In this episode Denver Riley and Lauren Antonio join me for a heartfelt and humorous discussion about teaching, empathy, and navigating unexpected challenges. From recounting chaotic airport experiences in Newark to exploring the emotional weight teachers carry in the classroom, we reflect on the importance of creating safe spaces for students. We also share anecdotes about students’ "trauma dumps," our strategies for fostering emotional well-being through initiatives like Wellness Wednesdays, and the challenges of staying neutral during heated election seasons.

Takeaways:

Empathy is a Skill: Teachers often find themselves as emotional pillars for their students, making empathy a crucial skill that many educators refine daily.

Navigating Student Trauma: Teachers frequently act as the first point of contact for students dealing with deep emotional burdens, especially early in the school day.

Wellness Wednesdays Make a Difference: Creating weekly moments for stress relief, like walks or coloring, helps students and teachers decompress from the pressures of academic life.

Teachers as Role Models: Students look to teachers during uncertain times, such as election seasons, for stability and guidance on managing emotions.

Balancing Personal and Professional: Educators must navigate their own feelings while supporting students, often requiring them to leave personal stress at the door.

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Want to Learn more about Denver Riley and Lauren Antonio?

Instagram: @keepingupwithms.b_ & @msantonioec

Tiktok: @keepingupwithms.b_

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Don’t be shy come say hi: [email protected] and podcasterandrea.com

Watch on YouTube: @educatorandrea

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