Compass PD Podcast with Dr. Carrie Hepburn

In this episode of the Compass PD Podcast, Dr. Natalie Fallert and secondary ELA teacher Nicole Leachman discuss the importance of responsive teaching in the secondary classroom. They explore how tailoring instruction to meet students where they are can reignite passion in teaching, improve student outcomes, and help educators navigate the complexities of today’s educational challenges. Whether you’re a teacher, administrator, or district leader, this conversation will provide practical strategies and insights on implementing responsive teaching in your classroom.

Kick off Dyslexia Awareness Month with Dr. Carrie Hepburn and dyslexia expert Dr. Stephanie Brenner as they dive deep into understanding and supporting students with dyslexia. Learn what dyslexia is, the key systems and structures needed for success, and practical strategies to empower students and their families. Don’t miss this insightful episode packed with expert advice, tips, and inspiration to help educators make a lasting impact in their classrooms.

In this episode of the Compass PD Podcast, Dr. Carrie Hepburn and Dr. Natalie Fallert discuss the critical shift from dependent to independent learning in secondary classrooms. Celebrating recent success, where coaching led to over 20% gains in ELA assessments, they explore the difference between teaching and telling, highlighting the impact of collective teacher efficacy on student outcomes. The episode delves into the challenges of assuming student knowledge, emphasizing the importance of clear instruction and fostering independent learning skills. Listeners will gain practical tips on empowering students to take ownership of their learning and strategies for creating a classroom environment that promotes autonomy and success.

Teach Don't Assign: Creating Independent Learners

In this episode, the Compass PD team explores how educators can use AI to streamline administrative tasks, boost productivity, and enhance workflow. We’ll discuss practical applications, key pitfalls to avoid, and why keeping human expertise at the center of educational decisions is crucial. Tune in to learn how to leverage AI efficiently and effectively without losing sight of what matters most!

Referenced:
 Gen AI MasterClass 
Common Sense Media - AI Articles

In this episode, Dr. Carrie Hepburn shares how a single-minded focus on a key goal can significantly improve student learning. Learn how simplifying your approach transformed state test scores and empowered teachers to confidently lead.

Embark on a heartfelt odyssey with me, Dr. Carrie Hepburn, as we unravel the life-changing magic of education. Witness the tale of determination and courage through my eyes as my mother, against an era less kind, grasped her independence through learning, earning her GED with an unyielding spirit. This isn't just a narrative of my family; it's a tribute to the valiant women of her time, who, with education as their sword, carved out choices and self-reliance from a world that offered them little. My fervor for education is deeply rooted in these experiences, igniting a passion that has fueled my journey in this field.

As we turn the pages of this story, we extend our deepest thanks to the educators—those pillars of our communities who, day in and day out, shape the destinies of countless students. By threading in the perspectives of these unsung heroes, we paint a vivid picture of their indelible impact. I invite you to join our Compass PD community by sharing your stories that echo education's transformative power. Let's celebrate the legacy of learning and the dedicated individuals who commit their lives to spreading its invaluable light.

Spring ushers in a season of growth and renewal, and it's no different in the realm of education. With the joyous backdrop of the crisp spring air, Dr. Bridgett Niedringhaus joins us to tackle the crucial topics that school leaders face during this pivotal time. From the meticulous analysis of third-quarter data to the intricacies of budget planning and staffing dynamics, we promise a conversation brimming with actionable insights. 

Staffing decisions carry the weight of a school's success on their shoulders, and this episode doesn't shy away from that reality. Dr. Neidringhaus dissects the importance of hiring with organizational improvement at the forefront, setting aside personal connections for the greater good of the institution. She offers candid guidance on navigating the emotional waters of role changes, staff reductions, and the assembly of diverse interview teams. The art of conversation in these scenarios is not lost, and she provides practical advice for educational leaders to handle these moments with the grace and empathy they require.

But it's not just about the tough decisions; it's also about the power of delegation and relationship-building. Bridgett stresses the significance of trust and empowerment in the classroom, the impact of mid-year hires, and the importance of maintaining a vibrant school culture. For school administrators looking for encouragement and inspiration during these demanding times, this episode is a testament to the collaborative spirit that drives educational excellence.

As the school year winds down, educators face a familiar adversary: the summer slide. But what if we could armor our students with the skills and habits they need to emerge even stronger in the fall? Join us as we unfold a treasure trove of strategies with Dr. Carrie Hepburn from Compass PD to prevent this seasonal educational backslide. From the importance of reading volumes to daily writing exercises, we tackle the challenge head-on, ensuring that every learner has the tools to succeed.

This episode is an ode to the power of momentum, focusing on the final six weeks of the academic calendar as a crucial period for solidifying reading and writing skills. Dr. Hepburn shares many approaches to ensure students don't just maintain but thrive, discussing the use of choice to engage reluctant readers and techniques to foster self-efficacy and independence in our young scholars.

As we wrap up, we celebrate the joys of summer reading programs and the literary adventures awaiting our students. It's a heartfelt tribute to the transformative power of reading and writing. We invite educators to join us in turning the page on the summer slide and writing a new chapter of academic resilience and joy.

Embark on a journey through the highs and lows of team development with Dr. Carrie Hepburn as she navigates the critical stages that can make or break collaborative success. From the initial excitement of the 'forming' phase to the inevitable emotional rollercoaster of 'storming,' Dr. Hepburn dissects the importance of leadership in establishing clear goals and nurturing trust. Witness how a leader's adept handling of conflicts can steer the team away from chaos and toward productivity, a lesson invaluable for new and experienced leaders.

Discover the secrets to actualizing strategic plans within educational organizations as  Dr. Carrie Hepburn joins forces with the brilliant Dr. Chris Greiner. The vibrant discussion unveils how to keep strategic goals from gathering dust on the shelf, transforming them into daily actions that shape the future of learning. They explore the nuances of creating a compelling vision narrative and the salient need for adaptability in the face of challenges like those brought on by unforeseen events such as the pandemic. You'll learn about the art of picking a handful of annual projects that genuinely resonate with your long-term goals, the efficacy of a progress-tracking dashboard, and the vitality of identifying those wildly essential goals that will mark your success milestones.

Then, they step into the realm of leadership and the delicate dance of building trust amidst change. Dr. Greiner discusses strategies for involving even the most change-resistant individuals in collaborative problem-solving, thus strengthening the collective capacity for growth. This episode promises a treasure trove of practical leadership wisdom, setting the stage for you to lead with conviction and clarity!

Episode 34: Delving into What is Strategic Planning Pt. 1
Episode 37: What is Strategic Planning Pt. 2
Episode 45: Strategic Planning Creates a Unified Vision for Success