Jeffery Herman, an enthusiastic educator and AI aficionado, returned to EduCurious to share exciting and positive updates on the rapidly evolving world of artificial intelligence. Herman painted a vibrant picture of AI's exponential growth, detailing how systems are now training themselves and evolving beyond basic programming into sophisticated agents capable of complex tasks, from managing personal appointments to offering personalized learning pathways.A core theme of Herman's discussion was the concept of AI as a "mirror" reflecting human society, its triumphs, and its foibles. He passionately advocated for a shift in thinking, urging listeners to move beyond traditional binary (right/wrong) perspectives towards "quantum thinking"—an approach that embraces multiple possibilities and encourages deeper, more nuanced inquiry. This mindset, Herman believes, is essential for truly understanding and leveraging AI's capabilities.Herman placed significant emphasis on the transformative potential of AI in education. He envisions a future where outdated industrial models of teaching give way to dynamic, personalized, one-on-one tutoring experiences, with AI acting as a powerful assistant to both students and educators. Far from being a threat, Herman sees AI as a vital collaborator that can help teachers by providing resources, generating creative solutions for classroom challenges (like nuanced behavior management strategies, which he demonstrated), and freeing them up to focus on the uniquely human aspects of teaching.Looking forward, Herman touched upon the awe-inspiring potential of quantum computing and creative solutions for AI's energy needs, like space-based data centers. His overarching message was one of optimistic preparedness, encouraging educators and parents alike to engage with AI, learn how to ask it better questions, and embrace it as a partner in navigating an exciting and rapidly changing future.Whether you're a teacher, a parent, or just EduCurious, join the community as we explore various educational topics and learn from each other. Subscribe so you’ll see the episodes when they drop! https://www.youtube.com/@Edu.Curious.Podcasts?sub_confirmation=1Be SocialWebsite: https://educuriouspod.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Edu.Curious.Podcasts Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EduCuriousPod Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/49IJd6WG083nXhZeQWt2hk?si=300fba40fb83456c Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/educurious-pods/id1798666772 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/edu.curious.podcasts/ Email: [email protected] TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@educuriouspods About EduCuriousEduCurious is an evolving platform dedicated to showcasing the incredible work of exceptional educators and delving into the complex issues facing education today. Through engaging podcasts and insightful interviews, EduCurious provides a space for educators to share their experiences, insights, and innovative approaches to teaching and learning.EduCurious explores a wide range of topics, from cutting-edge technology in the classroom to the latest research in teacher training and professional development. EduCurious is committed to fostering collaborative PD by connecting and empowering educators and facilitating meaningful conversations about the challenges and opportunities in education. By highlighting the voices and expertise of educators, we can inspire positive change and empower teachers to create impactful learning experiences for their students.Inspiring educational podcasts & interviews. Connecting educators, fostering PD, & driving positive change.

Leanne Thrift, a dedicated freshman high school counselor with 28 years of experience in education, shared her inspiring journey and profound insights on the Educurious show. Initially aspiring to be a veterinarian, Thrift found her true calling in teaching after realizing her love for science and connecting with students. She began her career in 1997 as a science teacher, a role she cherished for a decade.

A pivotal moment in Thrift's career was the opportunity to co-found a charter middle school. Driven by a vision to create a less traditional, community-focused learning environment where both students and staff felt eager to attend, she and her colleagues successfully established a thriving institution. It was during her time as a science teacher there that Thrift recognized her deep passion for building relationships with students and guiding them through their educational paths. This realization led her to pursue a master's degree in school counseling, a role she seamlessly transitioned into at the same middle school.

Several years later, Thrift embraced a new challenge as the freshman counselor at the local charter high school, a move she describes as the best in her educational career. Her extensive experience in middle school made her a natural fit for supporting ninth graders through this significant transition. Thrift noted that moving from a smaller middle school to a large high school with approximately 1,200 students can be intimidating for both students and parents. She actively works to ease this transition, emphasizing the importance of communication and self-advocacy for students. Thrift makes it a point to visit English classes at the beginning of the year to help freshmen navigate everything from academic requirements to logistical questions, ensuring they feel supported and informed.

Thrift is passionate about helping students explore their interests and plan for their futures. She utilizes tools like the Zello program, an inventory-based platform that helps students identify potential career paths aligned with their strengths and interests. She guides freshmen in understanding graduation requirements, the value of community service for college applications and personal growth, and the importance of getting involved in clubs and extracurricular activities to become well-rounded individuals. Thrift also highlighted the school's expanding career academies as an exciting development, offering students focused pathways.

Addressing common anxieties, Thrift identified face-to-face communication and organization as key challenges for many freshmen. She and her team provide strategies and support, even helping students plan conversations with teachers. She also stressed the importance of parental involvement, encouraging parents to stay connected through tools like Schoology and to proactively schedule conferences if concerns arise, while also allowing students to develop independence.

Thrift is a firm believer in the power of relationships in education, stating it's her number one philosophy. She emphasized that a connection with even one caring adult can make a significant difference in a student's life and success. Looking ahead, while she jokingly mentions retirement, her passion for helping students navigate their next steps shines through, with a potential interest in career counseling at the college level. Thrift’s dedication to her students and her community is evident, as is her pride in the collaborative spirit and achievements of her high school.

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Jessica Strom, a dynamic and dedicated high school agriculture teacher, is making a remarkable impact by revitalizing the Ag program at her local charter high school. With a fresh vision Strom has taken the program and expanded it into a thriving hub of student engagement and opportunity with projections for a substantial increase in animal projects like sheep, goats, pigs, and cattle, demonstrating the program's rapid and positive trajectory under her leadership.Strom's passion for agriculture is lifelong, stemming from her upbringing around horses in Lithia, Florida, and her active involvement in showing animals. This deep-rooted connection initially led her to pursue an equine degree from the University of Florida with dreams of opening a breeding facility. However, after a stint with the USDA doing farm loans, she discovered her true calling in agricultural education. She found joy in the hands-on, dynamic nature of teaching Ag, a field that allows her to be outdoors and directly engage with students and animals.A cornerstone of Strom's teaching philosophy is making agriculture relatable and demonstrating its vast career possibilities beyond traditional farming. She successfully integrates the FFA (Future Farmers of America) into her curriculum, guiding her chapter to achieve the prestigious "Florida's Finest" national award. Strom emphasizes that FFA provides invaluable leadership skills and exposure to diverse fields, from aquaculture to public speaking. She also actively involves her students in real-world experiences like the Polk County Youth Fair, which she sees as a vital platform for applied learning and sparking broader interest.Strom's vision for the next five years includes further enhancing the school's facilities, establishing a productive greenhouse, and even creating a poultry program to collaborate with the culinary department by providing fresh eggs. Her ambition extends to her own professional development; she is currently completing an accelerated Master's degree in Agriculture Leadership, Education, and Communication and plans to pursue a PhD, with aspirations to one day teach at the university level.Drawing from her own experiences, including navigating early-career challenges, Strom advocates for young educators to find mentors and a supportive administrative team. She believes in the power of community and connection, actively using resources like educator groups on social media for inspiration and support. Strom’s dedication is evident in her long hours and commitment to her students, ensuring they have every opportunity to explore their interests, whether it's growing coral reefs or planting cucumbers. Her journey is a testament to the profound difference a passionate and resilient educator can make.

About EduCuriousEduCurious is an evolving platform dedicated to showcasing the incredible work of exceptional educators and delving into the complex issues facing education today. Through engaging podcasts and insightful interviews, EduCurious provides a space for educators to share their experiences, insights, and innovative approaches to teaching and learning.Subscribe so you’ll see the episodes when they drop! https://www.youtube.com/@Edu.Curious.Podcasts?sub_confirmation=1Be SocialWebsite: https://educuriouspod.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Edu.Curious.Podcasts Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EduCuriousPod Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/49IJd6WG083nXhZeQWt2hk?si=300fba40fb83456c Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/educurious-pods/id1798666772 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/edu.curious.podcasts/ Email: [email protected] TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@educuriouspods

Deanna Joyner, an experienced ELA teacher with a rich background in both education and business, shared her journey and insights into creating impactful learning environments. Originally from a small town in the heart of Florida, Joyner’s career has taken her from Florida to Arizona and back, providing her with a deep understanding of diverse student populations and the importance of cultural competency in teaching.Joyner emphasized that her transition into education, though initially unexpected, became a true calling. With a strong foundation in business management and leadership—holding an associate's, bachelor's, and master's degree in these fields—she brings a unique perspective to the classroom. Joyner passionately believes in applying real-world scenarios and business principles, like goal setting and understanding objectives, to empower her middle school students. She sees education not merely as instruction but as a transformative process, stating, "You cannot transform lives if yours have not been transformed."At the heart of Joyner’s teaching philosophy is the power of relationships. "Once you clasp their hearts, you have their minds," she shared, highlighting her practice of dedicating the first 21 days of school to building strong connections with her students. This relational foundation, she explained, is crucial for engagement and creating a well-managed classroom where students feel safe and respected. Joyner’s approach to discipline is firm yet compassionate, utilizing non-verbal cues, proximity, and open communication to address issues, always aiming to understand the root cause of a student's behavior.A lifelong learner herself, having pursued higher education as an adult with five children, Joyner models perseverance and dedication. She candidly discussed the challenges of adapting to a new cultural environment while teaching in Arizona, where she had to develop new strategies to reach a predominantly Hispanic student body. This experience, though demanding, significantly stretched her as an educator and reinforced her belief in hard work, flexibility, and continuous learning.Joyner champions professional development, citing John Hattie's "Visible Learning" conference as a pivotal experience that refined her teaching methods, particularly in structuring lessons with effective anticipatory sets and vocabulary introduction. She advises fellow educators to be resourceful, invest in their own growth, and remain coachable. Looking ahead, Joyner aspires to leadership roles where she can guide teachers, develop curriculum, and help reduce teacher burnout—even developing a workshop aimed at helping educators structure their year for sustained effectiveness and passion. Her commitment to transforming lives through education is a testament to her dedication and a powerful inspiration for all in the field.

Whether you're a teacher, a parent, or just EduCurious, join the community as we explore various educational topics and learn from each other. Subscribe so you’ll see the episodes when they drop! https://www.youtube.com/@Edu.Curious.Podcasts?sub_confirmation=1Be SocialWebsite: https://educuriouspod.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Edu.Curious.Podcasts Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EduCuriousPod Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/49IJd6WG083nXhZeQWt2hk?si=300fba40fb83456c Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/educurious-pods/id1798666772 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/edu.curious.podcasts/ Email: [email protected] TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@educuriouspods About EduCuriousEduCurious is an evolving platform dedicated to showcasing the incredible work of exceptional educators and delving into the complex issues facing education today. Through engaging podcasts and insightful interviews, EduCurious provides a space for educators to share their experiences, insights, and innovative approaches to teaching and learning.

Dr. Andy Oguntola, Assistant Vice President of Enrollment at Florida Polytechnic University, radiated positivity and passion throughout his interview, sharing his inspiring journey and deep commitment to expanding educational opportunities. He enthusiastically described his leadership role at Florida Poly, proudly highlighting its unique position as Florida's only public STEM university, celebrated for its affordability, innovative campus, striking architecture, and exciting growth, including the upcoming addition of athletics programs.Oguntola's path into his 17-year career in education was refreshingly non-linear. Initially a pre-law student, this first-generation college graduate discovered his true calling unexpectedly after taking a role as an admissions counselor following his graduation from Weber International University. His own humble beginnings—famously arriving on campus with just "one suitcase and one black trash bag full of clothes”— inspire his work today. This lived experience fuels his dedication to connecting with students, particularly those navigating the college process for the first time, and championing accessible pathways through scholarships and support. He emphasized the importance of campus visits and encouraged students to engage directly with current university attendees to find their best fit.Beyond his official duties, Oguntola embodies community engagement. He praised the leadership at Florida Poly for growing community ties and shared examples of actively connecting the university with local stakeholders, like bringing Polk County principals to campus. His personal drive to be a "fixer" spurred him to co-found a successful Little League program and establish the highly impactful Lake Wales College Fair, demonstrably increasing college awareness and access in his community.Despite receiving accolades such as the Polk County Emerging Leader award, Oguntola remains remarkably grounded. He considers being a husband and father his greatest achievement, prioritizing presence and support for his four children above all else—a value deeply rooted in his own childhood experiences. He advises emerging leaders to maintain transparency and integrity, always prioritize family, learn to delegate effectively by understanding team strengths, and commit to continuous learning through resources like Inside Higher Ed and insightful books such as How Full Is Your Bucket?With a long-term aspiration to serve as a college president, Oguntola’s focus remains steadfastly on making a difference. His interview showcased a dedicated, community-minded leader relentlessly focused on leveraging his journey to create meaningful opportunities and empower the next generation through the transformative power of education.Whether you're a teacher, a parent, or just EduCurious, join the community as we explore various educational topics and learn from each other. Subscribe so you’ll see the episodes when they drop! https://www.youtube.com/@Edu.Curious.Podcasts?sub_confirmation=1
Be SocialWebsite: https://educuriouspod.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Edu.Curious.Podcasts Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EduCuriousPod Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/49IJd6WG083nXhZeQWt2hk?si=300fba40fb83456c Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/educurious-pods/id1798666772 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/edu.curious.podcasts/ Email: [email protected] TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@educuriouspods About EduCuriousEduCurious is an evolving platform dedicated to showcasing the incredible work of exceptional educators and delving into the complex issues facing education today. Through engaging podcasts and insightful interviews, EduCurious provides a space for educators to share their experiences, insights, and innovative approaches to teaching and learning.Inspiring educational podcasts & interviews. Connecting educators, fostering PD, & driving positive change.

Jennifer Halloran Simpson, a dedicated educator with deep community roots, shares her journey and insights on the EduCurious podcast. From her early inspiration from a beloved teacher to her current role as a mentor and leader, Jennifer's passion for education shines through.

Her journey began at Hillcrest Elementary, where she was mentored by Miss Anna Powell, igniting her love for teaching, particularly in math and science. This early mentorship shaped her philosophy of nurturing and guiding new educators. She emphasizes that new teachers need support, not just to survive, but to thrive. Jennifer's current role involves coaching teachers, helping them with standards, classroom management, and data analysis. She prioritizes building trust and providing constructive feedback in a non-evaluative setting, fostering growth and reflection.

Jennifer's leadership capacity has expanded through programs like the Polk County Aspiring Leadership Program. She highlights the importance of data-driven instruction and curriculum alignment. She has implemented a "continuous growth cycle" that involves analyzing student and teacher data, aligning curriculum with standards, and reflecting on progress. Her experience with Polk County's data dashboard has inspired her to create a similar tool for her school.

Grant writing is another area where Jennifer excels. She advises educators to connect with their county's education foundation and emphasizes the importance of knowing student needs. Catchy titles, clear proposals, and demonstrable student growth are key to successful grant applications. She also underscores the importance of documenting progress with photos and data to show donors the impact of their contributions.

Jennifer's approach to professional development emphasizes hands-on learning and capturing students' passion for science early on. She believes in creating engaging learning experiences that go beyond "sitting and getting." As a testing coordinator, she focuses on using data to track student progress and identify areas for improvement, helping students and teachers understand scale scores and benchmark alignments.

Curriculum planning is another area of expertise. Jennifer stresses the importance of understanding standards and designing lessons that meet diverse learning styles. She has even developed her own science curriculum, focusing on hands-on activities and real-world applications. For example, she uses a tug-of-war activity to illustrate balanced and unbalanced forces. She also explains how standards build upon each other from year to year, providing a clear progression for students.

When asked about her greatest accomplishments, Jennifer highlights the success of her students, emphasizing their growth as individuals and their contributions to the community. She believes in investing in students both inside and outside the classroom, fostering a sense of community and responsibility.

For new teachers, Jennifer advises finding a mentor, reflecting on experiences, and continuously growing. She also advocates for using available tools, including AI, to enhance teaching and learning. She uses AI tools like Magic School and ChatGPT to create engaging lessons, generate questions, and refine grant proposals.

Jennifer's dedication to education and her community is evident in every aspect of her work. Her passion for empowering students and teachers alike makes her a valuable asset to the field.

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What truly makes a difference in education and in a child's life? Join us on EduCurious for an inspiring and deeply insightful conversation with Dr. Jesse Jackson, a veteran educator whose career has spanned roles from classroom teacher and middle school principal to superintendent and now, educational expert witness.Dr. Jackson shares his powerful belief, honed over decades of experience, that the magic of education lies not in programs or technology, but in human relationships. He argues compellingly that the personal touch—the connection between educators, staff, students, and families—is the most potent force for positive change, a force that artificial intelligence or systemic mandates can never replicate.Drawing from his own challenging upbringing—raised by an aunt and uncle, navigating aspirations without a clear family roadmap—Dr. Jackson reveals how pivotal relationships and self-driven resourcefulness (like his weekly library visits) shaped his path. He explains how these early experiences fueled his passion for intervening positively in the lives of students facing similar hurdles.Discover the incredible story behind the "Young Leaders Group," an initiative Dr. Jackson created for middle school boys often labeled as "at-risk." Learn how:He intentionally used positive framing, sending congratulatory letters instead of focusing on deficits.He built a program structure involving peer models, community service, and visual cues (like wearing ties) to foster pride and change perceptions.He created a roadmap and vision for students who lacked one, scaffolding their development step-by-step.Dr. Jackson also details another remarkable intervention strategy he employed as a high school administrator. Hear how he:Analyzed data to identify students struggling most before they even arrived at the high school.Proactively visited their homes multiple times over the summer, building trust and rapport with families through positive interaction, not disciplinary discussion.Replaced a standard orientation with a personalized cookout, setting a foundation of support from day one.Beyond individual programs, Dr. Jackson discusses transforming an entire school system in Lake Wales, Florida. He shares the strategic vision and relentless focus on relationships that dramatically lifted the graduation rate from 70% to an astounding 95% across all demographics. Learn how data analysis, placing the right people, fostering a sense of belonging, and creating forums for open feedback were crucial stepping stones in this system-wide success.This conversation is a masterclass in thoughtful educational leadership. Dr. Jackson provides concrete examples and practical strategies grounded in empathy, vision, and the unwavering belief in the power of human connection. Whether you're an educator looking for inspiration, a parent seeking understanding, or anyone curious about what truly drives success and overcomes adversity, this episode offers profound lessons.Watch now to hear Dr. Jesse Jackson's powerful insights on building relationships, creating roadmaps for success, and making a lasting, positive impact in the lives of young people. Don't miss it!***Whether you're a teacher, a parent, or just EduCurious, join the community as we explore various educational topics and learn from each other. Subscribe so you’ll see the episodes when they drop! https://www.youtube.com/@Edu.Curious.Podcasts?sub_confirmation=1Be SocialWebsite: https://educuriouspod.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Edu.Curious.Podcasts Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EduCuriousPod Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/49IJd6WG083nXhZeQWt2hk?si=300fba40fb83456c Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/educurious-pods/id1798666772 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/edu.curious.podcasts/ Email: [email protected] #LifeLongLearner #EducatorInput#CollaborativePD#LifelongLearning#OnlineLearning#PersonalizedPD#ProfDev#EducatorPD

Angela Kelly, founder of the Empowered Principal brand and a certified life and leadership coach, joined the EduCurious podcast to discuss her work supporting school leaders. With a background spanning early childhood education, 15+ years as an elementary teacher (primarily kindergarten), reading specialist, instructional coach, site principal, and district administrator, Kelly brings deep, authentic experience to her coaching. Her core mission is to help educational leaders navigate not only the strategic and tactical demands of their jobs but, crucially, the mental and emotional challenges, enabling them to lead exceptional schools while also loving their personal lives.

Kelly identified a significant gap in support for administrators compared to teachers. While working at the district level, she observed principals struggling with work-life balance, time management, prioritization, and feelings of isolation, despite outward appearances. This led her to leverage her life coach certifications (from Dr. Martha Beck and The Life Coach School) to develop tools specifically for educators. A cornerstone of her approach is the "STEAR Cycle," her adaptation of a coaching model that helps individuals understand how their Thoughts trigger Emotions, influencing their Actions (approach) and creating Results. She successfully applied this framework with students, parents, teachers, and fellow administrators to foster self-awareness and emotional regulation.

Addressing current challenges, Kelly noted the intensity of the spring season for school leaders, involving HR decisions, testing, and end-of-year celebrations. She emphasizes teaching leaders practical skills like 90-day planning and the "art of constraint"—focusing on impactful priorities rather than trying to do everything at once, which leads to burnout and the "overwhelm cycle." She encourages leaders to regularly check in with their emotions and consciously balance work, rest, and play.

Kelly's platform includes the long-running "Empowered Principal" podcast, books, keynote speaking, online courses, one-on-one coaching, and the group coaching program, Empowered Principal Collaborative (EPC). She highlighted the power of connection and shared experience within the EPC mastermind. Future plans include launching the Empowered Principal Academy for coaching certification and hosting live wellness retreats for leaders.

Throughout the conversation, Kelly stressed the importance of authenticity and vulnerability in leadership. Sharing her own journey, including being a single mother while leading and overcoming the challenges of public scrutiny, she advocates for leaders building resilience and emotional capacity. She advises aspiring leaders to explore their interest, step into the leader identity even before getting the role, believe in their capability, and embrace the inevitable awkwardness of being new, learning through experience. Ultimately, Angela Kelly's work is dedicated to empowering educators by providing tools and support to foster both professional effectiveness and personal well-being, recognizing the profound impact they have on human development.

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This week, EduCurious had the distinct pleasure of diving deep with a truly dynamic guest: Ebo Entsuah. Many might know him from his days on the football field at Florida State University, but his journey extends far beyond athletics into the realms of politics, education advocacy, and community leadership. His insights offer powerful lessons for anyone curious about making a difference, especially within our education systems.From FSU Gridiron to Local GovernmentEbo's story is one of embracing diverse experiences. He shared his unique background, including his Ghanaian heritage (his name, Ebo, means "boy born on Tuesday"!) and the profound influence of his immigrant parents who prioritized education and hard work above all else. This foundation propelled him through FSU, where balancing academics and Division I football taught him invaluable lessons.His path wasn't linear. A post-college stint working on Capitol Hill ignited an interest in the political process, but it was a perceived lack of responsiveness from his own local officials that spurred him to take a leap. At just 26, Ebo ran for office in his hometown of Claremont, Florida, becoming the youngest elected official in the city's history. This experience cemented his belief in the power of local action.Why Local Politics is Education PoliticsOne of Ebo’s most powerful messages was the reminder that "All politics is local." He passionately argued against the misconception that local government is just about potholes and trash pickup. Decisions made by city councils, county commissions, and planning boards—regarding property taxes, sales taxes, and zoning—directly impact school funding and resources.His advice for getting involved? It starts simple:Do your research: Know who represents you on the school board, city council, etc.Show up: Attend meetings consistently.Ask questions: Engage respectfully, understand the issues, and make your voice heard. Ebo stressed that even if officials don't agree, they often listen, especially at the local level where connections are closer.Leadership Lessons: Teamwork, Humility, and OptimismDrawing parallels between the football field and the political arena, Ebo emphasized the importance of teamwork, perseverance, and cooperation. Critically, he highlighted the need for humility – the ability to admit when you're wrong and learn from others – a trait he finds often lacking in politics today.His personal philosophy, passed down from his father, resonated deeply: "Your attitude determines your altitude." Maintaining optimism, even when facing challenges, is key to progress. This outlook fuels his current work as Director of Government Affairs for the STEM education nonprofit Project Lead The Way, where he tackles issues like proactively integrating AI into curriculum rather than reacting with fear. It also drives his ambitious goal: becoming a university president within five years to enact meaningful reform in higher education, focusing on critical issues like student and teacher retention.Get Curious, Get InvolvedEbo Entsuah's journey is a testament to the power of showing up, asking "why," and believing in your ability to make a change. His story reminds us that leadership can be cultivated through diverse experiences and that meaningful impact often starts right in our own backyards.Let's take his insights to heart. How can we become more involved locally? How can we bring more optimism and collaborative spirit to the challenges facing our schools and communities?Whether you're a teacher, a parent, or just EduCurious, join the community as we explore various educational topics and learn from each other.

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In a recent insightful conversation on EduCurious, local educator and boys' soccer coach Kyle Kirkner shared his unique path into the teaching profession and his philosophies on connecting with middle school students. Far from a traditional route, Kirkner’s journey highlights the diverse experiences that can enrich the classroom.

Initially graduating with a business degree and working in sales—first selling building inspections and later in the local citrus industry—Kirkner found himself seeking a more rewarding career. Dabbling in substitute teaching around 2018 opened a new door. After exploring various grade levels, including fourth and fifth, he discovered his true calling teaching eighth-grade literature and writing. "I really love where I am," Kirkner shared, emphasizing the "symbiotic relationship" he feels with his students. "I get the kids; they get me."

A significant part of Kirkner's connection with students stems from his lifelong passion for soccer, a sport he played collegiately and now coaches, sometimes alongside his own mentor—his father. He sees powerful parallels between coaching and teaching. Whether it's demonstrating an in-step drive on the field or explaining how to write a conclusion in the classroom, the core principle is mentorship. He utilizes an "I do, we do, you do" approach, focusing on building skills incrementally. Crucially, Kirkner believes success hinges on trust, built through genuine authenticity. "Nobody is going to want to learn from you if they don't trust you... I've just always led with the relationship first," he explained.

Kirkner finds immense joy in witnessing student growth, particularly the development of individuality he observes as students mature from elementary to middle school. He cherishes the "aha!" moments when a concept clicks for a student or even a whole class. To foster a welcoming and engaging environment, he incorporates student interests, uses relatable examples (even putting student names into test questions!), and maintains a dynamic classroom space with student-suggested whiteboard drawings and flags representing student backgrounds.

Inspired by mentors like his father and readings on youth psychology (like Dr. David Yeager's 10 to 25), Kirkner adopts a "mentor mentality," aiming to build on students' existing strengths rather than solely focusing on correction—a philosophy echoed by NBA shooting coach Chip Engelland. He referenced the Maori concept of waka mana – giving power – emphasizing the importance of empowering students.

Looking ahead, Kirkner is pursuing a Master's in Educational Leadership with aspirations of becoming an assistant principal. While passionate about his work, he acknowledges challenges in education, primarily the need for better funding and more robust community involvement, urging a consistent focus on student needs over external politics.

His advice to others considering education, or simply wanting to make a difference? Be authentic, build real relationships, and get involved. For Kirkner, the reward lies in seeing students succeed and knowing he played a part—a reward far greater than any sales commission. His journey reminds us that passion, mentorship, and genuine connection are at the heart of impactful education.