✍️ How do we make writinginstruction more doable—and more joyful—for teachers and students? In thisepisode of TandL Talks, teachers Erin Langston and Meen Mensonides sharetheir biggest takeaways from the August Teaching & Learning Summit. Fromconnecting reading and writing, to seeing the power of vertical alignmentacross grade levels, they reflect on strategies that bring clarity andconfidence to writing instruction.

✨ “I feel hopeful… this gaveour school the boost we needed to get kids writing with confidence.” – MeenMensonides

Three powerhouse paraeducators—Ali Meyers, Nikki Levy, and Jennifer Parks—share how mentorship, job-alike PLCs, and deep learning like LETRs training are transforming culture and classrooms. Their stories highlight the shift from “just a para” to professional leader, showing how paraeducators are indispensable partners in student success. Inspiring, actionable, and full of heart—you won’t want to miss this conversation.

In this episode of TandL Talks, Nancy and Gena sit down with first-grade teacher Leslie Porter from Mountain View Elementary to talk about her journey through LETRS training. Leslie shares her biggest “aha” moments about the science of reading, how she’s transformed daily instruction with tools like mirrors and sound walls, and the impact she’s already seeing in her students. Whether you’re just starting LETRs or curious about how it connects to CKLA, this conversation offers practical insights and inspiration for every teacher.

In this episode of TandL Talks, we sit down with educators Deja Bee and Kat Miller who made the inspiring journey from paraeducator to classroom teacher. Hear their stories of perseverance, passion, and the power of growing into leadership while staying rooted in service to students.

In this episode of TandL Talks, Carson Elementary’s Anthony Mason shares how social-emotional learning creates safe, connected classrooms where students thrive. From building trust to sparking meaningful conversations, Anthony shows how SEL practices make a lasting impact on kids’ learning and relationships.

✨ Ready to start the year strong? Revisit our convo with Sherrie Bakke, 1st grade teacher at Meeker, as she shares smart ways to maximize classroom time. So many ideas you can use right away!

Welcome to TandL Talks—the podcast for, about, and featuring fabulous educators! In our very first episode, we dive into two powerful tools shaping instruction across the district: the JML-STI social studies curriculum and Tier 1 Navigation. You’ll hear how teachers are using these resources to center tribal sovereignty, build student understanding, and strengthen Tier 1 instruction. It’s a conversation full of purpose, partnership, and pride in what’s possible.

📲 Follow TandL Talks on Spotify or Apple Podcasts to hear more from the incredible educators of the Puyallup School District.

In this episode, we visit Meeker Elementary to learn how one first grade teacher makes every moment of the school day matter. With thoughtful routines, strong expectations, and a focus on student ownership, she shares how maximizing instructional time leads to greater learning and more joyful classrooms. Her insights are both practical and inspiring—especially for anyone working with our youngest learners.

📲 TandL Talks is the podcast for, about, and featuring Puyallup educators.
Tune in on Spotify or Apple Podcasts, and follow us for more stories that elevate teaching and learning across our district.

How do you make the most of every instructional minute without burning out? The amazing teachers from Pope Elementary join us to share how they maximize classroom time with purpose, clarity, and a whole lot of intention. From transitions to routines to instructional planning, their strategies are practical, powerful, and grounded in what’s best for kids. This episode is full of ideas you can take straight back to your classroom or school team.

📲 TandL Talks is the podcast for, about, and featuring Puyallup educators.
Listen on Spotify or Apple Podcasts, and hit follow so you never miss an episode.

What does true inclusion look like in schools—and how can we make it a reality for every student? In this episode, we talk with Lenzi Dean, a passionate advocate and expert in inclusive practices. Lenzi shares powerful stories, practical strategies, and a clear message: inclusion isn’t a place or a program—it’s a mindset. Whether you're a classroom teacher, specialist, or administrator, this episode will challenge and inspire you to rethink what’s possible.

📲 TandL Talks is the podcast for, about, and featuring Puyallup educators.
Listen on Spotify or Apple Podcasts, and be sure to follow us for more episodes that celebrate and support the work you do.