In this episode Angela and Lisa chat with Mattie McKinney, math teacher at Summers Middle School, who shares her journey from accountant to passionate teacher. A proud Royse City ISD alumni, Mattie reflects on working in her hometown and contributing to the district that shaped her. She discusses how she uses the "Building Thinking Classrooms" model, to encourage discovery-based learning, critical thinking, and student collaboration. Mattie reveals how she creates a supportive classroom culture that encourages productive struggle and helps students grow academically and personally.

To learn more about guest, visit our shownotes.

Believe it or not, this is Episode 50 of RC Teacher Talk! Join your hosts, Angela Arledge and Lisa Pogue, as they reminisce on their favorite memories in education, share insightful stories, and discuss the challenges and triumphs of teaching. From hilarious anecdotes to heartfelt reflections, this special 50th episode offers a unique perspective on what it means to be an educator. Get ready to laugh, cry, and cringe as we dive into some of the wildest, wackiest, and most heartwarming moments.  We hope you enjoy this trip down memory lane.

For episode highlights and quotable quotes, visit our shownotes.

Tune in to this episode of RC Teacher Talk to learn about the dynamic duo behind Royse City ISD's thriving CTE department. Cathleen Petroff and Lauren Jones share insights into their innovative programs, student-driven initiatives, and the exciting future of CTE in the district. Discover how they're empowering students with valuable skills and preparing them for successful careers. Learn more about the impact of CTE, from early career awareness to advanced industry certifications, and how it's shaping the future of Royse City ISD.

To learn more about our guests and their programs check out our shownotes.

In this episode of RC Teacher Talk, hosts Angela and Lisa Pogue dive into a unique conversation with Officer Zach Morales and his special partner, Wink, the first canine member of Royse City ISD. Listeners are treated to a behind-the-scenes look at the role of a school security dog, as Morales shares his journey from a military police officer and dog handler to his return to Royse City as a K-9 handler in his home district. Not only does this episode highlight Wink’s impressive capabilities, but it also gives a glimpse into Morales' love for the community, from growing up in Royse City to returning with his family as a dedicated contributor to school safety. If you’re ready for a mix of heroics, heart, and a bit of canine charm, this episode is a must-listen!

To learn more about our guests, check out our Show Notes.

RC Teacher Talk is BACK! Listen to find out what's been going on with Angela and Lisa, and Royse City ISD. Our district theme for the school year is GLOW, so this season we hope to share the many ways RCISD shines.

Visit our show notes to learn more

You’re in for a surprise with the beginning of this episode, then Angela and Lisa talk internet safety.  Your hosts share tips for parents and teachers on managing technology use with students.  You’ll learn some apps and ideas for helping students make good choices with their devices and the World Wide Web.  Our guest today is Jet Carriker, US History teacher at Royse City High School.  Mr. Carriker shares about his first year in RCISD, how he builds relationships with students, and what it would be like to be Iron Man in the classroom.

Show Notes:

Royse City ISD enters the month of May preparing for the end of the school.  In this episode, Angela and Lisa discuss validating students for effort and how we can value more than just getting all of the answers right. You’ll meet Michelle King, an energetic fourth-grade teacher from Herndon Elementary, who shares how she provides a safe environment for her students, how you can show appreciation for teachers, and how she uses technology to save time and help cement learning.

Highlights of this episode: 

It’s testing season in Texas and many other states. Angela and Lisa start the episode with some ideas educators can use to make testing days easier, then they share some tips for students and parents to help with test anxiety. This episode’s guests are third-grade teachers at Herndon Elementary in Royse City. They are teacher friends and work partners who work together to brainstorm ways to make learning fun and challenge third graders to grow into the expectations of intermediate students.

Highlights of this episode: 

To meet our guests and read their quotable quotes, visit bit.ly/rcttep44

If you’re a first-year teacher or a veteran teacher, a mom, or have a mom, you won’t want to miss this episode. To begin the episode, Lisa interviews the Arledge girls, Angela’s three daughters- Evelyn, Emery, and Ella. You’ll learn what’s cool and not so cool about having a teacher for a mom. Then, your hosts, Lisa and Angela, have a delightful visit with Caroline Sherek, a first-year teacher at Bailey Middle School, and her mom, veteran teacher Jane Braddock, interventionist at Cherry Elementary School. 

Highlights of this episode: 

To meet our guests and read their quotable quotes, check out our show notes at bit.ly/rcttep43

In this episode, your hosts, Lisa and Angela, start this duo episode discussing STEM. You’ll learn the definition of STEM and the benefits of a STEM activities to students. Following a brief introduction to STEM, you’ll hear from an innovative teaching duo at Cherry Elementary. You’ll learn how the librarian and the STEM instructor pair up to provide unique activities for their students.

Highlights of this episode: