powerED Up

Creating an integrated wellness approach is so much more than "teaching gym class".  Bo Shappell shares the truth about physical education and the future of this class in public education.  Bo's approach is focused on improving the lives of his students and the way they think about themselves.  Bo shares how he is combining the curriculum of health with the movement of physical education to create his integrated wellness course. Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) is at the core of instruction. Additionally, how he and his students self-reflect is a strategy every teacher could incorporate into daily practice.

If it works for one, then it works for all.  Designing a learning space where students have real choices to fit their learning needs and modalities is a powerful environment to thrive.  Kyle Niemis shares how he combines Universal Design for Learning (UDL) and Flipped Learning to create an amazing learning culture.  The four-step process to supporting students in a choice-based learning environment is a strategy all teachers can copy and use. He explains the pros and cons, the troubles and triumphs, and sets realistic explanations.  He also shares how he is supporting teachers with two innovative products, ClassroomQ and My Edtech Bundle.

Nick Snyder is a South Carolina Teacher of the Year turned administrator.  Nick dives deep into the story of "Mr. Snyder" highlighting his passions as a classroom teacher and what students valued most about his classroom. He shares his experience in both middle school and high school English. He provides a great perspective discussing his switch into administration, serving as the assistant principal of his same school.  This show brings humility to teaching and a re-centered approach to the human factor of public education.  Finally, he shares his biggest passion related to keeping teacher's tanks full.

Summer break has finally arrived for all teachers around the country! This year tested the patience, willpower, and dedication of all teachers.  They stepped up and crushed it.  Summertime is about unplugging, relaxing, and recharging the batteries.  The summer of 2021 is going to be the most important time for teachers to do this.  Matt and Ken talk about their summer goals, strategies, and plans for the most effective rejuvenation.

Kyle Bragg, the SHAPE America 2021 National Teacher of the Year, brings amazing ideas to all teachers in all content areas. He is an inspiration to students, a role model for teachers, and a positive voice in education. As an elementary physical education teacher, he creates a classroom dynamic that is engaging, empowering, and safe for all students. He focuses on praising the characteristics and actions that all students can do, not just the athletically superior students. His specific strategies for praise, differentiation and modeling are something all teachers can strive to incorporate.

Maggie McHugh is a middle school teacher from Wisconsin focused on project-based learning.  For some, PBL is a special week or one unit.  Not for Maggie, it is her class all day, every day.  Maggie demystifies PBL and provides the listeners with actionable steps towards how to build your students and yourself towards the capacity for PBL.  At the beginning of the show, we dive deep into a very intense moment in her classroom related to student identity.  As Maggie says herself, "the best Maggie has yet to come."  She shows what it means to be a passionate, dedicated educator.

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Elisabeth Bostwick is a former elementary classroom teacher, instructional coach, educational consultant, and published author.  She has an amazing perspective on inspiring creative, student-centered learning.  She provides actionable steps to develop these learning experiences in any classroom.  

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Cathy Koenig is Director of Student Services for Pequea Valley School District.  She has a diverse background of teaching as she worked her way to a high-level administration position.  Her diverse experience has provided her with insight and advice applicable to all K-12 educators, both regular education and special education.  She provides the audience with excellent strategies to help meet the needs of all learners.

As quoted by the host Ken Ehrmann, "effective classroom transition keep teachers hydrated".  When Matt and Ken sat down to tackle this conversation, it was supposed to be a quick brainstorm of what transitions look like and how they can best support effective teaching.  They weren't expecting it to go for 45 minutes, but the content is high-quality.  They discuss key strategies, ways to incorporate technology, and how to handle hybrid or fully virtual classes.  Ken's main message is to put more on the students to make it less stressful for teachers.  

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Zach has many unique perspectives through his educational journey translating into supportive and realistic expectations for teachers.  Zach moved from Ohio to South Carolina to teach South Carolina history! His strong work ethic and focus on relationships helped him build a strong foundation in the community as a teacher leader.  Zach transitioned into a role as a curriculum coach for his school.  We discuss strategies for capturing teachable moments and maintaining curricular pacing expectations.