Learning Unlocked

Guest: Kristin McCord, Instructional Specialist - Reading/ELA PreK-6

In this episode, Kristin shares the essential components of early reading instruction and explore what EVERY (PreK-12) educator needs to know to support young readers. From phonemic awareness and phonics to fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension, listeners will gain a deeper understanding of the foundational skills that set students up for lifelong literacy.

Learn how to make phonics instruction more engaging, identify struggling readers early, and deliver targeted support with confidence. Whether you're new to teaching reading or looking to sharpen your approach, this episode will empower you to implement structured literacy practices, differentiate for diverse learners, and build a classroom culture where reading is both accessible and joyful.

Resources from this episode:

• Scarborough's Reading Rope
• Structured Literacy
• Finger Stretching Video
• Elkonin Boxes
• Fundations "Tapping Video"
• Open-Source Decodable Stories (for teachers oustide of GPS*)
• Open-Source Phonics (for teachers oustide of GPS*)
• Kristin LIVE working with Miles

*GPS teachers will use district approved curriculum and resources.

Guest: Jessica Smith, Arizona ACEs Consortium Educator

In this episode, we unpack the impact of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and explore how different types of stress—positive, tolerable, and toxic—shape student (and adult) behavior, learning, and engagement. This knowledge and awareness can help educators create safe, supportive environments where all students are better able to learn and grow.

Resources from this episode:

• Parents Under Pressure - USDHHS
• Youth Mental Health - USHHS
• Mindfulness First
• The Arizona ACEs Consortium
• The Regulated Classroom Book
• Yoga Nidra Guided Meditations
• John Hopkins Medicine Somatic Breath and Body Work

Guest: Jennifer Kjar, ELA Resource Teacher at South Valley Junior High

Listen in as veteran educator Jennifer shares how she personalizes the district ELA curriculum, scaffolds effectively for resource students, and strikes the perfect balance between high expectations and supportive practices. Full of practical tips and warm encouragement, this episode is a must-listen for any teacher looking to engage all learners with strategies, routines, and heart.

Resources from this episode:

• Kami
• Curipod
• Jennifer's Evidence Log
• MadLibs for Parts of Speech
• Supporting Student Success with High Expectations

Guests: Kelly Jarett, Cassie Kutzbach, Claudia DeAlba, and Jenn Colvin

In this episode, educators will discover strategies for addressing common student behavior challenges like defiance, aggression, and emotional outbursts. They'll learn proven de-escalation techniques to manage misconduct and maintain classroom respect. Additionally, educators will gain insights into student dysregulation and how to create a supportive environment that fosters emotional regulation and better behavior outcomes.

Resources from our behavior team:

• PBIS Word
• Brainstorming Behavior (has PTR info)
• Escalation Cycle
• First/Then Board
• Behavior Expectations Checklist
• Keyring Visual Cards
• Feelings Scale (Zones of Regulation Colors)
• Power Struggle Infographic
• Functions of Behavior
• Fidget Tools
• Second Step
• The Anxious Generation

Credits: Prevent Teach Reinforce - PTR (District Model for Behavior) Crisis Prevention Intervention- CPI (GPS listeners, register in Vector: 1 class per month!)

Guest: Alyssa Davis, Spectrum Elementary - 5th Grade

In this episode, I sit down with Alyssa Davis to explore the power of active math learning strategies, including the transformative approach of Building Thinking Classrooms by Peter Liljedahl. We discuss practical ways to engage students, foster deep mathematical thinking, and create a classroom culture where every learner thrives. Even if you are not a math teacher, tune in for ideas for strategies that can be used in any lesson!

• Building Thinking Classrooms
• Online BTC Conferences and Events

Guests: Natalie Krafft, Oak Tree Elementary - Music and Marissa Gomez, Boulder Creek - Art

In this episode, Brit chats with Natalie and Marissa about their world in special areas. We dive into the secrets of how these spaces boost brainpower for all students and snag some nifty tips on sprinkling art and music into regular classrooms too. Tune in for a chat that's sure to spark some joy!

Resources:

School of Rock

Harvard Health Publishing

University of Central Florida

Rousseau's Hypnotic Piano Background

Guest: Elizabeth Evans, Director of Civic Education Programs at Arizona State University

In this episode, Brit and Liz bond over their common enemy: perfectionism! They share their own stories of overthinking and struggling to please others, while giggling their way through practical tips for beating the perfectionism blues. With their help, you'll be able to perform your best, without losing your sanity in the process!

Guest: Leslee Mizen-Stroud, Middle School Social Studies Teacher

In this episode, Brit gets all the details on how Leslee is leveling up her teaching game with Classcraft! This edtech gem is a gamified tool that even non-gamers can rock with their students. Listen in as Leslee "spills the tea" on how Classcraft has revolutionized her teaching style and made her classroom a more engaging and dynamic space for learning.

Resources:

• Leslee's Top "Random Events" for relationship building and creating a classroom culture.
• Classcraft - Student Engagement (can be used in partnership with PBIS, CASEL, Digital Citizenship, IB Standards, and the 4C's).
• Classcraft 101 Vimeo: Getting Started

Guests: Trisha Shores & Marcus Hire, High School English and Social Science Teachers and Instructional Coaches

In this episode, we discussed the intersection of teacher credibility and grading practices and beliefs, namely what it takes to shift the learning focus away from traditional grading and some of the toxic behaviors it can unintentionally create, to a culture that values mastery of learning. The heartfelt moments and candid conversations had about the learning roadblocks teachers can unknowingly build left us wanting more! This conversation takes an honest and hard look at effective teaching and learning in 2023.

Resources:

The Evidence-Backed Grader

Guest: Jammie Zimmer, Second Grade Teacher

Joining Wendy for this podcast is Jammie Zimmer, a second grade teacher who excels at Building Community and Connection. Although she teaches young children, many of her ideas can easily be transferred to classes with older students. Most importantly, catch Jammie's enthusiasm, passion, and pure joy; her love of teaching will reignite yours!