On this episode of Teachers on the Loose, four teachers sit around laughing their way through math memories — the proud “I finally get it!” moments and the humbling hurdles that still make us twitch at the sight of timed tests. We swap hilarious math stories, including the unexpected romance that started in math class. We reflect on how growing up with math shaped us into the teachers we are today — full of empathy, creativity, and a deep respect for the struggle. From favorite manipulatives that actually make math make sense to a rapid-fire math facts showdown that reveals who’s still got it (and who absolutely does not), this episode adds up to laughs, heart, and a whole lot of number nostalgia.

On this episode of Teachers on the Loose, we dive into the Winter Olympics and discover that teaching has a lot in common with elite competition — moments of glory, chasing gold (stickers count), and the occasional spectacular wipeout before first period. Join us as we laugh our way through the triumphs, defeats, and endurance it takes to survive both the slopes and the school year.

In this episode, we’re sharing the heart behind teaching children to read—our favorite books from childhood, the joy of reading to our own kids, and our favorite parts of teaching reading, from phonics and phonemic awareness to comprehension and reciprocal teaching. We explore how each step helps students grow into confident, thoughtful readers.Teaching reading is more than a skill—it’s connection, imagination, and opens doors to a lifetime of learning.

On today’s episode of Teachers on the Loose, we dive into data and show that it’s more than just numbers on a spreadsheet. We talk mindset, meaningful conversations, and how to actually have fun while using data to support students

Your evaluator walks in… and suddenly your heart drops, your brain forgets how to teach, and you’re silently begging your students to remember everything you’ve ever taught them. In this episode, we’re talking all about teacher observations and evaluations — the nerves, the overthinking, and the hope that you remember your own lesson plan. ​​Join us for laughs, honest conversation, and reassurance that a single observation doesn’t capture every amazing thing that you bring to the classroom.

Winter break — where the coffee stays hot, the schedule is optional, and bathroom breaks whenever you want. In this episode, we’re talking all about how we unplugged, relaxed, and recharged before heading back to teacher life. From slow mornings to cozy moments, we loved our break with family and friends.

No bells. No emails. No lesson plans. Just resting and recharging.

On today’s episode of Teachers on the Loose, four teachers ride the emotional rollercoaster of unexpected weather days off. From cheering when the notification hits to replanning missed lessons. We cover the joy, the chaos, and the surprise. Grab your coffee (or stay in your snow-day pajamas) and laugh along as teachers find humor in every cancelled day. ❄️☕

Phase 6 is where learning really comes to life. In this episode, we’re talking about how students extend and apply their learning—making connections, trying skills in new ways, and showing what they truly understand. Because learning doesn’t end with the lesson… it grows from there.

In this episode of Teachers on the Loose, four teachers tackle the fifth phase of McREL’s Phases of Learning—practicing and rehearsing—aka the part where learning finally sticks (and not just until the test). We break down why this phase matters and share practical, classroom-ready ways to get students retrieving content on purpose, all while swapping laughs and real-life teacher moments along the way.

In Phase 4, students step into the heart of learning, their chance to really practice new skills, try strategies, and grow stronger with each piece of feedback.

We’re talking guided practice, meaningful participation, and giving students the space to try out their learning while we offer feedback that sticks.

Join us for a conversation full of insight, encouragement, and classroom joy!