingStudents #CulturallyResponsiveTeaching #EquityInEducation #InclusiveClassrooms #SchoolCounselors #InstructionalLeaders #EducationTransformation #teacherimpact

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

The Science of Bullying & Effective Prevention Strategies

Mon, 19 Sep 2022 01:00:00 -0400

Globally-renowned expert in bullying and school violence, Professor Ron Avi Astor, shares strategies to stop bullying and school violence before they begin. Ron illuminates years of research conducted with his colleague Rami Benbenishty from their books, Mapping and Monitoring Bullying and Violence and Welcoming Practices.

🔍 What You'll Discover:
✅ Why 80% of school violence happens OUTSIDE the classroom (and how to fix it)
✅ The simple "mapping technique" that reduces fights by 75%
✅ Why your child's bathroom breaks might be dangerous
✅ The real connection between school shootings and terrorism
✅ How to identify warning signs BEFORE violence occurs
✅ Why traditional anti-bullying programs often fail

CHAPTERS
0:00 - Introduction: Meet Professor Ron Avi Astor
2:19 - Inspiring Educator Story: The Cafeteria Worker Who Changed Everything
6:08 - Patterns in School Violence: What 20 Years of Research Reveals
9:40 - The Evolution of Bullying Research and Definitions
13:50 - School Mapping Technique: Revolutionary Safety Strategy
18:22 - Why Hallways and Bathrooms Are Danger Zones
24:47 - Shifting Teacher Mindset: From "Not My Job" to Ownership
26:09 - Success Stories: Schools That Got It Right
30:10 - Finding Solutions-Based Schools (The Sister Book)
34:05 - A Mother's Fear: Handling School Shooting Threats
36:04 - Understanding School Shootings as Terrorism
42:04 - Media Coverage and the Contagion Effect
45:50 - Long-Term Solutions and Prevention Strategies
49:54 - Final Thoughts on Creating Safer Schools

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Being 'Pro-Kid' in 2024: What Teachers REALLY Need to Know

Mon, 12 Sep 2022 01:00:00 -0400

In this S2E1 Schoolutions Teaching Strategies interview, join education expert Cornelius Minor for this powerful conversation about revolutionizing classroom management, student engagement, and inclusive teaching. Discover why traditional behavior strategies fail and learn the "radical listening" approach that transforms disruptive students into engaged learners.

What You'll Learn:
✅ Why student behavior is communication, not defiance - game-changing classroom behavior insights
✅ The "heavy presence, light touch" technique for managing students without controlling them
✅ How to shift from being a good employee to being an effective teacher (even when it means bending rules)
✅ Practical student discipline alternatives that build connection instead of punishment
✅ The curriculum changes that eliminate most classroom management issues
✅ Why low engagement signals problems with instruction, not students
✅ Innovative teaching strategies for culturally responsive teaching and equity in education
✅ How to develop a pro-kid mindset that transforms school culture

Minor shares real stories of education transformation, from reducing office referrals through relevant curriculum to inspiring students through authentic teacher modeling. Learn how "presencing" creates thriving students and discover why the best professional development starts with truly seeing the whole child.

Chapter Timestamps
0:00 Introduction to Cornelius Minor & "We Got This"
4:18 Educators Who Inspired Cornelius: Fannie Lou Hamer & Carter G. Woodson
7:45 Do We Still "Got This" in 2024? Current Education Challenges
10:17 What is Radical Listening? Beyond Traditional Student Engagement
14:46 "Heavy Presence, Light Touch" - Presencing in Classrooms
18:15 Disrupting the Status Quo: Why Rule-Breaking is Sometimes Necessary
21:48 Student Behavior as Communication, Not Defiance
26:49 Making Curriculum Work for Students: Real Classroom Transformations
32:28 Modeling Reading Behavior: The Power of Teacher Authenticity
37:22 Good Teacher vs. Good Employee: Navigating Institutional Pressures
42:54 Lessons Learned: What Would Be Different in "We Got This" Today
46:16 Closing Thoughts on Being Radically Pro-Kid

Fannie Lou Hamer

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

The Award-Winning School Farm That Uses 95% Less Water

Sun, 26 Jun 2022 20:00:00 -0400

In this S1E20 Schoolutions Teaching Strategies conversation, discover how (former) Principal David Friedrich revolutionized his elementary school through innovative vertical farming and farm-to-school programs. In this inspiring conversation, learn how Hopewell Elementary School secured $25,000 in grants to build a customized vertical farm that's 2-3 times larger than Princeton University's model!

What You'll Learn:
✅ How vertical farming brings Next-Generation Science Standards to life
✅ Innovative teaching strategies that integrate STEM across all grade levels
✅ How to transform school culture through nutrition and hands-on learning
✅ Professional development approaches that don't overwhelm teachers
✅ Building parent involvement through cooking classes and community events
✅ School leadership strategies for securing grants and community partnerships
✅ Creating inclusive teaching environments that serve the whole child

This farm-to-school program uses 95% less water than traditional farming while growing fresh herbs, vegetables, and strawberries that students help cultivate and then enjoy in their cafeteria. From preschool through 5th grade, every student participates in hands-on STEM learning that connects to real-world applications.

Perfect for: teachers, education coaches, school administrators, parents, homeschoolers, instructional leaders, school counselors, and anyone interested in education transformation, school improvement, and student success.

Featured Topics: student engagement, active learning, instructional strategies, innovative teaching, school leadership, parent communication, family partnerships, education at home, inspiring students, empowered educators, teacher impact, and creating thriving students through experiential learning.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to David Friedrich & Hopewell Elementary
02:59 What is the Vertical Farming Initiative?
05:09 Why "Vertical" Farming? The Science Behind It
05:58 How Students Access the Program (Pre-K through 5th Grade)
06:37 Top Tomato Award & Farm-to-School Recognition
07:24 From Classroom to Cafeteria: The Implementation Journey
09:22 Impact of COVID & Current Status
10:16 Virtual Cooking Classes During the Pandemic
11:22 Top Chef Enrichment Program
12:39 Cross-Curricular Impact on Literacy & Math
13:25 Future Plans & Expansion
15:24 Community Events: Farm-to-School Day & Parent Lunch
16:39 Community Partnerships & Giving Back
18:00 The Power of Relationships in Education

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

How COVID Left Kids with Special Needs Behind

Sun, 19 Jun 2022 20:00:00 -0400

In this S1E19 Schoolutions Teaching Strategies conversation, special education expert and parent advocate Tina Andrews reveals the harsh realities facing students with disabilities and their families in today's education system. When the pandemic hit, special needs students were left behind in ways that most people don't realize.

🎯 What You'll Learn:
• Why inclusive teaching isn't safe in many schools right now
• The difference between compensatory services and extended school year
• When parents need legal help (it's sooner than you think)
• How to advocate effectively for your child's IEP
• Red flags that indicate your child isn't getting proper support

Tina Andrews, a mother of five adopted children with special needs and project coordinator at Delaware's Parent Information Center, shares her expertise as both a former special education teacher and current parent advocate. Her insights on classroom management, student engagement, and education strategies will empower educators, parents, and school administrators to better support students with disabilities.

Whether you're dealing with disruptive students, seeking better parent communication, or working toward inclusive classrooms, this conversation provides essential guidance for creating equity in education and supporting the whole child.

Chapters:
0:00 - Introduction to Tina Andrews
2:15 - Inspiring Educator: Tina's Mother
4:13 - The Reality of Learning Loss Post-COVID
5:17 - Tina's Journey to Parent Advocacy
7:20 - Finding Support: Parent Training Centers
8:54 - When Inclusion Isn't Safe
11:00 - The Problem with Understaffed Classrooms
13:08 - Understanding IEPs vs 504 Plans
15:51 - Compensatory Services Explained
18:58 - Extended School Year Requirements
22:17 - When to Seek Legal Help
24:17 - State Complaints vs Due Process
27:40 - Hope for Public Education's Future
30:45 - Final Thoughts on Student Resilience

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

How One School Secretary Changed Hundreds of Lives

Sun, 12 Jun 2022 19:00:00 -0400

In this S1E18 Schoolutions Teaching Strategies conversation, discover how one remarkable school office assistant, Tricia Coon, transformed her district by mastering classroom behavior, student engagement, and building powerful home-school connections. In this inspiring episode, Tricia shares her proven behavior strategies for managing disruptive students, creating student motivation, and fostering inclusive classrooms that support the whole child.

What You'll Learn:
✅ Effective classroom management techniques that reduce office referrals
✅ Student discipline approaches that focus on solutions, not punishment
✅ How to build authentic parent communication and family partnerships
✅ Behavior strategies that turn difficult students into engaged learners
✅ Creating a pro-kid mindset that transforms school culture
✅ Practical teaching tips for supporting thriving students
✅ Student engagement methods that work across all grade levels

Perfect for: Teachers, education coaches, school administrators, parents, school counselors, instructional leaders, and anyone passionate about student success and education transformation.

Tricia's approach to managing students goes beyond traditional student discipline - she creates a safe space where student participation flourishes and attention in class improves naturally. Her innovative teaching methods and culturally responsive teaching practices have made her the "heartbeat" of Madison Central School District.

Chapters
0:00 - Introduction: Meet the "Heartbeat" of Madison Central School District
1:17 - Student Voices: How Basketball Builds Life Skills
2:35 - Classroom Management: From Court to Classroom
4:06 - The Power of Mentorship in Education
5:54 - Building Home-School Connections That Work
7:10 - Creative Parent Communication Strategies
8:09 - Supporting Families Beyond the Classroom
9:25 - De-escalation Techniques for Disruptive Students
11:01 - Individual Student Support: The Matchbox Car Story
12:19 - Basketball as a Behavior Management Tool
14:31 - Creating Team Unity and Reducing Drama
15:13 - More Student Success Stories
17:47 - Life Lessons Through Sports
19:24 - Tips for School Administrators
21:15 - Long-term Impact: Students 15 Years Later

#ClassroomManagement #StudentEngagement #TeacherTips #SchoolLeadership #ParentCommunication #StudentSupport #EducationStrategies #BehaviorManagement #StudentMotivation #TeacherCoaching #SchoolCulture #StudentSuccess #EducationTransformation #ProKidMindset #InclusiveTeaching #WholeChild #ThrivingStudents #TeacherImpact #InspiredTeaching #EducationLeadership #HomeSchoolConnection #FamilyPartnerships #StudentDiscipline #EffectiveTeaching #ClassroomControl #MentorTeachers #ProfessionalDevelopment #SchoolImprovement #CulturallyResponsiveTeaching #EquityInEducation

🔔 SUBSCRIBE to never miss an episode of Schoolutions Teaching Strategies Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@schoolutionspodcast/

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When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Why Every School NEEDS a Certified Librarian (Part II)

Sun, 05 Jun 2022 19:00:00 -0400

In this S1E17 Schoolutions Teaching Strategies interview, discover how certified school librarian K.C. Boyd revolutionized reading culture, secured $3.25 million in funding, and became a fierce advocate for student access. From taking a school from worst to excellent in 4 years to rebuilding 8 libraries in underserved communities, K.C. shares her proven strategies for student engagement, inclusive teaching, and education transformation.

🔥 What You'll Learn:
• How to build strong home-school connections through transparent communication
• Innovative teaching strategies that boost student motivation and participation
• Effective approaches to culturally responsive teaching and equity in education
• Professional development insights for empowered educators
• School leadership tactics that create lasting school improvement
• Ways to support the whole child through inclusive classrooms

Perfect for: teachers, education coaches, school administrators, parents, instructional leaders, school counselors, and anyone passionate about student success and thriving students.

Chapters
Part 1:
0:00 - Introduction to K.C. Boyd, 2022 School Librarian of the Year
2:15 - Educational Journey and Family Inspiration
5:30 - Transforming Wendell Phillips Academy (Last to Excellence)
8:45 - Building Teacher Collaboration and Student Engagement
12:20 - Rebuilding 8 Libraries in East St. Louis
16:10 - Digital vs. Print Books Discussion
18:30 - Chi School Librarians Advocacy Work
21:45 - The DC Read-In Protest Strategy
24:00 - Winning $3.25 Million for 36 Schools

Part 2:
26:30 - Balancing Multiple Leadership Roles
29:15 - News Literacy and Digital Citizenship
32:00 - Building a 4,269 sq ft Library Collection
35:20 - Student Relationships and Book Selection
38:45 - Addressing Book Bans and Censorship
42:30 - Importance of Certified Librarians
45:15 - Makerspace Programs and Digital Literacy
48:30 - Virtual Learning During Pandemic
51:00 - Social Media and Professional Networks
54:15 - Advice for Future Librarians

Some of Many Awards, Honors & Published Writing Highlighting K.C.’s Work:

#JAReaders #KCSaidIt #TrojanLMCMakerspace #workWOKE

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Why Every School NEEDS a Certified Librarian (Part I)

Mon, 30 May 2022 17:00:00 -0400

In this S1E16 Schoolutions Teaching Strategies interview, discover how certified school librarian K.C. Boyd revolutionized reading culture, secured $3.25 million in funding, and became a fierce advocate for student access. From taking a school from worst to excellent in 4 years to rebuilding 8 libraries in underserved communities, K.C. shares her proven strategies for student engagement, inclusive teaching, and education transformation.

🔥 What You'll Learn:
• How to build strong home-school connections through transparent communication
• Innovative teaching strategies that boost student motivation and participation
• Effective approaches to culturally responsive teaching and equity in education
• Professional development insights for empowered educators
• School leadership tactics that create lasting school improvement
• Ways to support the whole child through inclusive classrooms

Perfect for: teachers, education coaches, school administrators, parents, instructional leaders, school counselors, and anyone passionate about student success and thriving students.

Chapters
Part 1:
0:00 - Introduction to K.C. Boyd, 2022 School Librarian of the Year
2:15 - Educational Journey and Family Inspiration
5:30 - Transforming Wendell Phillips Academy (Last to Excellence)
8:45 - Building Teacher Collaboration and Student Engagement
12:20 - Rebuilding 8 Libraries in East St. Louis
16:10 - Digital vs. Print Books Discussion
18:30 - Chi School Librarians Advocacy Work
21:45 - The DC Read-In Protest Strategy
24:00 - Winning $3.25 Million for 36 Schools

Part 2:
26:30 - Balancing Multiple Leadership Roles
29:15 - News Literacy and Digital Citizenship
32:00 - Building a 4,269 sq ft Library Collection
35:20 - Student Relationships and Book Selection
38:45 - Addressing Book Bans and Censorship
42:30 - Importance of Certified Librarians
45:15 - Makerspace Programs and Digital Literacy
48:30 - Virtual Learning During Pandemic
51:00 - Social Media and Professional Networks
54:15 - Advice for Future Librarians

Some of Many Awards, Honors & Published Writing Highlighting K.C.’s Work:

#JAReaders #KCSaidIt #TrojanLMCMakerspace #workWOKE

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

From Broken Trust to Thriving Teams

Sun, 22 May 2022 17:00:00 -0400

In this S1E15 Schoolutions Teaching Strategies conversation, discover how (former) Principal Tom Curry revolutionized his elementary school using restorative practices, effective teaching strategies, and innovative approaches to school leadership. This inspiring conversation reveals practical education strategies that work for classroom management, student engagement, and building trust among staff.

What You'll Learn:
✅ How to implement restorative circles for better classroom behavior and student discipline
✅ Proven strategies for managing difficult students and improving student motivation
✅ Professional development techniques that actually engage teachers
✅ School improvement methods that create lasting change
✅ Instructional leadership approaches that empower educators
✅ Building school culture through transparent communication and teacher support

Perfect for teachers, education coaches, school administrators, instructional leaders, and anyone passionate about education transformation. Whether you're dealing with disruptive students, low engagement, or need fresh teaching tips, this episode offers practical solutions.

Chapters:
0:00 - Introduction: Why This Principal's Approach Is Different
2:55 - Meet Tom Curry: From Music Teacher to Transformational Principal
5:15 - What Are Restorative Practices? Breaking It Down
8:52 - Building Trust: The Four Norms of Restorative Circles
11:14 - The Difficult Conversation That Changed Everything
13:29 - Developing Instructional Leaders Through Trust
15:12 - Professional Learning That Actually Works
17:13 - Final Thoughts: The Power of Listening and Trust

Research to Support This Work:

Restorative Practices for Educators (International Institute for Restorative Practices , 2022)
Restorative Practices to Implement in 2022 (Panorama Education, 2022)
Building a Positive School Climate Through Restorative Practices (Learning Policy Institute, 2021)
Bringing Restorative Practices to Your School: Six lessons learned from replacing punitive discipline with a community-oriented, restorative approach. (Edutopia, 2016)

#ClassroomManagement #StudentBehavior #SchoolLeadership #EducationStrategies #TeacherCoaching #RestorativePractices #StudentEngagement #SchoolCulture #PrincipalTips #TeacherSupport #ProfessionalDevelopment #InstructionalLeadership #EducationTransformation #StudentSuccess #EmpoweredEducators #SchoolImprovement #TeachingTips #EducationCoaching #StudentDiscipline #innovativeteaching

🔔 SUBSCRIBE to never miss an episode of Schoolutions Teaching Strategies Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@schoolutionspodcast/

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When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

How Music + Reading Changes Children's Lives Forever

Sun, 15 May 2022 18:00:00 -0400

In this S1E14 Schoolutions Teaching Strategies conversation, meet the dream team behind Children’s Reading Connection: internationally acclaimed literacy leader Brigid Hubberman, singer-songwriter and educator John Simon, and community advocate Cal Walker. Learn their proven strategies for creating inclusive classrooms, boosting student engagement, and building strong family partnerships that last a lifetime.

🎵 What You'll Learn:
• How the "Sing Me a Story, Read Me a Song" method increases student participation and attention in class
• Effective teaching strategies that work with difficult students and low engagement
• Innovative approaches to culturally responsive teaching and inclusive education
• Pro-kid mindset techniques that transform classroom behavior
• How to build meaningful home-school connections and caregiver support
• The power of active learning through music and storytelling

Chapters
0:00 - Welcome & Guest Introductions
4:26 - Inspiring Educators: Who Changed Their Lives?
8:44 - The Early Literacy Crisis & Their Solution
9:50 - Cal Reads "All the Colors of the Earth" (Live Performance)
12:30 - Children's Reading Connection: Mission & Vision
15:33 - How They Get Books Into Homes & Hearts
17:14 - The Magic Behind Their 15-Year Partnership
20:34 - The Science of Music & Memory in Learning
21:18 - "Sing Me a Story, Read Me a Song" Initiative
24:29 - Community Partnerships & Fundraising
26:27 - The Cultural Impact on Families
27:08 - John & Cal Perform "All Are Welcome" (Live)
30:19 - Final Thoughts & Gratitude

Find Brigid’s Published Writing within:

Click Links to Learn More About:

Children’s Reading Connection → MAKE A DONATION
- Sing Me a Story! Read Me a Song & Play the Entire Collection → MAKE A DONATION

More Research to Support This Work:

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Meet the Student Leaders Changing School! (Part II)

Sun, 08 May 2022 19:00:00 -0400

In this S1E13 Schoolutions Teaching Strategies conversation, discover how four Ithaca High School students, Adam Saar, Grace Lim, Aitan Avgar, and Kadek Nawiana, transformed their entire school district through authentic student engagement and advocacy. These inspiring student representatives share exactly how they got religious holidays added to the school calendar, implemented new grading policies during COVID, and created lasting change that benefits ALL students.

What You'll Learn:
✅ How students can effectively communicate with school leadership
✅ Strategies for meaningful student participation in district decisions
✅ Building bridges between students and school administrators
✅ Creating inclusive teaching environments through student voice
✅ Practical approaches to school improvement from the ground up

Perfect for teachers, education coaches, school administrators, parents, instructional leaders, and anyone passionate about student success and education transformation. These empowered educators prove that when we listen to students, we create thriving students and inspired teaching.

Chapters:
00:00 - Introduction: Meet the Student Representatives
02:30 - How Students Get Elected to School Board
04:15 - Why These Students Chose Leadership Roles
07:45 - What Being a Student Rep Actually Entails
11:20 - Engaging Disconnected Students Through Social Media
13:30 - Hot Topics: Universal Lunch & Schedule Changes
16:10 - Major Win: Getting Religious Holidays on School Calendar
19:45 - The Personal Impact of Calendar Changes
22:00 - COVID's Impact: Grading Policy Advocacy
24:30 - Sustainability: Training the Next Generation
28:15 - Creating More Opportunities for Student Voice
30:45 - Future Plans: Where These Leaders Are Headed
33:20 - Final Thoughts & Call to Action

Please (seriously, you must...) take the time to see these incredible students in action, speaking to issues from our interview via the two ICSD Board Meeting Video Clips Below:

#StudentVoice #EducationLeadership #StudentEngagement #SchoolImprovement #EducationReform #StudentAdvocacy #SchoolBoard #TeacherSupport #EducationEquity #StudentSuccess #SchoolChange #EducationTransformation #StudentLeadership #InclusiveEducation #ParentInvolvement #SchoolCulture #EducationStrategy #StudentMotivation #EmpoweredEducators #ThrivingStudents

🔔 SUBSCRIBE to never miss an episode of Schoolutions Teaching Strategies Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@schoolutionspodcast/

& 👉Follow Schoolutions Teaching Strategies Podcast on social:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/olivia-wahl-4300811a/
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When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Meet the Student Leaders Changing School! (Part I)

Sun, 01 May 2022 19:00:00 -0400

In this S1E12 Schoolutions Teaching Strategies conversation, discover how four Ithaca High School students, Adam Saar, Grace Lim, Aitan Avgar, and Kadek Nawiana, transformed their entire school district through authentic student engagement and advocacy. These inspiring student representatives share exactly how they got religious holidays added to the school calendar, implemented new grading policies during COVID, and created lasting change that benefits ALL students.

What You'll Learn:
✅ How students can effectively communicate with school leadership
✅ Strategies for meaningful student participation in district decisions
✅ Building bridges between students and school administrators
✅ Creating inclusive teaching environments through student voice
✅ Practical approaches to school improvement from the ground up

Perfect for teachers, education coaches, school administrators, parents, instructional leaders, and anyone passionate about student success and education transformation. These empowered educators prove that when we listen to students, we create thriving students and inspired teaching.

Chapters:
00:00 - Introduction: Meet the Student Representatives
02:30 - How Students Get Elected to School Board
04:15 - Why These Students Chose Leadership Roles
07:45 - What Being a Student Rep Actually Entails
11:20 - Engaging Disconnected Students Through Social Media
13:30 - Hot Topics: Universal Lunch & Schedule Changes
16:10 - Major Win: Getting Religious Holidays on School Calendar
19:45 - The Personal Impact of Calendar Changes
22:00 - COVID's Impact: Grading Policy Advocacy
24:30 - Sustainability: Training the Next Generation
28:15 - Creating More Opportunities for Student Voice
30:45 - Future Plans: Where These Leaders Are Headed
33:20 - Final Thoughts & Call to Action

Please (seriously, you must...) take the time to see these incredible students in action, speaking to issues from our interview via the two ICSD Board Meeting Video Clips Below:

#StudentVoice #EducationLeadership #StudentEngagement #SchoolImprovement #EducationReform #StudentAdvocacy #SchoolBoard #TeacherSupport #EducationEquity #StudentSuccess #SchoolChange #EducationTransformation #StudentLeadership #InclusiveEducation #ParentInvolvement #SchoolCulture #EducationStrategy #StudentMotivation #EmpoweredEducators #ThrivingStudents

👉 LINKED EPISODE SHOWNOTES:
Part I: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1890886/10494750
Part II: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1890886/10495450

🔔 SUBSCRIBE to never miss an episode of Schoolutions Teaching Strategies Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@schoolutionspodcast/

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When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Why Children Need To Learn About Death

Sun, 24 Apr 2022 21:00:00 -0400

In this S1E11 interview, Parveen Shaikh, breaks the silence around one of education's most avoided topics: discussing death with children. After COVID-19 brought loss into countless families, educators worldwide are realizing that death conversations can't remain taboo in schools.

What You'll Learn:
✅ How to use bibliotherapy (picture books) to start difficult conversations
✅ The 4 key death concepts children need to understand
✅ Building stronger home-school connections during family crises
✅ Professional development strategies for teacher support
✅ Creating inclusive classrooms that address real-life challenges
✅ Effective teaching approaches for sensitive topics

Parveen shares her expertise in school leadership and creating supportive school culture. Learn how teachers can provide student support while maintaining classroom management during emotionally challenging times. This approach emphasizes whole child development and culturally responsive teaching.

Chapters:
0:00 - Introduction to Parveen Shaikh
2:15 - Why Death Became a Taboo Topic in Schools
4:30 - The Power of Bibliotherapy in Education
7:45 - Four Key Death Concepts for Children
11:20 - Teacher-Student Relationships and Trust
14:10 - Home-School Connection in India vs. US
17:30 - Mental Health Stigma and Cultural Barriers
20:45 - Training Teachers for Difficult Conversations
24:15 - Building Inclusive School Libraries
26:30 - Addressing Other Taboo Topics (Gender, LGBTQ)
28:45 - Key Takeaways for Educators and Parents

Parveen’s Published Writing:

(2019). Yet Another Milestone. K12 Digest-Independent International K12 Education Portal & Magazine.
(2022). Having Those Difficult Conversations. Teacher Plus Magazine.

Parveen’s Recommended Resources:

reading ages 3 -7
- Where Do They Go? by Julia Alvarez (2016)
reading ages 4 - 8
- The Heart and the Bottle by Oliver Jeffers (2010)
- Cry, Heart, But Never Break by Glenn Ringtved (2016)
- Gone Grandmother by Chatura Rao (2016)
- Boo: When My Sister Died by Richa Jha and Gautam Bnegal (2017)
reading ages 7 - 9
- Duck, Death and the Tulip by Wolf Erlbruch (2011)

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Why “We-Do” Writing Is Key to Independence

Sun, 17 Apr 2022 22:00:00 -0400

In this S1E10 interview, Leah Mermelstein reveals the revolutionary "We-Do" Writing method that's helping teachers nationwide solve two critical problems: shaky student independence and competing literacy theories.

In this expert interview, discover:
✅ Why traditional gradual release isn't working for writing instruction
✅ The 3 essential instructional strands every writer needs
✅ How 10-minute collaborative sessions transform student engagement
✅ Practical strategies for effective teaching that connect reading and writing
✅ Teaching tips that support both new teachers and veteran educators
✅ How to build student motivation through structured collaboration

Episode Mentions:

Leah’s Published Writing:

Mermelstein, Leah. (2005). Reading/Writing Connections in the K-2 Classroom: Find the Clarity and Then Blur the Lines. Allyn & Bacon.
Mermelstein, Leah. (2007). Don't Forget to Share: The Crucial Last Step in the Writing Workshop. Heinemann.
Mermelstein, Leah. (2013). Self-Directed Writers: The Third Essential Element in the Writing Workshop. Heinemann.
Mermelstein, Leah. (2021).“We-Do” Writing: Maximizing Practice to Develop Independent Writers. Benchmark Education.
Mermelstein, Leah. (2021). 6 Qualities of a Strong Writing Curriculum. Benchmark Education.
Mermelstein, Leah. (2021). Aligning Reading and Writing Instruction in Kindergarten-2nd Grade. Learning Without Tears.

Perfect for teachers, education coaches, instructional leaders, and anyone passionate about student success. Leah's research-backed approach creates thriving students while making teaching more manageable.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Leah Mermelstein
00:46 Leah's Teaching Background & Expertise
03:13 Inspiration from Professor Pearson's Gradual Release Model
05:33 Flipping Traditional Teaching Approaches
07:18 What is "We-Do" Writing?
08:19 The 3 Essential Instructional Strands
10:23 Interactive Writing Sessions Explained
11:30 Connecting Phonics to Writing Practice
12:31 Write Aloud: Building Language Composition
14:11 Writing Process: Bringing It All Together
15:08 Flexible Support Levels for Different Needs
16:05 Research Foundation: Reading Science Meets Writing
17:03 Making Time: The 10-Minute Solution
18:14 Real-World Application in Schools
20:09 Creating Comprehensive Writing Curriculum
21:22 Final Thoughts & Resources

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

How One Partnership is Revolutionizing Coaching Connections

Sun, 10 Apr 2022 20:00:00 -0400

In this S1E9 interview, join renowned education coaches Toni Cameron and Renee McShane as they share game-changing strategies from their Coaching Learning Community (CLC) that's supporting teachers nationwide. Discover how effective teacher coaching can revolutionize classroom management, student engagement, and education transformation.

What You'll Learn:
✅ Why most instructional coaching fails (and how to fix it)
✅ The power of listening over talking in teacher support
✅ How video analysis transforms coaching strategies
✅ Building authentic mentor teachers relationships
✅ Creating sustainable professional development that works
✅ The "Coaching the Coach" model for new teachers

Perfect for: teachers, education coaches, school administrators, instructional leaders, teacher mentors, school counselors, and anyone passionate about inspired teaching and teacher impact.

Chapters:
0:00 Introduction & Guest Backgrounds
1:37 Inspiring Educators: Personal Stories
3:18 The Coaching Isolation Problem
4:22 Origins of the Coaching Learning Community
6:26 CLC as a Lifeline During COVID
8:16 The Power of Video Analysis in Coaching
10:19 Understanding Your Values as a Coach
11:50 Listening Stumbling blocks for Coaches
15:54 Real-World Impact: Sweet Home School District
17:26 The "Coaching the Coach" Model
19:23 Grounding Work in What's Best for Children

Episode Mentions:

Toni’s Most Recent Published Writing:

Other Resources:

reimaginED Teaching

#TeacherCoaching #InstructionalCoaching #ProfessionalDevelopment #EducationTransformation #TeacherSupport #CoachingStrategies #MentorTeachers #SchoolLeadership #EducationCoaches #InspiredTeaching #TeacherImpact #EmpoweredEducators #StudentSuccess #WholeChild #EffectiveTeaching #TeachingTips #NewTeachers #InstructionalLeaders #SchoolImprovement #EducationStrategies

🔔 SUBSCRIBE to never miss an episode of Schoolutions Teaching Strategies Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@schoolutionspodcast/

& 👉Follow Schoolutions Teaching Strategies Podcast on social:
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Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/schoolutionspodcast/
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Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/olivia-wahl.bsky.social
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When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Why This Teacher Starts EVERY Day with Play (And You Should Too!)

Sun, 03 Apr 2022 20:00:00 -0400

In this S1E8 interview, teacher Mary Anne Camel reveals how starting each school day with 75 minutes of intentional play revolutionizes classroom management, student engagement, and builds independence in young learners. With over 20 years of teaching experience, Mary Anne shares proven behavior strategies that turn morning transitions from chaotic to joyful.

What You'll Learn:
✅ How play-based mornings eliminate disruptive students and behavior challenges
✅ Effective teaching strategies for managing students through structured choice
✅ Classroom control techniques that build student motivation naturally
✅ Innovative teaching approaches for active learning and student participation
✅ Instructional strategies that work for difficult students and low engagement
✅ Teacher coaching insights for inspiring students and maintaining attention in class
✅ Inclusive teaching methods that support the whole child approach

Perfect for: teachers, education coaches, school administrators, parents, homeschoolers, teacher mentors, instructional leaders, new teachers seeking professional development, and anyone interested in education transformation.

Mary Anne's pro-kid mindset and culturally responsive teaching create thriving students through empowered educators. Discover how this approach builds home-school connection and supports family partnerships while maintaining effective classroom behavior management.

Episode Mentions:

Olivia’s Article Highlighting Mary Anne’s Work Around Play:

Wahl, Olivia. (2018). Why Every Kindergarten and First-Grade School Day Should Begin with Inquiry and Imaginative Play. Heinemann, Online.

Video Clips

Chapters
00:00 - Introduction: Meet Mary Anne Camel
00:27 - The Power of Play in Early Education
01:21 - Learning from Mom: The First Teacher
02:17 - Why Every Day Should Start with Play
03:24 - Morning Routine: Setting Up for Success
04:33 - How Students Choose Their Play Areas
05:22 - Exploring Classroom Play Centers
07:08 - Teaching Independence Through Clear Expectations
09:07 - Using Questions to Spark Curiosity in Block Play
10:31 - Managing Snack Time During Play
12:03 - Coaching Children Without Solving Problems
13:10 - Navigating Conflicts: When Kids Want the Same Area
14:29 - The 75-Minute Play Block: Making Time Work
15:28 - Community Cleanup: Building Responsibility
17:16 - Long-term Impact: From Kindergarten to Fourth Grade

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

The Truth About Limited Book Choices in Schools

Sun, 27 Mar 2022 20:00:00 -0400

In this S1E7 interview, high school English teacher Morgan Jackson reveals the critical difference between diversity and equity in classroom libraries - and why it matters more than you think.

Morgan reveals the critical difference between diversity and equity in classroom libraries - and why it matters more than you think. She teaches 11th and 12th grades at Bishop Gorman High School in Las Vegas, breaks down why simply having diverse books isn't enough. She explains how trauma-centered diverse literature can actually harm students and shares practical strategies for creating truly equitable representation in your classroom.

What You'll Learn:
• The difference between diversity vs. equity in education
• Why trauma-based diverse books can be harmful to students
• How to create inclusive classrooms that truly serve all students
• Effective teaching strategies for difficult conversations
• Student engagement techniques that honor every child's identity
• Pro-kid mindset approaches to book selection
• Culturally responsive teaching methods that work

Episode Mentions:

Morgan’s Published Writing:

Jackson, Morgan (2021). How Librarians and Teachers Can Cultivate Diverse Books That Go Beyond the Trauma Experience. We Need Diverse Books.

Morgan’s Recommended Resources:

Other Notes:

Perfect for: teachers, education coaches, school administrators, parents, homeschoolers, teacher mentors, instructional leaders, school counselors

Chapters
0:00 - Introduction & Welcome
0:27 - Meet Morgan Jackson: From Middle School to High School
1:12 - The Inspiring Teacher in Morgan's Life
2:13 - Defining the Problem: Diversity vs. Equity Confusion
4:01 - The Power of Rudine Sims Bishop's Mirror/Window Quote
4:45 - Why Diverse Representation Isn't Enough
6:42 - The Pitfalls of Trauma-Centered Diverse Literature
7:18 - The COVID Analogy: Understanding Trauma Fatigue
9:08 - Moving Beyond Trauma: What Students Actually Need
9:42 - Resources for Equitable Book Selection
11:01 - The Cognition Piece: Who Are We Putting Forward?
12:02 - "If a Book Doesn't Belong, The Kid Doesn't Belong"
12:45 - Addressing Book Banning and Censorship
14:16 - Teaching Critical Thinking Over Content
15:50 - Having Difficult Conversations with Students
17:59 - Handling Parental Pushback
19:48 - Student-Centered Approach to Literature
20:32 - Final Thoughts: It's Not Just About Seeing Yourself

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

Secrets to Funding Creative Education Projects in Public Schools

Sun, 20 Mar 2022 20:00:00 -0400

In this S1E6 interview, discover how Executive Director Steve Manley and educator Joyce Putnam with the Ithaca Public Education Initiative (IPEI) transformed the Ithaca City School District by creating innovative funding solutions that support teachers, boost student engagement, and strengthen parent involvement. In this inspiring episode, learn from Steve Joyce about building sustainable community partnerships that provide real resources for classrooms.

What You'll Learn:
• How to create independent school foundations that work alongside districts
• Three different grant types that fund everything from supplies to $10,000 projects
• Proven strategies for connecting classrooms to community partners
• Creative fundraising ideas beyond traditional events
• How to build home-school connections through collaborative programs
• Steps to enhance student engagement through experiential learning
• Ways to support new teachers and provide ongoing teacher support

Perfect for:
Teachers seeking additional classroom resources, education coaches looking for funding strategies, school administrators wanting to improve school culture, parents interested in supporting their schools, and anyone passionate about education transformation.

Key Takeaways:
- IPEI has supported innovative teaching methods for 25 years
- Grants range from $500-$10,000 supporting teacher impact and student success
- Community partnerships create lasting change in education
- Simple application processes with teacher coaching support
- Programs like "Kids Discover the Trail" build connections between schools

Episode Mentions:

Ithaca Public Education Initiative

Whether you're a teacher, parent, school leader, or education advocate, this conversation offers practical solutions for creating thriving students and empowered educators in your community.

Chapters
0:00 - Introduction to IPEI and Guests
1:12 - Inspiring Educators Discussion
2:53 - What is IPEI and How It Started
5:23 - Mission and Community Connections
7:26 - Real Impact Stories from Local Schools
8:13 - How to Apply for Grants
9:06 - Three Types of Grants Available
13:05 - Success Stories: 3D Printing and Ancient Civilizations
16:05 - Fundraising Events and Community Engagement
19:03 - Kids Discover the Trail Program
21:28 - Building School Connections and Final Thoughts

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

The Ancient Tribal Wisdom We Ignore in Modern Education

Sun, 06 Mar 2022 20:00:00 -0500

In this S1E5 interview, Dr. Anthony Craig (Yakama Nation) shares how he transformed his school by bringing Native elders into classrooms as cultural guides, creating a revolutionary approach to student engagement and classroom management.

This addressed the challenges of disruptive students and low engagement by pairing certified teachers with cultural guides from the Tulalip Tribe. Instead of traditional discipline methods that remove students from learning, they developed culturally responsive teaching strategies that kept ALL students engaged and motivated.

🎯 What You'll Learn:
• How to handle difficult students without exclusion
• Why traditional classroom management often fails Native students
• The 'circling up' approach to student behavior
• How to create inclusive classrooms that honor community wisdom
• Professional development that transforms teaching practice
• Building authentic home-school connections with families

Ideal for teachers, education coaches, school administrators, and anyone seeking innovative teaching strategies to support student success. This isn't just about Native education - it's about creating inclusive, culturally responsive classrooms where all students thrive.

Chapters
0:00 - Introduction to Dr. Anthony Craig
0:29 - Personal Story: What Inspired His Work
1:03 - The Most Inspiring Educator
2:05 - The Culture Mismatch Problem in Schools
3:08 - Understanding Critical Historicity in Education
4:18 - Introducing Cultural Guides into Schools
5:55 - Building Community Around Children
6:47 - How Cultural Guides and Teachers Collaborate
7:36 - Real Example: Transforming First Grade Engagement
9:33 - The Problem with Removing Students
10:18 - The 'Circling Up' Approach to Behavior
11:59 - Why This Approach is Complex and Nuanced
13:12 - Teachers Experiencing Tribal Community
14:56 - Learning from Ceremony and Tradition
16:36 - Seeing Students as Leaders, Not Problems
17:00 - Research Insights: Focusing on Future Possibilities
18:27 - Building Schools for Communities, Not Assimilation
19:16 - Closing Thoughts and Gratitude

Dr. Craig's Published Writing:

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

How Young Writers Use Their Voices to Reach Authentic Audiences

Mon, 28 Feb 2022 14:00:00 -0500

In this powerful S1E4 interview, hear how Jake Chernikoff and Alex McConduit transformed disengaged writers into published authors during virtual learning. Jake and Alex share their groundbreaking approach to student engagement and student motivation through authentic publishing experiences.

🔥 What You'll Learn:
✅ How to turn low engagement into active learning through real-world projects
✅ Behavior strategies that inspire students through meaningful work
✅ Effective teaching methods for student participation and attention in class
✅ Innovation teaching techniques for inclusive classrooms and culturally responsive teaching
✅ Professional learning insights for teacher coaching and instructional coaching
✅ Parent involvement strategies and home-school connection building
✅ Education strategies that create lasting student success and thriving students

This inspiring conversation reveals how teacher mentors can support new teachers with pro-kid mindset approaches that focus on the whole child. Perfect for teachers, education coaches, school administrators, parents, homeschoolers, and instructional leaders seeking education transformation.

Featured Topics: classroom management, student discipline, managing students, classroom control, instructional strategies, lesson planning, teaching tips, teacher support, school leadership, school improvement, family partnerships, equity in education, empowered educators, inspired teaching, teacher impact

👥 Perfect for: Teachers, education coaches, school administrators, parents, homeschoolers, teacher mentors, instructional leaders, school counselors

Episode Mentions:

Alexander Brian McConduit

Big Boot Books (founded in 2010 by Alex)
W.R.I.T.E. (Write, Read, Illustrate To Educate) - a youth publishing program designed to transform students into published authors

Alex’s Books:

The Little Who Dat Who Didn't (2011)
Thorn in My Horn (2013)
Peter and the Pelican (2015)
Snoballs for All (2015)
Bloom: The Story of the World’s First Flower (2020)

Jake & Alex’s Book Collaborations (also with Irwan Awalludin & Arlo Chapple):

Our Vote Is Our Voice (2020)
Amazing Activists: Real Stories of People Who Changed the World (2020)

Ithaca Public Education Initiative (IPEI)

Chapters:
00:00 Introduction & Guest Backgrounds
01:41 Inspiring Teachers Discussion
03:43 Henry's Writing Transformation Story
05:34 Choosing Activism as Writing Topic
08:17 Funding & Grant Strategies
11:36 Amazon Publishing Process
13:11 Managing Proceeds & Student Decisions
16:29 Final Thoughts & Impact

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

What I Didn’t Know About Dyslexia - A Family’s Journey

Mon, 28 Feb 2022 13:00:00 -0500

Join me for this S1E3 interview with Katherine Casey Spengler, Ph.D., an education consultant and clinical reading therapist, as she shares her deeply personal journey discovering her daughter Anna has dyslexia. Despite being a literacy expert with decades of experience, Katherine reveals the shocking gaps in her own knowledge about dyslexia and the struggles her family faced navigating the education system.

In this powerful episode of Schoolutions, you'll discover:

Early warning signs of dyslexia that every parent and teacher should know
Why 40-60% of children with dyslexia have a family member who also struggles with reading
How to advocate for your child in both private and public school settings
The importance of explicit phonics instruction and foundational literacy skills
Latest research from Dr. Nadine Gabes at Harvard on identifying reading risks as early as age 4
Why "balanced literacy" approaches may be unbalanced for struggling readers
How struggling readers can become disruptive students without proper support
Effective teaching strategies for student engagement and motivation in literacy
The critical role of teacher coaching and professional development in reading instruction

Resources Mentioned:

Katherine’s Book: Literacy Coaching: The Essentials (2006)

Katherine's Recommended Experts:

Dr. Nadine Gaab: Developmental Cognitive Neuroscience: linking neuroscience and education GAAB LAB @ HGSE
Dr. David Kilpatrick: Essentials of Assessing, Preventing, and Overcoming Reading Difficulties (Essentials of Psychological Assessment)
Dr. Lynne Thrope, Ph.D.: The Reading Room - “The place where students learn to read so they can read to learn.”
Stanislas Deahane: Reading in the Brain: The New Science of How We Read

Chapters:

0:00 Introduction to Dr. Katherine Casey Spengler
0:58 Most Inspiring Teacher: Dr. Nadine Gabes
2:48 Katherine's Educational Journey & Teacher Coaching Background
4:04 From Researcher to Teacher to Consultant
5:56 The Moment That Changed Everything
7:09 Anna's Early Language Development
8:23 First Signs of Reading Struggles in Kindergarten
9:39 The Heartbreaking Realization - When Student Engagement Fails
10:32 Vision Therapy Detour
11:24 Fighting for Appropriate Support & Inclusive Teaching
12:14 The Importance of Listening to Parents & Family Partnerships
13:06 Expert Recommendations for Teachers & Professional Development
15:23 Family History and Risk Factors
16:16 The Simple View of Reading (That's Not Simple)
17:06 Rebalancing Literacy Instruction & Effective Teaching Strategies
18:28 Final Thoughts: Empowered Educators & Student Success

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

How a School is Ending Poverty Through Family Support

Mon, 28 Feb 2022 12:00:00 -0500

In this inspiring S1E2 interview, I am in conversation with Kyle Skinner, (former) Principal of Benjamin Franklin Elementary in Binghamton, NY. Discover how this dedicated educator and school leader transformed his school into more than just a community—it's a family, demonstrating exceptional instructional leadership and school improvement strategies.

Kyle shares innovative education strategies for engaging families through fun events, addressing food insecurity with their "Tracy Cares" food pantry, providing healthcare access with an on-site clinic, and supporting young men through the award-winning BF Gents Club. His approach exemplifies culturally responsive teaching and equity in education principles.

Learn practical teaching tips and principal strategies for creating a nurturing school culture where students and families can truly thrive despite challenging circumstances. This episode showcases how effective teaching extends beyond the classroom through family partnerships and home-school connection initiatives that support the whole child.

Kyle's innovative approach to school leadership demonstrates how empowered educators can create education transformation through student engagement strategies that go far beyond traditional classroom management. His work with difficult students and focus on student motivation shows how pro-kid mindset and inclusive teaching can lead to student success.

A must-watch for teachers, education coaches, school administrators, parents, homeschoolers, teacher mentors, instructional leaders, and school counselors passionate about making a difference in public education!

Traci C.A.R.E.S. (Community Adult Resource Education Services Center) & Benjamin Franklin Elementary School Food Pantry

- Food Bank of the Southern Tier
  - Monetary donations for Kyle's school can be sent directly to: Food Bank of the Southern Tier, 388 Upper Oakwood Ave, Elmira, NY 14903 with a note that it is for Benjamin Franklin Elementary School
BF Gents Club (BF Gents Club - 4th & 5th graders from Ben Franklin Elementary Recognized by NYS School Boards Association - 30 members 9.22.2020) - led by Jeremiah Johnson)

00:00 Introduction to Principal Kyle Skinner and education leadership philosophy
01:16 Kyle's Journey from teacher to principal - professional development path
02:55 Creating a School Family vs. Community School - school culture transformation
04:47 Six Family Engagement Events Throughout the Year - parent communication strategies
07:10 Tracy Cares Food Pantry and Community Center - education at home support
10:32 How the Food Pantry is Funded and Stocked - school change through community partnerships
12:16 The Growing Community Center and Its Services - inclusive classrooms approach
14:52 On-Site Health Clinic and Mental Health Support - thriving students through comprehensive care
17:34 The Award-Winning BF Gents Club for Young Men - student discipline through positive mentorship

#Schoolutions #EducationSolutions #SchoolLeadership #CommunitySchools #FamilyEngagement #SchoolSupport #PrincipalInterview #EducationInnovation #FoodPantry #MentorshipPrograms #SchoolHealthClinic

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.

How to Engage Students Emotionally & Intellectually

Mon, 28 Feb 2022 11:00:00 -0500

This S1E1 interview with Cris Tovani and Sam Bennett explores comprehensive education strategies for student engagement, classroom management, and supporting disengaged students through innovative instructional strategies.

Cris and Sam share proven approaches for creating inclusive classrooms that address low engagement while building strong home-school connections. Perfect for teachers, education coaches, school administrators, instructional leaders, and teacher mentors seeking effective teaching methods.

Key Topics Covered

00:00 - Introduction to Schoolutions with Olivia Wahl
- Essential teacher support and professional development insights for new teachers and experienced educators alike.
01:35 - Educational Inspirations with Cris Tovani and Sam Bennett
- Inspiring students through culturally responsive teaching and anti-bias teaching approaches that support thriving students and empowered educators.
04:26 - Understanding the "Masks" Students Wear
- Classroom behavior insights for identifying disruptive students and implementing behavior strategies that address the whole child approach to student success.
07:28 - The Three Types of Engagement: Behavioral, Emotional, and Cognitive
- Student motivation framework covering:
- Behavioral engagement and attention in class
- Emotional engagement and student participation
- Cognitive engagement through active learning
12:02 - Making Content Worthy and Relevant
- Lesson planning strategies for innovative teaching that connects curriculum to student lives, supporting equity in education and inclusive teaching practices.
13:43 - Long-term Planning with the Six Ts Framework
- Instructional coaching methodology for classroom control and systematic student discipline approaches that support school improvement.
17:33 - Workshop Structure in Secondary Education
- Teaching tips for implementing workshop models that enhance student engagement and create school culture focused on learning.
20:44 - Closing Thoughts

Some of Cris Tovani's books:

Some of Sam Bennett's Books:

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.