How We Teach This

In this episode of How We Teach This, guest host Dr. Ann Addison leads a conversation with mentor teachers who guide future educators in secondary classrooms. These mentors—including those teaching in K–12 specialty areas like music—share how they set clear expectations, provide constructive feedback, and foster confidence and autonomy in their interns.

Listeners will hear thoughtful insights on balancing mentorship with daily teaching demands, along with practical strategies to help future educators thrive as they prepare for their own classrooms.

“This podcast is for informational purposes only. The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Emporia State University or the Teachers College. Any mention of products, individuals, or organizations within this podcast does not constitute an endorsement. Listeners are encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with appropriate professionals before making any decisions based on information provided in this podcast.” 

In this episode, we talk with Tom Jenkins, a National Board Certified Teacher and 2025 National Teachers Hall of Fame inductee, about bringing authentic STEM education to life. From student-driven projects that led to a U.S. patent to creating teacher-developed curriculum in a rural district, Tom shares insights on inquiry-based learning, STEM identity, and professional development that truly supports innovation.

Discover how real-world STEM learning can transform classrooms—and how other districts can replicate this success.

“This podcast is for informational purposes only. The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Emporia State University or the Teachers College. Any mention of products, individuals, or organizations within this podcast does not constitute an endorsement. Listeners are encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with appropriate professionals before making any decisions based on information provided in this podcast.” 

In this episode, with guest host, Dr. Ann Addison, experienced elementary mentor teachers share what it means to guide future educators. They discuss what inspired them to welcome interns into their classrooms, how they set expectations, and the ways they build trust and confidence with new teachers. From offering consistent feedback to celebrating growth, these mentors provide practical strategies and honest reflections on the rewards and realities of mentoring. Whether you’re already mentoring in the primary grades or preparing to step into that role, this conversation offers grounded insight into making a lasting impact—one student teacher at a time. 

“This podcast is for informational purposes only. The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Emporia State University or The Teachers College. Any mention of products, individuals, or organizations within this podcast does not constitute an endorsement. Listeners are encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with appropriate professionals before making any decisions based on information provided in this podcast.” 

In this episode of How We Teach This, we sit down with Elizabeth “Liz” Anstine — the 2025 Kansas Teacher of the Year and a dynamic business educator at Leavenworth High School — to explore how student entrepreneurship can transform classroom learning. Liz shares powerful stories from her business and marketing courses, where students design and run hands-on projects like candy sales, sustainable meal planning, and even freeze-drying ventures. Through authentic, real-world experiences, she illustrates how applied learning ignites student leadership, creativity, and practical skills.

“This podcast is for informational purposes only. The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Emporia State University or the Teachers College. Any mention of products, individuals, or organizations within this podcast does not constitute an endorsement. Listeners are encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with appropriate professionals before making any decisions based on information provided in this podcast.” 

In this opening episode of Teaching Teachers: Mentoring Conversations, host Dr. Ann Addison introduces the mini-series and explores the vital role mentor teachers play in shaping future educators. Listeners will learn about foundational coaching frameworks, flexible mentoring stances, and practical strategies for supporting both student teachers and new teachers of record. Blending real stories with proven tools, this conversation offers valuable insight for anyone looking to grow as a mentor and help prepare the next generation of teachers.

“This podcast is for informational purposes only. The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Emporia State University or the Teachers College. Any mention of products, individuals, or organizations within this podcast does not constitute an endorsement. Listeners are encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with appropriate professionals before making any decisions based on information provided in this podcast.” 

“He told me I was the reason he was still in school..."

This powerful moment is one of several shared by Kansas Master Teachers as they reflect on their work in middle and high school classrooms. As a continuation of our earlier episode featuring elementary educators, this conversation highlights the importance of student relationships, adaptability, and creating meaningful, real-world learning experiences. Find out why you might want to have a squirrel or a box of ties in your classroom.

Listeners will hear from experienced educators who offer both inspiration and practical insight drawn from years of service in secondary education.

“This podcast is for informational purposes only. The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Emporia State University or the Teachers College. Any mention of products, individuals, or organizations within this podcast does not constitute an endorsement. Listeners are encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with appropriate professionals before making any decisions based on information provided in this podcast.” 

In this special reunion episode, guest host Stephanie Taylor leads a conversation with a panel of elementary educators recognized as Kansas Master Teachers. These award-winning teachers share the strategies, stories, and philosophies that have shaped their approach to teaching—covering everything from classroom management and student engagement to the power of play, authentic learning, and teacher self-care.

Whether you're new to teaching or looking to gain new ideas and inspiration for your classroom, this episode offers timeless insights and practical wisdom.

This is Part 1 of a two-part series. Stay tuned for our follow-up episode featuring secondary-level Kansas Master Teachers.

“This podcast is for informational purposes only. The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Emporia State University or the Teachers College. Any mention of products, individuals, or organizations within this podcast does not constitute an endorsement. Listeners are encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with appropriate professionals before making any decisions based on information provided in this podcast.” 

In this inspiring episode of How We Teach This, we turn the mic over to a special guest host, Brooklynne Morrison — an honors student and future educator from the Teachers College—who interviews the 2025 Kansas Master Teachers. With fresh curiosity and thoughtful questions, she explores what motivates exceptional educators, how they build connections with students, and the wisdom they would pass on to the next generation. This cross-generational conversation offers insight, encouragement, and real talk about the teaching profession. Whether you're a veteran teacher or just starting out, this episode reminds us why great teaching matters.

“This podcast is for informational purposes only. The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Emporia State University or the Teachers College. Any mention of products, individuals, or organizations within this podcast does not constitute an endorsement. Listeners are encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with appropriate professionals before making any decisions based on information provided in this podcast.” 

In this inspiring episode of How We Teach This, we sit down with the 2025 Kansas Teacher of the Year team—educators recognized for their outstanding impact in the classroom and beyond. They share the purpose statements that guide their teaching, memorable “this is why I teach” moments, and practical strategies that consistently support student success. The conversation explores the thoughtful use of technology, classroom management, and building authentic student relationships. The team also opens up about maintaining work-life balance and staying grounded in a challenging profession. Whether you're a classroom teacher, a future educator, or an advocate for great teaching, this episode offers meaningful insights and real-world advice you won’t want to miss. 

“This podcast is for informational purposes only. The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Emporia State University or the Teachers College. Any mention of products, individuals, or organizations within this podcast does not constitute an endorsement. Listeners are encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with appropriate professionals before making any decisions based on information provided in this podcast.” 

We’re joined once again by Amanda Young, principal at Education Imagine Academy, a Microsoft Showcase School known for its forward-thinking approach to teaching and learning. In this follow-up conversation, she is joined by educators LaKeshia Brooks and Robert Black, who share how they are using technology to design engaging, personalized learning experiences.

Microsoft Reflect, for example, can provide valuable feedback on the emotional state of both students and staff, supporting well-being across the school community. The conversation also explores how teachers are navigating student use of generative AI and turning those moments into meaningful learning opportunities. This episode offers practical insights into how purposeful technology integration can enhance learning in any classroom.

“This podcast is for informational purposes only. The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Emporia State University or the Teachers College. Any mention of products, individuals, or organizations within this podcast does not constitute an endorsement. Listeners are encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with appropriate professionals before making any decisions based on information provided in this podcast.”