I have been a long-time promoter of engaging students in real-life (project-based) opportunities. That’s driven from my own experiences as a 4-H participant in my elementary and high school years and having observed teachers and students tackling powerful learning through doing live event projects. Those experiences generated my interest to learn more when I was […]

Tim Smyth, a high school teacher, shares his strategies for regularly surveying his students to build valuable connections. Hear some of the questions and approaches that tap information about his students. Tim has experienced knowing students better, having students know him, and at times knowing students who need emotional help. Instructional coaches can use Tim’s […]

I heard about a great experience illustrating awe in learning that was shared by a group of middle school students and their teacher in Grand Island, New York. They joined me on this podcast sharing their reflections and insights. As you hear their story consider where these elements of Awe appeared: Awe occurs when we […]

Teachers looking for a strategy to increase students’ engagement in learning and instructional coaches looking to support those teachers can find ideas and encouragement from Katie Brooks. She shares her experiences that led her to say: “By making podcasting a part of my ELA curriculum, I’ve seen students finally comprehend complex materials, have a blast […]

When are you more of a managerial leader verses an inquiry leader in the classroom? There are important times for each. What do students learn from your approach? How conscious are you of the practices you are implementing?  Jessica Vance, the author “Leading with a Lens of Inquiry: Cultivating Conditions for Curiosity and Empowering Agency,” […]

“If you listen to kids, they’ll give you a different perspective. They are the primary clients.” (Principal, Kambar Khoshaba) I had the opportunity to record a podcast with Kambar Khoshaba, an experienced middle school and newly appointed high school principal. I learned about him while reading an article in Education Week, titled Students Sought Changes […]