This episode explores how award-winning educator Candice Nicholson is driving innovation in K–5 education through immersive learning, AI integration, and a powerful blend of community and wellness. Listeners will hear real-world examples of student-centered leadership, practical classroom strategies, and the importance of celebrating resilience—inside and outside the classroom.

In this heartfelt and lively episode of Chalkboard Chatter, host Candice Nicholson takes listeners on a journey through joyful classroom moments, personal milestones, and the powerful connections that make teaching so much more than a job.

Candice begins with a look back at the last several episodes, reflecting on powerful conversations around burnout, boundaries, field day memories, and the chaos of the cafeteria. With warmth and humor, she sets the stage for a rich new chapter.

In Chapter 2, she shares practical tips for organizing a busy teaching wardrobe to help educators simplify mornings and feel confident all week long. Then, in Chapter 3, Candice recaps the meaningful work that went into planning a 4th and 5th grade girls’ summer retreat, including meals, yoga, and activities that built confidence and community.

Chapter 4 shifts focus to academics, as Candice outlines three key outcomes teachers can expect when using Eureka Math in upper elementary classrooms—from problem-solving endurance to clearer math communication.

Chapter 5 brings the excitement of introducing “Paws,” a classroom gecko adopted through PetSmart’s Pets in the Classroom program. Candice shares how the pet was chosen by student vote, the joy it brought, and a humorous moment when a colleague showed her up in the gecko-handling department!

Finally, Chapter 6 offers a glimpse into Candice’s personal joy—marrying the love of her life. From a quiet legal ceremony on February 14 to a beautiful celebration on August 30, it’s a reminder that love and teaching both require heart, patience, and a whole lot of joy.

In this inspiring and heartfelt episode of Chalkboard Chatter, host and award-winning educator Candice Nicholson recaps an unforgettable week filled with new beginnings, powerful moments, and full-circle reflections.

Chapter 1 kicks off with the energy of the first week of school—from establishing routines and building classroom community to celebrating the small wins that make teaching magical. Mrs. Nicholson offers encouragement to educators, families, and scholars navigating those early jitters and joyful breakthroughs.

In Chapter 2, she shares her recent honor as a recipient of the 2025 Michigan State University Distinguished Alumni Award, standing alongside education legends like Dr. Rick Stiggins, Dr. Billy C. Hawkins, and Dr. Sally Nogle. With gratitude for MSU President Kevin M. Guskiewicz, First Lady Amy, and Dean Jerlando F. L. Jackson, Candice reflects on the honor—and the joy of touring campus with her husband Vern, reminiscing about her Spartan roots.

Chapter 3 highlights the importance of self-care, as Candice shares how her evening walks in the park with Vern help decompress from school-day stress.

Chapter 4 dives into how AI meal-planning tools are changing her life—saving time, money, and mental energy with healthy, low-cost weekly dinner plans.

Finally, Chapter 5 calls listeners to like, share, and join the Chalkboard Chatter revolution—a growing community of educators, families, and changemakers shaping the future, one conversation at a time.

In this special Wedding Edition of Chalkboard Chatter, host Candice Nicholson blends the personal and professional, weaving together heartfelt milestones, classroom reflections, and family celebrations. This episode is a reminder that life as an educator is not just about what happens in the classroom — it’s about the love, legacy, and learning that shape who we are.

The journey begins with Chapter 1, where Candice shares the excitement of returning to Detroit Public Schools Community District, teaching 4th and 5th graders at The School at Marygrove — a place that remains the heart of her calling.

In Chapter 2, listeners celebrate her recognition as a Distinguished Alumni Awardee from Michigan State University’s College of Education, honoring her legacy as Michigan Teacher of the Year and her ongoing impact as a leader in equity and personalized learning.

Chapter 3 captures the joy of Candice and Vern’s August 30th vow renewal, complete with family traveling in, six children bonding seamlessly, and beautiful DIY decorations. Candice also shares her love for her wedding dress and announces that wedding images will soon be available on YouTube.

Chapter 4 takes a professional turn, highlighting the growing trend of Eureka Math and what it means for building strong foundational skills from both an administrative and classroom perspective.

Chapter 5 celebrates Candice’s three Spartan sons, each thriving at Michigan State University — with experiences ranging from study abroad in Japan to internships in engineering and sales.

In Chapter 6, Candice offers insight into meal planning and maintaining a walking routine to balance health and wellness during the school year.

Finally, Chapter 7 invites educators to like, subscribe, and continue the journey of growth, community, and inspiration.

This is an episode filled with joy, gratitude, and lessons for both life and learning.

In this heartwarming and energizing episode of Chalkboard Chatter, we’re walking into the new school year with purpose, passion, and a little penne pasta on the stove. From embracing culturally relevant teaching practices to responsibly integrating AI into the classroom, this episode dives into the mindset and methods that make modern teaching impactful. Candice shares personal reflections on her summer walking journey, the magic of her dog Lucy, unforgettable moments at Space Camp, back-to-school rituals, and the power of community giving.

In this heartfelt episode of Chalkboard Chatter, Candice shares her inspiring journey back to Detroit Public Schools as a 4th and 5th grade master teacher — returning to the students and classrooms where her passion truly lives. She reflects on her summer of walking, not just as a form of exercise, but as a powerful path toward peace of mind, improved health, and meaningful connection with her husband, Vern.

Candice opens up about winning the 2024 Teacher of the Year award and the exciting news of being nominated for the Michigan State University Distinguished Alumni Award. From navigating Detroit’s real estate market in search of the perfect new home to enjoying stretches of mid-70s weather, this episode is full of warmth, renewal, and joy.

Plus, she shares a fresh Mediterranean recipe of the week — perfect for busy teachers and parents — and invites listeners to reflect, reset, and prepare for the second half of 2025 with intention.

Whether you’re an educator, parent, or just someone looking to reconnect with your “why,” this episode will leave you inspired and grounded.

Subscribe, comment, and share — your story matters, and this space is for all of us.

In this inspiring episode of Chalkboard Chatter, Candice Nicholson (formerly Candice Jackson) shares a whirlwind of summer milestones, from being named 2024 Teacher of the Year to being selected for a week-long professional development in nature conservation. But that’s not all—Candice reveals a surprise close to her heart: she’ll be receiving the 2025 Distinguished Alumni Award from Michigan State University this summer!

We also dive into smart, sustainable living as Candice walks through how she used AI to plan two weeks of healthy, budget-friendly meals—complete with grocery lists and recipe suggestions. Whether you're a teacher, parent, or just trying to get organized, this segment offers a practical way to save time, eat well, and stress less.

Plus, we reflect on why there’s still time to maximize your goals for 2025, how nature can spark new ideas in the classroom, and what it means to grow personally and professionally. We close with a challenge: let AI help simplify your life this week—then share your story with us!

Don’t forget to like, comment, and share the episode. We love hearing from our listeners—your journey is part of ours.

This episode is packed with sunshine, sisterhood, and soulful reflection! Candice takes us on a heartfelt summer journey, starting with highlights from the Chalkboard Chatter Girls’ Retreat—a joyful space for 3rd and 4th-grade girls to connect through yoga, scavenger hunts, and a beautiful ceremony honoring 4th-grade leaders. She also introduces the Teach. Play. Learn. initiative, a summer program designed to inspire learning through play and creativity.

As summer stretches on, Candice encourages us to reconnect and restore with simple joys—whether through books, walking challenges, or soul-soothing recipes (hello, Cajun sausage and red beans!). She reflects on the honor of being named the 2023–2024 Michigan Teacher of the Year, sharing how she’s using the platform to promote positive change in education statewide.

Plus, she gives us a peek into her day at the Plymouth Art Festival (yes, she broke her diet for that donut!), and shares the playful walking rivalry she shares with her husband, Vern. From style tips to wellness rituals, this episode celebrates balance, brilliance, and the beauty of summer.

Welcome back to Chalkboard Chatter, the cozy corner of the podcast world where K–5 educators, curriculum leaders, and real-life superheroes gather for inspiration, honesty, and a whole lot of heart.

In this follow-up to our beloved “Beyond the Bell: Life, Love & Learning” episode, host Candice Nicholson invites you to take a breath, refill your emotional cup, and lean into some nourishing conversation—inside and outside the classroom.

This week, we’re mixing it up with an episode that’s both real talk and real-life tips. We’ll start with a recap of past episodes and listener feedback that’s warmed our hearts, then pivot into the power of Netflix binges (yes, we said it!), and why rest is revolutionary for educators. Plus, we’re dishing up a favorite daily recipe that’s quick, delicious, and teacher-budget-friendly.

Need a little professional refuel too? We’ve got you. This episode includes a practical dive into strengthening your MTSS (Multi-Tiered System of Supports) model, offering strategies that center collaboration, progress monitoring, and whole-child responsiveness.

And because we believe joy fuels everything, we’ll reflect on recent classroom wins, share simple rituals that restore us, and even spotlight a listener letter that reminds us we’re never alone in this work.

If you’ve ever felt stretched thin between teaching and everything else, this episode is your permission slip to pause, reconnect, and remember: You can’t pour from an empty cup. But together? We refill it—one chat at a time.

📝 Don’t forget to drop a comment with your Netflix recs, classroom rituals, or favorite recipes. Let’s keep the conversation going.

Candice Nicholson (Jackson) explores the delicate balance educators must strike between personal well-being and professional dedication. This episode highlights self-care, the evolving role of AI in the classroom, and the power of community when launching new curriculum. Listeners will find real stories and actionable insights for thriving as teachers and parents.