On this episode of Tackling Tech, Tierra Leustig interviews Tisha Poncio, a Digital Learning Specialist at Wakelet, a free EdTech tool, and content platform. Tisha is a Texan, mom, Flipgrid expert, former tech coach, and educator, and has a M.S. in Learning Technologies. Using technology and empathy, her mission in life is to empower teachers.

On this episode of Tackling Tech, Tierra Leustig interviews Scott Bayer about being an anti-racist teacher, diversifying reading lists, creating inclusive learning environments, and leveraging ed-tech in non-technical ELA classrooms. Scott Bayer is a High School English teacher, Former ELA Instructional Specialist, and Co-Founder of #TheBookChat on Twitter.

On this episode of Tackling Tech, Tierra interviews Robert Breyer, a K-5 Principal, Leadership Coach, and author. Robert has been passionate about coaching aspiring school leaders, ever since he was involved in his district’s leadership mentoring program and became a Principal. Robert shares his philosophies on coaching, leadership, and education.

On this episode of Tackling Tech, Tierra interviews Kim Mattina, Middle School Technology Teacher in New Jersey, podcast Host of The Suite Talk, Author, and Google-certified trainer and educator. Last year, Kim shifted from being a Tech teacher to being a Tech Supporter/Virtual Learning Specialist, and next year she’ll be back in the classroom as a Computer Science teacher. Only time will tell just how much teachers will continue to integrate technology in the classroom when everyone is face-to-face in the fall.

On this episode of Tackling Tech, Tierra interviews Eric Griffith, the Director of Media and Training at Mobile Technical Services based in Ohio. Eric shares how he conducts effective professional development training and advises teachers on integrating technology into the classroom. They discuss one-to-one device programs, the difference between districts that were prepared or not for remote learning, and the importance of teachers’ ability to be flexible.

On this episode of Tackling Tech, Tierra interviews Brian Seymour, Director of Instructional Technology for the Pickerington Local School District in Ohio. Brian recently wrote an article on EdSurge titled “Trust the Process, How to Choose and Use EdTech that Actually Works” about the lesson he learned after his district bought a $50,000 Ed Tech product that they couldn’t use. Brian explains the process they implement now to narrow down and purchase worthy programs that help students learn and stay engaged.

On this episode of Tackling Tech, Tierra interviews Rita Wirtz, a reading specialist, blogger, former Principal and teacher, keynote speaker, and author of “Reading Champions! Teaching Reading Made Easy!” Rita shares her idea of a utopian school and says there is a chance for a

fresh start in education as students return to a physical classroom. Pushing the idea of “catching up” after falling behind last year won’t benefit students or teachers.

On this episode of Tackling Tech, Tierra Leustig interviews the hosts of The Three Caffeinated Coaches podcast— Georgina Dean, Shannon Moore, and Becky Colling. These three educators and coaches from around the world decided to launch a podcast that is a part discussion and part book study to connect, inspire, and celebrate educators. They discuss the importance of growing a PLN and advise educators going back into an in-person or hybrid classroom.

On this episode of Tackling Tech, Tierra Leustig interviews Porsha Dudley, an Elementary Principal in Houston, Texas. Portia shares her journey stepping up to a leadership position in education, taking initiative, building relationships, and making everyone at her school feel appreciated.

On this episode of Tackling Tech, Tierra Leustig interviews Julie Daniel Davis about the future of education and voice learning. Julie is an adjunct professor at UT Chattanooga, a Canvas Consultant, an Alexa Champion, and was an educator for over 20 years. Julie explains the 5 P’s of the future of education— personalization, programable, participatory, predictive, and privacy.