Rebel Teachers Rising

Send us a text

In this episode of the Rebel Teachers Rising Podcast, hosts interview Theresa Copeland, known on Instagram as 'True Life, I'm a Teacher,' who shares her harrowing story of being fired from her K-12 school. The discussion touches on various themes including teacher autonomy, the challenges of CAN curriculum, the teacher pay mess, and the detrimental effects of school administration's lack of experience and insecurity. Theresa reveals the struggles of maintaining professionalism while navigating administrative oversight and emphasizes the importance of thoughtfully curated, teacher-driven curricula. The conversation also underlines how teacher autonomy is being eroded, impacting teachers' mental health and the overall quality of education. Part two of the interview will further delve into Theresa's experiences and potential solutions to these systemic issues.

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest

00:07 Theresa Copeland's Story Begins

00:53 Theresa's Experience with Administration

05:14 Theresa's Instagram Controversy

09:04 The Fallout and Aftermath

22:02 Reflections and Broader Implications

30:47 The Complexity of Teacher Autonomy

31:27 The Role of Standards in Teaching

32:42 Challenges with Canned Curriculum

34:54 Teacher Health and Well-being

36:22 The Importance of Teacherpreneurship

39:09 Issues with Pacing and Curriculum Enforcement

47:11 The Problem with Decision Makers in Education

54:56 The Reading Instruction Dilemma

56:55 Conclusion and Call to Action

https://www.k-12confidential.com/

Send us a text

In this episode of the Rebel Teachers Rising Podcast, the hosts continue their introduction to the series, discussing various 'messes' within the K-12 education system in the U.S. They stress the need for a national K-12 educator governing board to address issues like poor literacy rates, ineffective reading curriculums, inequitable working conditions, and the lack of teacher autonomy. The episode highlights the systemic flaws exacerbating these messes, such as income inequalities, special education inadequacies, and mental health crises among teachers and students. Upcoming episodes will feature stories from guest teachers sharing personal experiences and solutions, aiming to empower educators to advocate for substantial changes to sustain democracy and improve public education.

00:00 Introduction to Rebel Teachers Rising Podcast
00:26 Overview of the Podcast Series
02:09 The Reading Mess in K-12 Education
05:44 Highlighting Expert Contributions
10:41 Climate and Culture in Schools
17:12 Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Challenges
22:04 Special Education Struggles
27:35 Teacher Health and Well-being
34:10 Teacher Autonomy and AI Concerns
37:51 Conclusion and Call to Action

https://www.k-12confidential.com/

Send us a text

In the first episode of the Rebel Teachers Rising Podcast, hosts Trina English, Jessica Martin, and Amanda Werner introduce their mission to create a teacher-led space to address systemic issues in K-12 education. They emphasize that the podcast is apolitical, welcoming diverse perspectives from public and private K-12 teachers nationwide. The hosts discuss their educational philosophies and the motivations behind starting the podcast while highlighting several critical 'messes' in the education system, such as the teacher shortage crisis, inadequate teacher pay, excessive teacher preparation requirements, the canned curriculum mess fueled by corporate greed, and the broader K-12 governance failures. They assert that these problems are bipartisan and require urgent attention from policymakers by amplifying teachers' voices and expertise. The episode serves as an introduction to their investigative journalistic series aiming for a national professional governing board of teachers to fix these entrenched issues in the education system.

00:00 Introduction: Setting the Stage

00:20 The Real Issues in K-12 Education

01:28 Creating a Teacher-Led Space

02:09 A Bipartisan Approach

02:50 The Fight for Public Education

05:12 Investigative Journalism and Teacher Voices

09:41 Philosophies of Education

19:42 The Journey of Creating the Podcast

28:15 Introduction to the Teacher Shortage Crisis

28:48 The Reading and DEI Mess

29:56 Title IX and Sexual Violence in Schools

30:31 Connecting the Dots: Teacher Shortage and K-12 Governance

31:11 The Petition for Teacher Leadership

32:29 Exploring the Teacher Shortage Mess

38:34 Teacher Pay Mess: Unpacking the Issues

43:26 Teacher Preparation Mess: The Hidden Costs

45:55 Canned Curriculum: A One-Size-Fits-All Problem

51:24 Conclusion and Call to Action

https://www.k-12confidential.com/

Send us a text

This episode of the Rebel Teachers Rising podcast is about the intersection of gender and race in K-12 schools. In this important episode, Manuela Allen, a high school teacher and advocate for an intersectional approach to equity, discusses her work and experiences. Topics covered in this episode include Title IX implementation issues, the lack of awareness and training on gender equity, and the pervasive challenges faced by marginalized students, especially girls and African American females. This episode delves into the need for better reporting mechanisms for sexual harassment and abuse in schools, the role of male privilege, and the conspicuous absence of gender equity in education frameworks. Lastly, it calls for greater solidarity among teachers and the necessity of male allies in addressing these systemic issues.

00:00 Introduction to the Episode
00:08 Meet Mani: A Champion for Equity
01:16 Challenges in Gender Equity
02:50 The Reality of Sexual Harassment in Schools
06:28 Intersectionality in Equity Efforts
07:28 Mani's Advocacy and Friendship with Trina
12:30 Addressing Sexual Harassment and Abuse
21:45 Mindful Communication in the Classroom
34:32 Misogyny in Media and Culture
44:13 Adultification of Black and Brown Girls
45:24 Navigating Dress Codes and Self-Esteem
46:44 Advocating for Non-Sexist Dress Codes
48:54 Period Equity in Schools
49:54 Challenges in Implementing Period Equity
51:19 Swimming and Periods: A Controversial Policy
52:13 Understanding Tampon Myths
53:10 The Impact of Periods on Academic Performance
53:41 Addressing Sexual Harassment in K-12
54:23 The Toxic Culture of Blaming Victims
55:25 Title IX and Sexual Harassment Training
56:34 The Role of Title IX Coordinators
57:20 The Importance of Reporting Sexual Abuse
58:19 The Consequences of Ignoring Sexual Abuse
01:03:09 The Need for Male Allies in Advocacy
01:03:43 Cultural Differences in Gender-Based Oppression
01:04:48 The Problem of Siloed School Districts
01:05:39 Teacher Pay and Oppression
01:07:19 Defining Sexual Harassment and Abuse
01:09:11 The Legal Obligations of Schools
01:13:25 The Importance of Reporting and Training
01:23:43 Conclusion: The Need for Change

www.rebelteachersrising.com
Petition to Save K-12 Schooling and our Precious Democracy!

Send us a text

This episode, recorded a few years ago, explores the complexities and pitfalls of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives in K-12 education. The hosts discuss the superficial virtue signaling associated with DEI movements and its consequences. They emphasize the need for authentic inclusivity and intersectionality, pointing out the negative impact of ignoring historically  marginalized identities. The conversation also covers the ongoing culture wars affecting educators and students, with a detailed critique of current educational frameworks. The hosts share personal stories, highlighting the importance of understanding varied forms of trauma and invisible marginalization. They call for open, honest conversations and genuine empowerment of teachers and students to foster a truly equitable educational environment.

00:00 Introduction to DEI and Virtue Signaling
01:03 The Backlash and Inclusivity Challenges
01:48 Audio Quality Disclaimer
02:09 Rebel Teachers and Social Justice Reforms
03:31 Teachers' Role in Culture Wars
06:20 Pronouns and Safety in Schools
07:41 Equity Work and Teacher Frustrations
11:48 Polarization and Its Impact on Education
22:02 Teachers' Expertise and Systemic Issues
29:09 Teacher Pay Structures and Cost of Living
30:13 Challenges Faced by Teachers in Different States
31:24 Defining Equity in Education
32:33 Understanding Historically Marginalized Identities
34:23 The Social Construct of Race
36:17 Visible vs. Invisible Marginalized Identities
37:21 Historical Context of Racial Oppression
38:38 Dominant and Marginalized Groups in Society
40:40 Trauma and Its Impact on Students
45:11 Challenges in Addressing Equity in Schools
48:18 The Importance of Inclusive and Intersectional Frameworks
54:53 Final Thoughts on Equity and Social Justice in Education

www.rebelteachersrising.com
Petition to Save K-12 Schooling and our Precious Democracy!

Send us a text

In this episode of the DEI Mess series, the hosts explore the complexities and confusions surrounding Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), particularly in the context of K-12 education. They discuss the broad definitions of DEI, its narrow and often exclusive application in schools, and the resistance from different societal groups. The episode features Trina English, who shares her extensive experience in DEI work, from identifying marginalized identities in schools to creating student unions that address a variety of intersections. They also touch upon innovative solutions like civic engagement and the urgent need for a national organization of teachers to lead educational reforms. The conversation wraps up with insights on how educators at all levels can begin to implement DEI initiatives in their schools, emphasizing the necessity of creative problem-solving and inclusive practices.

00:00 Introduction to DEI Mess
00:44 Understanding DEI in K-12
01:58 Interview with Trina English
04:58 Defining DEI and Its Challenges
08:10 DEI in Practice: K-12 Focus
12:52 The Role of Teachers in DEI
16:23 Systemic Issues and Solutions
26:14 The Petition for Teacher Leadership
32:31 The Unending Role of a Teacher
33:54 Teachers as Leaders: A Solution to Educational Issues
35:25 The Deep-Rooted Problems in K-12 Governance
36:44 Advice for Rebel Teachers
37:24 Implementing DEI: A Practical Approach
40:05 Creating Inclusive Student Unions
46:36 Addressing Specific Issues: Dress Code and Period Equity
49:42 Elementary School Perspective on Student Agency
01:01:24 Final Thoughts on DEI and Education Reform

www.rebelteachersrising.com
Petition to Save K-12 Schooling and our Precious Democracy!

Send us a text

In this episode, veteran teachers and hosts Amanda, Jess, and Trina share their bizarre and often heartbreaking experiences dealing with sick days and sub plans in the teaching profession. They discuss the immense pressure on teachers to come to work even when ill, and the systemic challenges that exacerbate such situations. Through personal anecdotes, they address the lack of support from administrators, the emotional and physical toll on educators, and offer a glimmer of hope by highlighting solutions and coping strategies. This candid conversation sheds light on the hidden struggles teachers face, urging a reevaluation of how teacher well-being is valued.

00:00 Introduction to Bizarro Scenarios
00:37 The Struggles of Sick Days and Sub Plans
01:34 Amanda's Ongoing Illness
02:34 Teacher Poll Results on Sick Days
05:11 Jess's Heartbreaking Story
12:10 Amanda's Husband's Experience
13:58 Trina's Challenging Cohort
20:44 Therapy and Self-Care for Teachers
23:48 Veteran Teachers and Classroom Management Challenges
24:36 Implicit Bias in the Classroom
26:43 Systemic Failures in Education
28:16 Teacher Health and Well-being
31:38 The Martyr Teacher Mentality
36:01 Support Systems and Union Help
45:44 The Impact of Teacher Shortages

Resource Mentioned: 

Take Out Therapy: Stop Absorbing Start Thriving The Key to Staying Empathetic Without Sacrificing Your Inner Peace

www.rebelteachersrising.com
Petition to Save K-12 Schooling and our Precious Democracy!

Send us a text

In this special New Year's episode of the Teacher Shortage Crisis podcast, hosts Amanda, Jess, and Trina come together to discuss their reflections, challenges, and goals for the coming year. The conversation covers the emotional toll of teaching, ways to replenish as educators, and the importance of radical love and community among colleagues.

They introduce a new approach to the podcast, including a rebranding to 'Rebel Teachers Rising,' and highlight their involvement with a solution framework aimed at empowering teachers to lead their profession.

The episode also touches on the Big Five personality test, revealing insights about each host's traits and how it influences their teaching and collaboration. They wrap up by offering practical advice for teachers experiencing burnout while emphasizing the need for collective action and support.

00:00 Introduction: The Teacher Shortage Crisis
01:04 New Year's Special: Caring for Rebel Teacher Souls
02:30 Reflecting on the Challenges of January
03:45 A Love-Hate Relationship with Teaching
09:27 Dealing with Interpersonal Conflicts
13:55 Books to Inspire and Reflect
16:55 Practicing Radical Love and Protection
30:05 Understanding Ourselves: The Big Five Personality Test
33:50 Scoring High on Openness
35:43 Understanding Conscientiousness
37:11 Diving into Neuroticism
46:17 Reimagining the Podcast
55:37 The Solution Framework
01:01:29 Final Thoughts and Call to Action

Resources Discussed:

Don’t Think Twice, It’s All Right by Bob Dylan

Big 5 Personality Test

The 4 Agreements

The Courage to be Disliked

What’s Your Dream

The Goddess Pose

Pedagogy of the Oppressed

Headspace 

Diane Ravitch 

www.rebelteachersrising.com
Petition to Save K-12 Schooling and our Precious Democracy!

Send us a text

In this episode of the Teacher Shortage Crisis Podcast, a transitional kindergarten teacher, Elyse Dorflinger,  shares her unique insights as both a general education teacher and the mother of an autistic child. Elyse describes the painstaking process of securing an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) for her son, highlighting systemic inadequacies in special education support. The discussion addresses the overwhelming struggles faced by teachers, the lack of proper resources and training, and the significant impact on students with disabilities. Elyse's story sheds light on the broader issue of educational inequity and emphasizes the urgent need for systemic change.

00:00 Introduction and Host Introductions
00:49 Meet Elyse Dorflinger: A Veteran Teacher's Perspective
03:48 The Challenges of Special Education
05:21 The Fight for Support and Resources
09:11 Systemic Issues in Special Education
13:10 Possible Solutions and Call to Action
22:55 Navigating Special Education Services
23:50 Investigating the Teacher Shortage
24:20 Challenges in Special Education Reporting
25:01 Personal Struggles with the System
26:35 Fighting for Support and Services
28:17 Systemic Inequities and Advocacy
34:33 The Importance of Early Intervention
37:28 The Emotional Toll on Educators
40:08 Resources and Recommendations
44:05 Final Thoughts and Call to Action

www.rebelteachersrising.com
Petition to Save K-12 Schooling and our Precious Democracy!

Send us a text

In this episode of the Teacher Shortage Crisis Podcast, co-host Trina welcomes Manuwella ("Mani") Allen, a former special education teacher with over 20 years of experience, to discuss the unique challenges and insights of the special education field. Recorded just before the 2024 school year, Manny shares her profound experiences and the struggles she faced while working with students of varying disabilities in a moderate to severe special day class.

The conversation covers the complexities of balancing the needs of medically fragile, emotionally disturbed, and intellectually disabled students in one classroom. Mani recounts the physical, emotional, and spiritual tolls of the job, emphasizing the burnout that comes from always prioritizing students' needs over administrative and systemic demands.

Key topics include the burdensome and often superficial IEP (Individualized Education Program) processes, inadequate support and training for paraprofessionals, and the systemic flaws in how special education is managed and executed in schools. Mani also touches on the challenges new special education teachers face, the administrative pressures to downplay students' needs, and the emotional resilience required to continue advocating for students in a broken system.

Mani's story is both inspiring and sobering, shedding light on the critical yet often under-appreciated role of special education teachers. She offers advice for parents navigating the IEP process and stresses the importance of finding supportive connections within the educational community.

The episode concludes with a call to action for educators, parents, and policymakers to recognize and address the dire state of special education to support these essential educators and their students better.

www.rebelteachersrising.com
Petition to Save K-12 Schooling and our Precious Democracy!