Ignition Point

Host, Kendall Terry, sits down with the Lower School Curriculum Specialist, Katie Murrin, and new Kindergarten teacher, Christina Zimmerman to discuss how new teachers are mentored and supported at CBA.

In this interview, host Kendall Terry talks with our new Upper School counselor, Lauren White. Lauren shares her journey to Clayton-Bradley Academy, as well as her experiences the last couple of weeks getting to know the staff and students. Being new is always hard, but Lauren has embraced the change and diving into relationship building at all levels.

Join host Kendall Terry as he inteviews Mary Liford and Kim Headrick. Mary is the Lower School principal and Kim is the Lower School guidance counselor. Mary and Kim give some introductions to new staff members, talk about excitements for 2024-2025 school year, and more.

Host Kendall Terry and guest Ray McNulty discuss the VUCA(H) world. VUCA originated in a military context but has been used by many in business for years. Ray has written several articles adapting VUCA to education as well. VUCA(H) stands for volatility, uncertainty, complexity, ambiguity, and new addition hyper-connected. Listen in as Ray and Kendall discuss what this looks like in education and how education is meeting these challenges. All of this centers on the idea of preparing our students for their future and not our past.

In this continuation of our engaging discussion with Dan DeMarchis, 8th grade Math and Science teacher at Clayton-Bradley Academy, we delve deeper into the Roller Coaster Build Project. In this episode, Dan sheds light on Dollywood's program, Science in the Parks, and how it enhances the educational experience by bringing real-world science into the classroom. We also explore the seamless integration of this project across various subjects, demonstrating the power of interdisciplinary learning.

Nicole Whitecotton joins the conversation to discuss the integration of humanities into the project, focusing on topics such as the robber barons, captains of industry, and historical time period debates. Her insights reveal how these elements enrich students' understanding and create a more comprehensive educational experience.

Several 8th grade students from Clayton-Bradley Academy also join us to share their perspectives. Listen as they discuss their roles in the project, the aspects they have enjoyed the most, and the challenges they have overcome. This episode highlights the collaborative efforts and diverse skills involved in bringing such an ambitious project to life.

In this exciting episode of the Ignition Point Podcast, we dive into an innovative educational journey with Dan DeMarchis, the dynamic 8th grade Math and Science teacher at Clayton-Bradley Academy. Join us as we explore the interdisciplinary Roller Coaster Build Project, a perfect embodiment of the "How the Brain Learns" process that we've discussed in previous episodes. This project isn't just about physics and engineering; it's a symphony of math, science, humanities, art, and technology, showcasing how these subjects intertwine to create a holistic learning experience.

Several enthusiastic 8th grade students also join the conversation, sharing their insights and experiences as they navigate through this hands-on project. Hear firsthand how this creative endeavor has challenged their thinking, fostered collaboration, and ignited a passion for learning. Tune in to discover how the Roller Coaster Build Project exemplifies the power of integrated learning and the incredible potential of our young learners.

Host Kendall Terry interviews Amy Lovin, fourth grade teacher at Clayton-Bradley Academy, about Phase D of Learning. This is the final part of the learning process outlined in the book Exceeding Expectations 2. This book lays out the Learning Centered School model of instruction that uses brain research to show how the brain learns and how the classroom should be aligned with that research.

Join the podcast where host Kendall Terry interviews Acacia McKenna. Acacia is the Director of Competitions at the National Science Teachers Association. Acacia takes time to discuss the ExploraVision program, how to get involved, where to start, and more. If you would like to find out more about ExploraVision, visit their webpage: https://www.exploravision.org/ .

Join the podcast where host Kendall Terry interviews Becky Adkins and Dan DeMarchis. Becky is the science teacher for 6th and 7th grade at CBA. She helped CBA change from the traditional STEM Fair at the middle school level to participation in the Toshiba NSTA ExploraVision program. Dan is our 8th grade math and science teacher. Our students and staff have enjoyed this experience. Becky and Dan talk about what they like about the program and some things they had to learn as teachers implementing this program with our middle school students. If you would like to find out more about ExploraVision, visit their webpage: https://www.exploravision.org/ .

Join the podcast where host Kendall Terry interviews Becky Adkins. Becky is the science teacher for 6th and 7th grade at CBA. She helped CBA change from the traditional STEM Fair at the middle school level to participation in the Toshiba NSTA ExploraVision program. Our students and staff have enjoyed this experience. Becky talks about what she likes about the program and some things she had to learn as a teacher implementing this program with 6th and 7th grade students.