As teachers, we are surrounded with questions from students, colleagues, and ourselves (just to name a few sources). On today’s podcast, Jamie, Natalie, and Rachel take a moment to unpack the question, “How do I incorporate writing more regularly in my classroom?” What do we mean when we use the word “writing”? How do standards, content, and students’ insecurities work together or in oppositions of one another? This conversation seeks to thoughtfully explore the many challenges and possibilities that come for teachers who want to be more intentional with writing in their classrooms. 

Today at school, consider this: When you say writing, what do you mean? Do you know? Do your students know? 

One of the most challenging aspects of teaching in the first few years is navigating how to unit plan in a way that covers the standards, encourages creativity, and assesses student learning.  In this episode, Natalie and Rachel discuss how they use essential questions, standards, and assessment to guide their day-to-day lessons in a way that meaningfully guides students through their learning.  

Today at school, consider this: How can you use essential questions as guardrails to guide all that you do in your classroom? 

Every story needs an introduction, right? In this episode, Jamie, Natalie, and Rachel tell their stories. They discuss what led them to the classroom, what makes them passionate about teaching, and what their vision is for Teachers Changing Teaching. Plus, how a COVID summer and time on Jamie’s back porch inspired us to focus on our strengths. 

Today at school, consider this: How can you be the best version of yourself by leaning into your natural strengths?

This week, Jamie, Natalie, and Rachel discuss building community at school and simplifying the meaning making process. Natalie shares how her beliefs lead to joy, simplicity, and optimism in her classroom. Rachel shares a podcast project she created based on one of her values: community. Plus, why you might need a Mountain Poetry Phase.  Today at school, consider this: How can you support your students in meaning-making? How can you lead right where you are?
Soundtracks, Songwriting, and Soundscapes: Producing the Podcast of Our Lives