What do great leaders and great educators have in common? They are exceptional communicators. Thomas Murray, Director of Innovation for Future Ready Schools, joins Daniel Rock and Erin Anderson Williams to dive into the curse of knowledge, the speed of modern communication, and why the most important part of any message is how it’s understood—not just how it’s phrased.

Key Takeaways

• The Stoplight Email: Why rapid-fire responses can shatter trust and how a simple apology can rebuild it.
• The Curse of Knowledge: The scientific reason why we often fail to communicate information we believe is common sense.
• Listening to Understand: Shifting from problem-solving mode to listening mode to build deeper connections with staff and families.
• The Knock-on-the-Door Test: A practical strategy for seeking feedback on sensitive communications before hitting send.
• Storyteller in Chief: How leveraging student voices can triple engagement and help schools own their own narrative.

Resource Mentioned

• ThomasCMurray.com: For resources and tools to replicate these communication workshops with your own staff.

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How do we ensure the skills students build in the classroom translate to the world of work? In this episode, Dr. Nicole Cobb, Professor of the Practice at Vanderbilt University and member of the Governor’s Council for CTE, joins Daniel Rock and Ashley Shaw to discuss the intersection of school climate and career readiness. 

We move beyond "checking boxes" to explore how teachers can model the human skills—communication, initiative and problem-solving—that employers actually want.

Key Takeaways

• Modeling Professionalism: Why it is essential for teachers to explicitly model body language, eye contact and tone of voice during lessons.
• The Power of the "So What?": Bridging the developmental gap by being transparent with students about why they are practicing teamwork or meeting deadlines.
• Practical Lesson Tweaks: How to shift from traditional five-paragraph essays to career-aligned formats like police reports or project summaries.
• Ethical AI Integration: Using AI for brainstorming and feedback without sacrificing critical thinking or falling for "fake" citations.

Resource Mentioned

• World Economic Forum Future of Jobs Report: Highlighting that 39% of core worker skills are expected to change by 2030.

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In a rapidly changing workforce, students need more than just technical skills—they need the analytical thinking and adaptive problem-solving abilities to apply those skills in real-world contexts. In this episode, SREB Instructional Coach Deb Cullen joins us to discuss how educators can blur the lines between "shop" and "theory" to create a more powerful, integrated learning experience. 

​Deb shares practical strategies for embedding literacy and math into Career and Technical Education and explains why this integration isn't "one more thing" for teachers, but a vital part of preparing students for a high-wage, high-skill future. 

​Key Discussion Points

• ​The Changing Purpose of Education: Moving from simple knowledge retrieval to helping students navigate and apply the information at their fingertips.
• ​Decoding Embedded Academics: Understanding that high-level literacy and math are already present in CTE—from 14th-grade level technical manuals to the complex chemistry of cosmetology.
• ​Teaching for Transfer: How to use real-world scenarios and AI as a "thought partner" to see student thinking before they ever touch expensive equipment or work with a live client.
• ​The Power of Questioning: Utilizing superpower tools like Q-Charts to move students from basic knowledge to predictive and creative analytical thinking.
• ​Collaborative Strategies: Practical tips for administrators and teachers to "erase the lines" through shared planning periods and cross-curricular projects.

​Featured Guest

​Debra Cullen is an instructional coach at SREB with a deep background in both the humanities and CTE. She works extensively through SREB’s Teach2Lead initiative, coaching new teachers coming from industry to master pedagogy and classroom management. 

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In the conclusion of our two-part series with Principal Baruti Kafele, we move from the leadership mindset to the tactical execution of instructional coaching. This episode is a deep dive into the "Grow You" model, focusing on the sophisticated people skills and communication nuances required to turn high-stakes observations into transformative growth.

We explore the psychology of the feedback loop, the importance of "reading the room," and how to build a culture where instructional leadership is the daily norm, not a seasonal event.

Key Discussion Points

• Building a "Grow You" Culture: Shifting the perception of classroom visits from a punitive "gotcha" to an inherent, supportive part of a teacher’s professional identity.
• The Psychology of the Conversation: Practical "tricks" for leveling the playing field, including moving meetings out of the office and the intentional use of student seating to reduce power dynamics.
• Mastering Communication Nuances: How a leader’s voice, facial expressions and even the intensity of their eye contact can either build a bridge or create a barrier to growth.
• Audience Analysis for Educators: The importance of "reading the room" and adapting your leadership style to meet the unique personality and experience level of every teacher.
• Feedback That Allays Anxiety: Strategies for finding immediate common ground and using early reinforcement to ensure teachers remain open to constructive growth.

Featured Guest

Baruti Kafele is a former award-winning high school principal and a leading authority on school leadership and culture. He is the author of several books, including What Is My Value to the Teachers I Supervise? and is a highly sought-after featured presenter at the SREB Making Schools Work Conference.

Resources Mentioned

• PrincipalKafele.com: Baruti Kafele’s official website for books, resources, and speaking information.
• The Assistant Principal & New Principals Academy: Principal Kafele's weekly YouTube live stream (300+ consecutive weeks) for school leaders.
• What Is My Value to the Teachers I Supervise?: Principal Kafele's latest book focused on instructional leadership.

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​In the first half of this powerful two-part series, we sit down with Principal Baruti Kafele, a renowned school leadership expert and best-selling author. This conversation moves past the daily logistics of school management to challenge administrators with a foundational question: What is your instructional value to the teachers you supervise?

​Kafele dives deep into the "locker room" of school culture, the high stakes of teacher coaching and the self-awareness required to see your own leadership blind spots. 

​Key Discussion Points

• ​The Identity Shift: Moving from a building manager who "puts out fires" to an intentional instructional coach who drives pedagogical growth.
• ​The Locker Room Analogy: Why a principal staying in the office during the school day is like a coach staying in the locker room during "Game Day."
• ​The Danger of "Satisfactory": How a lack of consistent classroom data leads to default ratings that fail to tap into a teacher’s—or student's—true potential.
• ​The "Walk" and Self-Awareness: A personal story from Principal Kafele about an intimidating habit he didn't know he had until he saw it on film.
• ​The Three-Pronged Process: An introduction to the methodical cycle of pre-observation conversations, laser-focused classroom visits, and collaborative debriefs.

​Featured Guest

​Baruti Kafele is a former award-winning high school principal and a leading authority on school leadership and culture. He is the author of several books, including What Is My Value to the Teachers I Supervise? and is a highly sought-after featured presenter at the SREB Making Schools Work Conference. 

​Resources Mentioned

• ​PrincipalKafele.com: Baruti Kafele’s official website for books, resources, and speaking information.
• ​The Assistant Principal & New Principals Academy: Principal Kafele's weekly YouTube live stream for school leaders.
• ​What Is My Value to the Teachers I Supervise?: Principal Kafele's latest book focused on instructional leadership.

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What happens when you stop treating the community as a "field trip" destination and start treating it as a classroom? In this special episode, we are joined by Dr. Lisa Bonelli, the assistant principal at Hume-Fogg Academic High School in Nashville, and three of her students: Melanie, Allison and Niamh.

Hume-Fogg is a high-achieving academic magnet, but their secret sauce isn't just test scores—it’s purpose. We explore how they bridge the gap between rigorous academics and real-world relevance by getting students out of their seats and into the world.

Key Discussion Points

• The "Beyond the Walls" Philosophy: How Hume-Fogg uses its downtown Nashville location to turn the city into a living laboratory.
• Student Voice & Agency: Hearing directly from Melanie, Allison and Niamh on what it feels like when your personal passions are reflected in the curriculum.
• The "Professional Hug" of Support: How leadership can empower teachers to take instructional risks without fear of logistical failure.
• Interdisciplinary Learning: Breaking down the silos between subjects to show students how the world actually works.

Featured Guest

Dr. Lisa Bonelli is a veteran educator and leader at Hume-Fogg Academic High School. She will be a featured presenter at the 2026 Making Schools Work Conference in Nashville, where she will dive deeper into strategies for student ownership. 

Melanie, Niahm and Allison are students at Hume-Fogg Academic High School and are all members of the media team, to which Bonelli is the advisor.

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How do we move students from simple compliance to authentic engagement? In this episode, Senior Instructional Coach Daniel Rock and Leadership Coach Erin Anderson-Williams sit down with Dr. Tony Johnson, founder of Captivate Perspectives. With over 25 years of experience across K-12, CTE and higher education, Johnson shares how educators can bridge the gap between generational value systems and redefine student motivation for an AI-driven world. 

​We dive into the "Why" behind student motivation, the intersection of love languages in the school house and how AI can be repurposed from a shortcut into a powerful, personalized learning tool. 

​Key Discussion Points

• ​Identifying the Student's "Why": Why motivating a student requires understanding their unique generational value system rather than imposing our own.
• ​The Quarter Zip Phenomenon: How current social media trends are influencing how young men of color view their professional trajectories and "greatness."
• ​AI as "Tutor Mike": A practical guide to using prompt engineering to turn AI into a personalized, voice-activated tutor for specific subjects like biology.
• ​Love Languages in Education: Why understanding how a student receives and gives love—whether through quality time or words of affirmation—is a key lever for engagement.
• ​Thought Partnership vs. AI Generation: The importance of teaching students to be authentic critical thinkers who can contribute at a conference table without a computer.

​Featured Guest

​Dr. Tony Johnson is a former turnaround principal, district CTE director and senior leader in higher education. Since 2019, he has led Captivate Perspectives, working with school systems and government partners to prepare students and adults for what comes next. 

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How do you move a high school graduation rate from 60% to 87% in a few short years? 

In this high-energy episode, Senior Instructional Coach Daniel Rock and Leadership Coach Erin Anderson-Williams sit down with Dr. Marck Abraham, CEO of MEA Consultant Services and author of What Success Looks Like.

Abraham challenges the traditional, "mushy" definition of school culture, replacing it with a "Culture of Love" rooted in high expectations, objective data and a relentless focus on student results. From closing achievement gaps for Black male students to navigating "low vibration" conversations with staff, this episode provides a strategic roadmap for any leader looking to move the needle in their building.

Key Discussion Points

• The Mechanic Shop Analogy: Why "feeling good" in a school is meaningless if the "car" (the student's education) isn't actually fixed.
• The "ABC" Data Buckets: A deep dive into the three metrics that truly matter: Attendance (student and teacher), Behavior and Course passing data.
• Teacher Attendance as Culture: Why teacher attendance is the primary indicator of whether you have built a culture where people feel seen and valued.
• Hard on Data, Soft on People: Strategies for using objective rubrics and report card audits to hold courageous conversations without making them personal.
• Shedding the Sugar: Why a quiet classroom isn't necessarily a learning classroom, and how to shift the heavy lifting of instruction from the teacher to the students.

Featured Guest

Dr. Marck Abraham is a renowned educator, author and speaker who has served as a community mentor, school counselor and principal. He is recognized for his work with organizations across the country, such as the Obama Foundation, and his ability to drive significant gains in graduation rates and attendance across diverse school districts.

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Teaching is often viewed as a "solo gig," but the work of student learning is far too heavy for any one person to carry alone. In this episode, SREB Senior Instructional Coach Daniel Rock sits down with Leadership Coaches Erin Anderson-Williams and Susan Simpson to discuss the transition from isolated classrooms to collaborative school cultures.

Our guests dive into the essential traits of high-functioning teams, the difference between intentional and organic collaboration and how leaders can intervene when team dynamics turn toxic.

Key Discussion Points:

• The Power of Self-Awareness: Why every team member must understand their specific role, strengths and blind spots to reach a common goal.
• Organic vs. Intentional Teaming: Exploring how teams form naturally through proximity and how leaders can intentionally design groups to build teacher capacity and retention.
• Avoiding "Team Fails": Identifying common pitfalls, such as mandating meetings without a clear "why" or assuming teachers instinctively know how to collaborate without modeling.
• Intervention Strategies for Toxic Teams: How to use norms, common purposes and conversation protocols to rebuild professional respect and ensure equity of voice.
• Distributed Leadership: The benefits of rotating leadership roles and allowing those with the best skillset—not just the most seniority—to "run the play."

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As the Fall 2026 semester comes to a close, it is time to look back at the schools and strategies that challenged our thinking.

In this special wrap-up episode, Daniel is joined by SREB’s Jason Adair and Ashley Shaw to interrogate the "Best Of" ideas from the last few months. From a high school in South Carolina that lets teachers design their own professional development to a "Taylor Swift Club" that solved an attendance crisis, the team breaks down why these innovations worked and how other leaders can replicate them.

They also tackle the big debates: Is a physical "data room" actually better than a digital dashboard? And does teaching "workplace skills" mean we have to sacrifice the humanities?

What You'll Learn in This Episode

• Teacher-Led PD: How West Side High School flipped the script by giving teachers time to plan and lead their own professional learning, creating true peer-to-peer buy-in.
• The Leader’s Role: Why a principal needs to be a "gardener" (preparing the soil for growth) rather than a "chess master" (controlling every move).
• Selling the Process, Not the Content: How academic teachers at the Career Academy of Decatur infuse workplace skills into core subjects—like teaching email etiquette during an English writing lesson.
• The Power of Niche Clubs: Why letting a teacher host a "Taylor Swift" or "Play-Doh" club isn't a waste of time—it's a critical tool for humanizing teachers and building attendance-driving relationships.
• The Great Data Wall Debate: The team discusses the pros and cons of physical data rooms (like those at Floyd Johnson Tech Center) versus digital dashboards, and why a data wall only works if it is "The Thing" rather than "Just Another Thing." 

Featured Schools & Concepts

• West Side High School (SC): Visible Learning Teams
• Richland Middle/High School (MS): Teacher Autonomy & Flex Time Clubs
• Career Academy of Decatur (AL): Infusing Workplace Skills
• Floyd Johnson Tech Center (SC) & Indian Valley Elementary (AL): Data Rooms

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The "first-year teaching blues" are real, but they don't have to be a career-ender. In this episode, Daniel explores the impact of the GREAT Grant (Georgia Residency for Educating Amazing Teachers), a program designed to turn career-changers into thriving educators through a paid residency model.

We sit down with Jillian Degan, a former "problem child" student who swore she’d never teach, and Amelia Ellison, the veteran mentor who guided her. Together, they pull back the curtain on what a successful mentor-mentee relationship actually looks like—moving beyond "signing the paperwork" to building a partnership based on vulnerability, trust, and the freedom to fail.

What You'll Learn in This Episode

• The Non-Traditional Path: How both Jillian (Healthcare) and Amelia (Business) transitioned into education and how their outside perspectives shape their classrooms.
• The "Productive Struggle": Why Jillian had to learn to stop "hating group work" and allow her students to struggle together to find the right answers.
• Reverse Mentorship: How a veteran teacher learned to embrace new technology and creative "anchor charts" by watching her mentee take risks.
• Management vs. Relationships: Why rigid systems (like "the clipboard") often fail new teachers, and why emotional intelligence works better than calling parents every day.
• The "Vibe" Check: Why it is critical for a new teacher to speak up and request a different mentor if the personality fit isn't right.
• The Power of Constructive Feedback: How to give feedback that builds a new teacher up rather than just telling them "fix your classroom management" without explaining how.

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What really happens to students after they graduate? Does a diploma equal a plan?

In this episode, Daniel Rock and Susan Simpson sit down with the innovative College and Career Readiness team from Tuscaloosa City Schools  to find out how they answered their superintendent's single, powerful question: "How do we know they're ready?"

The answer was a comprehensive, K-12 plan built on three E's (Exposure, Exploration, and Engagement) and a simple, guiding question for every student: "What's Your E?" (Enroll, Enlist, or Employ).

Learn how the TCS team—John Walker, Kelly Norstrom and Andrea Markham—used data, career coaches and powerful community partnerships to drive a 22% increase in students graduating with a college and career readiness indicator and ensure that 85% of their graduates are still on that confirmed path one year later.

What You'll Learn in This Episode

• The "What's Your E?" Framework: How TCS ensures every student graduates with a confirmed post-secondary plan to Enroll, Enlist, or be Employed.
• Key Structures That Work: Why dedicated Career Coaches are essential and how they serve as "boots on the ground" to guide students.
• The 3 E's: How to build a K-12 pipeline that starts with Exposure in elementary school (like the "Mini-WOW" program), moves to Exploration in middle school, and culminates in Engagement in high school.
• Data-Driven Strategies: How the team used transcript audits to discover that students were "hopping in and out" of pathways and how they fixed it.
• The Power of Partnerships: How TCS gets industry leaders out of their silos and into the schools to build relevant curriculum.
• The Impressive Results: Hear the hard data, including a jump from 74% to 96.3% of students graduating with a CCR indicator and the metrics they use to track graduates one year after they leave the system.

Guests

• Kelly Norstrom: Director of College and Career Readiness for Tuscaloosa City Schools.
• John Walker: Coordinator of Testing and former Instructional Specialist for CTE.
• Andrea Markham: Data Analyst and Counseling Administrator for Tuscaloosa City Schools.

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What happens when English and social studies teachers join a career academy — and every lesson connects to the real world?

In this episode of the Making Schools Work podcast, SREB’s Daniel Rock and Debra Cullen talk with Angie Maples and Wes Stephenson, teachers at the Career Academies of Decatur (CAD) in Alabama. They share how academic teachers are helping students build essential workplace and life skills — from writing professional emails to conducting interviews with local employers — all while meeting state standards.

You’ll hear how CAD teachers:

• Bring career and technical education concepts into every lesson
• Use standard operating procedures (SOPs) to teach structure and responsibility
• Create projects that blend academic content with real-world application
• Build student confidence and communication through authentic assignments and presentations
• Develop a schoolwide showcase where students present to local business and community leaders

This episode shows how academic teachers can make every class career-relevant — and how CAD is helping students see purpose in every assignment.

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What happens when a school flips the script — and lets career and technical education lead the way?

In this episode of the Making Schools Work podcast, SREB’s Daniel Rock and Debra Cullen talk with Ressa Chittam, director of the new Career Academies of Decatur in Alabama, and assistant director Tyler Stevenson. Together, they share how this innovative school became a full-time high school that blends academic courses with career pathways, giving students more time for hands-on learning, early graduation, and real-world readiness.

You’ll hear how the school:

• Built a full-time high school within a CTE center — so students learn academics and technical skills in one place
• Partnered with SREB and local industry to align teaching with workforce needs
• Helped academic and CTE teachers learn to “speak each other’s language” through business visits and collaboration
• Created five core career-readiness pillars that guide all instruction
• Designed authentic, project-based learning experiences — including a year-end student showcase that impressed local employers

Career Academies of Decatur is showing what’s possible when educators, businesses, and communities work together to make learning relevant — and to help every student find their purpose.

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What if the key to doubling student learning is simply getting them talking?

In this episode, Daniel Rock and Jason Adair unpack research showing how student discussion can double the rate of learning — and why most classrooms still rely on teacher talk 80% of the time. Together with Ashley Shaw, they explore how teachers can create classrooms that sound more like Socratic seminars and less like lectures.

You’ll hear:

• Why teachers often default to “funneling” questions — and how to ask focusing questions that spark real thinking
• Simple moves to reduce teacher talk and build student ownership
• How turn-and-talks, sentence stems and discussion structures help every student’s voice be heard
• Tips for supporting English learners and shy students during class discussion
• The importance of reflection and metacognition for both teachers and students

By the end, you’ll have practical tools to make your classroom a place where students don’t just listen — they learn by speaking, thinking and questioning like Socrates.

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At Westside High School in Anderson, South Carolina, teaching looks different now — and students can feel it.

Last week, we talked to leadership at Westside to see how this process worked. In this episode of the Making Schools Work podcast, SREB’s Daniel Rock and Donn Kirkwood talk with Claire Armstrong and Chelita Greenley, two classroom teachers at Westside who helped turn professional development into a teacher-led movement that’s changing how students learn, think and even celebrate tests.

Hear how Westside’s teachers:

• Shifted from admin-led PD to teacher-driven learning
• Built a Visible Learning Leadership Team to lead book studies and train peers
• Created the Westside Six, a set of shared, research-based strategies used schoolwide
• Used core beliefs to align instruction and expectations
• Helped students take ownership of their learning — and replaced fear with confidence

From “four corners” discussions in history to “one-pagers” in math, teachers at Westside are making visible learning more than a theory — they’re making it a culture.

🏫 Featured Educators

• Claire Armstrong, Social Studies Teacher, Westside High School
• Chelita Greenlee, Math Teacher, Westside High School

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At Westside High School in Anderson, South Carolina, teachers aren’t just attending professional development — they’re designing it.

In this episode of the Making Schools Work podcast, SREB’s Daniel Rock and Donn Kirkwood talk with Principal Kory Roberts and MTSS Specialist Taria McIntosh about how the school’s Visible Learning Leadership Team transformed Westside’s approach to growth and instruction.

Through book studies, teacher-led PD and a collaborative process to define the school’s core beliefs, Westside created a culture where educators learn from one another, model strategies and build trust across the building.

Listen to hear how they:

• Built a foundation of teacher leadership and confidence
• Created time and space for real collaboration — with admin support and substitute coverage
• Modeled adult learning and professional respect
• Developed a shared set of core beliefs and the “Westside Six” strategies to guide teaching
• Celebrated growth and built a schoolwide culture of trust

Westside’s story shows what happens when teachers lead — and how a school’s belief in continuous learning can transform instruction and culture.

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How does a school move from silos to shared success? At Indian Valley Elementary in Sylacauga, Alabama, the leadership team and teachers worked together to create a culture of collective teacher efficacy—and the results are transforming student learning.

In this episode of the Making Schools Work podcast, principal Paula Bruno, assistant principal Cindy Cleveland and reading specialist Terra DeLoach join SREB coaches Daniel Rock, Marsha Moseley and Susan Simpson to share how they:

• Built trust and psychological safety among staff
• Used data walls and PLCs to drive honest, student-centered conversations
• Overcame obstacles, from tears in the first PLCs to teachers now opening their data proudly
• Embedded professional learning directly into PLCs
• Helped even the youngest learners begin to take ownership of their progress

Indian Valley’s journey shows how leadership, collaboration and persistence can reshape a school’s culture and set every child on a stronger path.

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Richland High School in Mississippi has restructured its schedule to give students more opportunities for growth — and the results are impressive. In this third episode featuring Richland, we hear directly from two teachers about how Flex Block and career-connected learning are changing classrooms and student lives.

Social studies teacher Joycelyn McDavid and career readiness teacher Jennifer Osborne join Daniel Rock and Richard Morrison to share:

• How Flex Block helps students balance academics with enrichment, while giving teachers more time for AP prep and creative passions.
• The impact of teacher-led professional learning groups that turn Flex time into a space for cross-curricular growth.
• How job shadowing in the community has transformed career readiness, from shy students becoming confident presenters to new passions discovered in real workplaces.
• Why trust between teachers and administrators has been key to sustaining these changes.

Listen in to hear how Richland is building stronger student ownership, meaningful teacher growth and deeper community partnerships.

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Floyd D. Johnson Technology Center in York, South Carolina, is proof that small communities can make big changes for students. By embracing honest data, personalized improvement goals and strong community partnerships, the school has transformed student outcomes — and earned recognition as an SREB Pacesetter School.

In this episode, Daniel Rock and Marsha Moseley talk with Director Lee Green and teacher Angie Covington about how Floyd D. Johnson:

• Partnered with Duke Power to create South Carolina’s only line worker program.
• Built a powerful data wall that turned numbers into faces and helped more students complete pathways.
• Increased industry certifications by 51% and tripled student participation in CTSOs.
• Shifted teacher practice using the Plan-Do-Check-Act (PDCA) cycle and individualized student learning objectives.
• Strengthened school culture so every student feels known, cared for and prepared for life after graduation.

Whether you’re a teacher, administrator or policymaker, you’ll find practical ideas for using data to drive action — and inspiration for how perseverance and teamwork can reshape a school.

Resources

You can find links to resources mentioned in this episode on our website: 

https://www.sreb.org/post/floyd-d-johnson

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Welcome to Season 2 of the Making Schools Work podcast! In this episode, Daniel Rock, Jason Adair and Ashley Shaw kick off the season by exploring one of teaching’s most powerful truths: beginnings and endings matter.

From first-day activities to closing strategies, the hosts dive into research and classroom-tested ideas that help teachers capture students’ attention, build curiosity and leave lasting memories. Along the way, they share personal stories, classroom examples and practical tips that educators can use tomorrow.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• Why first impressions shape students’ view of your class — and how to flip expectations on Day 1.
• The “peak-end rule” and what it means for lesson planning and memory.
• Easy ways to hook students at the start of a lesson or unit.
• Strategies for ending lessons, units and school years so learning sticks.
• How teachers can create emotional “peak moments” that build connection and curiosity.

Whether you’re a classroom teacher, instructional coach or school leader, this conversation will inspire you to rethink how you open and close learning experiences — and why those moments matter more than you might think.

Listen to this episode if you’ve ever wondered:

• How do I make my lessons more memorable?
• What should I do on the first day of school besides go over rules?
• How can I end a lesson or unit in a way that really sticks?

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 In this final episode of our special AI series, Ashley Shaw is joined by Leslie Eaves to discuss the crucial "AI Checklist" – a practical guide for educators and leaders looking to implement artificial intelligence tools in their K-12 classrooms. This episode wraps up our deep dive into the "Guidance on AI and K-12 Instruction" report and its practical applications.

In this episode, you'll learn about:

• The Purpose of the AI Checklist: Understand how this checklist serves as an essential guide for evaluating and selecting AI tools, ensuring they align with your school's needs and educational goals, much like you would any other new resource.
• Beyond the Surface: Ethical and Effective Use: Discover the importance of moving past simply picking the "first tool you see." The checklist helps you consider the ethical implications and practical effectiveness of AI in fostering student learning.
• The Power of Collaboration: Learn the critical first step in adopting AI: building a diverse team that must include teachers. This collaborative approach ensures buy-in, addresses real classroom needs and leads to more successful implementation.
• Connecting to the "Guidance on AI and K-12 Instruction" Report: This episode links back to the four pillars discussed in the earlier parts of the AI series, providing a comprehensive framework for responsible AI integration.

This episode provides actionable advice for anyone ready to responsibly explore and integrate AI technology into their educational environment!

🗂️ Resources:

• Also available on YouTube if you prefer video
• Download the free report: https://www.sreb.org/publication/guidance-use-ai-k-12-classroom-0
• Get the free AI checklist: https://www.sreb.org/publication/ai-tool-procurement-implementation-and-evaluation-checklist

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In this episode, Daniel Rock and Jason Adair delve into the remarkable journey of Bryant Park Elementary, an SREB Pacesetter School in Jefferson County, Alabama. 

We talk to Principal Cortney Slaughter and teacher Alex Wilson about how they built a thriving school from the ground up since its opening in 2020.

In this episode, you'll learn about:

• Embracing the "Why" and Building Ownership: Discover how Bryant Park Elementary went beyond checklists, fostering deep teacher ownership and rich conversations, allowing for productive struggle that led to a much richer experience.
• Arts Integration as a Core Strategy: Explore how the school successfully integrates the four art forms (theater, dance, music and visual arts) with core curriculum standards to promote student engagement, retention and confidence. Hear examples like using tap dancing for math fluency and Tableaus for reading comprehension.
• Recognition and Achievements: Learn about Bryant Park's impressive accolades, including being a Class School of Distinction for arts integration, an Alabama Reading Initiative Spotlight School, and a Marzano High Reliability School (level one).
• Creating a Culture of Shared Leadership: Understand the importance of a collaborative, shared leadership approach where the principal is not the sole decision-maker. Find out how leadership teams, including the Continuous Improvement Leadership Team and the Design Team, ensure every grade level has a voice and opportunities for growth.
• Intentional Professional Learning: Discover Bryant Park's robust professional development model, including a partnership with Arts Now for quarterly 3-day arts integration training. New teachers receive foundational training, and the school intentionally schedules time for learning during the school day, respecting teachers' time.
• Teacher-Led Instructional Rounds: Learn about their unique approach to instructional rounds, where teachers observe peers to identify strengths and areas for improvement, focusing on specific instructional practices like vocabulary and explicit instruction. This process provides purposeful feedback that is debriefed in professional learning communities.
• Key Advice for School Leaders: Gain insights into the most important considerations for leaders piloting new programs, emphasizing shared leadership, valuing every voice (even critical ones) and balancing shared decision-making with clear expectations and boundaries for growth.

This episode offers practical strategies and inspiring examples for any educator or leader looking to transform their school through innovative practices and a strong culture of continuous learning!

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In this episode, we're joined by Aimee Wyatt, SREB's director of leadership and professional learning, and our special guests from PENCIL: Alayna Cate, director of partnerships, and Bob Kucher, chief partnerships and programs officer. PENCIL is a Nashville-based non-profit dedicated to connecting businesses and the community with Metro Nashville Public Schools. 

In this episode, you'll learn about:

• Pencil's Mission and History: Discover how PENCIL, a 43-year-old non-profit, serves as a vital link between the business community and public schools in Nashville, based on the belief that a thriving school system creates a thriving city. 
• The Definition of "Partnership": Understand how PENCIL differentiates between one-off volunteer opportunities and sustained, long-term partnerships that are embedded into the culture of both the school and the business, fostering deeper impact. 
• Innovative Ways Communities Partner With Schools: Explore various engagement methods, from volunteerism, guest speaking about career journeys and mentorship to more in-depth career experiential learning like job shadows, work-based learning and even support for school events or operational needs. 
• "Goosebump Moments" and Student Impact: Hear compelling examples of how partnerships have transformed student perspectives, such as a high school junior discovering a new career path in the automotive industry beyond her imagination through a Bridgestone partnership and HCA Healthcare providing hands-on hospital job shadows and paid internships leading to employment upon graduation. 
• Tips on Creating Community Partnerships on Your Own: Even if you do not have a PENCIL in your community, there are ways to create amazing community partnerships for your students. 

This episode is packed with actionable advice for anyone looking to foster meaningful connections between schools and their surrounding communities! 

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Welcome back to Part 2 of our special episode with Richland High School in Mississippi! In this continuation, Principal Marcus Stewart and Assistant Principal Heather Bryan delve deeper into the strategies and systems that have driven their school's remarkable growth. 

In this episode, you'll learn about:

• Boosting AP Enrollment and Proficiency: Discover how Richland High School doubled its AP enrollment and saw a jump in AP proficiency of over 30%. Stewart shares how they identify potential AP students and provide them with crucial support, including test fees and dedicated time to work with AP teachers. 
• Creating a Culture of High Expectations: Hear about the strategies implemented to raise expectations for both students and teachers. This includes a shift towards data-driven discussions and ensuring every student has a rigorous four-year plan. 
• Connecting Students to Careers: Explore how Richland High School is preparing students for their futures by fostering connections to careers. They discuss the importance of career pathways, internships and relevant real-world experiences. 
• Supporting Teacher Growth and Leadership: Learn more about how the school empowers teachers and cultivates their leadership skills, expanding on the concepts introduced in Part 1. This includes providing opportunities for teachers to lead professional development and take ownership of their growth. 
• Sustaining Momentum for Continuous Improvement: Understand how Richland High School plans to continue its upward trajectory, aiming for an "A" designation and further enhancing student outcomes. 

If you missed Part 1, be sure to go back and listen to learn about the initial curriculum and instructional review and the revolutionary "Flex Block" system!

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Welcome to a special two-part episode of the Making Schools Work podcast! In this first installment, we're joined by Richard Morrison, senior leadership coach at SREB, as he discusses his three-year partnership with Richland High School in Mississippi. We also hear directly from Richland High School's principal, Marcus Stewart, and assistant principal, Heather Bryan, about their incredible journey of improvement.

In this episode, you'll learn about:

• The Power of a Curriculum and Instructional Review (CIR): Discover how Richland High School, a middle-high school serving 7th-12th graders, utilized a comprehensive CIR process to identify areas for growth and promising practices. Principal Marcus Stewart shares how the data-driven, neutral review helped foster receptiveness and transparency among staff.
• A Culture Shift Towards Improvement: Hear how Richland High School transitioned from skepticism to open reflection and courage, leading to significant positive changes in student achievement.
• Impressive Gains in Accountability & Proficiency: Learn about Richland High School's remarkable improvements, including a consistent rise in their Mississippi accountability rating, a doubling of AP enrollment, a 30%+ jump in AP proficiency, increased reading proficiency and a rise in math proficiency from 75% to 82%.
• The Revolutionary "Flex Block" System: Assistant Principal Heather Bryan details the innovative "Flex Block," a unique daily scheduled time designed for both student and teacher development.
• Student Benefits: Explore how students utilize Flex Block for academic remediation and enrichment on Wednesdays, and for high-interest "human interest" clubs (like Wiffle Ball Club, Taylor Swift Club or Spa Club) on Thursdays, fostering engagement and diverse experiences.
• Teacher Professional Development: Understand how the Flex Block is leveraged for differentiated professional learning communities and professional development for teachers, including book studies and dedicated time for national board certification candidates.
• Empowering New Teachers and Peer-Led Learning: Discover how new teachers receive dedicated support during Flex Block and how the school is fostering peer-developed professional learning opportunities led by experienced teachers.

Stay tuned for Part 2! In our next episode, we'll continue our conversation with Dr. Stewart and Dr. Bryan to delve into how Richland High School boosted their AP program, connected students to career pathways and set high expectations for their teachers. You won't want to miss it!

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In this short announcement, Ashley and Dan sit down to talk about all of the exciting changes coming to the podcast in the fall. 

Season 2 has a lot of big changes, but each change is just to make it bigger and better for you. 

Plus, we talk about the Season 2 preview episodes we will be releasing during the 2025 Making Schools Work Conference from July 14-18. 

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In this final episode of season one, Ashley Shaw and guest Leslie Eaves, SREB’s director of project-based learning, explore Pillar 4 of SREB’s Guidance for the Use of AI in the K12 Classroom: ethical and proficient student use of AI.

Ashley and Leslie discuss why it's not enough for educators to simply use AI—we need to help students use it responsibly, too. From media literacy to writing support to prompt engineering, this episode explores the skills students need to succeed with AI now and in the future.

🧩 Topics include:

• What “proficient AI use” really looks like in K-12
• The importance of digital citizenship and ethical conversations
• Why schools should create teams to help create AI policies - and include students and teachers on those teams

🗂️ Resources:

• Also available on YouTube if you prefer video
• Download the free report: https://www.sreb.org/publication/guidance-use-ai-k-12-classroom-0
• Get the free AI checklist: https://www.sreb.org/publication/ai-tool-procurement-implementation-and-evaluation-checklist

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Part of our summer series on SREB’s Guidance for the Use of AI in the K12 Classroom

In this episode, Ashley talks with Leslie Eaves, SREB’s director of project-based learning, about how AI can support personalized learning.

They dig into what it really means to differentiate in today’s classrooms and how teachers can use AI tools to give students tools to use at home, create custom learning plans and much more.

Topics covered:

• What Pillar 3 is and why personalized learning matters
• How teachers can use AI to differentiate more easily
• First steps for using AI to personalize instruction

🗂️ Resources:

• Also available on YouTube if you prefer video
• Download the free report: https://www.sreb.org/publication/guidance-use-ai-k-12-classroom-0
• Get the free AI checklist: https://www.sreb.org/publication/ai-tool-procurement-implementation-and-evaluation-checklist

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Part of our summer series on SREB’s Guidance for the Use of AI in the K12 Classroom

In this episode, host Ashley Shaw is joined by Leslie Eaves, SREB’s director of project-based learning, to talk about Pillar 2:  Using AI to streamline teacher administrative and planning work. 

This conversation dives into practical, real-world ways teachers are using AI to save time—without giving up professional judgment. 

From parent emails to lesson planning to the elephant in the room (grading), Ashley and Leslie discuss where AI can actually make a difference and where it shouldn’t replace human thinking.

🎯 Topics covered:

• What Pillar 2 is and why it matters
• The line between modeling good AI use and cutting corners
• Fast, low-risk ways to start using AI
• Grading with AI: when it might help and when it goes too far
• Where to start if you’re AI-curious but overwhelmed

 🗂️ Resources:

• Also available on YouTube if you prefer video
• Download the free report: https://www.sreb.org/publication/guidance-use-ai-k-12-classroom-0
• Get the free AI checklist: https://www.sreb.org/publication/ai-tool-procurement-implementation-and-evaluation-checklist

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In this episode of Class-Act Coaching, we dive into Pillar 1 of SREB’s Guidance for the Use of AI in the K12 Classroom—using AI to design cognitively demanding tasks that engage students in deep, meaningful learning.

Ashley is joined again by Leslie Eaves, SREB’s project-based learning program director, to talk about what makes a task truly cognitively demanding (hint: it’s about thinking, not just doing), and how AI tools can help teachers brainstorm, plan and scaffold rich learning experiences.

We cover practical ways to use AI for lesson design, what to watch out for and why starting with your standards is key. Whether you’ve read the report or not, this episode is packed with actionable ideas you can try right away.

• Also available on YouTube if you prefer video
• Download the free report: https://www.sreb.org/publication/guidance-use-ai-k-12-classroom-0
• Get the free AI checklist: https://www.sreb.org/publication/ai-tool-procurement-implementation-and-evaluation-checklist

Topics include:

• What cognitively demanding tasks are (and aren’t)
• How to use AI as a lesson planning thought partner
• Examples from real classrooms
• Connecting content to student interests
• Avoiding over-reliance on screens
• A simple way to get started this week

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In this kickoff episode of our special summer series, Ashley Shaw sits down with Leslie Eaves, SREB's project-based learning director and a key member of the SREB Commission on AI in Education, to explore the new, free report: Guidance for the Use of AI in the K12 Classroom.

 Whether you’re AI-curious or already experimenting, this episode is your entry point into making AI a helpful tool—not a headache—in your classroom.

What We Cover:

• Why SREB created this report (and who it’s for)
• The 4 pillars of AI use in K12 classrooms
• Why AI is best seen as a tool, not a replacement
• Practical first steps for busy teachers
• Key opportunities—and real risks—you should know about

Download the Free Report:
Guidance for the Use of AI in the K12 Classroom (https://www.sreb.org/publication/guidance-use-ai-k-12-classroom-0) 

And for the first time, watch the episode on our YouTube channel: https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=PIFw2QBwpJE

Next Up: In the next episode, we dive deep into Pillar 1: Creating cognitively demanding tasks with AI.

Subscribe to our podcast and YouTube channel to make sure you catch the whole series. 

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In the final episode of the school year, the Class-Act Coaching crew is back together! Ashley is joined by co-hosts Jason and Dan to reflect on the biggest takeaways from this semester’s episodes — and this time, Dan takes the reins as host.

Together, they dive into three powerful themes that kept coming up in coaching conversations:

• Collective Teacher Efficacy: What it really looks like in action — and how to tell if it’s missing.
• Teacher Clarity: Why learning goals and success criteria matter, not for compliance, but for student understanding.
• Authentic Engagement: The difference between fun and purposeful learning — and how to get students thinking deeply (not just moving around).

With examples from classrooms, podcast guests and even Ashley’s own students, this wrap-up connects all the dots and leaves you with plenty to reflect on. Plus, find out what Ashley told a student that she realized she should’ve been telling herself.

We’ll be back in the fall, but until then — enjoy your well-earned summer. And if you’re joining us at the Making Schools Work Conference in New Orleans (July 15–18), be sure to say hi!

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In this episode, Jason and Dan sit down with Kanisa Williams, an instructional coach from a large Georgia district, who coaches other instructional coaches. They talk about how coaching cycles are implemented not just with teachers, but with coaches, and the importance of modeling, trust-building and communication. 

Kanisa shares how she supports new coaches in clarifying their role, planning productive coaching cycles and using teacher data to identify priorities.

 Key Takeaways:

• How coaching cycles for instructional coaches mirror those for teachers
• Why modeling and co-planning are essential, even for coaching coaches
• Strategies for building trust in new coaching relationships
• Tips for setting clear goals and boundaries when you're new to a campus
• Using teacher data to guide the focus of coaching cycles

Mentioned in the Episode:

• Importance of early wins to build confidence with new coaches
• Creating clarity around a coach’s role to avoid being seen as “just an extra helper”
• The power of transparency and reflection in professional growth

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In this episode of Class-Act Coaching, Ashley is joined by Marty Sugerik, an instructional coach with a passion for project-based learning (PBL). Marty shares practical coaching strategies to help teachers design or refine classroom projects that connect to real-world skills.

Whether you’re a coach supporting teachers in PBL or an educator looking to strengthen your own projects, this conversation is packed with hands-on strategies for making learning more engaging and meaningful.

Key Topics Covered:

• How instructional coaches can help teachers start or refine a PBL unit
• The importance of authenticity—connecting projects to real-world work
• Scaffolding student success within project-based learning
• Coaching strategies for helping teachers overcome common PBL challenges
• The role of feedback and reflection in making projects better over time

Resources Mentioned:

• 📄 SREB’s Powerful Project-Based Learning Instructional Practices

Don’t Miss:

• Marty’s advice on balancing structure and student choice in project design
• Real-life coaching stories about helping teachers bring PBL to life
• A step-by-step coaching framework for guiding teachers through project creation

📘 Homework Challenge: If you’re a teacher, take a current unit and brainstorm how it could be turned into a project with a real-world connection. If you’re a coach, work with a teacher this week to refine a project idea!

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Getting students to truly engage can be one of the hardest parts of teaching—but this episode is here to help! Ashley is joined by two instructional coaches, Kari Meldrum and Sharon Moehle, who share two powerful, easy-to-implement strategies that promote deeper student engagement across all content areas.

Whether you teach math, ELA, science or social studies, these techniques are designed to get every student participating, thinking more critically and taking ownership of their learning—without requiring a complete lesson overhaul.

Key Topics Covered:

• Why traditional think-pair-share sometimes falls short—and how adding a quick writing step (“think-ink-pair-share”) can improve participation
• How to make group work more equitable and effective using the “Traveling Salesman” strategy
• Tips for keeping all students engaged and accountable during partner and group discussions
• Ideas for adapting these strategies across subjects—from writing to problem-solving to historical analysis

Resources Mentioned:

• 📄 Kari & Sharon’s full Engagement Strategies PDF—packed with even more ideas
• 🧠 Think-Ink-Pair-Share (TIPS) strategy template
• 🚶 Traveling Salesman + Numbered Heads Together structure for accountable talk

Don’t Miss:

• Ashley’s real-life reflections on student group work
• How "TIPS" and “the traveling salesman” can keep even hesitant students engaged in group presentations
• Ways to modify the traveling salesman strategy for ELA, history, math, science and beyond

📘 Homework Challenge: Try both strategies—TIPS and Traveling Salesman—with your class this week! Reflect on how they changed participation, clarity and engagement.

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Planning comes up in nearly every episode of Class-Act Coaching—so this week, we’re giving it the spotlight it deserves. Ashley teams up with guest instructional coach Michelle Harada, who shares practical tips and research-backed strategies for improving the quality and efficiency of lesson planning, especially through collaborative planning.

Michelle draws from years of experience supporting teachers across grade levels and content areas and breaks down why planning is more than just picking a resource—it’s about being intentional, setting clear goals and using time wisely.

Key Topics Covered:

• Why collaborative planning is one of the most impactful things a school can do—and how to make it work even if you’re a singleton teacher.
• John Hattie’s research on effect sizes and what accelerates learning (spoiler: collaboration and clarity matter!)
• How to use the four guiding questions of planning to reflect on your practice and support all students.
• What to do when students do—or don’t—get it: tips for remediation, enrichment and peer teaching.
• Ways to make transitions smoother, maximize engagement and build intentionality into every moment of class.

Resources Mentioned:

• 📄 Michelle’s Planning Template to guide your next lesson or unit 
• 🤝 Hattie’s research on teacher collaboration and collective efficacy
• 💡 Project-based learning and content-aligned strategies

Quotable Moments:

• “The goal doesn’t change—the route to get there might. I can’t change the standard, but I can change how students get there.” — Michelle Harada
• “Organizations demonstrate their priorities by how they use their resources. Time is the most precious resource in a school.” — Michelle Harada

Don’t Miss:

• Ashley’s reflection: why “just reusing an old lesson” isn’t the time-saver it seems
• Michelle’s advice for finding planning partners: even if you’re the only one teaching your subject or grade level
• Jason’s coaching tip: how coaches can advocate for structured planning time to support teacher retention and reduce burnout

📘 Homework Challenge: Use Michelle’s planning template to reflect on one upcoming lesson or unit. Focus on just one new element—like success criteria or engagement strategies—and give it a try!

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This week, we’re doing something a little different! In this special episode of Class-Act Coaching, we take you behind the scenes of a real coaching conversation between SREB Coach Jason Adair and Jen Zelena, a reading specialist and literacy coach at Broughal Middle School in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania.

Jen has been leading an initiative called microteaching, where teachers film and reflect on their own lessons to make small but impactful instructional changes. In this episode, she shares her experience teaching and analyzing a lesson, and Jason helps her unpack key takeaways, including how to structure lessons for deeper student engagement and ownership of learning.

Whether you’re a teacher looking to refine your practice or a coach seeking strategies for leading meaningful reflection, this conversation is packed with insights!

Key Topics Covered:

• What is microteaching? How video reflection helps teachers make small changes with big impact.
• Lesson structures that work—when to use gradual release vs. exploration before formalization.
• How small tweaks in lesson planning can lead to greater student ownership and deeper thinking.
• The power of coaching conversations in shifting instructional practices.

Resources Mentioned:

• John Hattie’s research on teacher clarity and collective teacher efficacy
• ATLAS lesson framework—an alternative to gradual release that builds engagement from the start
• Weston Kieschnick’s book, The New Classroom Instruction That Works

Don’t Miss:

• Jen’s lesson on Cleopatra—what worked, what didn’t and how she’d teach it differently next time.
• Jason’s coaching insight: How to help teachers shift from “holding students’ hands” to giving them true ownership.
• How microteaching builds trust and helps schools create a culture of continuous improvement.

🔔 Want more coaching conversations? Let us know what topics you’d like to hear in future special episodes!

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Why do some students naturally engage in learning while others seem uninterested? In this episode, Ashley is joined by Dan Rock, who takes on the role of coach, to dive deep into the power of curiosity and motivation in learning. Dan breaks down the research behind cognitive interest cues—simple yet powerful techniques teachers can use to increase student engagement, deepen learning and make lessons more memorable.

Key Topics Covered:

• Why motivation is one of the strongest predictors of student success, sometimes more than teacher quality or socioeconomic background.
• The difference between intrinsic and extrinsic motivation—and why relying on external rewards (like candy or extra credit) doesn’t work for deep learning.
• The four principles of cognitive interest cues—practical ways to spark curiosity in students.
• How to personalize learning using AI to connect assignments to student interests.
• Why challenging students with complex, thought-provoking tasks actually increases engagement.

Resources Mentioned:

• The New Classroom Instruction That Works 
• Curiosity Hooks Planning Guide—Dan’s handout with templates and guiding questions for creating curiosity-driven lessons 
• Keisha King’s episode on getting students to talk more in class 

Quotable Moments:

• “Students aren’t disengaged because they don’t care—they’re disengaged because the learning environment hasn’t sparked their curiosity.” — Dan Rock
• “People are more motivated to learn when they are challenged, not when they are given busy work.” — Dan Rock

Don’t Miss:

• Ashley’s reflection: Why extra credit bribes don’t lead to deep learning—and what to do instead.
• Dan’s strategy: Use controversial or thought-provoking questions to hook students at the start of a lesson.
• Jason’s coaching insight: How curiosity cues apply not just to students, but to teachers in professional development.

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We’re back with Part 2 of our conversation with Christi Edwards, where she shares her final two strategies for ensuring students don’t just succeed on class assignments but can apply their learning in future assessments and beyond. 

In this episode, Christi focuses on helping students regulate their own thinking and communicate their ideas effectively—two key skills that build confidence and deeper understanding.

Key Topics Covered:

• How to teach students to self-regulate their thinking so they take ownership of their learning.
• The importance of in-the-moment reflection, not just after an assignment is complete.
• Why exit tickets and visual cues (like red, yellow and green cups) help students track their progress.
• How to encourage students to explain their thinking and engage in meaningful academic conversations.
• The power of questioning strategies to build deeper understanding and confidence.

Resources Mentioned:

• Self-regulation tools (checklists, journals, anchor charts) to help students monitor their progress.
• Peter Liljedahl’s “Building Thinking Classrooms” strategies for promoting student-driven discussions.
• Keisha King’s episode on classroom discussions for tips on getting students to talk more.

Quotable Moments:

• “Instead of asking students to show their work, ask them to show their thinking.” — Christi Edwards
• “Reflection shouldn’t just happen at the end of an assignment—it needs to happen throughout the learning process.” — Ashley Shaw
• “A coach’s job isn’t to give teachers the answers—it’s to help them become curious about their own teaching.” — Jason Adair

Don’t Miss:

• Ashley’s realization: Why she needs to build reflection into her lessons earlier, not just at the end.
• Christi’s exit ticket strategy that helps students assess their own understanding before they leave class.
• Jason’s coaching takeaway: How instructional coaches can spark curiosity in teachers, just like teachers do for students.

You can get feedback from Christi by sending us a message through social or email.  

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Ever had a student ace all the assignments, but then struggle on a final essay or a state assessment? In this episode, Ashley and special guest co-host Jason Adair sit down with instructional coach Christi Edwards to tackle a key challenge in education: helping students transfer their learning beyond the classroom. Christi shares the first two of her four key strategies for ensuring students not only succeed in class but can apply their knowledge in future learning situations.

Key Topics Covered:

• Why misalignment between class grades and assessment performance happens.
• The role of planning in ensuring students reach the depth of understanding required by the standards.
• How to foster curious and creative learners who think deeply and problem-solve independently.
• The power of engaging instructional tasks—moving beyond compliance to active, meaningful learning.
• Debunking the myth that project-based learning is only for STEM subjects—why it works in every classroom.

Resources Mentioned:

• Debbie Robertson’s episode on planning 
• John Hattie’s Visible Learning research on engagement and its impact on student success.

Quotable Moments:

• “Instead of asking students to show their work, ask them to show their thinking.” — Christi Edwards
• “If students don’t see the purpose in a task, they won’t be engaged—and they won’t retain the learning.” — Christi Edwards
• “Coaches don’t tell teachers what the problem is. We help uncover root causes.” — Jason Adair

Don’t Miss:

• Ashley’s realization: Why students struggle when they take things too literally—and how to help them adapt.
• Jason’s coaching insight: The best instructional coaches guide teachers to find solutions rather than dictating them.
• Christi’s example of turning a short story unit into an engaging, student-driven project.

🔔 Stay tuned for Part 2 next Tuesday, Feb. 18, where Christi will share her final two strategies!

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In this episode, Ashley and Dan sit down with Juliana Coleman, an experienced science educator and instructional coach, to discuss how to effectively teach to a standard while ensuring students develop deeper understanding rather than just memorizing facts. 

Juliana breaks down common misconceptions about rigor, explains how to analyze standards to scaffold learning, and shares practical strategies for helping students think critically. 

Whether you're struggling to move beyond surface-level teaching or looking for ways to differentiate instruction while maintaining high expectations, this episode has insights for you.

Key Topics Covered:

• The misconceptions of rigor—why it’s not about more work or moving faster.
• How to break down a standard into manageable steps and scaffold learning.
• The importance of prior knowledge and addressing misconceptions before diving into instruction.
• Using Hess’s Rigor Matrix and Bloom’s Taxonomy to ensure students reach the intended depth of knowledge.
• Why students should be active participants in learning, not passive observers.
• How collaboration among teachers can help clarify standards and improve instruction.

Resources Mentioned:

• Hess’s Rigor Matrix —a tool for determining the depth of knowledge required for a standard.
• Lesson Planning Checklist —Juliana’s guide to ensuring lessons align with the rigor of the standard.

Quotable Moments:

• “Rigor isn’t about giving students more work—it’s about the type of thinking we ask them to do.” — Juliana Coleman
• “The person doing the talking is doing the learning.” — Juliana Coleman
• “If we scaffold down to help students but never scaffold back up, we’re not meeting the standard.” — Juliana Coleman

Don’t Miss:

• Ashley’s realization: How focusing on the verb in the standard can change lesson planning.
• Dan’s concept mapping strategy for planning instruction, identifying misconceptions, and assessing learning.
• Juliana’s best advice for differentiation—when to model, when to let students take the lead and how to adjust based on student needs.

Want to take your teaching to the next level? Listen in for strategies you can apply right away!

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In this special end-of-semester wrap-up, Ashley and Dan reflect on the four major themes explored in this semester's podcast episodes: Planning, Creating Authentic Work Experiences, Collaborating, and Building Connections with Students. They share key insights from their conversations with instructional coaches, highlight strategies that resonated, and discuss practical applications for teachers and coaches alike.

Ashley reflects on what she's learned as a teacher, while Dan connects those lessons to coaching strategies that help teachers succeed. Whether you're a teacher looking to enhance your practice or a coach seeking ways to support your colleagues, this episode is packed with actionable takeaways.

Key Topics Covered:

• The power of intentional planning in saving time and improving teaching outcomes.
• Why authentic learning experiences engage students and how to incorporate them into your classroom.
• The role of collaboration in fostering deeper learning and teamwork skills.
• Strategies for building meaningful connections with students to improve engagement and achievement.

Resources Mentioned:

• Concept map
• Questions for collecting student feedback

Quotable Moments:

• "Your schedule represents your values." — Daniel Rock
• "The person doing the talking is doing the learning." — Ashley Shaw
• "If you want students to do what you want them to do, you have to make those connections." — Ashley Shaw

Don’t Miss:

• Ashley's creative teaching tip: Wikipedia Roulette—a game to help students develop critical thinking and research skills.
• Dan’s advice for coaches: How to effectively support teachers in collaboration and planning.

Enjoy your break and get ready for more exciting episodes in 2025! 🎉

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Rodriquez "Rod" Leonard, a coach with extensive experience in K-12 education, shares valuable insights on building a positive and productive classroom culture.

He emphasizes the importance of getting to know students as individuals, using those insights to inform instruction, and fostering student achievement. 

He encourages teachers to try one of his tips, starting with making a genuine effort to connect with their students. This can be accomplished through:

• Conversation: Engaging in meaningful dialogue.
• Inquiry: Asking questions to understand student perspectives and interests.
• Application: Using this knowledge to shape classroom activities and lessons.

Rod's episode provides practical, actionable advice for teachers looking to cultivate a supportive and successful learning environment.

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Unlock the keys to fostering gratitude and encouragement in your classroom as we celebrate Thanksgiving with a special guest, instructional coach Shelly Gibson. This episode promises to equip you with practical strategies for showing appreciation to your students through listening, meaningful connections, and purposeful actions. Together with co-host Daniel Rock, we'll share how these practices create a nurturing environment where students can thrive, even when challenges arise.

Join us on a journey of personalized encouragement and its transformative effects. Drawing from Shelly's inspiring experiences, we'll illustrate how small gestures, like personalized notes and community involvement, can have lasting positive impacts on students and educators alike. Discover the story of how Shelly went above and beyond, organizing special sessions and even acquiring a bus license to ensure every student felt supported in their academic pursuits.

Explore effective coaching strategies that benefit both students and teachers. We'll emphasize the power of personal connections, constructive feedback, and genuine interest in students' lives beyond the classroom. Shelly shares insights on how instructional coaches can mirror this support to teachers, creating an uplifting atmosphere. As Thanksgiving nears, we encourage reflection on gratitude and look forward to reconnecting after the holiday break with renewed inspiration and insights.

Download the corresponding handout to remember these tips. 

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Unlock the secrets of effective note-taking in our latest episode, promising to transform how students and educators grasp and retain information. Our engaging conversation with Donn Kirkwood, a senior leadership coach with a specialty in literacy, provides a treasure trove of practical strategies designed to boost understanding and retention in classroom settings. We explore the pitfalls of relying solely on technology, like snapping pictures of slides, and delve into the power of translating information into one's own words for a deeper learning experience.

Discover innovative ways to enhance classroom discussions through diverse note-taking methods that encourage unique perspectives and peer interaction. We introduce dynamic activities such as "speed dating" and inner-outer circles, which create opportunities for students to share, validate, and refine their notes collaboratively. These approaches not only build confidence but also ensure that students are equipped to apply their notes to future learning situations, ultimately fostering mastery of the material.

Experience the impact of active note-taking strategies on student learning and memory retention. We highlight the importance of repetition and experiential learning, introducing the three-column note-taking format that encourages summarization, reflection, and real-world application of key concepts. With these tools, educators can better prepare students for assessments and assignments, ensuring that knowledge is solidified in long-term memory. Delve into the intricate dance between cognitive processes and instructional coaching as we reveal insights from our discussion with Dawn, setting the stage for future dialogues on mastering cognition in education.

Download Donn's Three-Column Notetaking handout.

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Discover how to transform silence into vibrant conversations in your classroom with insights from our latest discussion. Join me, Ashley Shaw, alongside Dan Rock, as we unravel the secrets of fostering engaging student discourse with the help of Keisha King, a distinguished math instructional coach. Learn how to create a safe environment for students to express their thoughts and build confidence in speaking up. Keisha introduces her five practices for orchestrating productive mathematics discussions, offering a powerful framework that can enhance critical thinking and student interaction.

Through practical strategies like the jigsaw method, four corners activity and impactful sentence starters, we explore innovative ways to boost student participation and engagement. Our episode is packed with actionable advice and resources, including handouts on promoting meaningful discourse and the Think-Pair-Share strategy. Equip yourself with the tools to transform your classroom into a hub of dynamic discussions, where every student feels heard and valued. Tune in for a rich exploration of how to make your teaching environment more interactive and participatory.

Download our handouts for this episode:

1. 5 Practices for Orchestrating Discussions
2. Strategies to Promote Meaningful Student Discourse
3. Think-Pair-Share Strategy

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Unlock the secrets to transforming your classroom into a dynamic workplace simulation with insights from our extraordinary guest, Marty Sugerik. With a wealth of experience drawn from both military and educational realms, Marty delivers invaluable strategies to enhance students' communication and collaboration skills. Discover how we can extend the classic "think-pair-share" method by incorporating world language research's "three modes of communication," empowering students to adapt these skills across diverse subjects and careers.

Explore a structured, hands-on approach to cultivating workplace collaboration skills that goes beyond traditional classroom practices. With a practical three-step process, students first engage in independent problem-solving tasks before collaborating with peers to refine their approaches through visual tools like Venn diagrams. As educators, we step into the role of an employer, offering constructive feedback to help students elevate their presentations and communication skills, collecting qualitative evidence of student understanding to guide future instruction.

Gain valuable perspectives on preparing students for the realities of the workforce by simulating professional environments within the classroom. Learn how acting as an employer can set clear expectations and establish a connection between classroom activities and future career paths. Marty also shares innovative ways to adapt the "think-pair-share" strategy for digital hybrid environments, emphasizing the importance of customizing these techniques to suit your educational needs. Don't miss this opportunity to enrich your teaching methods with practical insights and resources shared throughout our conversation.

Check out Marty's Google folder to get all the materials referenced in this episode, and feel free to send him questions at marty.sugerik at sreb.org.

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Unlock the secrets to effective school leadership with insights from George McFarland, an SREB leadership coach and seasoned educator with over thirty years of experience. Discover how establishing a clear purpose and fostering collaboration among stakeholders can transform school environments, even amidst the challenges of frequent leadership turnover. George shares his wisdom on the pivotal role of communication in aligning a school's mission with collective aspirations, ensuring teachers and staff feel valued and motivated. Learn how involving everyone from teachers to community members in shaping a school’s direction can create an environment where initiatives are not just understood but embraced.

We also explore the crucial development of teacher leaders and the "portrait of a graduate" concept that aligns educational goals with student outcomes. George offers practical advice for educators aspiring to leadership roles, highlighting the necessity of mentorship and resource utilization to hone leadership skills. Communication remains a key theme, as we discuss strategies for introducing change effectively in schools, emphasizing clarity and purpose in leaders' messages. This episode promises to equip you with actionable insights and inspiration for your professional journey in education.

Download our handout for more about this episode. 

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Unlock the secrets to crafting impactful lesson plans and aligning assessments with the guidance of expert guest Debbie Robertson. Discover how Ashley seeks to refine her organizational skills with insights from senior leadership coach Debbie. Together, they unravel the art of starting with the end in mind, diving into the crucial process of revisiting educational standards. This episode promises to transform your approach to teaching by ensuring lessons are not just effective but deeply aligned with contemporary educational expectations and student needs.

From integrating real-world scenarios into your classroom to making cross-curricular connections, you'll learn innovative strategies that make learning both relatable and robust. We explore how blending subjects like English Language Arts and math can enrich students' understanding and problem-solving abilities. Plus, gain wisdom on effective coaching for educators, with techniques that prioritize understanding coachees' processes before offering guidance. With thoughtful analogies and practical advice, this episode is a treasure trove for teachers and instructional coaches eager to elevate their educational practices.

For more, make sure to download our handout.

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Where will I use this in the "real-world"?

If you've ever had a student ask you this, then you might be on the lookout for ways to create more authentic learning experiences in your classroom.

To help, SREB's Leslie Eaves came by to give Ashley some ways to build authenticity into her assignments.

We created a handout to go with the lesson. 

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It's every teacher's biggest challenge: How can we get these students to engage with the material?

In this week's episode, SREB Coach Erin Anderson-Williams stops by the studio to teach Ashley how to better engage her students by considering their cognitive, behavioral and emotional needs.

Download our handout to get an overview of the lesson. 

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In this week's episode, SREB's Jason Adair comes in to coach Ashley in how to ask better questions in class.

Feel free to follow along with our handout or download it later. 

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In our National Literacy Month lesson, we talk about three ways teachers of any subject can help students better understand and utilize the vocabulary words in the class.

No more having students memorize a word for a test before forgetting it forever! SREB Coach Deb Cullen sits down to give us all her proven techniques for helping students build connections between words, create categories and use the words in context.

Make sure to download our handout with a summary and instructions for what we talk about in this episode. 

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Provide feedback on this episode before July 19, 2024, and be entered into a drawing for a $50 Amazon gift card. 

In our first ever episode, SREB Instructional Coach Daniel Rock comes into the studio to talk about how writing SPICE-y AI prompts can help teachers take advantage of the free teaching assistant they may not have known they had.

Here are the resources we used in this episode:

1. Our ChatGPT transcript
2. A SPICE Guide and Worksheet for Teachers
3. Daniel's AI Prompt-Writing Cheat Sheet for Teachers

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