In this episode of TDI: Real Talk, Rae Hughart unpacks the hesitation many educators feel when using AI tools—and reframes the conversation completely. What if AI didn’t replace your voice, but helped amplify it? What if using the right tools meant you could reclaim your time without compromising your authenticity?
Rae shares real examples from teachers in the field, 15 ways to use AI that actually feel human, and a mindset shift that makes strategic tech use feel empowering instead of impersonal.
Plus: new educator shoutouts, free resources, and a wellness boost from Shaklee you’ll want to hear about.

This week on TDI: Real Talk, Rae Hughart takes you behind the scenes of the latest Teachers Deserve It focus groups—where educators from across the country are sharing the raw, unfiltered truth about what they need most. From burnout to broken systems to moments of unexpected joy, these conversations are shaping the next phase of TDI’s work. Plus: new free tools in the TDI Learning Hub, a Substack you need to subscribe to, and shoutouts to teacher-led brands making waves. Because your voice isn’t just valid—it’s vital.

This excerpt from "Teachers Deserve It" emphasizes that while Teacher Appreciation Week is a positive occasion, the level of recognition and support teachers receive should be the norm, not an exception. The Pod acknowledges small gestures like free coffee and notes are nice, but argues they don't make up for the lack of ongoing appreciation. It advocates for teachers to fully embrace the current week of celebration while also recognizing that consistent respect, visibility, and support are truly deserved. The piece introduces the "Teachers Deserve It" community and Learning Hub as a resource to help create a future where appreciation is a constant, not a fleeting event.

As the school year winds down, it’s easy for students—and teachers—to check out. But the final weeks can actually be some of the most meaningful moments you create all year. In this episode of TDI: Real Talk, Rae Hughart shares five powerful, low-stress activities that help students reflect, celebrate, and leave your classroom feeling seen and supported. Plus, get tips on using TDI’s new Parent Communication Tools to save time this spring and set yourself up for a smoother back-to-school season.
Stick around for our small business spotlights and a quick shoutout to the wellness tools keeping teachers strong through the final countdown!

Teachers Deserve It presents strategies for educators to enhance communication with parents, emphasizing the importance of selecting the appropriate method for different situations. The text advocates for smart communication choices using various tools such as email for routine updates, video for personal connections, student-led updates for engagement, and phone calls for sensitive topics. By employing a combination of these methods, teachers can foster stronger relationships with families and create a more supportive educational environment. The podcast promotes a course titled Smart Communication Choices: What to Use, When, and How, part of the Teachers Deserve: Partnership Course Bundle, to help teachers master these skills. Ultimately, the goal is to equip educators with effective communication techniques to ensure a successful school year for students, parents, and themselves.

Tired of repeating yourself to parents all year long? In this episode of TDI: Real Talk, Rae Hughart dives into the power of ready-to-go parent resources—from book lists to behavior FAQs to calendars that answer the questions before they’re asked. Learn how to proactively set boundaries, save time, and still provide incredible support to families. Whether you're new to teaching or deep in the trenches, these tools will help you simplify your workflow and strengthen home-school communication.

Informal interactions among educators, termed creative collisions, as a valuable source of professional growth. These unplanned conversations, occurring in everyday school settings, can lead to new ideas, shared strategies, and stronger connections between teachers. The author suggests that schools, already rich in these daily encounters, should intentionally cultivate a culture where such spontaneous exchanges are encouraged and valued for their potential to enhance teaching practices and build community without requiring formal initiatives. Practical strategies are offered for teachers, coaches, and administrators to maximize these casual moments for school-wide improvement and innovation.

Teachers Deserve It offers guidance for educators on improving parent-teacher conversations to benefit student success. The resource highlights the significance of effective communication and cites research supporting parental involvement's positive impact on students. It suggests practical strategies, emphasizing preparation, establishing a positive tone by focusing on student strengths, and concluding with clear action plans and follow-ups. The provided information aims to empower teachers to approach these interactions confidently, ultimately strengthening the home-school partnership. Additional resources, such as courses on email communication and parent conversations, are also mentioned for further support.

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Teachers Deserve It offers resources and tools aimed at improving the effectiveness and support for paraprofessionals working in schools. The website highlights the often demanding roles paraprofessionals fill, particularly during unstructured times like hallways and lunch. It provides actionable strategies, such as pre-correction techniques and visual aids, to help paraprofessionals manage student behavior and build positive relationships. The site promotes the idea that well-supported paraprofessionals benefit the entire school community and offers professional development opportunities through their Learning Hub. Ultimately, the platform advocates for recognizing paraprofessionals as crucial leaders who deserve adequate training and resources.