How We Teach This

 What’s the secret sauce for reigniting passion in teaching? It starts with amplifying teacher voice, fostering autonomy, and creating space for innovation. In this episode of How We Teach This, we welcome back Jessica Asbury, Real World Learning Coordinator for Piper USD 203, who is leading transformative initiatives that empower educators to drive meaningful change. 

From passion-based clubbing and gamified professional development to reimagining education with the KU Center, Jessica shares insights on overcoming resistance, elevating teacher and student voices, and making learning more authentic. Join us as we uncover the key ingredients to keeping teachers inspired, engaged, and making an impact.

“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.” 

Are virtual schools really easier? Do students lose out on social interaction? Can students with IEPs succeed in online learning?

In this episode of How We Teach This, we tackle the biggest myths about virtual education with Amanda Young, Principal, Education Imagine Academy, Courtney Compton, and Tim OBryhim, both teachers at Education Imagine Academy.

We break down common misconceptions, share insights, and explore how virtual schools provide rigorous, flexible, and inclusive learning experiences. Whether you're an educator, parent, or administrator, this episode will help you separate fact from fiction and understand what makes virtual learning work.

“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.” 

Generative AI is transforming education, but how can schools use it effectively? In this episode, we talk with Jake Potter, APR, about the role of generative AI in schools from a leadership perspective. We explore how administrators can support educators with varying interest levels and confidence in using AI, providing tools and resources to ensure all teachers can leverage its potential. Additionally, we discuss the impact of generative AI on future jobs and the importance of preparing students for a changing workforce. From reducing administrative burdens to enhancing student learning, this conversation highlights practical strategies for making AI a valuable tool in 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 episode, we take a deeper dive into the world of school counseling with returning guests Dr. Sarah Lendt andDr. Susan Dodd, along with new guestMatthew Fischer. From the moments that make the job rewarding to the unseen challenges they navigate daily, our guests share what it truly means to support teachers and students' academic, social, and emotional well-being.

Tune in for an insightful conversation that sheds light on the critical role of school counselors in today’s schools.

“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 dive into the transformative role of technology in education with a dynamic teacher panel from the AECT Mini Teacher Conference. Facilitated by Dr. Cecil Short, this conversation features Jessica Asbury (Piper USD 203), Sara Hoffman (Olathe USD 233), Shawn Harrel (Lee’s Summit Schools), and Jacob Hall (Associate Professor of Educational Technology at SUNY Cortland).

Discover how these educators are leveraging technology to enhance student engagement, foster collaboration, and empower students to take ownership of their learning. A recurring theme in this discussion is the importance of giving students the freedom to choose the tools that best suit their learning needs—a game-changing approach for the modern classroom.

Tune in to hear real-world examples of innovative tools and strategies that are reshaping teaching and learning!

“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’re thrilled to feature a dynamic panel of innovative administrators from the AECT Mini Teacher Conference. Special thanks to Dr. Cecil Short for facilitating this enlightening conversation and inviting us to participate.

Together, Jake Potter (Leavenworth USD 453), Amanda Young (Wichita Public Schools), Jacob Hall (Past-President, AECT Teacher Education Division), and Dr. Cecil Short (Emporia State University) share how their districts are harnessing technology to enhance learning experiences and support teachers.

Tune in for actionable insights and inspiration from leaders who are reshaping the future of teaching and learning. Stay subscribed for our upcoming episode featuring teachers sharing their hands-on experiences with technology in the 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.” 

How We Teach This wishes you a relaxing and fun winter break. We will return on January 15, 2025. Cheers to a Happy New Year.

www.emporia.edu/hwtt

What do school counselors really do? Join Dr. Sarah Lendt and Dr. Susan Dodd, faculty in the school counseling program at Emporia State University, as they clarify the role of school counselors in K-12 education. This episode dives into the preparation counselors receive, the real-world experience they gain, and the differences between school counselors, social workers, and psychologists. 

Discover what responsibilities school counselors have—and don’t have—and explore the evidence supporting the impact of counseling programs on student outcomes.

“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.” 

Join Carrie Boettcher, PhD., Assistant Professor, and Damara Paris, PhD., Professor, from Emporia State University as they explore the vital field of vocational rehabilitation counseling.

Vocational rehabilitation counseling focuses on helping individuals with disabilities overcome barriers to employment and achieve independence. These counselors wear many hats, providing advocacy, job training, assistive technology support, and career counseling while fostering collaboration with schools, families, and external organizations.

Listeners will gain a clear understanding of the roles and responsibilities of vocational rehabilitation counselors and how they support students transitioning from K-12 education to higher education or the workforce. The episode also addresses misconceptions about vocational rehabilitation, outlines key challenges students face, and shares actionable advice for teachers, parents, and advocates.

“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.” 

This episode highlights the remarkable work of middle and high school students who went beyond traditional lectures to "do" history. Guided by their teacher, Terry Kaldhusdal, inductee into the National Teachers Hall of Fame, these young historians developed award-winning projects for National History Day. The students share their experiences conducting in-depth research, uncovering hidden stories, and even making global connections. From exploring the roots of media polarization to interviewing a former East German soldier about the Berlin Wall, each project showcases students' curiosity and dedication to understanding the past. This episode dives into their journeys, the challenges they faced, and the impact of learning history through hands-on investigation.

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“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.”