Tom Livezey is the superintendent of Oak Ridge Public Schools in Muskegon, Michigan. In this episode, Tom discusses the evolution of communication between schools and parents, the importance of parent engagement, and innovative strategies to improve student attendance. Livezey shares insights from his extensive experience in education, emphasizing the need for community understanding and trust to foster effective partnerships. The conversation also touches on the future of parent-teacher conferences and the impact of technology on communication in education.

Oakridge Public Schools: https://oakridgeschools.org

YouTube: https://youtu.be/dn1_mLOl1gQ

This episode of Teaching Matters features Alix Guerrier, CEO of Donors Choose. Donors Choose is a nonprofit platform that matches teachers’ projects and needs with donors. Alix discusses the 25-year history of Donors Choose as well as recurring and emerging trends in what teachers are seeking to fund.

Donors Choose: https://www.donorschoose.org

YouTube: https://youtu.be/l-TACQgVs2Y

In this conversation, Scott Titsworth and Susan Riley explore the importance of creativity in education, particularly through arts integration and the challenges teachers face in fostering a creative environment. They discuss the impact of AI on creativity, the barriers posed by standardized testing, and the potential of leveraging students' unique experiences as resources for creative problem-solving. Susan emphasizes the need for educators to cultivate creativity in their classrooms and personal lives, while also addressing the evolving role of AI as a tool for enhancing creativity rather than replacing it.

YouTube: https://youtu.be/65shdGVeLg8

In this conversation, Carmelo Piazza, the Executive Director of the Brooklyn Preschool of Science, discusses the importance of early childhood education, particularly through inquiry-based learning and STEAM concepts. He shares his journey into education, the philosophy behind his preschool, and the significance of creating a stimulating, screen-free learning environment for young children. The discussion emphasizes hands-on learning techniques and the need for structured learning to prepare children for a future in a digital world.

Brooklyn Preschool of Science: https://brooklynpreschoolofscience.com

YouTube: https://youtu.be/XEh8TAuWmiA

This conversation explores the evolution of data usage in education, the founding of the Abre platform by Zach Vanderveen and Chris Rose, and how it addresses the challenges educators face with data management. The discussion highlights the importance of user experience, the role of AI in education, and ways in which data-driven platforms can assist districts in achieving a wide range of goals in addition to academic achievement. Zach and Chris emphasize the need to support educators and students through fostering meaningful relationships focused on improving educational outcomes.

Link to Abre: https://abre.com

YouTube Link: https://youtu.be/PX4qZycklog

In this episode of the Teaching Matters podcast, host Scott Titsworth engages with Aubrey Francisco and Michelle Tiu, co-executive directors of AERDF's EF+Math program, to discuss the critical role of executive function skills in enhancing math education. The discussion in this episode centers on evidence-based practices focused on improving math learning by strengthening students' executive functioning skills. The EF+Math program recently released a new digital library of resources, which can be found at:

https://efmathprogram.org

YouTube: https://youtu.be/0_yv6n2WF-4

In this episode, Scott Titsworth and Laura Stewart, Chief Academic Officer of the 95 Percent Group, discuss the current challenges in literacy education, particularly the alarming decline in reading scores among students. They explore the importance of the science of reading, the need for effective teaching practices, and the role of data in driving instructional decisions. Laura emphasizes the necessity of aligning resources and training for teachers to ensure all students receive the support they need. The conversation also touches on legislative actions aimed at improving literacy education and the collaborative efforts required to create lasting change.

YouTube: https://youtu.be/b82wj-2Z--8

In this conversation, Scott Titsworth speaks with Catherine Townsend and Jeremy Goldstein about the National Mall's significance, its historical context, and the educational opportunities it presents. They discuss the Trust for the National Mall's initiatives, including preparations for the 250th anniversary of the United States, the launch of the National Mall Gateway, and the importance of civic learning. The conversation highlights the rich history of the Mall, the stories behind its monuments, and how individuals can engage with the Trust to support its mission.

Trust Website: https://nationalmall.org

Trust 250th Celebration Site: https://www.nationalmall250.org

YouTube: https://youtu.be/CCZsA5w6fl4

Dr. Tahira DuPree Chase, the superintendent of the Westbury Union Free School District, discusses the critical role of communication in ensuring school safety. She emphasizes the importance of creating a culture of safety within schools, integrating various safety measures, and maintaining open lines of communication with parents and the community. Dr. Chase shares insights on the implementation of technology in safety protocols, the significance of trust, and the ongoing evaluation of safety measures through audits. The discussion highlights the multifaceted approach needed to foster a safe and supportive educational environment for students and staff.

Dr. Dupree Chase: https://www.tahiradupreechase.com/

Centegix: https://www.centegix.com/

YouTube: https://youtu.be/mX-14B8A7fc

This conversation explores the critical issue of chronic absenteeism in schools, highlighting the findings from a comprehensive report by SchoolStatus. The discussion covers the importance of attendance, the data methodology used, and the patterns observed in absenteeism across different grade levels. Dr. Kara Stern emphasizes the significance of early interventions, effective communication strategies with families, and the need for a systematic approach to improve student attendance. The conversation also addresses the unique challenges faced by middle school students and the role of parents in identifying early warning signs of disengagement.

Report Link: https://www.schoolstatus.com/wp-content/uploads/SchoolStatus_2024-2025-Attendance-Trends-Report.pdf