First part of an exclusive podcast interview and discussion with 2015 Global Teacher Prize Finalist, Mark Reid, from Canada. Mark gives us an in-depth look into the essential role of Arts Education today and why he strongly believes in an education system that does not only promote STEM or other acronyms of disciplines, but a holistic education program that develops the potential of the whole learner.

2018 Top 10 Global Teacher Prize Finalist and multi-awarded educator, Jesus Insilada dives into culture-based learning and shares how this approach promotes inclusivity and relevant real-world learning through one’s immediate culture and reality. Jim and Jesus also discuss aspects of Jesus’ Panay Bukidnon culture and his source of motivation in making a difference in his community.

Multi-awarded literacy advocate, 2018 Global Teacher Prize Finalist and school leader, Ryan Homan, shares his personal story of success and challenges - from being the first college graduate in his community to scaling up his Balsa Basa literacy program initiative that aims to eradicate illiteracy in his hometown.

Jessica Demegillo, Apple Distinguished Educator and coordinator of the NEXT Department, Xavier School’s digital learning and innovations department, shares her reflection on the importance of digital citizenship for the youth, especially in today’s digital technology-driven world. Jessica and Jim share tips and guidelines for educators and schools on how to better integrate digital citizenship in one’s school curriculum.

Jane Cacacho, Apple Distinguished Educator and current principal of Xavier School-San Juan grade school unit, provides an in-depth and thoughtful exploration on visionary leadership as a crucial element in the goal to let students and teachers thrive in school. Jane and Jim also discuss the importance of giving teachers enough space and trust to take risks, especially in terms of ICT integration and exploring different paths to innovation in the classroom.

John Paul Viernes, Master Teacher I from the Department of Education in Batac City, Philippines and Edu Tech Asia Coach of the Year in 2017, discusses how he makes use of ICT tools such as Scratch and Minecraft in his class. John Paul and Jim also touches on professional development for teachers and how iLAC, John Paul’s PD project successfully delivers training to teachers via the power of blending professional learning.

Alfonso Mangubat, Apple Distinguished Educator from the Philippines and IB Coordinator, shares his favorite apps that help him develop 21st century skills in his students. Highlighting deeper and meaningful learning, we dig deep into the Cycle of Inquiry (Kath Murdoch) that Alfonso employs in his IB Social Science classes, which let his students to ask questions, explore possible answers, and even apply their learning to real-world situations or challenges. Bonus! Watch his #1minutePL videos on Cycle of Inquiry at the empowerED YouTube Channel HERE.

In the first episode for the first series of podcasts featuring Filipino Teacher Excellence, Francis Jim Tuscano spoke with Peter Esperanza, a US-based Filipino teacher whose innovation in using the YouTube platform via his channel, Number Bender, has gone viral and has been featured in the Philippine local media stations. Peter shares his motivations behind using technology to engage high school Math students and why he comes back regularly to the Philippines to train teachers. 

Watch his GMA News TV Feature in YouTube.