ChangED

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Join us for an engaging discussion unravels the magic of science education through storytelling and phenomenon-based learning. This episode highlights the significance of cultivating curiosity and how integrating real-world events into the curriculum can transform student engagement. Our hosts share practical strategies for creating effective storylines, emphasizing that students' intellectual resources should not only be acknowledged but actively utilized.

As we navigate through the complexities of teaching younger students, we focus on how to create an environment that welcomes exploration rather than rote memorization. With insights from seasoned educators, this episode emphasizes the importance of fostering a supportive space where students feel free to articulate their ideas and wonderings—turning missteps into valuable teaching moments. Join us as we champion a dynamic approach to science education that empowers learners to ask questions and seek answers, ensuring that their experience in the classroom fuels their long-lasting passion for learning. Tune in and be part of the conversation—let's redefine what it means to teach and learn science effectively! Don’t forget to subscribe and share the ChangED podcast!

Want more Ted?  Attend one or all of his sessions at the 2025 NSTA Conference in Philly.  Use the NSTA app and search for Ted Willard or the session titles below:

Selecting Phenomena to Motivate Student Sense-making

The NSTA Atlas of the Three Dimensions

Unpacking the Crosscutting Concepts with a new NSTA Quick-Reference Guide to the Three Dimensions 

NSTA's Trilogy of Guides to the Three Dimensions

ChangED is the official podcast for the NSTA Philly Conference.  
Experience more ChangED/NSTA podcasts and learn about the Philly NSTA Conference by visiting nsta.org/podcast.

Want to send us a show idea or just say hi?  Email us at: [email protected]! 

What did you think of the episode? Send us a text!

Discover the magic of transforming science classrooms into vibrant hubs of curiosity and exploration with our special guest, Josh Langenberger, a seasoned science educator with over 30 years of experience.  By introducing the "two L's" of teaching—love and locality—we explore how educators can captivate students' interests by integrating their passions and local environmental phenomena into the curriculum. This dynamic approach not only makes science relatable but empowers students to realize their potential impact on their communities.

Want to send us a show idea or just say hi?  Email us at: [email protected]! 

What did you think of the episode? Send us a text!

Ever wondered about the discoveries lurking in the far reaches of our solar system? Ted Willard from Discovery Education joins us with tales from his extraordinary journey—from a high school physics teacher to a key player in the debate over Pluto's planetary status. With an impressive background in planetary science, Ted shares learnings from professor's discovery of Uranus’s rings. As we navigate through this cosmic conversation, Ted sheds light on the dynamic nature of scientific understanding and the way new evidence can reshape our educational models.

But it's not all planetary talk! Get ready to rethink science education with a focus on innovative teaching approaches that break away from traditional methods. We explore the Next Generation Science Standards alongside Pennsylvania's STEELS standards, bringing science to life through hands-on experiments like balloon-powered carts. We promise you'll come away with a new appreciation for three-dimensional learning, where practices, concepts, and ideas blend to create a lively, engaging classroom experience. And just for laughs, stick around for our humorous banter as we slip into the world of YouTube antics and chuckle over Andrew’s supposed wardrobe choices. Join us for an episode that's equal parts educational and entertaining!

Want more Ted?  Attend one or all of his sessions at the 2025 NSTA Conference in Philly.  Use the NSTA app and search for Ted Willard or the session titles below:

Selecting Phenomena to Motivate Student Sense-making

The NSTA Atlas of the Three Dimensions

Unpacking the Crosscutting Concepts with a new NSTA Quick-Reference Guide to the Three Dimensions 

NSTA's Trilogy of Guides to the Three Dimensions

ChangED is the official podcast for the NSTA Philly Conference.  
Experience more ChangED/NSTA podcasts and learn about the Philly NSTA Conference by visiting nsta.org/podcast.

Want to send us a show idea or just say hi?  Email us at: [email protected]! 

What did you think of the episode? Send us a text!

Explore the captivating intersection of artificial intelligence and emotional intelligence as we promise to unravel how maintaining our humanity can complement technology. We'll discuss the delicate balance of embracing technological advances while fostering critical thinking skills and ethical AI usage among students. Through open dialogue and respect for differing viewpoints, we aim to bridge the gap between technology and education.


About our guests:
With over 20 years of experience, Joni Staaf Stamford (formerly Sturgill) is a licensed professional counselor, speaker, and author with expertise in emotional intelligence, mindfulness, and positive psychology. As a long-time student and teacher of Eastern philosophy and Western psychology, Joni offers secular, integrative mental and emotional insights to participants of her programs so they can heal themselves through breathwork, movement, awareness, perspective-shifting acceptance, and skilled action toward a life they want. In all avenues of her work, she empowers individuals to live with purpose and perspective. She is also an Amazon best-selling author. Learn more at www.insightwithjoni.com.

Dr. Brian Stamford is a Program Director at the Allegheny Intermediate Unit (AIU), an organization providing professional development to districts across Western Pennsylvania. Dr. Stamford also serves as state co-lead for the Classroom Diagnostic Tools, leading professional development efforts statewide, as well as co-lead for the statewide PA Association of Intermediate Units (PAIU) Curriculum Directors group. He is a Code.org regional manager, and a certified Apple Education Trainer, offering high-quality professional development on innovative teaching practices, including integrating AI tools into planning and instruction. Prior to this, Dr. Stamford worked in public education as a science and computer teacher, instructional coach and administrator. 

Want to send us a show idea or just say hi?  Email us at: [email protected]! 

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Brian and Joni Stamford take center stage as they bring their contrasting yet complementary perspectives on the interplay between AI and human experience. Brian, a Program Director with a penchant for innovative tech, shares his humorous escapades with smart assistants, while Joni, a thoughtful mental health counselor, raises important questions about technology's impact on our emotional well-being. This lively exchange beautifully illustrates the fine line between technological enthusiasm and the essential need to preserve our humanity. Together, they explore how we can enjoy the benefits of AI while staying grounded in our personal connections.

About our guests:
With over 20 years of experience, Joni Staaf Stamford (formerly Sturgill) is a licensed professional counselor, speaker, and author with expertise in emotional intelligence, mindfulness, and positive psychology. As a long-time student and teacher of Eastern philosophy and Western psychology, Joni offers secular, integrative mental and emotional insights to participants of her programs so they can heal themselves through breathwork, movement, awareness, perspective-shifting acceptance, and skilled action toward a life they want. In all avenues of her work, she empowers individuals to live with purpose and perspective. She is also an Amazon best-selling author. Learn more at www.insightwithjoni.com.

Dr. Brian Stamford is a Program Director at the Allegheny Intermediate Unit (AIU), an organization providing professional development to districts across Western Pennsylvania. Dr. Stamford also serves as state co-lead for the Classroom Diagnostic Tools, leading professional development efforts statewide, as well as co-lead for the statewide PA Association of Intermediate Units (PAIU) Curriculum Directors group. He is a Code.org regional manager, and a certified Apple Education Trainer, offering high-quality professional development on innovative teaching practices, including integrating AI tools into planning and instruction. Prior to this, Dr. Stamford worked in public education as a science and computer teacher, instructional coach and administrator. 

Want to send us a show idea or just say hi?  Email us at: [email protected]! 

What did you think of the episode? Send us a text!

Curiosity is not just a trait—it's a superpower in education, and Amber Molloy is back with us to unravel its transformative potential. Discover how asking the right questions can revolutionize learning environments, fostering deeper connections with students and colleagues alike. Reflect on the significance of relationships and the power of genuine connections with Amber as she shares her personal journey in education. From emphasizing the strengths of educators to navigating the challenges of leadership roles, Amber's experiences highlight the lasting impact of collaboration and compassion.

About our guest:
Amber Molloy serves as the Program Administrator for Literacy and the Instructional Coach Mentor in the Office of Professional Learning at Montgomery County Intermediate Unit. She has a passion and commitment to lead colleagues forward guiding curriculum development, refining instructional practices and designing assessments that support learning. She's skilled in long-range planning and the creation of infrastructure to support the growth of teachers, schools, and districts. With over 20 years of experience within the North Penn School District, Amber has served as a classroom teacher with leadership responsibilities in the areas of literacy, math, science, and use of technology to enhance instruction, and has also served as reading specialist, RTII District Implementation Coordinator and K-12 Supervisor of Literacy developing systems and structures to promote diagnostic and prescriptive instruction within a responsive teaching framework.

Through her many years in the field, Amber continues to have curiosity and passion for the human element of our work. She enjoys reading, watching and reflecting on leadership, relationship and how we can better support each other and work together to evolve our educational systems to support the learners of tomorrow. Our future is in their hands! 

Want to send us a show idea or just say hi?  Email us at: [email protected]! 

What did you think of the episode? Send us a text!

 Join Andrew and Patrice as they dive deep with retiring educator Amber Molloy, whose 30-year journey through teaching reveals timeless wisdom about educational transformation. From middle school classrooms to system-wide leadership, Amber shares how focusing on the "why" rather than just the "what" creates lasting change in education. This engaging conversation explores the power of collective learning, the importance of questioning, and how building strong learning communities can transform both students and educators alike. Whether you're a classroom teacher, administrator, or anyone passionate about education, this episode offers fresh insights on moving from transactional to transformational learning.

About our guest:
Amber Molloy served as the Program Administrator for Literacy and the Instructional Coach Mentor in the Office of Professional Learning at Montgomery County Intermediate Unit. She has a passion and commitment to lead colleagues forward guiding curriculum development, refining instructional practices and designing assessments that support learning. She's skilled in long-range planning and the creation of infrastructure to support the growth of teachers, schools, and districts. With over 20 years of experience within the North Penn School District, Amber has served as a classroom teacher with leadership responsibilities in the areas of literacy, math, science, and use of technology to enhance instruction, and has also served as reading specialist, RTII District Implementation Coordinator and K-12 Supervisor of Literacy developing systems and structures to promote diagnostic and prescriptive instruction within a responsive teaching framework.

Through her many years in the field, Amber continues to have curiosity and passion for the human element of our work. She enjoys reading, watching and reflecting on leadership, relationship and how we can better support each other and work together to evolve our educational systems to support the learners of tomorrow. Our future is in their hands! 

Want to send us a show idea or just say hi?  Email us at: [email protected]! 

What did you think of the episode? Send us a text!

What if reimagining how we ask questions could transform the education system? Join us as we continue our thought-provoking conversation with Dr. Sean Gardiner, as we explore the transformative potential of inquiry-based learning. Together, we highlight the importance of building trust and nurturing relationships as we guide educational districts through change, promoting perseverance and grit in students. We invite you to join us as we celebrate the power of community, shared experiences, and the collaborative effort needed to cultivate dynamic thinkers ready to face future challenges.

Want to send us a show idea or just say hi?  Email us at: [email protected]! 

What did you think of the episode? Send us a text!

Ever wondered how to shift from traditional teaching models to an inquiry-based learning approach?  Dr. Sean Gardiner, the inspiring Director of STEM Education for the Upper Merion Area School District, shares the key strategies as we explore the intricacies of this educational transformation. Through humorous and engaging conversations, we explore how his leadership paves the way for future leaders in a diverse educational landscape.

About this weeks guest:
Dr. Sean Gardiner has been a leader in the field of STEM Education in the greater Philadelphia area for over 15 years. Working with teachers, administrators, School Districts, and local community partners, Dr. Gardiner has led a variety of initiatives aimed at transforming the STEM landscape in k - 12 educational spaces. A primary focus of his work has been addressing systems that have perpetuated the systemic underrepresentation of students from the BIPOC community in STEM careers. Dr. Gardiner earned his Undergraduate degree from Towson University, his Master's degree in Communication Sciences from the University of Connecticut and his Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Widener University. He is currently the Director of Curriculum and Instruction for STEM Education in the Upper Merion Area School District. 

Want to send us a show idea or just say hi?  Email us at: [email protected]! 

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Unlock the secrets behind creating holistic STEM learning environments with our insightful guest, Dr. Stephanie Schwab, a STEM program administrator at Montgomery County Intermediate Unit. Through our conversation, Stephanie introduces the compelling concept of the "braided river," challenging traditional notions of workforce development pathways and emphasizing the importance of nurturing STEM-literate citizens. Dive into the collaborative efforts of diverse sectors in supporting vibrant STEM education ecosystems that transcend classroom walls.

In this episode, we discuss the importance of prioritizing collaboration over competition and the value of sharing best practices to inspire rather than duplicate efforts. Reflecting on the "braided river" analogy, we highlight the role of educational service agencies and servant leadership in fostering collective growth. Our conversation closes with a powerful reminder: providing opportunities for all students to visualize their future is crucial, as students can't aspire to roles they are not exposed to. Don't forget to subscribe and join the conversation on social media as we continue to explore these vital topics.

Want to send us a show idea or just say hi?  Email us at: [email protected]!