NE Voices

NE Voices

By North East School DivisionEducation
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NE Voices episodes

  • Beyond the Grade: Meaningful Feedback Counts with Guest Darla Faye (Ep 9 Part 2)

    Beyond the Grade: Meaningful Feedback Counts

    In this episode, we dive into the transformative power of

    formative assessment and student reflection with Darla, a dedicated educator in the North East School Division.

    Together, we unpack what it looks like to shift the responsibility for learning from the teacher to the student—an empowering process that builds agency and lifelong skills. Darla shares her strategies for grounding assessment in curriculum success criteria, guiding students to reflect on their progress, and helping them use feedback to take actionable next steps.

    You’ll hear about specific practices like modeling feedback

    interpretation, using progress charts, and leveraging tools like Edsby to foster communication between students, teachers, and parents. Whether you’re an experienced teacher or just starting out, this conversation is packed with
    actionable insights on how to create purposeful and reflective learning environments that drive meaningful growth for every student.


    Episode Highlights

    [1:00] – Building routines: How Darla sets the tone for

    feedback and progress tracking on day one.
    [3:00] – Modeling feedback: Teaching students to identify strengths and next steps using clear success criteria.
    [5:00] – Strategies in action: Examples of actionable feedback to help students progress.
    [7:00] – Connecting school and home: How Edsby fosters shared responsibility for learning among students, parents, and teachers.
    [10:00] – The art of formative assessment: Using daily insights to guide teaching plans and groupings.
    [14:00] – Fostering agency: Encouraging students to request specific feedback to enhance metacognition and ownership of their learning.
    [18:00] – Supporting all learners: How reflection and feedback benefit students across the learning continuum.

    Beyond the Grade: Meaningful Feedback Counts

    Episode 9 Part w

    Guest: Darla Faye

    NE Voices – A podcast amplifying the Voices of the NESD and

    Beyond

    Hosted by: Stephanie Pipke-Painchaud

    Online: NESD.ca/NEVoices

    Facebook:  
    https://www.facebook.com/NESD200

    Instagram: @NESD200
    https://www.instagram.com/nesd200/

    Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ne-voices/id1738102911

    Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7bApwCE5KLxcBJZmI9aGLu?si=56f32d637cff4fd6

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@NEVoices/podcasts

    NE Voices
    Jan 2025


    26 min
  • Unlocking Learning: Why Feedback Matters More (than grades) and Moves Learning Forward Faster with Guest Darla Faye (EP 8 Pt 1)

    Unlocking Learning: Why Feedback Matters More (than grades) and Moves Learning Forward Faster with Guest Darla Faye

    In this episode of NE Voices, I sit down with Darla, a reflective math and science teacher at MUCC, who is transforming the way we think about assessment. Darla shares her journey of moving away from traditional grading and focusing on the transformative potential of feedback to empower students.

    We dive into the difference between formative and summative assessments, how feedback impacts student learning, and the challenges of breaking free from the “grade addict” mindset. Darla also shares actionable insights from her classroom, including innovative ways to engage students in meaningful self-reflection and planning. Whether you’re a seasoned educator or just starting your teaching journey, this conversation will inspire you to rethink how assessment can truly support learning.

    Join us as we explore Darla’s strategies, the research that

    influenced her shift, and the surprising results she’s seen by emphasizing feedback over marks.

    Episode Highlights

    [00:00] – Sciematics, road trips, and Darla’s story
    [02:00] – Introducing formative assessment in the classroom: Reducing grades and amplifying feedback.
    [04:00] – A recovering grade addict’s epiphany: How research flipped Darla’s approach to assessment.
    [07:00] – Empowering students through progress charts: A tool for tracking strengths, areas for improvement, and next steps.
    [10:00] – The research behind feedback’s impact: Why combining grades and feedback doesn’t work.
    [14:00] – The dynamics of a grade-free classroom: How students interact differently without marks.
    [17:00] – Formative vs. summative assessments: Practical examples and analogies, from figure skating to coaching.
    [19:00] – Challenging math and science norms: Encouraging feedback over numbers for real learning gains.

    Unlocking Learning: Why Feedback Matters More (than grades) and Moves Learning Forward Faster
    Episode 8 Part 1

    Guest: Darla Faye

    NE Voices – A podcast amplifying the Voices of the NESD and

    Beyond

    Hosted by: Stephanie Pipke-Painchaud

    Online: NESD.ca/NEVoices

    Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/NESD200

    Instagram: @NESD200
    https://www.instagram.com/nesd200/

    Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ne-voices/id1738102911

    Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7bApwCE5KLxcBJZmI9aGLu?si=56f32d637cff4fd6

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@NEVoices/podcasts

    NE Voices
    Jan 2025


    24 min
  • Engaging Learners - The Story of Popsicle Sticks, Math Journals & Empowering Routines (EP 7)

    Thank you to Connie Parenteau for sharing her approach to fostering a classroom environment that promotes student ownership of learning. Using a method involving popsicle sticks and math journals, she shared how she

    selected a few students each day to present their problem-solving processes. This routine not only encouraged students to become more independent and
    reflective but also streamlined Connie's workload. Connie mentioned how students used iPads and QR codes to document and upload their work independently along with how student-teacher conferences added even more value to the process. Despite initial technical challenges and the need for resilience in building these routines, Connie noted the approach resulted in increased student engagement and ownership. Additionally, parent engagement was enhanced by sharing student progress and feedback through Edsby posts.

    EP 7 - Engaging Learners - The Story of Popsicle Sticks,
    Math Journals & Empowering Routines with Guest Connie Parenteau

    Episode 7

    Guest: Connie Parenteau

    NE Voices – A podcast amplifying the Voices of the NESD and Beyond

    Hosted by: Stephanie Pipke-Painchaud

    Online: NESD.ca/NEVoices

    Facebook:  

    https://www.facebook.com/NESD200

    Instagram: @NESD200
    https://www.instagram.com/nesd200/

    Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ne-voices/id1738102911

    Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7bApwCE5KLxcBJZmI9aGLu?si=56f32d637cff4fd6

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@NEVoices/podcasts

    NE Voices

    November 2024

    15 min
  • Building Thinking Classrooms: An Overview for Parents with Guest Kyle Webb (Episode 6 Part 3)

    In this NE Voices mini episode, Kyle Webb explores the

    concept of Thinking Classrooms from a parent's viewpoint, emphasizing the value of fostering independent thinking, collaboration, and problem-solving skills in students. This conversation discusses what parents might hear from students and offers ways for parents to engage in meaningful conversations about their children's learning experiences.  

    Building Thinking Classrooms: An Overview for Parents with Guest Kyle Webb (Episode 6 Part 3)

    NE Voices – A podcast amplifying the Voices of the NESD and Beyond

    Guest: Kyle Webb
    Consultant
    Building Thinking Classrooms
    Email: [email protected]
    X - @WebbKyle
    Instagram - @WebbKyle @ThinkThankPod
    kylewebb.ca

    Hosted by: Stephanie Pipke-Painchaud

    Online: NESD.ca/NEVoices
    Email: [email protected]

    Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/NESD200

    Instagram: @NESD200 https://www.instagram.com/nesd200/

    Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ne-voices/id1738102911

    Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7bApwCE5KLxcBJZmI9aGLu?si=56f32d637cff4fd6

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@NEVoices/podcasts

    NE Voices
    October 2024

    #buildingthinkingclassrooms #peterliljedahl 

     

    Timecode:

    00:00 Introduction to Thinking Classrooms

    01:34 Understanding the Parent's Perspective

    02:11 Challenges and Changes in Thinking Classrooms

    02:38 Building Essential Skills

    03:12 Student Reactions and Teacher Strategies

    04:10 Shifting Responsibility to Learners

    04:55 The Shift to Independent Learning

    05:23 Engaging Parents in the Learning Process

    05:57 Questions to Foster Metacognition

    06:15 Encouraging Problem-Solving Conversations

    07:12 Teacher-Parent Communication

    07:39 The Role of Administrators

    08:08 Embracing Inquiry in Early Education

    08:38 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    11 min
  • Innovative Education: Inviting Teachers into Building Thinking Classrooms with Kyle Webb (Episode 5 Part 2)

    This podcast episode dives into the concept of Thinking

    Classrooms, featuring insights from educational consultant Kyle Webb. It highlights the transformative shift from traditional teaching to fostering an environment where students become primary thinkers and problem solvers. The discussion provides practical strategies for implementing Thinking Classrooms across various subjects and grade levels, focusing on small, consistent
    changes. The importance of intentional lesson closure, effective note-taking (i.e. making not just taking notes), and reflective practices are emphasized to enhance student learning and engagement.

    The episode also previews an engaging and hands-on

    professional development workshop, inviting teachers to learn more about Building Thinking Classrooms and to prepare both educators for the workshop.  

    Innovative Education: Inviting Teachers into Building

    Thinking Classrooms with Kyle Webb (Episode 5 Part 2)
    NE Voices – A podcast amplifying the Voices of the NESD and Beyond

    Guest: Kyle Webb
    Consultant
    Building Thinking Classrooms
    Email: [email protected]
    X - @WebbKyle
    Instagram - @WebbKyle @ThinkThankPod
    kylewebb.ca

    Hosted by: Stephanie Pipke-Painchaud

    Online: NESD.ca/NEVoices
    Email: [email protected]

    Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/NESD200

    Instagram: @NESD200 https://www.instagram.com/nesd200/

    Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ne-voices/id1738102911

    Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7bApwCE5KLxcBJZmI9aGLu?si=56f32d637cff4fd6

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@NEVoices/podcasts

    NE Voices
    October 2024

    #buildingthinkingclassrooms #PeterLiljedahl

    Timecode:

    00:00 Introduction to Part Two

    00:25 The Value of Thinking Classrooms

    02:16 Personalizing the Thinking Classroom

    03:58 Implementing Thinking Classroom Practices

    04:42 Adapting to Different Contexts

    07:39 Closing Lessons Effectively

    09:49 Preparing for the Workshop

    10:28 Essential Tips for Workshop Preparation

    11:00 Experiencing the Workshop: What to Expect

    12:00 The Impact of Thinking Classrooms

    13:41 Engaging Students and Parents

    16:45 Reflecting on the Journey and Future Steps

    20:40 Final Thoughts and Gratitude

    23 min
  • Empowering Learners through Building Thinking Classrooms with Kyle Webb (Episode 4 Part 1)

    In this episode of NE Voices, we welcome educational

    consultant Kyle Webb as he takes us through the transformative concept of Building Thinking Classrooms sharing the work of Peter Liljedahl. Explore the journey into innovative strategies that enhance critical thinking, collaboration, and student engagement. Learn about problem-solving, classroom setups, and the vital concept of 'being intentionally less helpful' to encourage student
    independence. Discover the importance of slow beginnings, differentiation, and the use of low floor, high ceiling tasks. Uncover how random group assignments
    and collaborative tasks foster empathy and lifelong skills. Engage with practical insights to make your teaching more profound and student-driven,
    preparing for upcoming workshops and future episodes.

    Empowering Learners through Building Thinking Classrooms with Kyle Webb (Episode 4 Part 1)

    NE Voices – A podcast amplifying the Voices of the NESD and Beyond


    Guest: Kyle Webb
    Consultant
    Building Thinking Classrooms
    Email: [email protected]
    X - @WebbKyle
    Instagram - @WebbKyle @ThinkThankPod
    kylewebb.ca

    Hosted by: Stephanie Pipke-Painchaud

    Online: NESD.ca/NEVoices
    Email: [email protected]

    Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/NESD200

    Instagram: @NESD200
    https://www.instagram.com/nesd200/

    Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ne-voices/id1738102911

    Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7bApwCE5KLxcBJZmI9aGLu?si=56f32d637cff4fd6

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@NEVoices/podcasts


    NE Voices
    October 2024

    Timecode:

    00:00 Introduction to Building Thinking Classrooms

    00:05 Kyle Webb's Educational Journey

    00:14 Overview of Thinking Classrooms

    00:33 Upcoming NESD Workshop

    01:09 Welcome to NE Voices Podcast

    01:56 Kyle Webb's Background and Experience

    02:32 Discovering Thinking Classrooms

    03:43 Implementing Thinking Classrooms

    05:14 Defining a Thinking Classroom

    06:29 Student Engagement and Problem Solving

    08:55 Creating a Dynamic Learning Environment

    10:28 The Importance of Student Voice and Agency

    11:08 Physical and Mental Space for Thinking

    12:27 Challenges and Strategies for Teachers

    13:48 Time Management in Thinking Classrooms

    14:36 Empowering Student-Driven Learning

    14:57 Starting Slow to Go Fast

    16:14 Understanding and Implementing Tasks

    20:26 The Role of Teachers in Thinking Classrooms

    22:45 Building Classroom Culture and Relationships

    27:21 Connecting Tasks to Success Criteria

    28:32 Conclusion and Next Steps


    30 min
  • Episode 3: Creating Thinkers Not Test Takers: A Journey into Thinking Classrooms with Dan Mielke (Part 3)

    Episode 3: Creating Thinkers Not Test Takers: A Journey into Thinking Classrooms with Dan Mielke (Part 3)

    In part 3 of our Thinking Classroom conversation with Dan Mielke, we explore how a shift into a Thinking Classroom creates more meaningful learning experiences, engages students in real-world problem solving and offers an opportunity to redefine your role as an educator.

    Join us as Dan digs into why the why matters, how they moved beyond the “I don’t know” into the making deeper connections and the conversations students are having with their parents and caregivers.

    He shares his time saving experience with assessment and top 3 takeaways of why investing in Thinking Classroom strategies are worth it.

    Key Topics:

    • Shifting from traditional tests to engaging learning and in turn authentic aligned assessment.
    • Focusing on the 'why' behind learning
      • outcomes.
    • Encouraging critical thinking and problem-solving.
    • Creating hands-on, real-world learning experiences. Redefining the teacher's role as a facilitator of knowledge exploration.

      • Notable Quotes:

      "My role of an educator is to create experiences where students can test their own knowledge." - Dan Mielke


      Takeaways:

      • Eliminating traditional tests can free up time for more
        • meaningful learning activities.
        • Connecting lessons to real-world applications increases
          • student engagement and curiosity.
          • Embracing struggle and uncertainty in the classroom can lead
            • to deeper understanding.
            • Shifting from directing to facilitating learning empowers
              • students to take ownership of their education.
              • Creating safe spaces for exploration and questioning
                • prepares students for life beyond the classroom.


                Creating Thinkers Not Test Takers:

                A Journey into Thinking Classrooms with Dan Mielke
                Episode 3 Part 3

                Guest: Dan Mielke

                NE Voices – A podcast amplifying the Voices of the NESD and Beyond

                Hosted by: Stephanie Pipke-Painchaud
                For more information visit us at NESD.ca/NEVoices

                Facebook:  

                https://www.facebook.com/NESD200

                Instagram: @NESD200

                https://www.instagram.com/nesd200/

                Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ne-voices/id1738102911

                Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7bApwCE5KLxcBJZmI9aGLu?si=56f32d637cff4fd6

                YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@NEVoices/podcasts

                NE Voices

                September 2024

                21 min
              • Episode 2 – Clarity as a Catalyst For Authentic Assessment with Dan Mielke (Part 2)

                In Part 2, we dive into the world of what Science 7 and 8

                look like with an educator who's rethinking the Science classroom.

                Imagine walking into a science class where students are

                standing, collaborating at whiteboards, tackling real-world problems, and generating their own assessment questions. A place where being wrong is a step towards
                deeper learning.

                From exploring real world questions that ignite curiosity,

                to making curricular connections to just-in-time assessments that invite authentic understanding, join us as we continue to explore Dan’s journey into Thinking Classrooms in Science


                Clarity as a Catalyst For Authentic Assessment with Dan Mielke - Episode 2 Part 2

                Guest: Dan Mielke

                NE Voices – A podcast amplifying the Voices of the NESD and Beyond

                Hosted by: Stephanie Pipke-Painchaud

                For more information visit us at NESD.ca/NEVoices

                Facebook:

                https://www.facebook.com/NESD200

                Instagram: @NESD200
                https://www.instagram.com/nesd200/

                Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ne-voices/id1738102911

                Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7bApwCE5KLxcBJZmI9aGLu?si=56f32d637cff4fd6

                YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@NEVoices/podcasts

                NE Voices
                September 2024

                28 min
              • Episode 1 - Rethinking the Classroom: A Journey Into Thinking Classrooms with Dan Mielke (Part 1)

                The first edition of our NE Voices podcast.  In this 3 part series, we talk with Dan Mielke Principal of a K-12 school in the NESD about the bringing the concept of a Thinking Classroom to life in a Science class.  We delve into the question how do I know that you know what I know – essentially how do we capture, reflect on and respond to

                learning. And we reflect on the journey into thinking classrooms.

                Key topics:

                -        Transitioning to a Thinking Classroom in Science

                -       Importance of clarity and clear success criteria

                -        Students as active learners

                -        Connecting science concepts to life outside the

                classroom.


                Rethinking the Classroom:  A Journey Into Thinking Classrooms with Dan Mielke

                Episode 1 Part 1

                Guest: Dan Mielke

                NE Voices – A podcast amplifying the Voices of the NESD and Beyond
                Hosted by: Stephanie Pipke-Painchaud

                For more information visit us at NESD.ca/NEVoices

                Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/NESD200

                Instagram: @NESD200
                https://www.instagram.com/nesd200/

                Apple Podcast: ttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ne-voices/id1738102911

                Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7bApwCE5KLxcBJZmI9aGLu?si=56f32d637cff4fd6

                YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@NEVoices/podcasts

                NE Voices
                September 2024


                21 min
              • NE Voices - A podcast for Innovators and Changemakers in Education

                Welcome to North East Voices - a podcast to amplify the voices of innovators and changemakers in education.

                Sharing stories of inclusion, empowerment, and the

                impactful connections within the North East School Division (NESD) and beyond.

                Join us as we dive into conversations revealing the

                strategies and moments shaping the future of education.

                NE Voices is your platform for innovation and

                connection.

                NE Voices is recorded in the North East School Division sharing the lands of Treaties 4, 5, 6 and Homeland of the Metis in North East Saskatchewan.

                Be sure to subscribe and join our community of innovators and change-makers.

                www.nesd.ca

                #NEVoices

                2 min

              About NE Voices

              From the publisher's feed

              North East Voices - Amplifying the Voices of Educators