powerED Up

powerED Up

By Ken EhrmannEducation
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powerED Up episodes

  • 165: Integrating Reading and Writing for Deeper Learning

    Andrea Haas, an experienced educator, discusses the importance of building relationships in teaching and the role of trust in mentoring and coaching. She shares strategies for creating a positive classroom culture and fostering meaningful conversations through turn and talk activities. Andrea also highlights the need for improved teacher preparation programs and the challenges of implementing scripted programs. She emphasizes the importance of integrating content areas for deeper learning and the value of observing students in the classroom. In this conversation, Andrea discusses the importance of empowering students to co-teach and serve each other in the classroom. They also explore the changing family structures and the role of communication between families and schools. The conversation touches on the purpose of homework and the need for effective communication between teachers and parents. Andrea emphasizes the integration of reading and writing and the importance of teaching students critical thinking skills. They also discuss strategies for giving students enough time to read and write. The conversation concludes with a focus on continual growth and innovation in teaching.


    Takeaways

    • Building relationships is essential in teaching and mentoring.
    • Creating a positive classroom culture involves giving students a voice and choice in their learning environment.
    • Explicit instruction and gradual release of responsibility are key in teaching turn and talk skills.
    • Teacher preparation programs should include more practicum time and residency programs to better prepare new teachers.
    • Balancing scripted programs with teacher autonomy is crucial for effective teaching.
    • Integrating content areas can lead to deeper learning and meaningful connections for students.
    • Observing students is an important aspect of the art of teaching. Empowering students to co-teach and serve each other in the classroom can create a strong classroom community and minimize behavioral issues.
    • Effective communication between families and schools is crucial, especially in the context of changing family structures.
    • The purpose of homework should be carefully considered, and teachers should provide parents with clear guidelines and expectations.
    • Integrating reading and writing helps students develop critical thinking skills and a deeper understanding of texts.
    • Teachers should prioritize giving students enough time to read and write, utilizing small group instruction and independent work time.
    • Continual growth and innovation are essential for teachers to meet the changing needs of students and create engaging learning experiences.

    • Chapters

      00:00 Introduction and Background

      01:03 Teaching Experience and Transition

      04:13 Building Trust and Communication in First Grade

      05:17 Creating a Community in the Classroom

      06:40 Teaching Turn and Talk Skills

      08:46 The Role of the Teacher in Classroom Design

      09:14 The Impact of Classroom Setup on Classroom Culture

      10:38 Explicit Instruction for Turn and Talk

      13:32 Gradual Release of Responsibility in Turn and Talk

      16:20 Improving Teacher Preparation Programs

      22:47 Balancing Scripted Programs and Teacher Autonomy

      26:05 The Art of Teaching and Program Implementation

      31:07 The Limitations of Program-Based Teaching

      32:31 Integrating Content Areas for Deeper Learning

      33:20 The Importance of Observing Students

      33:44 Empowering Students to Co-Teach

      34:38 Changing Family Structures and Communication

      35:41 The Role of Parents in Literacy

      36:55 The Purpose of Homework

      39:20 Effective Communication with Parents

      45:37 The Integration of Reading and Writing

      49:53 Giving Students Time to Read and Write

      53:00 The Importance of Writing in Reading

      56:06 Building Relationships and Having Fun



      Website: www.elmtreeed.com 


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      1 hr 8 min
    • 164: Cross-Curricular Learning with Middle School MBA

      John Foster, the founder of Middle School MBA, discusses the value of teaching business and economics in schools. He explains how Middle School MBA integrates business, economics, and entrepreneurship into the curriculum, providing students with real-world skills and knowledge. Foster emphasizes the importance of cross-curricular learning and the role of teachers in facilitating authentic learning experiences. He also shares insights into the learning curve for teachers and offers advice for incorporating business education into the classroom. Overall, Middle School MBA aims to empower students to navigate the complexities of the business world and make informed decisions. The conversation explores the challenges educators face and how they can find motivation in moments of struggle. It also discusses the importance of taking lessons to the next level and adopting new teaching strategies.

      Takeaways:

      • Teaching business and economics in schools provides students with real-world skills and knowledge.

      • Integrating business education into the curriculum can be done through cross-curricular learning and authentic learning experiences.

      • Teachers play a crucial role in facilitating meaningful learning experiences and helping students understand the big picture.

      • Middle School MBA aims to empower students to navigate the complexities of the business world and make informed decisions. Educators should remember their impact on students and draw energy from seeing them grow and progress.

      • Taking a creative edge and adopting new teaching strategies can help teachers take lessons to the next level.

      • Finding motivation in moments of struggle is essential for educators to overcome challenges and continue making a difference in students' lives.

      • Chapters

        • 00:00 Introduction and Background

        • 03:09 The Value of Teaching Business and Economics in Schools

        • 09:33 The Relevance of Business Education in Middle School

        • 11:41 Implementing Middle School MBA in the Classroom

        • 14:48 Integration of Middle School MBA into the Curriculum

        • 18:44 The Learning Curve for Teachers

        • 25:31 Lesson Lens: A Lesson in Building a Profit and Loss Statement

        • 36:22 Bringing Real-World Application into the Classroom

        • 46:14 The Importance of Understanding the Big Picture

        • 48:34 Finding Motivation in Moments of Struggle

        • 49:12 Taking Lessons to the Next Level

        • Website: middleschoolmba.com

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          58 min
        • 163: The Story of Education Starts with the Story of a Child

          In this conversation, Jeffrey Benson discusses his extensive experience working with challenging students and the importance of creating a safe and inclusive classroom environment. He emphasizes the need for repetition and progress in student growth and highlights the role of teachers in supporting and advocating for their students. Benson also addresses the limitations of standardized testing and the importance of prioritizing life skills and the implicit curriculum. He concludes by emphasizing the value of being explicit in teaching and modeling desired behaviors and values. In this conversation, Jeffrey Benson shares insights and advice on creating a culture of excellence in schools, becoming confident and creative educators, and powering through moments of struggle. He emphasizes the importance of listening to students, finding joy in teaching, and providing opportunities for mastery. Benson also discusses the three-year timeline for teachers and principals to develop competence and offers guidance on fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation in education.

          Takeaways

          • Create a safe and inclusive classroom environment for all students, especially those who face challenges.

          • Focus on repetition and progress in student growth, understanding that each student learns at their own pace.

          • Teachers play a crucial role in supporting and advocating for their students, helping them develop life skills and a sense of responsibility.

          • Standardized testing has limitations and should not be the sole measure of student success.

          • Be explicit in teaching and modeling desired behaviors and values to create a positive classroom culture. Create a culture of excellence by explicitly defining and modeling the values and behaviors that are expected in the school.

          • It takes three years for teachers and principals to develop competence in their roles, with the first year focused on survival, the second year on refining, and the third year on competency.

          • During moments of struggle, go back and repeat lessons to help students reach mastery and experience success.

          • Teachers who constantly seek to change, innovate, and adopt new teaching strategies are often those who find joy in teaching and have a growth mindset.

          • Foster a culture of collaboration by providing opportunities for teachers to talk shop, share ideas, and receive mentorship and supervision.

          • To continue learning with Jeffrey Benson, visit his website jeffreybenson.org and reach out to him for conversations and mentorship.

          • Chapters

            00:00 Introduction and Background

            02:39 Working with Challenging Students

            06:58 Gaining Confidence in Working with Challenging Students

            10:41 The Importance of Repetition and Progress

            12:33 The Role of Teachers in Student Growth

            16:25 Dealing with Instability and Setbacks

            22:22 The Limitations of Standardized Testing

            34:52 Prioritizing Life Skills and Implicit Curriculum

            43:04 The Importance of Being Explicit

            44:28 Creating a Culture of Excellence

            46:23 Becoming Confident and Creative Educators

            51:34 Advice for Teachers and Principals

            53:02 Powering Through Moments of Struggle

            54:49 Seeking Innovation in Teaching

            56:34 Fostering a Culture of Collaboration

            57:41 Continuing to Learn with Jeffrey Benson

            Website: www.JeffreyBenson.org 

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            1 hr 11 min
          • 162: Find the Joy in Teaching andModel Our Best for Students

            In this conversation, Sarah Painter discusses the challenges teachers face before and during the pandemic. She emphasizes the importance of reflecting on teaching practices and finding ways to simplify and prioritize tasks. Sarah also highlights the need for self-care and the importance of setting boundaries that work for each individual. She encourages teachers to know themselves and their priorities and to involve others in the reflection process. Sarah shares insights on MTSS and the role of educators in supporting students. She concludes by discussing the value of seizing opportunities to lead and building alliances with parents and caregivers.


            Takeaways

            • Reflect on your teaching practices and find ways to simplify and prioritize tasks.
            • Take care of yourself and set boundaries that work for you.
            • Know yourself and your priorities, and involve others in the reflection process.
            • Seize opportunities to lead and build alliances with parents and caregivers.
            • 1 hr 24 min
            • 162
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              1 hr 24 min
            • 161: Sketchnoting for Student and Teacher Success

              Summary

              Ashton Rodenhiser, a professional live illustrator and graphic facilitator, discusses the power of visual communication and the process of graphic facilitation. She explains how she got into graphic facilitation and the tools she uses for her work. Ashton also introduces the concept of sketchnoting and shares how it can be taught to students. She emphasizes the importance of providing students with the freedom to doodle and draw while setting parameters to ensure the focus remains on learning. Ashton highlights the benefits of sketchnoting, including improved retention of information and the ability to make connections. In this conversation, Ashton Rodenhiser discusses the benefits of sketchnoting in the classroom and provides practical advice for teachers. She emphasizes the importance of allowing students the opportunity to sketchnote and encourages teachers to change their delivery of information to promote thinking and visual processing. Ashton also highlights the flexibility of sketchnoting and the various ways it can be incorporated into different subjects. She suggests celebrating and supporting all forms of creativity and advises teachers to persevere through rejection and reconnect with their why to overcome moments of stress. Ashton concludes by recommending her book, 'The Beginner's Guide to Sketchnoting,' and inviting teachers to join the sketchnoting community at sketchnote.school.


              Takeaways

              • Graphic facilitation involves creating visual representations of conversations and group processes.

              • Sketchnoting is a form of visual note-taking that can help improve retention of information and make connections.

              • Teachers can introduce sketchnoting to students by teaching basic drawing elements and encouraging them to use lines, shapes, and icons to represent information.

              • Doodling and sketchnoting can enhance learning and focus, but it's important to set expectations and parameters to ensure the focus remains on the content being learned. Encouraging students to sketchnote can enhance their learning experience by promoting visual thinking and processing.

              • Changing the delivery of information to a more creative and storytelling format can engage students and encourage deeper understanding.

              • Sketchnoting can be applied in various subjects and can be adapted to suit different learning styles and preferences.

              • Balancing creativity and productivity is important when incorporating sketchnoting in the classroom.

              • Embracing imperfection and understanding that sketchnoting skills develop over time can help teachers and students overcome self-doubt and fear of rejection.

              • Teachers can find resources and support for learning and implementing sketchnoting in the book 'The Beginner's Guide to Sketchnoting' and the sketchnoting community at sketchnote.school.

              • Chapters

                00:00 Introduction and Background

                02:10 Facilitation and Graphic Facilitation

                06:14 Process of Graphic Facilitation

                10:45 Tools and Setup for Graphic Facilitation

                14:22 The Power of Visual Communication

                16:06 Introduction to Sketchnoting

                19:21 Teaching Sketchnoting to Students

                29:49 Encouraging Doodling and Sketchnoting

                36:51 Benefits and Applications of Sketchnoting

                41:06 Encouraging Students to Sketchnote

                42:04 Changing Delivery of Information

                43:03 Creating an Environment for Visual Thinking

                44:39 Applying Sketchnoting in Different Subjects

                45:34 Balancing Creativity and Productivity

                46:21 Different Approaches to Sketchnoting

                49:14 Flexibility in Sketchnoting

                50:36 The Best Thing a Teacher Can Do

                52:42 Overcoming Stress as an Educator

                55:21 Advice for Teachers Trying Sketchnoting

                57:32 Embracing Imperfection in Sketchnoting

                58:27 Resources for Learning Sketchnoting


                Twitter: @mindseyeccf

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                1 hr 8 min
              • 160: Paternity Break for Matt and Ken

                Summary

                In this episode, Matt Rogers and Ken Ehrmann discuss the upcoming paternity break for the Powered Up Podcast. They reflect on the podcast journey and the impact it has had on their teaching identities. They also discuss the future of the podcast and the importance of setting boundaries as a new parent. They share their experiences and insights on re-entering the classroom after a break and the challenges of balancing work and personal life. Finally, they reminisce about the most memorable moments on the podcast. In this episode, Matt and Ken reflect on their conversations with teachers and the impact they have had. They discuss the possibility and realness of educators and the valuable lessons they have learned from the greats in the field. They also emphasize the importance of friendship and personal connection in their podcast journey. The episode concludes with a discussion on core values and approaches in teaching and a farewell message from Matt to the audience.

                Takeaways

                • Taking breaks and prioritizing family is important for personal well-being.

                • The podcast has provided a platform for personal growth and reflection as educators.

                • Setting clear boundaries and defining priorities is crucial for maintaining a healthy work-life balance.

                • Re-entering the classroom after a break requires adapting to changes while staying true to core values.

                • Memorable moments on the podcast include conversations with inspiring educators and learning new perspectives.

                • Chapters

                  00:00 Introduction and Paternity Break

                  07:23 Reflection on the Podcast Journey

                  12:30 Impact of the Podcast on Teaching Identity

                  18:08 Future of the Podcast

                  22:42 Setting Boundaries as a New Parent

                  34:18 Re-entering the Classroom after a Break

                  44:31 Defining Boundaries and Prioritizing

                  48:37 Most Memorable Moments on the Podcast

                  50:12 The Impact of Teachers

                  51:12 The Possibility and Realness of Educators

                  52:07 Learning from the Greats

                  53:09 The Friendship and Personal Connection

                  54:03 Core Values and Approaches in Teaching

                  55:30 Closing Remarks

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                  58 min
                • 159: When You Wonder, You're Learning

                  Summary

                  Ryan Rydzewski, co-author of the book 'When You Wonder, You're Learning,' discusses the enduring lessons of Mr. Rogers and their relevance in education today. He emphasizes the importance of relationships in the classroom and the need for teachers to bring their passions into their teaching. Ryan also highlights the impact of Mr. Rogers' methods on student learning and the need for changes in teacher training. He shares examples of schools prioritizing curiosity and relationship-building and discusses the challenges of implementing innovative approaches in education. The conversation explores the importance of creating a positive classroom environment, teaching subjects students don't enjoy, the impact of teacher enthusiasm, building relationships with students, the power of deep listening, finding strength in moments of struggle, teachers as lifelong learners, and spreading Fred Rogers' teaching methods.

                  Takeaways

                  • The importance of building relationships with students in the classroom

                  • The value of bringing personal passions into teaching

                  • The enduring relevance of Mr. Rogers' methods in education

                  • The need for changes in teacher training to prioritize relationships and curiosity Creating a positive classroom environment is crucial for student engagement and enjoyment of school.

                  • Teachers should find ways to make subjects that students don't enjoy more meaningful and relevant.

                  • Enthusiastic teachers have a positive impact on student performance and enjoyment of learning.

                  • Building relationships with students by showing genuine interest in their lives can create a stronger connection and enhance the learning experience.

                  • Deep listening, without judgment, is a powerful tool for effective communication and understanding.

                  • In moments of struggle, teachers can find strength by focusing on the impact they have on students' lives.

                  • Teachers should embrace a lifelong learning mindset and constantly seek new teaching strategies and methods.

                  • Spreading Fred Rogers' teaching methods can have a transformative impact on classrooms and students.

                  • Chapters

                    00:00 Introduction and Background

                    00:49 Catalyst for Writing the Book

                    05:02 Mr. Rogers' Impact on Pittsburgh

                    09:17 The Importance of Relationships in Education

                    11:15 The Role of Teachers in Fostering Curiosity

                    14:25 Bringing Personal Passions into the Classroom

                    16:36 The Impact of Relationships on Student Learning

                    19:56 The Importance of Inviting Students into Teachers' Lives

                    22:20 The Continuing Relevance of Mr. Rogers' Concepts

                    23:04 The Alignment of Mr. Rogers' Methods with Learning Sciences

                    25:26 The Need for Changes in Teacher Training

                    29:13 Balancing Relationships and Curriculum

                    31:31 The Challenge of Implementing Innovative Approaches

                    37:29 The Fear of Permission and Control in Education

                    41:09 Shifting Perspectives on Education and Standardized Testing

                    47:05 The Importance of a Positive Classroom Environment

                    48:02 Teaching Subjects Students Don't Enjoy

                    49:01 The Impact of Teacher Enthusiasm

                    50:46 Building Relationships with Students

                    52:27 The Power of Deep Listening

                    55:21 Finding Strength in Moments of Struggle

                    58:39 Teachers as Lifelong Learners

                    01:02:08 Spreading Fred Rogers' Teaching Methods


                    Website: whenyouwonder.org

                    Twitter: @ryanrydzewski @greggbehr @when_you_wonder


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                    1 hr 13 min
                  • 158: The Experience of Neurodiversity for Our Students

                    Summary

                    In this conversation, Christopher Scott Wyatt discusses his experience with being diagnosed with autism later in life and the shifting nature of diagnostic labels. He emphasizes the importance of individualized approaches in education and the need to focus on students' strengths and weaknesses rather than their labels. Wyatt also discusses the benefits and limitations of labels and the impact of discrimination. He shares strategies for supporting students with diverse needs and highlights the importance of teacher creativity and experimentation. The conversation concludes with a discussion on student-centered learning and challenging students outside of their comfort zones. In this conversation, Ken Ehrmann and Christopher Scott Wyatt discuss the importance of understanding and supporting students' needs. They emphasize the need for teachers to listen to their students and show empathy and compassion. They also explore rethinking traditional testing methods and the benefits of project-based learning. Additionally, they discuss how teachers can navigate moments of struggle and the importance of lifelong learning in teaching. Overall, the conversation highlights the importance of creating inclusive and supportive learning environments for all students.

                    Takeaways

                    • Teachers should take the time to understand and support each student's individual needs.

                    • Listening to students is crucial for creating a positive school experience.

                    • Rethinking traditional testing methods can lead to more meaningful and authentic assessments.

                    • Teachers should embrace lifelong learning and be open to trying new teaching strategies.

                    • Chapters

                      00:00 Introduction and the Importance of Names

                      01:40 Christopher Scott Wyatt's Background in Education

                      04:00 Christopher Scott Wyatt's Diagnosis of Autism

                      09:03 The Shifting Nature of Diagnostic Labels

                      11:16 The Impact of Labels on Discrimination

                      14:25 The Benefits and Limitations of Labels

                      17:44 The Importance of Individualized Approaches in Education

                      24:14 Christopher Scott Wyatt's Role as a Communications Teacher

                      26:44 Supporting Students with Diverse Needs

                      36:11 The Role of Good Teaching in Accommodations

                      39:44 The Importance of Teacher Creativity and Experimentation

                      44:23 Student-Centered Learning and Involving Learners in Accommodations

                      48:25 Challenging Students Outside of Their Comfort Zones

                      52:05 Understanding and Supporting Students' Individual Needs

                      58:33 The Importance of Listening to Students

                      59:11 Rethinking Traditional Testing Methods

                      01:00:55 Navigating Moments of Struggle

                      01:03:08 The Role of Lifelong Learning in Teaching

                      01:05:36 Connecting with Scott Wyatt

                      Website: https://www.tameri.com/autisticme/ 

                      Twitter: https://twitter.com/autisticme 


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                      1 hr 13 min
                    • 157: SEL was Here, is Here, and will be Here

                      Summary

                      In this conversation, Kathy discusses the importance of social-emotional learning (SEL) and its impact on teaching. She shares her experience in incorporating SEL into the classroom and emphasizes the need for teachers to set clear boundaries for communication and grading. The conversation also explores the challenges faced by teachers and strategies for self-reflection and personal well-being. The episode concludes with a discussion on enhancing lessons and continuing the conversation on SEL.

                      Takeaways

                      • Social-emotional learning (SEL) is important for creating a positive and supportive classroom environment.

                      • Teachers should incorporate SEL into their teaching practices and set clear boundaries for communication and grading.

                      • Self-reflection and personal well-being are crucial for teachers to navigate the challenges of the profession.

                      • Continuing the conversation on SEL and seeking change and innovation in teaching can lead to improved student experiences.

                      • Chapters

                        00:00 Introduction

                        01:59 Discussion about snow

                        03:05 Importance of social emotional learning

                        06:10 Impact of social emotional learning on teaching

                        09:38 Reflection on emotional intelligence

                        12:03 Encouraging self-reflection

                        14:35 Challenges of being a teacher

                        19:42 Incorporating social emotional learning into the classroom

                        23:32 Setting boundaries for teachers

                        26:34 Balancing personal well-being and teaching responsibilities

                        35:23 Importance of regulating students' emotions

                        36:46 Lesson Lens: Exploring a specific lesson

                        43:03 Enhancing the connection in lessons

                        46:31 Exit Ticket: Making students' school experience better

                        47:17 Exit Ticket: Dealing with challenging moments

                        48:48 Seeking change and innovation in teaching

                        50:25 Continuing the conversation

                        51:41 Conclusion

                        Website: www.wildewoodlearning.com  

                        LinkedIn: Kathy Magnuson 


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                        1 hr 2 min

                      About powerED Up

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                      We are powering education up by empowering you! Join us to talk about everything education with the hosts and weekly interviews. We will interview teachers to find out what makes great teachers and…