In this episode of the Fearless Schools Podcast, we engage with Tom Burton, a nationally recognized leader in education. We discuss the importance of community engagement, the challenges faced by educational leaders, and the evolution of leadership perspectives. Tom shares his personal journey, emphasizing the significance of accountability, reflection, and finding joy in leadership. The conversation also highlights the role of student leadership in driving change and the need for leaders to model the behaviors they wish to see in their students. Tom's insights on superpowers and kryptonite in leadership provide a relatable perspective for current and aspiring educational leaders.

Takeaways

• The importance of community engagement for school leaders.
• Navigating challenges requires vulnerability and openness.
• Personal growth is essential for effective leadership.
• Leadership perspectives evolve with experience and challenges.
• Student leadership initiatives can drive meaningful change.

Check out Tom's new book here: https://www.amazon.com/Visionary-Voices-Leadership-Stories-Lasting/dp/B0G4CQD943

This is part two of our anniversary episode with Rick Wormeli. In this epside, Rick gives us strategies to give better feedback and help students be successful.

Continued Takeaways

• Experiential learning can transform students' perspectives.
• Differentiation makes learning successful for both adults and students.
• Teachers should focus on developing mutual ethos with students.
• Accountability in education should not be punitive.
• Teachers need time for collaboration to enhance their practice.
• Feedback is essential for student growth and motivation.
• Continuous learning is vital for both teachers and students.

To mark the first anniversary of the Fearless Schools podcast, we're excited to share the first conversation in a special two-part series featuring renowned educator and author Rick Wormeli. In Part One, Rick reflects on his journey into education and challenges long-held assumptions about accountability, grading, and compliance in schools. Together, we explore why experiential learning, strong relationships, and creativity are essential for meaningful student growth—and why punitive approaches often undermine equity and motivation. Rick also shares his perspective on the role of AI in education, reminding us that while technology can be a powerful tool, it should never replace teachers' professional judgment or creativity. This conversation sets the tone for the series and invites us to rethink what truly makes schools fearless: trust, curiosity, and a commitment to continuous learning.

Takeaways

Experiential learning can transform students' perspectives. To break down barriers and engage students, focus on developing mutual ethos with students.Accountability in education should not be punitive. AI can augment teaching but should not replace creativity. Teachers need time for collaboration to enhance their practice. Feedback is essential for student growth and motivation. Continuous learning is vital for both teachers and students.

Check out the video on our Youtube Channel: https://youtu.be/Pbi9IYii1DU

In this episode of the Fearless Schools Podcast, we engage with educators Kass and Cornelius Minor, who discuss their experiences and insights on sustainable change in education. They emphasize the importance of community, relationships, and the collective efficacy of educators in driving meaningful change. The conversation explores personal educational journeys, the role of school leaders, and the necessity of fun in the learning process. The Minor Collective's approach to inclusive education and the significance of understanding students as individuals are highlighted throughout the discussion.

Takeaways

• Start something today that you perpetuate tomorrow.
• We should be able to teach every class in the school building.
• School change doesn't require 100% buy-in.
• It's not a superpower as much as it's a super habit.
• The most effective people lead with their full humanity.

Learn more about the Minor Collective at: https://www.kassandcorn.com/

In this episode of the Fearless Schools podcast, we engage with Principal Salome Thomas-El (aka Principal El), who shares his insights on authentic leadership, the importance of nurturing relationships in education, and the role of joy and resilience in school culture. Principal El emphasizes the significance of hands-on leadership, using the metaphor of watering plants to illustrate the need for leaders to be actively involved in their communities. He advocates for choosing impact over compliance and fostering joy in educational settings, ultimately aiming to inspire and uplift educators and students alike.

Takeaways

• Authentic leadership is crucial for building trust.
• Building relationships is key to fostering a supportive school culture.
• Joy and resilience are essential for effective school leadership.
• Chess teaches critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
• Leaders should prioritize impact over compliance.

In this episode of the Fearless Schools Podcast, we engage with bestselling author Brad Meltzer, exploring the profound impact of educators on students' lives. Meltzer shares his personal journey from a struggling student to a successful writer, highlighting the pivotal role of teachers who believed in him. The conversation delves into themes of gratitude, the importance of failure, and the magic of teaching writing and reading. Meltzer emphasizes that educators are everyday heroes who inspire students to see their potential and embrace their unique voices. The episode concludes with a heartfelt message of appreciation for teachers and the vital work they do. Takeaways

• Teachers are heroes who deserve gratitude.
• Failure is necessary for success in any endeavor.
• Both fiction and non-fiction reading and writing are important to student achievement (and empathy).
• Teaching writing is a magical artform.
• There are everyday heroes all around us who need to be celebrated.

In this episode of the Fearless Schools Podcast, we welcome Katie Powell, a passionate advocate for middle school education. We discuss Katie's journey from a curious student to a dedicated educator, her insights on engaging students through creative teaching strategies, and the importance of emotional safety in the classroom. Katie shares her experiences that influenced her book, Boredom Busters, and she also examines the need for differentiation among educators, and the role of school leaders in supporting teachers. The conversation emphasizes the significance of seeing students (particularly middle school students) as individuals and investing in their emotional and academic growth. Takeaways

• Differentiation is crucial not only for students but also for educators.
• School leaders must support teachers in their unique teaching styles.
• Emotional safety is essential for effective learning in middle school.
• Adolescents face unique challenges that require sensitivity from educators.
• Teaching is an art that requires creativity and flexibility.
• Investing in students today pays dividends for their future.

In this episode of the Fearless Schools podcast, we interview Mr. Ernest Clinkscale, an experienced and passionate elementary school principal. We discuss the importance of educational leadership, the heart-brain connection in teaching and leading, and the need for empathy and understanding in schools. Mr. Clinkscale shares his personal journey into education, his daily commitment to closing achievement gaps, and strategies for engaging families and communities. The conversation emphasizes the significance of building relationships with staff and students, empowering educators, and the challenges of balancing time and responsibilities in the demanding field of education. Take aways

• Empathy (not sympathy) is essential in understanding student and staff needs.
• Community engagement requires taking the message to the people.
• Advocacy for students can look different depending on the situation.
• Daily interactions with staff can foster a positive school culture.
• The heart-brain connection is vital for effective teaching.
• Leaders must empower their staff to create a supportive environment.

In this episode of the Fearless Schools podcast, we welcome back educational leader and author, Allyson Apsey. We discuss Allyson's journey from a reluctant student to a passionate educator, the importance of building relationships in the classroom, and the concept of serendipity in education. The conversation also touches on collective efficacy, the challenges educators face, and practical strategies for fostering engagement and inclusion in schools. Allyson shares insights from her experiences and emphasizes the need for educators to connect with their students and each other to create a positive learning environment. Takeaways

• Serendipity in education refers to happy accidents that lead to positive outcomes.
• Reading fiction can improve emotional intelligence and empathy.
• Hope is a key component of self-efficacy and collective efficacy.
• Educators should focus on understanding their students' needs and strengths.
• Creating a positive learning environment requires intentional relationship-building.

In this episode of the Fearless Schools podcast, we interview Dr. Miguel Cardona, the 12th U.S. Secretary of Education. We discuss Dr. Cardona's journey in education, the importance of mentorship, the power of bilingualism and biculturalism, and the challenges facing public education today. Dr. Cardona shares insights on educational innovations during the pandemic, the significance of teacher apprenticeships, and offers advice for educators to stay hopeful and focused on their purpose. After checking out this Fearless Schools podcast, listeners will be informed and inspired for the bright road ahead! Key Takeaways

• A teacher's encouragement led Dr. Cardona to pursue a career in education. Bilingualism and biculturalism are seen as superpowers in education. Collaboration and understanding different perspectives are crucial in leadership.
• Reopening schools during the pandemic was a significant achievement.
• Every educator has the potential to make a significant impact on their students' lives.