5 More Easy Brain Breaks for Your Classroom

A new blog has appeared on my main site: 5 More Easy Brain Breaks for Your Classroom

From https://www.coolcatteacher.com/5-more-easy-brain-breaks-for-your-classroom/
via Vicki Davis at coolcatteacher.com. Please also check out my show for busy teachers, the 10-Minute Teacher Podcast and my Free teaching tutorials on YouTube.

5 More Easy Brain Breaks for Your Classroom

Rob Donatelli shares with us five more easy brain breaks. As a follow up to one of the most popular 10 Minute Teacher episodes, 5 Easy Brain Breaks for Your Classroom, Rob gives us more ideas to bring to our classroom. 

www.coolcatteacher.com/e555

Sponsor: E4Effort is a tool built upon the research behind helping students improve. Check out e4Effort for more information and to start encouraging effort with your students. Also, check out my recent review of e4Effort and sign up for a 30-day free trial.

Rob Donatelli - Bio As Submitted

Rob Donatelli is a business & computer science teacher at Dallastown Area High School. He is also the founder of the Donatelli EdZone.

His passions include school leadership, education technology, presenting, entrepreneurship, and coaching. Follow him on YouTube at the Donatelli EdZone or on Twitter @DTown_MrD.

Blog: http://donatelliedzone.blogspot.com/

Twitter: @DTown_MrD

Check out this episode!

4 Ways to Build Relationships That Matter

A new blog has appeared on my main site: 4 Ways to Build Relationships That Matter

From https://www.coolcatteacher.com/4-ways-to-build-relationships-that-matter/
via Vicki Davis at coolcatteacher.com. Please also check out my show for busy teachers, the 10-Minute Teacher Podcast and my Free teaching tutorials on YouTube.

4 Ways to Build Relationships That Matter

Charles "Chuck" Poole shares how to build relationships that matter. While content and passion for our content and the craft of teaching are all essential parts of teaching that cannot be dismissed - relationships with students are also in the mix as an essential part of reaching today's students. We can do this! Let's listen, learn, and apply this in our classrooms!

Sponsor: E4Effort is a tool built upon the research behind helping students improve. Check out e4Effort for more information and to start encouraging effort with your students. Also, check out my recent review of e4Effort and sign up for a 30-day free trial.

 

Challenge

Select a colleague or student and intentionally work this week to build a relationship with that person using something you learned in this show. Remember -- we can listen but we don't learn until we DO something with it.

Charles Poole - Bio as Submitted

Chuck Poole is a veteran teacher of nearly 20 years who has made it his mission to inspire and encourage teachers all over the world to be the best they can be. He is the visionary behind http://www.teachonomy.com/, a podcaster, the author of "uNforgettable: Your Roadmap to Being the Teacher They Never Forget," and the host of the upcoming virtual Teacher Success Summit (http://www.teachersuccesssummit.com/). Chuck lives in New Jersey with his wife and enjoys mentoring, creating laughter in the classroom, and the continued pursuit of his next adventure.

 

Blog: http://www.teachonomy.com/

Twitter: @cpoole27

Instagram: @teachonomy

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/teachonomy

 

 

Disclosure of Material Connection: This is a “sponsored podcast episode.” The company who sponsored it compensated me via cash payment, gift, or something else of value to include a reference to their product. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I believe will be good for my readers and are from companies I can recommend. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Check out this episode!

4 Ways to Use Improv to Teach

A new blog has appeared on my main site: 4 Ways to Use Improv to Teach

From https://www.coolcatteacher.com/4-ways-to-use-improv-to-teach/
via Vicki Davis at coolcatteacher.com. Please also check out my show for busy teachers, the 10-Minute Teacher Podcast and my Free teaching tutorials on YouTube.

4 Ways to Use Improv to Teach

Mel Paradis, author of Teaching Improv: The Essential Handbook, shares four ways to use Improv to teach in the classroom. Here are some fantastic ideas to share in your classroom.

Sponsor: E4Effort is a tool built upon the research behind helping students improve. Check out e4Effort for more information and to start encouraging effort with your students. Also, check out my recent review of e4Effort and sign up for a 30-day free trial.

 

Challenge

Use improv in the classroom to teach your CONTENT at least one time!

Mel Paradis - Bio as Submitted

For more than 25 years, Mel Paradis has performed and facilitated improv with groups ranging from preschoolers through adults. Mel is a certified elementary teacher, currently working as a gifted and talented teacher and coordinator for five elementary schools in Wyoming. Since 2011, she has been a member of Jackson Hole’s improv comedy troupe, The Laff Staff (https://www.facebook.com/TheLaffStaff/). Her passion for writing, love of teaching and addiction to improv drove her to write the book Teaching Improv: The Essential Handbook. She lives on the backside of the Teton Mountain Range in Idaho with her husband and two children.

 

Twitter: @ParadisMel

 

Disclosure of Material Connection: This is a “sponsored podcast episode.” The company who sponsored it compensated me via cash payment, gift, or something else of value to include a reference to their product. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I believe will be good for my readers and are from companies I can recommend. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Check out this episode!

The Oculus Quest: Why It Is a Game Changer

Virtual Reality is improving for use in the classroom. Augmented Reality/ Virtual Reality Education Expert, Jaime Donally, thinks that the Oculus Quest is a game-changer for the classroom. From less "queasiness" to some amazing apps, Jaime explains why she thinks the Oculus Quest is such a big deal.

Sponsor: E4Effort is a tool built upon the research behind helping students improve. Check out e4Effort for more information and to start encouraging effort with your students. Also, check out my recent review of e4Effort and sign up for a 30-day free trial.

 

Challenge

Learn about the Oculus Quest and  virtual reality for your challenge today:

• How to Create in AR and VR - Jaime Donally
• AR and VR in the Classroom - Hall Davidson
• Virtual Reality Protocols in the Classroom - Jaime Donally
• Virtual Reality (VR) as a new educational paradigm - Enrique Cachafeiro
• Simple virtual reality with Google Streetview and Google Cardboard - Donnie Piercey

Jaime Donally - Bio from Her Website

Jaime Donally is a passionate technology enthusiast. She began her career as a math teacher and later moved into Instructional Technology. Her desire to build relationships have brought about opportunities to collaborate with students and educators around the world. She provides staff development and training on immersive technology as an edtech consultant.

Her latest adventures include the launch of Global Maker Day and the #ARVRinEDU community. She works as an author and speaker to provide practical use of augmented and virtual reality with more resources at ARVRinEDU.com.

 

Website: https://www.arvrinedu.com/ 

Twitter: @jaimedonally

Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/208017029807896/

Instagram: @jaimedonally

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaimedonally/

 

Disclosure of Material Connection: This is a “sponsored podcast episode.” The company who sponsored it compensated me via cash payment, gift, or something else of value to include a reference to their product. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I believe will be good for my readers and are from companies I can recommend. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Check out this episode!

The Oculus Quest: Why It Is a Game Changer

A new blog has appeared on my main site: The Oculus Quest: Why It Is a Game Changer

From https://www.coolcatteacher.com/the-oculus-quest-why-it-is-a-game-changer/
via Vicki Davis at coolcatteacher.com. Please also check out my show for busy teachers, the 10-Minute Teacher Podcast and my Free teaching tutorials on YouTube.

5 Ways to Step Back into the Classroom Better Than We Ever Were Before

Students need our help to regulate their own emotions. Today, psychologist Dr. Jody Carrington helps us understand five ways we can connect with our students and help them regulate their emotions. Understanding these simple principles can help us connect, improve classroom management, and be better teachers.

www.coolcatteacher.com/e551 

Sponsor: E4Effort is a tool built upon the research behind helping students improve. Check out e4Effort for more information and to start encouraging effort with your students. Also, check out my recent review of e4Effort and sign up for a 30-day free trial.

Challenge

We learned 5 ways to step back in but today, I’m giving you the Name that Child Challenge. I challenge you to call the names of as many children as possible in a positive way today as many times as possible. If you do this challenge with a friend, then share at the end of the day the kind of response you received from the children.

Dr. Jody Carrington - Bio from Her Website

I grew up on a farm in rural Alberta.
My parents were high school sweethearts. My brother and I grew up together in a pretty happy place. Then my parents divorced. As adults, my brother and I learned that we had a full biological sister – who my parents had given up for adoption before we were born. I learned that even when you have a “secure base” and “safe haven”, sometimes you need a little help sorting out “your story”. For me, sorting out my own early story helps me be a better writer of the next chapters of my story – the one’s called “wife”, “mother”, “sister”, “friend”, and “psychologist”.

My “story” of becoming a psychologist started at Red Deer College. I transferred to the University of Alberta, where I earned my Bachelor of Arts with distinction in 1998. I completed a year-long internship during that degree with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) and became very passionate about police work and the significant toll that trauma can take on people. I was also lucky enough to spend some time working with some amazing families through Ronald McDonald House and I also volunteered with Victim Services. I then continued my studies at the University of Regina with the thought of pursuing a career in Police Psychology. Although I loved that work, my passion began to shift to families, especially those who experienced trauma. I completed my pre-doctoral residency in Nova Scotia in 2006 where I trained primarily in Cognitive-Behavioural and Narrative approaches. I completed rotations both with adults and children and learned that I really enjoyed understanding the “stories” of children—particularly those who had difficult experiences.

I returned home to Alberta and accepted a job at the Alberta Children’s Hospital in Calgary on the Inpatient and Day Treatment Units, a position that would forever change the course of my career. I quickly learned my “cognitive-behavioral skills” were not enough for kids and families with long and often traumatic stories with multi-generational influences. I needed to connect in order to have any significant impact. Desperate to learn more about attachment, I set off on a quest for mentors who “got it” and have been very lucky to have been influenced by some of “the greats”.

You will see a lot in my story about attachment. I have learned the power of the relationship. Empathy. Connection. I have learned that these are important for anyone who might want to understand their story and shift it in some way. Or heal in some way. Or repair it in some way. Or change their story once and for all. So that their next chapter as “teenager”, “spouse”, “parent”, or “friend” can be better. I have worked with adults and children, as well as families, and I would be honored to learn about your story and perhaps influence your next chapters.

 

Website: http://www.drjodycarrington.com/

Twitter: @jodycarrington

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drjodycarrington/

Instagram: @drjodycarrington

 

Disclosure of Material Connection: This is a “sponsored podcast episode.” The company who sponsored it compensated me via cash payment, gift, or something else of value to include a reference to their product. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I believe will be good for my readers and are from companies I can recommend. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Check out this episode!

5 Ways to Step Back into the Classroom Better Than We Ever Were Before

A new blog has appeared on my main site: 5 Ways to Step Back into the Classroom Better Than We Ever Were Before

From https://www.coolcatteacher.com/emotional-dysregulation/
via Vicki Davis at coolcatteacher.com. Please also check out my show for busy teachers, the 10-Minute Teacher Podcast and my Free teaching tutorials on YouTube.

The E4Effort App: Working to Add a Measurement that Works

A new blog has appeared on my main site: The E4Effort App: Working to Add a Measurement that Works

From https://www.coolcatteacher.com/the-e4effort-app-working-to-add-a-measurement-that-works/
via Vicki Davis at coolcatteacher.com. Please also check out my show for busy teachers, the 10-Minute Teacher Podcast and my Free teaching tutorials on YouTube.

5 Ways to Curate Texts That Inspire Readers

A new blog has appeared on my main site: 5 Ways to Curate Texts That Inspire Readers

From https://www.coolcatteacher.com/5-ways-to-curate-texts-that-inspire-readers/
via Vicki Davis at coolcatteacher.com. Please also check out my show for busy teachers, the 10-Minute Teacher Podcast and my Free teaching tutorials on YouTube.

5 Ways to Curate Texts That Inspire Readers

Students need to be surrounded by books that inspire them to read and rejoice in books. But how do we curate those texts to inspire our readers? Julie Wright gives practical advice for librarians and all of us teachers (including me) who like to surround students with rich texts that inspire reading.

www.coolcatteacher.com/e550

Sponsor: Advancement Courses is today's sponsor From now until September 28, Advancement Courses, an online provider of professional development for K-12 teachers, is donating 10% of their sales to funding DonorsChoose.org projects. Go to coolcatteacher.com/give to submit your project. AND if you need some awesome PD, 10 Minute Teacher listeners get 20% off any online courses with the code COOL20. With this coupon, a 3 grad credit course for continuing education, salary advancement, or recertification is only $359. So, go to advancementcourses.com/coolcat to learn more and use the code COOL20.

Today's Challenge

Use this episode as a conversation starter about ensuring that all students are engaged in their education.

Also, check out "Build Your Stack: Short Texts, Big Engagement" by Julie.

Julie Wright - Bio As Submitted

With over twenty-five years of experience in rural, suburban, and urban settings. She is the co-author of What Are You Grouping For?, Grades 3-8: How to Guide Small Groups Based on Readers—Not the Book (Corwin, 2019.) She is currently working on a new book focused on the power of using short texts, to be released later this year by Benchmark Education.

Website: www.juliewrightconsulting.com

Twitter: @juliewright4444

YouTube: What Are You Grouping For? Webinar

Check out this episode!

Equity Programs in New York State

A new blog has appeared on my main site: Equity Programs in New York State

From https://www.coolcatteacher.com/equity-programs-in-new-york-state/
via Vicki Davis at coolcatteacher.com. Please also check out my show for busy teachers, the 10-Minute Teacher Podcast and my Free teaching tutorials on YouTube.

Equity Programs in New York State

Dr. Anael Alston is Assistant Commissioner for the Office of Access, Equity and Community Engagement in the New York State Education Department. He talks about what works to engage young men of color in education and his journey and passion for helping all students engage in school and do their best. If this is your heart's passion, you'll want to hear what Anael has to say.

www.coolcatteacher.com/549

Advancement Courses is today's sponsor From now until September 28, Advancement Courses, an online provider of professional development for K-12 teachers, is donating 10% of their sales to funding DonorsChoose.org projects. Go to coolcatteacher.com/give to submit your project. AND if you need some awesome PD, 10 Minute Teacher listeners get 20% off any online courses with the code COOL20. With this coupon, a 3 grad credit course for continuing education, salary advancement, or recertification is only $359. So, go to advancementcourses.com/coolcat to learn more and use the code COOL20.

Dr. Anael Alston - Bio As Submitted

Born and raised in Bedford-Stuyvesant Brooklyn, Dr. Anael Alston “Dr. A” is currently the Assistant Commissioner for the Office of Access, Equity and Community Engagement in the New York State Education Department. In this capacity, he informs educational policy across the state and administers over $200 million dollars to help support students across New York State from pre-Kindergarten through college. Prior to that, he was the Superintendent of Schools for the Hamilton Central School District. As a superintendent, Dr. A distinguished himself as one of the few superintendents across the state to have a 100% graduation rate while moving an agenda that included creating a program that allows international students to pay tuition to attend public school and involving the entire school community in creating a Board-adopted 5-year strategic plan to improve access, opportunity, and fiscal responsibility to the small rural school district. A recognized leader in the field, this year Dr. A was a main stage featured speaker at MBK Rising!, the inaugural national gathering marking the 5th year anniversary since President Obama launched My Brother’s Keeper.

A former Golden Gloves champion, Dr. A fights for children each day knowing that if not for the battles waged for him as a child, he would not be where he is today.

Twitter: @DrAAlston

Disclosure of Material Connection: This is a “sponsored podcast episode.” The company who sponsored it compensated me via cash payment, gift, or something else of value to include a reference to their product. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I believe will be good for my readers and are from companies I can recommend. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Check out this episode!

How to Give Teachers Choice in Professional Development

A new blog has appeared on my main site: How to Give Teachers Choice in Professional Development

From https://www.coolcatteacher.com/teacher-choice-professional-development/
via Vicki Davis at coolcatteacher.com. Please also check out my show for busy teachers, the 10-Minute Teacher Podcast and my Free teaching tutorials on YouTube.

Giving Teachers Choice in their Professional Development

Meredith Akers is a principal who has been using some unconventional methods of teacher PD. In this episode, she talks about the revolutionary way she recently held teacher PD (using video instruction and face to face meetings) and what she learned. Let's give teachers choice in their professional development about what they learn. Of course, we all must continue to improve our craft of teaching and need to learn, but giving choice as to content can make professional development more relevant and helpful.

www.coolcatteacher.com/e548 

Advancement Courses is today's sponsor From now until September 28, Advancement Courses, an online provider of professional development for K-12 teachers, is donating 10% of their sales to funding DonorsChoose.org projects. Go to coolcatteacher.com/give to submit your project. AND if you need some awesome PD, 10 Minute Teacher listeners get 20% off any online courses with the code COOL20. With this coupon, a 3 grad credit course for continuing education, salary advancement, or recertification is only $359. So, go to advancementcourses.com/coolcat to learn more and use the code COOL20.

 

Your Challenge for This Episode

Today, your challenge is to discuss with your administrators and colleagues some ways that teachers can experience the opportunity to make choices in their own PD. Use today's episode as a conversation starter about what could work in your district. Also remember the advice Meredith gives about having the conversation earlier in the day and not at the end. I think this is important advice we can use. Please share what you're doing! I'm @coolcatteacher on Twitter and instagram.

Meredith Akers - Bio As Submitted

Meredith Akers is an Elementary Principal who believes that the best way to help others grow is to build relationships, offer support, serve, love, and be transparent about how she is working to grow herself. Her daily aspiration is to make a positive impact and to leave those she serves better off for having interacted with her.

Blog: http://blog.acthompson.net

Twitter: @meredithakers

 Disclosure of Material Connection: This is a “sponsored podcast episode.” The company who sponsored it compensated me via cash payment, gift, or something else of value to include a reference to their product. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I believe will be good for my readers and are from companies I can recommend. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

M

Check out this episode!

Secrets for Fun, Engaging Computer Science that Changes Kids Lives

A new blog has appeared on my main site: Secrets for Fun, Engaging Computer Science that Changes Kids Lives

From https://www.coolcatteacher.com/secrets-for-fun-engaging-computer-science-that-changes-kids-lives/
via Vicki Davis at coolcatteacher.com. Please also check out my show for busy teachers, the 10-Minute Teacher Podcast and my Free teaching tutorials on YouTube.

Secrets for Fun, Engaging Computer Science that Changes Kids Lives

Alfred Thompson has secrets that transform Computer Science classrooms. Yet, he shares them openly. Project-based learning. Passion-based learning. Problem-based learning. These three P's of teaching perfection have been a mainstay in Alfred's classroom for many years. In today's episode, Alfred uncovers how his classroom works, the impact it has on student lives, and how his students learn outside their classroom. Congratulations to Alfred for winning the Computer Science award at ISTE - it is very deserving.

Advancement Courses is today's sponsor From now until September 28, Advancement Courses, an online provider of professional development for K-12 teachers, is donating 10% of their sales to funding DonorsChoose.org projects. Go to coolcatteacher.com/give to submit your project. AND if you need some awesome PD, 10 Minute Teacher listeners get 20% off any online courses with the code COOL20. With this coupon, a 3 grad credit course for continuing education, salary advancement, or recertification is only $359. So, go to advancementcourses.com/coolcat to learn more and use the code COOL20.

 

Alfred Thompson - Bio As Submitted

Alfred Thompson teaches high school computer science at Bishop Guertin High School in Nashua NH. Prior to teaching Alfred worked in the software industry for many years.

Blog: http://blog.acthompson.net

Twitter: @alfredtwo

Instagram @alfredtwo

 Disclosure of Material Connection: This is a “sponsored podcast episode.” The company who sponsored it compensated me via cash payment, gift, or something else of value to include a reference to their product. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I believe will be good for my readers and are from companies I can recommend. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Check out this episode!

Using Amusement Parks, Mud Runs, and Escape Rooms to Inspire Your Classroom

A new blog has appeared on my main site: Using Amusement Parks, Mud Runs, and Escape Rooms to Inspire Your Classroom

From https://www.coolcatteacher.com/using-amusement-parks-mud-runs-and-escape-rooms-to-inspire-your-classroom/
via Vicki Davis at coolcatteacher.com. Please also check out my show for busy teachers, the 10-Minute Teacher Podcast and my Free teaching tutorials on YouTube.

Using Amusement Parks, Mud Runs, and Escape Rooms to Inspire Your Classroom

Student engagement! We need it! Today's guest, John Meehan, shares inspiring stories that help us use amusement parks, mud runs, and escape rooms to inspire exciting lessons in our classroom. John is the author of EDrenaline Rush: Game-changing Student Engagement Inspired by Theme Parks, Mud Runs, and Escape Rooms. Get excited. Let's do this!

www.coolcatteacher.com/e546

Advancement Courses is today's sponsor From now until September 28, Advancement Courses, an online provider of professional development for K-12 teachers, is donating 10% of their sales to funding DonorsChoose.org projects. Go to coolcatteacher.com/give to submit your project. AND if you need some awesome PD, 10 Minute Teacher listeners get 20% off any online courses with the code COOL20. With this coupon, a 3 grad credit course for continuing education, salary advancement, or recertification is only $359. So, go to advancementcourses.com/coolcat to learn more and use the code COOL20.

John Meehan - Bio As Submitted

John Meehan is an eleventh grade English teacher and instructional coach at Bishop O'Connell High School in Arlington, Virginia. He is the author of EDrenaline Rush: Game-changing Student Engagement Inspired by Theme Parks, Mud Runs, and Escape Rooms., which is now available from Dave Burgess Consulting everywhere books are sold.

FTC Disclosure

Disclosure of Material Connection: This is a “sponsored podcast episode.” The company who sponsored it compensated me via cash payment, gift, or something else of value to include a reference to their product. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I believe will be good for my readers and are from companies I can recommend. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Check out this episode!

5 Ways to Step Back from Burnout

 In the high-stress, fast-paced job of teaching - burnout can happen to anyone. In today's show, we talk about recognizing burnout, how to get help, and steps to tackle it when it happens. Amber Harper, an expert on the topic of burnout, discusses what we can do to help ourselves be our best for our students and families.

www.coolcatteacher.com/e545

Challenge: Take the burnout quiz.

Amber Harper - Bio As Submitted

Amber is a Google Certified Trainer and Innovator and her mission is to help teachers beat burnout by helping them to activate their own self-empowerment. As a former elementary teacher, she knows how challenging the education profession can be and offers support for teachers struggling with burnout through her podcast, website, and free Facebook Group.

Blog: www.burnedinteacher.com

Twitter: @burnedinteacher

- Free Teacher Burnout Quiz: www.burnedinteacher.com/burnoutquiz
- The Burned-In Teacher Training eBook: bit.ly/burnedinbook
- Burned-In Teacher Training Course: https://www.burnedinteacher.com/workwithme

Check out this episode!

5 Ways to Step Back from Teacher Burnout

A new blog has appeared on my main site: 5 Ways to Step Back from Teacher Burnout

From https://www.coolcatteacher.com/step-back-from-teacher-burnout/
via Vicki Davis at coolcatteacher.com. Please also check out my show for busy teachers, the 10-Minute Teacher Podcast and my Free teaching tutorials on YouTube.

Opportunities for Genuine Student Leadership

Students need real leadership opportunities - not just running a note to the office or other tasks that may be called "leadership" but really aren't. Adam Welcome, co-author of Empower our Girls: Opening the Door for Girls to Achieve More

www.coolcatteacher.com/e544

After listening to today’s show, I think you will take one of two challenges:

1 - Give students a genuine way to lead in your classroom. 

2 - Have a conversation with a colleague about student leadership and how your school is nurturing it and what you can do to improve student leadership opportunities.

Adam Welcome - Bio As Submitted

Adam has been a teacher, Principal, Director of Innovation for a district with 35,000 students and enjoys pushing the envelope to always do what's best for kids!

Adam was Principal of the Year for his region, a 20 To Watch for the National School Board Association, guest blogger for EdWeek, NAESP magazine, and many other publications. Adam also consults and works with many education companies as a way to improve their product for others!

Adam is passionate about technology integration with all educators and a huge advocate of social media and connecting with other educators from across the country. Adam makes it clear that kids come first and has preached the message of Team Kid for many years.

He is also the co-founder of Kids Deserve It with Todd Nesloney and the author of Run Like a Pirate.  He is co-author of Empower our Girls: Opening the Door for Girls to Achieve More.

Adam has an amazing wife (Stacy) and two young children (Greta and Tilden) that keep life at home exciting and active. Adam also loves to run and has completed 22 marathons.

Check out this episode!

Creating Real Opportunities for Student Leadership

A new blog has appeared on my main site: Creating Real Opportunities for Student Leadership

From https://www.coolcatteacher.com/student-leadership-opportunities/
via Vicki Davis at coolcatteacher.com. Please also check out my show for busy teachers, the 10-Minute Teacher Podcast and my Free teaching tutorials on YouTube.

Speed Presentations: Help Students Improve Presentation Skills Rapidly

Presentation skills are an essential skill for students to master. How do you help students improve when there are many students in the class. Robert Donatelli has a solution: speed presentations. Learn how to use this technique to help students improve their presentation skills.

www.coolcatteacher.com/e543

Professional PD Challenge

Today’s challenge is to try speed presentations in your classroom or in your teacher professional development.

Rob Donatelli - Bio As Submitted

RRob Donatelli is a business & computer science teacher at Dallastown Area High School. He is also the founder of the Donatelli EdZone. His passions include school leadership, education technology, presenting, entrepreneurship, and coaching. Follow him on YouTube at the Donatelli EdZone or on Twitter @DTown_MrD.

Check out this episode!

Speed Presentations: Help Students Improve Presentation Skills Rapidly

A new blog has appeared on my main site: Speed Presentations: Help Students Improve Presentation Skills Rapidly

From https://www.coolcatteacher.com/presentation-skills-speed-presentations/
via Vicki Davis at coolcatteacher.com. Please also check out my show for busy teachers, the 10-Minute Teacher Podcast and my Free teaching tutorials on YouTube.

How Turning on Location Services Could Save Your Life

Pam Shoemaker is getting ready to retire from teaching. As she and her husband were returning home from looking for places to retire, a storm arose. While location services can be used to perhaps compromise our privacy, in this case, it may have saved Pam's life. Hear her story and learn how to examine your own location settings for safety.

www.coolcatteacher.com/e542

Podcast PD Challenge

Your challenge today is a safety challenge for you – and one other person of your choosing. Pick a weather app. Go into settings and educate yourself on how to turn it on for “always allow” if that is your choice.

Understand that location-based services can be used to track where you are, so if you choose not to allow any location-based services, then, make sure you know how to turn it on while traveling or when weather is bad.

As always, consult with your wireless carrier about your data plan and educate yourself on the apps you use. Set your privacy settings with intentionality and be safe!

Pam Shoemaker - Bio As submitted

Pam Shoemaker is the Instructional Technology Coach for Walled Lake Consolidated Schools in Michigan. She is a Google for Education Certified Trainer and the outgoing President of the ISTE EdTech Coaches PLN. She is retiring from her position in Walled Lake later this week (while recording the show - as of this airing, she is retired!)

Blog: https://yesedtech.blogspot.com/

Twitter: @shoemap

Check out this episode!

How Turning on Location Services Could Save Your Life

A new blog has appeared on my main site: How Turning on Location Services Could Save Your Life

From https://www.coolcatteacher.com/how-turning-on-location-services-could-save-your-life/
via Vicki Davis at coolcatteacher.com. Please also check out my show for busy teachers, the 10-Minute Teacher Podcast and my Free teaching tutorials on YouTube.

Close the Attitude Gap – Build a Bond from Day One

A new blog has appeared on my main site: Close the Attitude Gap – Build a Bond from Day One

From https://www.coolcatteacher.com/close-the-attitude-gap-baruti-kafele/
via Vicki Davis at coolcatteacher.com. Please also check out my show for busy teachers, the 10-Minute Teacher Podcast and my Free teaching tutorials on YouTube.

Closing the Attitude Gap – Building a Bond from Day One

He didn't like school. But now he's been a principal and written ten books and travels the world helping principals and educators learn how to engage today's students -- especially inner-city youth. Baruti Kafele has inspiring words for us on today's Motivational Monday episode. He has authored ten books, recently the Principal 50: Critical Questions for New and Aspiring School Leaders and Closing the Attitude Gap: How to Fire Up Your Students for Success.

www.coolcatteacher.com/e541

Today's Podcast PD Challenge

Here’s your challenge for today:

1. How will you start Day One building relationships? Don’t just read your syllabus – you’ve got to start building those relationships. Start connecting.
2. Check your attitude – have you decided you want to be an excellent, compelling engaging teacher who improves your craft every day? Make a decision about who you want to be.

Baruti Kafele

Milken National Educator, internationally-renowned speaker and best-selling author, Principal Baruti Kafele led the turnaround of four different New Jersey urban public schools including Newark Tech, which was three times recognized by U.S. News and World Report Magazine as one of America's best high schools.

Blog: https://principalkafele.com/

Twitter: @PrincipalKafele

Check out this episode!

5 Strategies for Coaching Instructional Excellence

Sherry St. Clair gives us principles for effective instructional coaching. Targeted to both administrators, instructional coaches, and technology coaches - Sherry has five practical ideas to get us started. Sherry is the author of Coaching Redefined: A Guide to Leading Meaningful Instructional Growth.

www.coolcatteacher.com/e540

Today's Challenge

Today I challenge you follow Sherry's advice and build relationships. If you want some ideas, many people have shared their ideas on this tweet I asked about what schools do for fun. (You don't need Twitter to read it.)

How do you bring laughter and fun to your school - specifically with your colleagues? Looking and listening for ideas!

— Vicki Davis (@coolcatteacher) August 6, 2019

 

Sherry St. Clair - Bio As Submitted

Sherry St. Clair is the founder of Reflective Learning LLC, an educational consulting agency based in Kentucky. Her organization works with schools around the world, creating specialized training and coaching services for school administrators and educators. Additionally, Sherry serves as a Senior Consultant for the International Center for Leadership in Education and Houghton Mifflin Harcourt. She holds a master’s degree in Instructional Leadership, as well as a Rank I in Instructional Supervision.
As an international consultant, Sherry draws from her rich experience at various levels of public education–teaching elementary school, being an administrator in a high school of 1,300 students, working as a state consultant, and creating and facilitating virtual courses. Sherry is a highly regarded national speaker and consultant, providing educational agencies with expertise in the areas of instructional leadership, effective classroom practices, classroom walkthroughs, effective use of data and guidance on how to create structures for successful classroom coaching. Coaching schools to best meet the needs of all students is Sherry’s passion. Sherry is a contributing author to Effective Instructional Strategies Volume 2 published by the International Center for Leadership in Education.
She has published numerous professional learning activity guides and facilitated webinar series focused on leadership and effective instructional practices. Additionally, Sherry developed virtual instructional workshops for the CTE Technical Assistance Center of New York. In partnership with the Successful Practices Network, Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, and AASA—The School Superintendent Association, Sherry has recently been a part of bringing innovative practices to scale. Her latest publication, Coaching Redefined: A Guide to Leading Meaningful Instructional Growth., was released in June of 2019.

Disclosure of Material Connection: This episode includes some affiliate links. This means that if you choose to buy I will be paid a commission on the affiliate program. However, this is at no additional cost to you.  Regardless, I only recommend products or services I believe will be good for my readers and are from companies I can recommend. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.” This company has no impact on the editorial content of the show.

Check out this episode!

5 Strategies for Coaching Instructional Excellence

A new blog has appeared on my main site: 5 Strategies for Coaching Instructional Excellence

From https://www.coolcatteacher.com/5-strategies-for-coaching-instructional-excellence/
via Vicki Davis at coolcatteacher.com. Please also check out my show for busy teachers, the 10-Minute Teacher Podcast and my Free teaching tutorials on YouTube.

Effective Grouping Strategies in the Classroom

Today, you’ll get advice for creating grouping strategies for your classroom from an expert teacher and author on the subject. Barry Hoonan, author of What Are You Grouping For? (Grades 3-8 - how to Guide Small Groups Based on Readers, Not the Book)helps us understand how to start our school year with a plan for grouping students in reading groups that works.

www.coolcatteacher.com/e539

Your challenge today is to plan several ways you can make groups 1 – Try thought partners 2 – If you have a student survey for reading, call them over to your desk and discuss but use Barry’s technique of “and what else”

For your bonus material today, I’ve shared my quick way of making groups using cardstock, a marker, and laminator. Check out “A Quick Way to Make Groups” at coolcatteacher.com/groups.

Barry Hoonan - Bio As Submitted

Barry Hoonan has received NCTE's Middle School Teacher of Excellence award and he is a three-time Fulbright scholar. He teaches 5th & 6th grade at Odyssey, a multi-age program with the Bainbridge Island School District. 

Check out this episode!

Effective Grouping Strategies in the Classroom

A new blog has appeared on my main site: Effective Grouping Strategies in the Classroom

From https://www.coolcatteacher.com/effective-grouping-strategies-in-the-classroom/
via Vicki Davis at coolcatteacher.com. Please also check out my show for busy teachers, the 10-Minute Teacher Podcast and my Free teaching tutorials on YouTube.

A Quick Way to Make Groups

A new blog has appeared on my main site: A Quick Way to Make Groups

From https://www.coolcatteacher.com/a-quick-way-to-make-groups/
via Vicki Davis at coolcatteacher.com. Please also check out my show for busy teachers, the 10-Minute Teacher Podcast and my Free teaching tutorials on YouTube.

Breakout EDU in Adult PD and College Education

 BreakoutEDU is a box with locks that also can be a great educational experience. In today's show, Lucy Manley shares how breakout boxes are becoming an exciting part of her college's educational experiences including Freshmen orientation.

www.coolcatteacher.com/e538

Today, your Podcast PD challenge is to create a breakout EDU experience with your students. I’ve written a post to give you 5 ideas for bringing breakout EDU into your classroom along with free links to free Breakout edu digital games and more. Today’s challenge is to create one breakout edu experience for your students and to share what you did with at least one colleague. Go to coolcatteacher.com/breakout for 5 Ideas to bring Breakout EDU to your classroom. And as always, tweet or message me on social media to let me know what you did!

Lucy Manley - Bio As Submitted

Lucy Manley serves as the Associate Dean of Academic Affairs at Garrett College. In addition to her administrative responsibilities, Lucy teaches first-year writing.

Check out this episode!

Breakout EDU in Adult PD and College Education

A new blog has appeared on my main site: Breakout EDU in Adult PD and College Education

From https://www.coolcatteacher.com/breakout-edu-in-adult-pd-and-college-education/
via Vicki Davis at coolcatteacher.com. Please also check out my show for busy teachers, the 10-Minute Teacher Podcast and my Free teaching tutorials on YouTube.

5 Ways to Bring #Breakoutedu into Your Classroom (on a budget)

A new blog has appeared on my main site: 5 Ways to Bring #Breakoutedu into Your Classroom (on a budget)

From https://www.coolcatteacher.com/5-ways-to-bring-breakoutedu-into-your-classroom-on-a-budget/
via Vicki Davis at coolcatteacher.com. Please also check out my show for busy teachers, the 10-Minute Teacher Podcast and my Free teaching tutorials on YouTube.

STUDENT SPOTLIGHT: Tyler - a 7th Grade App Builder Spurred on By Genius Hour

Today, you’ll listen to a young man who became an entrepreneur as a result of his school’s genius hour. Listen with a purpose and prepare to get your daily challenge at the end and a link to the blog post I’ve written inspired by this show “7 Ideas for Student Genius Hour and Passion Projects”

www.coolcatteacher.com/e537

Bonus Material: I’ve linked to Tyler’s app at coolcatteacher.com/dna  - Your challenge today is to plan one genius hour experience for your students this year. Put it on your calendar today. I’ve given you ideas in a blog post I’ve written called 7 Ideas for Student Genius Hour and Passion Projects – go to coolcatteacher.com/genius to access this post. 

Tyler Haggerty - Bio As Submitted

Tyler Haggerty is a 7th-grade student in Fairfield, CT, the founder of Squirrel Army Games, and loves rock climbing. He's on a mission to bring actual fun gameplay to previously boring educational games.

Check out this episode!

STUDENT SPOTLIGHT: Tyler – a 7th Grade App Builder Spurred on By Genius Hour

A new blog has appeared on my main site: STUDENT SPOTLIGHT: Tyler – a 7th Grade App Builder Spurred on By Genius Hour

From https://www.coolcatteacher.com/student-spotlight-tyler-a-7th-grade-app-builder-spurred-on-by-genius-hour/
via Vicki Davis at coolcatteacher.com. Please also check out my show for busy teachers, the 10-Minute Teacher Podcast and my Free teaching tutorials on YouTube.

7 Ideas for Student Genius Hour and Passion Projects

A new blog has appeared on my main site: 7 Ideas for Student Genius Hour and Passion Projects

From https://www.coolcatteacher.com/7-ideas-for-student-genius-hour-and-passion-projects/
via Vicki Davis at coolcatteacher.com. Please also check out my show for busy teachers, the 10-Minute Teacher Podcast and my Free teaching tutorials on YouTube.

Motivation to Thrive Your First Few Years of Teaching

Today, let’s make our profession better by focusing on how we can encourage new teachers and each other. Edwin Thomas Minguela reflects upon his first two years of teaching. As you listen to what he has learned and his encouragement for teachers, reflect upon your early years of teaching and how you can help new teachers in the profession.

www.coolcatteacher.com/e536 

Along with this episode I’ve released a new blog post “8 Ways to Help New Teachers Thrive” – check the show notes and stay tuned at the end of the show for these research-based ideas. I've also included a PDF of this post as bonus material for this episode.

Today’s challenge – adopt a colleague. But it has to be someone who is not already in your inner circle. If you’ve been teaching longer than three years, I challenge you to adopt someone who is a new teacher either at your school or to teaching altogether. If you’re new to teaching, reach out to someone who has been teaching longer. 

Edwin Thomas Minguela - Bio As Submitted

I am an upcoming third-year teacher in Philadelphia. All my 3 of years have been in 3rd grade. I love to bring joy for learning to all of my students. Being an urban student once myself and had spent the majority of my Prek-12 school years in Philadelphia, I know many of the hardships my students may come to my classroom. I want to them to know that our classroom is a safe place and that I will always care for them. During my educational career, I have had multiple rewarding opportunities to conduct research and present at a conference on different topics. A goal of mine is to not become an educator, but a researcher as well. One particular opportunity was conducting research on a Native American reservation for about 12 days. The research I conducted was an autoethnography dealing with my experiences as a Latino going into another minority's culture. I was able to present my research a year later at an undergraduate research conference held at Millersville University. I have also had a lesson publication and professional development session related to STEM education. 

Check out this episode!

Motivation to Thrive Your First Few Years of Teaching

A new blog has appeared on my main site: Motivation to Thrive Your First Few Years of Teaching

From https://www.coolcatteacher.com/motivation-to-thrive-your-first-few-years-of-teaching/
via Vicki Davis at coolcatteacher.com. Please also check out my show for busy teachers, the 10-Minute Teacher Podcast and my Free teaching tutorials on YouTube.

8 Ways to Help New Teachers Thrive (and Veteran Teachers Too!)

A new blog has appeared on my main site: 8 Ways to Help New Teachers Thrive (and Veteran Teachers Too!)

From https://www.coolcatteacher.com/8-ways-to-help-new-teachers-thrive/
via Vicki Davis at coolcatteacher.com. Please also check out my show for busy teachers, the 10-Minute Teacher Podcast and my Free teaching tutorials on YouTube.

The Human Side of Change in Education

Change has a human component. In fact, without helping people change - there isn't any change. Today, Julie Wilson, author of The Human Side of Changing Education shares how we can supercharge change by helping people become part of it.

www.coolcatteacher.com/e535

Prepare for your classroom for the fall with one of two free webinars from Linda Kardamis, select a free class on classroom management or one on Respectful, Responsible and Engaged Students in this series targeted to Christian educators who teach in any school setting.

Julie Wilson - Bio as Submitted

Julie is a coach and advisor to school leaders, educational institutions, and foundations whose mission is to shape the future of K-12 education. She has over fifteen years' experience building effective learning environments that unlock human potential and enable organizational culture to adapt and grow during times of change. She graduated from Harvard's Graduate School of Education with a master's degree in technology, innovation, and education, and a bachelor's of arts in business administration and French from Queens University in Belfast, Northern Ireland. She's the author of The Human Side of Changing Education: How to Lead Change with Clarity, Conviction, and Courage. Julie loves to learn and is also a mom to Theodore (aka Teddy Bear) - her biggest teacher yet.

Check out this episode!

The Human Side of Change in Education

A new blog has appeared on my main site: The Human Side of Change in Education

From https://www.coolcatteacher.com/the-human-side-of-change-in-education/
via Vicki Davis at coolcatteacher.com. Please also check out my show for busy teachers, the 10-Minute Teacher Podcast and my Free teaching tutorials on YouTube.

What Every Teacher Needs to Know About Teen Dating Abuse

 

One in four teens will experience teen dating abuse. Teen dating abuse is on the rise and is being compounded by the pressure on teens to portray a "perfect relationship" on social media. So, when a teen admits what is happening, sometimes people don't believe her or him. Today Ashley Bendiksen talks about teen dating abuse including the surprising signs and what teachers and administrators should know.

Check out the challenges and notes at www.coolcatteacher.com/e534 

Sponsor: Prepare for your classroom for the fall with one of two free webinars from Linda Kardamis, select a free class on classroom management or one on Respectful, Responsible and Engaged Students in this series targeted to Christian educators who teach in any school setting.

Ashley Bendiksen - Bio As Submitted

Ashley Bendiksen is a nationally acclaimed motivational speaker, award-winning activist, and prevention educator for youth and schools. She combines heartfelt personal storytelling, with education and practical strategies students and schools can implement. Ashley's programs are especially critical for today's teens, addressing the high prevalence of unhealthy dating relationships and social pressures, and their impact on student well-being, mental health, academic focus, and future success.

Ashley's work is derived from her personal experience as a survivor of dating violence, sexual assault, and severe peer bullying as a teen. This resulted in damaging personal struggles and secondary consequences and even forced her to become homeless and a college drop out. Defying all odds, Ashley returned to school and graduated as Valedictorian of Salve Regina University with a B.A. in Administration of Justice. She became an activist, community leader, and nonprofit founder, and built an accomplished career in both the criminal justice and communications fields. Today, Ashley has been widely recognized for her work pioneering change in the areas of domestic violence and sexual assault prevention, youth leadership, and women's empowerment. As an activist, she has held positions of leadership within major nonprofits, in addition to founding her own social change initiatives. This includes her present work as Founder of the Blue Hearts Project, a storytelling platform for survivors run in part by student advisors and the SouthCoast Women's Network. She is also a speaker with the international organization, Difference Makers #10Strong, is a Certified Life Empowerment Coach mentoring survivors, and will debut her true life podcast, Brave, in August 2019.

Access Ashley's free e-book for educators, plus added resources at www.ashleybendiksen.com/teachers

To book Ashley to speak at your school, or to learn more visit www.ashleybendiksen.com

To anonymously share your survivor story with others who may feel alone, visit www.blueheartsproject.com

Connect with Ashley online at @ashleybendiksen or by searching "Ashley Bendiksen" on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

Check out this episode!