In this episode of Shore Cast, hosts Mike Zwatty and Justin Frawley welcome 22-year veteran Beth Hockenbery to discuss her journey from 15 years in learning support to teaching middle school math. The conversation covers the impact of AI in the classroom, the use of data-driven tools like Firefly and Exact Path, and the realities of implementing personalized learning through station rotations. Beth also shares career wisdom on staying flexible and balancing the "ginormous" demands of the middle school curriculum.

In this short bonus episode, Mike & Justin discuss Stories of Our Why, a new podcast and video series from the West Shore School District that celebrates the voices and journeys of our students. Each episode features student speakers from Red Land and Cedar Cliff High Schools who have shared their stories at Board of School Directors, giving us a firsthand look at their experiences, challenges, and accomplishments.

AI is here to stay. Join the West Shore Instructional Technology Team as they unpack the district’s new artificial intelligence policy, why it matters for classrooms, and how they’re keeping learning human in a digital world.

At Red Mill Elementary, a passionate team of educators has transformed the stressful PSSA testing period into a schoolwide celebration of growth and achievement through creative themes, hallway makeovers, and community involvement. This year’s theme, “To Proficiency and Beyond,” turned the school into a glowing space adventure complete with astronaut costumes, student-made videos, and interactive decorations. The effort has built a powerful, positive culture where students look forward to testing and feel supported by teachers, staff, and peers alike. What began as a way to ease anxiety has grown into a 10-year tradition that motivates, unites, and inspires the entire school community.

In this episode of Shore Cast, hosts Mike Zwatty and Justin Frawley sit down with Red Land math teacher Maura Yinger to explore her deep dive into project-based learning (PBL). From analyzing solar panel cost-efficiency to composing music with trig functions, Maura discusses the power of PBL to foster student engagement, retention, and 21st-century skills. Whether you’re a seasoned educator or just PBL-curious, this episode offers practical tips, lessons learned, and a fresh take on making math meaningful.

In this episode, we dive into all the exciting takeaways from PETE&C, Pennsylvania's premiere educational technology conference. Our team shares their favorite sessions, the best new tools to bring back to the classroom, plus how AI is reshaping the future of education. Tune in for a fun, insightful discussion on how this conference is shaping the way we teach and learn!

In this episode of Short Cast, we sit down with Dr. Michele Trevino and Doug Knepp, the administrators behind the brand-new Old Trail Intermediate School. They share their journey of opening a new school, from assembling a team and shaping a positive culture to navigating the challenges of change. We dive into what makes this intermediate model unique, how PBIS is shaping student behavior, and the exciting programs that are bringing the school to life.

Dive into the innovative world of aquaponics at Cedar Cliff High School, where hands-on learning takes center stage. Join hosts Justin Frawley and Mike Zwatty as they explore how teacher Justin Weaver and his students are growing more than plants – they’re cultivating teamwork, creativity, and real-world skills. From bee hives and laser engravers to community gardens and koi fish, this episode showcases the dynamic classroom that’s inspiring a new generation. Hear firsthand from students Sophia and Annabelle about their favorite projects and the life lessons they’ll carry with them long after graduation.

In this episode of Shore Cast, Red Land teachers Matt Wagoner, Ian Winn and Dan Snelbaker share their insights and experiences in the daVinci program. Founded in 2018, this cross-curricular program enables students to create personalized projects that align with PA Core Standards in Science, Mathematics, and Science and Technology.

Fifth-grade teacher Steph Watts shares her journey toward personalized learning in her classroom. After years of trial and refinement, she discusses the planning process and implementation of a self-paced learning environment.