Better Learning Podcast

Welcome to Episode 148 of the Better Learning Podcast, where we embark on a remarkable journey to Kevin's hometown, Chicago, to cover the LearningSCAPES Conference. In this captivating episode, we're diving deep into the heart of education, exploring our theme for the conference and this podcast episode: "Keeping the Focus Radically Student Centered."

Chicago serves as the perfect backdrop for this important gathering, bringing together educators, students, community members, and visionaries who share our passion for enhancing education. We'll discuss why being "Radically Student Centered" isn't just a catchphrase; it's a vital mission that extends its impact beyond us to touch the lives of educators, students, and the entire community.

But that's not all! As we look ahead to 2024, we'll share our exciting plans for the Better Learning Podcast. Expect improvements in both quality and content as we continue to grow our platform. Why? Because this podcast is about more than just insightful conversations; it's a part of our larger mission to transform education worldwide.

Thank you for being a part of our journey. Subscribe, rate, and leave a review to show your support. Follow us on social media to stay updated, and remember, when it comes to education, the key is to keep it radically student centered. Tune in and stay inspired!

Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com.

Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Find out more about Kevin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinstoller/

For more episodes of the Better Learning Podcast, visit https://www.betterlearningpodcast.com/

Who made this episode possible?

Association for Learning Environments (A4LE) - https://www.a4le.org/

Education Leaders' Organization - https://www.ed-leaders.org/

Second Class Foundation - https://www.secondclassfoundation.org/

Dr. Zachary Stier stops by the show to talk about the transformative power of public libraries and their significance as hubs of informal learning. Dr. Stier passionately delves into the symbiotic relationship between libraries and schools, emphasizing the collaborative efforts that bolster student growth. As schools grapple with the decision to retain or reinvent their libraries, Dr. Stier champions the irreplaceable value of these spaces as sanctuaries of exploration, play, and dialogue. Dr. Zachary Stier has been the transformative director of Children's Services at Ericson Public Library in Boone, Iowa since 2011, introducing initiatives like NASA@My Library and the equity project, Activating Community Voices. He founded consultancy firm Mr. Z and Company, LLC and is an adjunct lecturer at the University of Illinois Champaign iSchool, where he developed a course on Early Literacy and Public Library Partnerships. Dr. Stier is also involved with the Fred Rogers Institute program and serves on various state and national boards. Holding multiple degrees, he's a published author and a recognized leader in early childhood education and library services.

Zachary on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrzandcompany/

Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com.

Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Find out more about Kevin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinstoller/

For more episodes of the Better Learning Podcast, visit https://www.betterlearningpodcast.com/

Who made this episode possible?

Association for Learning Environments (A4LE) - https://www.a4le.org/

Education Leaders' Organization - https://www.ed-leaders.org/

Second Class Foundation - https://www.secondclassfoundation.org/

Kevin sits down with Doug Roberts from the Institute for Education Innovation (IEI), a nexus for fostering dialogue and collaboration between the education sector and school leaders. Doug, who transitioned from a high school teacher to an EdTech entrepreneur, unpacks his rich journey and sheds light on the crucial role of building nurturing relationships amongst educational leaders. The discussion ventures deep into the hurdles and pressures faced by superintendents, underscoring the pressing need for robust mentorship and leadership development programs. Tune in as they also explore the innovative strides of the Super Choice Awards program and dive into untapped market potentials like green energy solutions and fortified safety measures in schools, all aiming towards fostering a brighter future for students. 

Doug Roberts, Founder & CEO of the Institute for Education Innovation (IEI), has built a remarkable career since graduating from Princeton and earning his EdM from the Harvard Graduate School of Education. Leveraging his background as a high school teacher and EdTech executive, Doug founded the IEI in 2018 to foster partnerships between school district leaders and EdTech entrepreneurs, emphasizing innovation, agility, and resourcefulness to enhance student outcomes. The IEI, which organizes conferences and supports emerging education leaders and inclusivity initiatives, is now a thriving community with over 100 members nationwide. Additionally, Doug initiated the Supes’ Choice Awards, recognizing excellence in EdTech products based on criteria like innovation and engagement. A fervent advocate for quality education, equity, and inclusion, Doug cherishes family time and roots for the Yankees, while continuously encouraging dialogues on the future of learning.

Institute for Education Innovation: https://www.instituteforedinnovation.com/ 

Social Links:

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

Twitter: https://twitter.com/DougRoberts_IEI

Email: [email protected]

Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com.

Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Find out more about Kevin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinstoller/

For more episodes of the Better Learning Podcast, visit https://www.betterlearningpodcast.com/

Who made this episode possible?

Association for Learning Environments (A4LE) - https://www.a4le.org/

Education Leaders' Organization - https://www.ed-leaders.org/

Second Class Foundation - https://www.secondclassfoundation.org/

Explore the vital role that a nurturing school community plays in fostering safe and effective learning environments. Warren Drake and Adam Smith discuss the importance of meeting students' basic needs and encouraging them to take active roles in shaping their school's culture. They delve into strategies for breaking the culture of silence, promoting open communication, and the critical role of school leaders in facilitating a safe and supportive atmosphere. Join us as we unpack the nuances of building a school community where every student feels valued, empowered, and ready to flourish. 

Warren Drake is the Senior Business Development Executive at CSRS, Inc., focusing on facility resilience and student safety in K-12 education. His notable tenure as the Superintendent of East Baton Rouge Parish Schools saw significant strides in efficiency and academic enhancement, along with the successful passage of a substantial tax plan to modernize schools. Before that, he propelled Zachary Community School District to be the state's top-performing district during his 10-year leadership. Drake, an LSU alumni and recipient of several prestigious awards, is also recognized as the Magnet Schools of America Superintendent of the Year.

CSRS LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/csrs/

Adam Smith presently holds the position of Associate Superintendent at the East Baton Rouge Parish School System, overseeing the Exceptional Student Services Department. With over 20 years of service in the EBR school system, he has held various significant positions, including Interim Superintendent and Executive Director for School Leadership. His leadership has seen a substantial number of schools under his supervision achieve high progress letter grades and notable improvements, particularly in the elementary sector. Throughout his career, Smith has exhibited a steadfast dedication to the East Baton Rouge Parish community.

EBR Schools Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EBRPschools

Other episodes that touch on similar topics:

Scott Muri (2/15/23):

Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/2m27SS3OBdNUwESpyRAmHO?si=e8fdc54077d74d5f

Listen on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/scott-muri-leading-change-through-passionate-leadership/id1300009573?i=1000599753490

Greg Hudnall (3/17/23):

Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/4yDhPO3lJqfAuu3edJjWy3?si=6f8ef291a20e47b7

Listen on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/greg-hudnall-reduce-youth-suicide-through-peer-intervention/id1300009573?i=1000604637494

School Leaders - join the Education Leaders' Organization to hear from Kerri Brady's Together We Grow Event EduSafe Transforming Education: 

https://members.ed-leaders.org/spaces/12193822/page

Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com.

Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Find out more about Kevin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinstoller/

For more episodes of the Better Learning Podcast, visit https://www.betterlearningpodcast.com/

Who made this episode possible?

Association for Learning Environments (A4LE) - https://www.a4le.org/

Education Leaders' Organization - https://www.ed-leaders.org/

Second Class Foundation - https://www.secondclassfoundation.org/

Architect Darlene Cadman and Kay-Twelve Educational Design Specialist Kevin Foote discuss the three different categories of their audience: school leaders, change agents, and professionals in the space of education. They explore the support needed for school leaders to affect the culture of their communities, the role of change agents in improving education, and the importance of architects and designers in creating effective learning spaces. They also spend some time specifically discussing the state of education in Arizona.

Darlene Cadman is the Project Director at SPS Architects. She has over 24 years in the construction industry and specializes in K-12 architecture, managing large-scale projects in both Canada and the US. Notably, Darlene led the architectural team for Alberta's first Integrated Project Delivery (IPD) and has been pivotal in advancing collaborative project delivery in Canada. Darlene's recent projects in Arizona include Geneva Epps Mosley Middle School and Hohokam Elementary School.

Find Arlene on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darlene-cadman-a2145232/

Kevin Foote is an Educational Design Specialist at Kay-Twelve. A graduate from Northern Arizona University and Grand Canyon University, Kevin has focused his work on Southwest US schools. A 3rd generation Arizonan, he has expansive knowledge across public, charter, and private school domains. Kevin has also been accredited by ALEP (Accreditation of Learning Environments Planners) which demonstrates his competencies essential to planning, designing and equipping educational spaces.

Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com.

Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Find out more about Kevin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinstoller/

For more episodes of the Better Learning Podcast, visit https://www.betterlearningpodcast.com/

Who made this episode possible?

Association for Learning Environments (A4LE) - https://www.a4le.org/

Education Leaders' Organization - https://www.ed-leaders.org/

Second Class Foundation - https://www.secondclassfoundation.org/

40% of children are struggling deeply with mental health - some even to the point of contemplating the unthinkable. But why? What pressures are pushing our children to such extremes? Steve Shapiro, host of the education podcast Experience Matters, drops by to discuss the multifaceted causes - from the rigorous stress of schoolwork and college admission anxieties to discrimination and societal pressuresand. More important, they talk about what we, as a society, can do to address this crisis.

By sharing hard-hitting data from Stanford University and heartfelt personal stories, Kevin and Steve aim to break through the facade of what's deemed 'normal' in educational expectations and shine a light on what truly matters: the well-being and happiness of our young generation.

Steve Shapiro boasts over three decades in K-12 education, including roles in classroom teaching, program direction, and district leadership. A passionate advocate for high school reform, experiential and project-based learning, Steve has not only transformed classroom experiences but has also served as a keynote speaker, development coach, and mentor to teachers globally, from Ohio State University to emerging democracies like Poland and Ukraine. He hosts "Experience Matters", a podcast for educators seeking authentic, impactful learning over standardized schooling.

For more on Steve, visit https://www.steventshapiro.com

For more on Experience Matters, visit https://www.steventshapiro.com/experiencematterspodcast

Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com.

Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Find out more about Kevin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinstoller/

For more episodes of the Better Learning Podcast, visit https://www.betterlearningpodcast.com/

Who made this episode possible?

Association for Learning Environments (A4LE) - https://www.a4le.org/

Education Leaders' Organization - https://www.ed-leaders.org/

Second Class Foundation - https://www.secondclassfoundation.org/

Glenn Robbins, Superintendent of the Brigantine Public School District, delves deep into the true essence of success, challenging the conventional wisdom that prioritizes prestige and academia. Drawing inspiration from David Epstein's "Range," he advocates for the unparalleled value of diverse experiences and the power of a wide perspective. Beyond just personal achievement, Glenn underscores the transformative role of impassioned leadership, emphasizing the ripple effects of enthusiasm, compassion, and collaboration throughout a community. Discover how mentors, literature, and a genuine commitment to growth can redefine the success narrative and create a vibrant environment where everyone in a school district thrives.

Where to find Glenn:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/glenn-robbins-25067111b/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/Glennr1809

Glenn Robbins is the proud Superintendent of the Brigantine Public School District in Brigantine, New Jersey. His passion is harnessing a district culture that thrives on positive psychology, design thinking, futurism, innovative digital spaces, technology integration, esports, cybersecurity, Social Emotional Learning Zen Dens, and Maker cultures. In addition, Glenn encourages all students to have a voice, not only in building a school culture, but also in designing student led entrepreneur opportunities.

He is the proud recipient of the National Superintendent Certification, and serves as an AASA National Governing Board Member, AASA Aspiring Superintendent Mentor, and Chair of NJASA Techspo. He has been awarded numerous administrative state and national recognitions including the NJ Visionary Superintendent Award, the Tech & Learning Northeast Innovative Superintendent Award, Digital Promise League of Innovative Schools Member, NASSP Digital Principal of the Year, and SETDA Award Winner.

Glenn has been recognized by numerous organizations for his innovative implementation methods, and has been a featured keynote speaker at numerous events focusing on leadership, culture, school/district turnaround in academic excellence through design thinking and futurism.

Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com.

Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Find out more about Kevin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinstoller/

For more episodes of the Better Learning Podcast, visit https://www.betterlearningpodcast.com/

Who made this episode possible?

Association for Learning Environments (A4LE) - https://www.a4le.org/

Education Leaders' Organization - https://www.ed-leaders.org/

Second Class Foundation - https://www.secondclassfoundation.org/

Are being a performer and a teacher similar? According to Joe Dombrowski (Mr. D), who was a teacher before he was a standup comedian, the two careers are very similar. Throughout this conversation, Joe talks about his experiences teaching, missing the kids but not the other aspects of teaching, the advantages of being his own boss, and using comedy to shed light on the issues in the education system. 

Joe Dombrowski (aka Mr.D) took the world by storm in 2017 with a viral April Fools’ Day spelling test prank that landed him multiple appearances on the Ellen DeGeneres show. Don't get it twisted though! It takes at least 20 years to be an overnight sensation! Joe has been doing stand up comedy since he was eight years old in his third grade talent show. He's never stopped! Since Joe's rise to fame, he has been traveling the globe with his stand-up comedy which often highlights his crazy life as an elementary school teacher. When he’s not getting creative on screens and stages, Joe spends his time in Seattle, Washington producing his podcast “Social Studies” where he recaps absolutely insane stories from teachers all over the world.

Follow Mr. D on Twitter (or any other social platform) with the handle @mrdtimes3.

Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com.

Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Find out more about Kevin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinstoller/

For more episodes of the Better Learning Podcast, visit https://www.betterlearningpodcast.com/

Who made this episode possible?

Association for Learning Environments (A4LE) - https://www.a4le.org/

Education Leaders' Organization - https://www.ed-leaders.org/

Second Class Foundation - https://www.secondclassfoundation.org/

Join us this week as we delve into the dynamic realm of education, both in the present and its future, with a special guest, Laura Boyd. Laura brings a wealth of experience as a middle school Spanish teacher within a public school setting in the year 2023. Tune in to hear Laura's captivating journey into the world of teaching, including her transformative involvement with Teach for America. An ardent advocate of technology-enhanced learning, she shares her enthusiasm for integrating technological innovations into her classroom.

Amidst the backdrop of the COVID-19 pandemic, Laura reflects on the trials and triumphs of adapting her teaching methods, shedding light on the creative solutions she employed to ensure her students remained engaged and motivated. Gain valuable insights as she unveils the strategies that have proven effective in captivating her students' attention and fostering meaningful learning experiences.

Laura Boyd stands as a Middle School Spanish Teacher in the esteemed Franklin Special School District. Having successfully completed the rigorous Teach for America program, she proudly holds a master’s degree in education, specializing in World Language and Spanish. With a decade of teaching Spanish under her belt in Tennessee, Laura's passions extend to the realms of educational technology (EdTech), Social and Emotional Learning (SEL), and amplifying the voices of fellow educators. Her academic prowess shines through her dual focus on World Language and Spanish within her Education Master's.

Beyond the classroom, Laura's dedication extends to leadership roles as the related arts team leader and grant team representative. She also takes charge as the coordinator of the Spirit Night event and mentors first-generation college students through Tennessee Achieves. As a technology advocate, she shares her expertise at district, local, and state levels. With an energetic persona and a fervor for fostering exceptional learning environments and student development, Laura Boyd is not only an avid runner but also an educational trailblazer.

Find Laura on Twitter, YouTube, and Instagram: @technologylaura.

Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com.

Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Find out more about Kevin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinstoller/

For more episodes of the Better Learning Podcast, visit https://www.betterlearningpodcast.com/

Who made this episode possible?

Association for Learning Environments (A4LE) - https://www.a4le.org/

Education Leaders' Organization - https://www.ed-leaders.org/

Second Class Foundation - https://www.secondclassfoundation.org/

Our educational system is not simply comprised of children with their teachers and administrators. The whole educational system is supported by the work of people in the for-profit spaces: software engineers, architects, publishers, and furniture designers and manufacturers. In this episode, Kevin Stoller speaks with Fōmcore Founder, Jeremy Leffring. They talk about how a company Fōmcore helps make a difference, their shared mission of improving education, and what a service-guided company behaves.

For more on Fōmcore, visit https://fomcore.com/.

Jeremy Leffring is the Co-Owner of Fōmcore, a company that specializes in soft-seating, aimed at promoting collaboration, connection, learning, and creativity in K-12 environments and beyond. Jeremy's journey in the foam business started in 1983 when his father founded a foam fabricating company. Alongside his business partner, Jeff Zack, Jeremy officially launched Fōmcore in November 2017. Before venturing into business, Jeremy was a PE teacher and spent over 25 years as a coach. When not working with the Fōmcore team, Jeremy can be found coaching his kids, boating, surfing, or spending quality time with his wife. Jeremy's passion for coaching and business is driven by his desire to influence the lives of those around him positively. He feels blessed to have the opportunity to be a blessing in the lives of others.

Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com.

Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Find out more about Kevin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinstoller/

For more episodes of the Better Learning Podcast, visit https://www.betterlearningpodcast.com/

Who made this episode possible?

Association for Learning Environments (A4LE) - https://www.a4le.org/

Education Leaders' Organization - https://www.ed-leaders.org/

Second Class Foundation - https://www.secondclassfoundation.org/