In this episode, we speak with Mr. Harms, a dedicated fourth-grade teacher, and Ms. Nunamaker, a passionate paraprofessional from Ridgeview Elementary. Recently honored for their exceptional commitment to inclusive education, as highlighted in a WGLT news article, they share their insights and experiences in creating a welcoming and supportive classroom environment for all students. Hear about their collaborative approach, the challenges they've overcome, and the profound impact of inclusion on their students and the entire school community.

In this engaging episode, we sit down with Tyler Swearingen, the incredibly involved principal of Tri-Valley Elementary! More than just an administrator, Tyler is a visible and active presence in every aspect of the school day. From directing traffic as a crossing guard to assisting in classrooms and supervising recess, Tyler's hands-on leadership style and genuine care for his 350 students shine through. He shares his education journey and emphasizes the profound importance of building strong relationships and fostering a caring environment for all children. Get ready to be inspired by Tyler's dedication to his students and the Tri-Valley community!

In this episode, we chat with Carmen Daubs, a 2nd-grade teacher at Northwest Elementary School in Lincoln ESD # 27. She is a dedicated educator passionate about creating enriching learning experiences for her students!

In this episode of ROE 17 POD, we sit down with Mike Jones, a passionate middle school science teacher with nearly 30 years of classroom experience, and the past 10 years at Thomas Metcalf Laboratory School at Illinois State University. Mike was recognized as Illinois’ 2017 STEM Teacher of the Year by the Illinois Science Teachers Association and is known for his creative, inquiry-based approach to science education.

Join us as Mike shares how he leverages Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) to empower students and foster a love for science through hands-on, engaging strategies. We’ll also dive into his unique educational journey, from earning his B.S. in Middle School Science and Mathematics Education to completing two master’s degrees in Curriculum and

Instruction and Educational Administration, and now pursing a doctorate focused

on science education and learner identity.

In this episode, we explore how Lincoln Elementary School District #27 is making the most of the USDA’s Local Food for Schools Cooperative Agreement Program.

Join us as we sit down with District Superintendent Kent Froebe, Director of Finance Colleen Jodlowski, and Food Service Director Connie Crawley to discuss their commitment to serving fresh, from scratch meals—and what makes their program a success.

Resources:

• USDA's Local Food for Schools Cooperative Agreement
• Farm Flavor Article: August 2023
• Illinois Farmer Today Article: April 2022

In this week's episode, we talk with Matthew Phillips, a Junior and Senior High School Social Studies Teacher for Woodland CUSD 5. Mr. Phillips completed the National WWII Museum Institute Ambassador Program during the summer of 2024. We discuss teaching hard history, women's impact on WWII, and how the right resources and lessons can keep students engaged.

Resources:

https://www.ww2classroom.org/

https://www.nationalww2museum.org/students-teachers/educator-resources

On this week's episode, we talk to Melissa Foster, a Special Education Teacher at Odell Grade School. We talk about Melissa's unique path to educator licensure, and how she incorporates real-life learning experiences for her students in 4th through 8th grade.

In this episode, we talk to Ami Flammini, ROE # 17 Instructional Coach for MTSS & PBIS. We talk about what Mult-Tiered Systems of Supports (MTSS) and Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS) are, how schools use them, best practices, and we bust some common myths! 

In this episode, we talk to Matt Sherrill, the Regional Educational Technology Coordinator for the East Central Region with the Learning Technology Center of Illinois. We talk to Matt about his role with LTC, AI in the classroom, and more!

https://www.ltcillinois.org/

In this week's episode, we talk to Gary Tipsord about school finance basics. Mr. Tipsord is the current Executive Director of the Illinois Association of Regional Superintendents of Schools (IARSS) and a retired superintendent.