New Teacher Talk

Ep 104: Ace Your Progress Conferences

In this enlightening episode of New Teacher Talk, Dr. Monica Boehle, NBCT, provides invaluable strategies for early career teachers on how to effectively prepare for and conduct progress conferences with students and their caregivers. The conversation centers around the significance of gathering student reflections, showcasing grade-level work exemplars, maintaining focused discussions, meticulous note-taking, and following up on action items post-conference.

Key Takeaways:

• Gathering Student Reflections: Importance of collecting insights from students about their learning journey.
• Exemplars of Grade-Level Work: Utilizing student work samples to illustrate expected standards and achievement.
• Focusing the Conversation: Strategies to keep discussions centered on student progress and goals.
• Note-Taking: The value of documenting key points during the conference for future reference and follow-up.
• Action Steps: Follow through on identified next steps to support student learning and development.

Resources:

• Student to Grown Up Letter: A tool for facilitating student reflections and fostering their voice in the conference process.
• Student Conference Agenda Sheet: An effective resource for organizing notes and ensuring comprehensive discussions during conferences.

Goals:
The primary objective is to establish strong collaborative partnerships with caregivers that enhance student learning by recognizing individual progress, strengths, and areas for improvement.

Keywords:
Progress Conferences, Student Reflections, Exemplars, Note-Taking, Action Steps, Collaborative Partnerships, Early Career Teachers, Student Voice, Teaching Strategies.

Ep 103: Reality Check: The Bloom is off the Rose

In this insightful episode of New Teacher Talk, Dr. Beth and Dr. Anna dive into the realities that many educators face after the initial excitement of the school year begins to fade. Dr. Anna offers two different courses of action to tackle three common questions:

1. How am I motivating my students? 

• Actionable pathways for fostering student engagement.

2.  How am I keeping parents updated? 

• Practical ways to streamline communication with parents.

3. How am I approaching teacher evaluation? 

• Strategies to help educators find an approach that works for them.

Each option provides actionable steps for new teachers to overcome the day-to-day hurdles of the teaching profession.

Special Announcement:

We're also highlighting the upcoming AAEE Annual Conference and Education Career Fair taking place in Denver, Colorado from October 21-24, 2024. A great opportunity for career growth and networking for educators! Learn more at https://conference.aaee.org/.

Keywords: teacher motivation, parent communication, teacher evaluation, new teachers, teaching strategies, AAEE conference, professional development.

Ep 102: Teaching New Content: 3 Strategies to Feel Prepared and Confident

In this episode of New Teacher Talk, we welcome Dr. Amy Howerton, an experienced educator who offers her insights on managing a new prep effectively. Amy discusses practical strategies to help teachers feel confident and prepared when faced with the challenge of teaching new content. Her key advice includes:

1. Revisit Curriculum Standards: Amy explains the importance of understanding what students need to learn by revisiting the curriculum standards. She shares tips on how to align your lessons to these standards and ensure you’re meeting the necessary educational objectives.
2. Review Required Assessments: Knowing what assessments are expected throughout the year is crucial. Amy offers advice on how to review and understand these assessments to effectively guide your instruction.
3. Know Your Materials: Amy emphasizes the significance of becoming familiar with the teaching materials, including textbooks, resources, and supplementary tools. She gives practical suggestions on how to use these materials to enhance student learning.

This episode is a must-listen for any teacher tackling a new prep and wanting to feel more in control and less overwhelmed. Tune in for actionable strategies that will help you succeed!

Keywords: new prep, curriculum standards, assessments, teaching materials, lesson planning, teacher preparation, new teacher support, education strategies, Amy Howerton, New Teacher Talk, teaching tips.

Ep 101: Be in Charge of Your Professional Growth – National Board/Professional Learning Communities

In this episode of New Teacher Talk, we sit down with Dion Copeland, an early career educator from Kentucky and a candidate for the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS). Dion shares his journey towards becoming National Board certified, reflecting on the challenges and opportunities this prestigious process presents for teachers early in their careers. He offers valuable advice for navigating the first years of teaching, from building strong classroom practices to maintaining a positive mindset. Dion also discusses how districts can better support early career educators, emphasizing a strengths-based approach to professional development and teacher well-being.

Key Takeaways: 

- Dion's insights into the National Board certification process

- Essential tips for thriving during your first years of teaching

- How schools and districts can better support new teachers

- The power of focusing on educators' strengths for long-term success

Keywords: 

Early career educator, National Board for Professional Teaching Standards, teacher certification, new teacher success, strengths-based approach, professional development, teacher support, classroom strategies.

Connect with Dion Copeland on LinkedIn: Dion Copeland

What Teachers Should Know and Be Able to Do

Benefits of National Board Certification

Tune in for an inspiring conversation packed with practical advice for new teachers looking to build a strong foundation in their teaching journey!

Ep 100: Empowering Early Career Teachers with Dr. Rudy Ruiz

In this episode of New Teacher Talk, Dr. Rudy Ruiz, founder of Edifying Teachers, joins Dr. Anna and Dr. Beth for a thought-provoking conversation about the unique challenges and opportunities that early career educators face. Dr. Ruiz, a visionary leader in education, shares his journey of conceptualizing Edifying Teachers and discusses the impact of his work in Baltimore and across the U.S.

Key Topics Covered:

- The Vision Behind Edifying Teachers: Dr. Ruiz shares how his passion for supporting educators led to the founding of Edifying Teachers, an organization dedicated to uplifting and empowering teachers, particularly those in the early stages of their careers.

- Misconceptions About Early Career Teachers: Dr. Ruiz dispels common myths about new teachers, highlighting the importance of recognizing their potential and contributions to the profession.

- Meeting the Needs of New Teachers: Drawing from his extensive experience, Dr. Ruiz talks about the crucial support that early career teachers need to thrive, including mentorship, professional development, and a diverse and inclusive teaching community.

- The Work of Edifying Teachers in Baltimore and Beyond: Learn about the innovative programs and initiatives that Dr. Ruiz is spearheading in cities like Baltimore, aimed at strengthening the teaching profession and fostering equity in education.

- Advice for New Educators and Their Support Systems: Dr. Ruiz offers valuable advice to new teachers, as well as to the mentors, administrators, and support networks who play a vital role in their success.

Connect with Dr. Ruiz:

- Learn more about Edifying Teachers: https://edifyingteachers.com

- Follow Dr. Rudy Ruiz on Instagram @edifyteachers or @dr.rudyruiz LinkedIn: Edifying Teachers or www.linkedin.com/in/rudyruiiz2 X: @edifyteachers or @DrRudyRuiz

Ep 99: You’ve Started the School Year…Now What?

In this episode of New Teacher Talk, Dr. Anna and Dr. Beth take you on a reflective journey to evaluate your progress as the school year unfolds. It's time to check in on the routines you've established, the rapport you're building with your students, and how well you're collaborating with your colleagues. This episode is packed with practical advice on maintaining your early momentum, making necessary adjustments, establishing work-life balance, and contributing positively to your school culture. These reflections will help you stay on track and thrive throughout the school year.

Episode Highlights:

• Sustaining Momentum: Practical tips for maintaining energy and consistency in your teaching.
• Adapting and Revising: Guidance on evaluating and adjusting your goals and routines.
• Work-Life Balance: Strategies for managing your time and maintaining personal well-being.
• Positive School Culture: Encouragement to make a meaningful impact on your school community.

Keywords: 

- Teacher reflection 

- Classroom routines 

- Student rapport 

- Teacher collaboration 

- Work-life balance 

- School culture 

- Teacher momentum 

- Classroom management 

- New teacher support

Ep 98: Feeling Successful in a New Teaching Position

Starting a new teaching position can be both exciting and overwhelming. In this episode, we're joined by Rachel Gess and Brad Winter from Amergis Educational Staffing, who share their valuable insights on how to feel successful in your new role. Rachel and Brad discuss the importance of finding a work-life balance, leaning on your colleagues for support, and mastering communication as a critical skill. They also dive into common challenges that new teachers may face and offer tips on how to contribute positively to your school's culture from day one.

Key Topics Covered:

Work-Life Balance: Practical strategies to manage your time and energy as a new teacher.

Collaboration: The benefits of relying on your colleagues and building a supportive network.

Communication: Why clear and effective communication is essential for success in your teaching career.

Anticipating Challenges: Common obstacles new teachers face and how to overcome them.

Contributing to School Culture: Ways to make a positive impact on your school's environment from the start.

Keywords: 

New teacher success, work-life balance for teachers, teacher collaboration, communication skills in teaching, overcoming challenges as a new teacher, school culture contribution, Amergis Staffing, teacher support network, teacher career tips, thriving in a new teaching role.

Guest Information:  

Rachel Gess and Brad Winter are experienced professionals at Amergis Staffing, specializing in helping educators thrive in their careers.

www.amergiseducation.com

Ep. 97: Thrive and Survive in Your First Year

In this episode of New Teacher Talk, we're joined by Blake Reddick to discuss how to not just survive, but thrive in your first year of teaching. Blake shares practical tips on preparing for the school year, building strong relationships with students and colleagues, mastering classroom management, and prioritizing self-care. Whether you're a new teacher or looking for fresh ideas, this episode is packed with advice to help you kickstart a successful teaching journey.

Contact Blake:

Instagram: @_reddickk

X: @blakereddick

Facebook: Blake Reddick

Email: reddickblake052@gmail.com

Key Topics:

- Preparing for the school year

- Building relationships with students and colleagues

- Classroom management strategies

- Importance of self-care for teachers

- Thriving in the first year of teaching

Keywords:  

First-year teacher, school preparation, relationship building, classroom management, teacher self-care, new teacher success, thriving in teaching, education strategies.

Ep 96: Navigating AI Use in Your Classroom

In this episode of New Teacher Talk, Bianca Tolentino, a dedicated ninth-grade English teacher, explores the evolving role of AI in education. Bianca shares a practical lesson on how she guides her students to use AI tools to enhance their academic work while maintaining integrity. Discover how she fosters a classroom environment that encourages the ethical use of AI, helping students to harness technology in ways that support their learning without compromising their honesty. Tune in to learn strategies you can apply in your own classroom to ensure that AI becomes a powerful, yet responsible, resource for your students.

Links: 

https://ditchthattextbook.com/ai-cheating/ 

https://www.aiforeducation.io/curriculum/lesson-2

Keywords: AI in education, ethical AI use, student learning, classroom technology, academic integrity, teaching strategies.

Ep 95: Season Kickoff Episode with Dr. Beth and Dr. Anna

Join us for an exciting kickoff to the new season of New Teacher Talk! In this special episode, Dr. Beth and Dr. Anna guide you through essential strategies to ensure a smooth start to your school year. We're introducing our Start-of-the-School-Year Series, a set of episodes packed with practical advice and insights for new teachers. 

In this episode, we cover:

• Setting Up Your Classroom: Create an engaging and organized learning environment.
• Finding Your Inner Circle of Support:  Build a strong support network to navigate your teaching journey.
• Establishing Work-Life Balance:  Develop habits to maintain a healthy balance between work and personal life.

Whether you're a new teacher or looking to refresh your approach, this episode is designed to equip you with the tools and confidence you need to succeed. Tune in and start your school year off right with New Teacher Talk!