New Teacher Talk

Ep 50: Engaging Students as Leaders

In this empowering episode of New Teacher Talk, we address the transformative concept of "Students as Leaders." Join Dr. Amy Howerton as she explores how harnessing the power of student leadership within the classroom can revolutionize the learning experience, foster engagement, and cultivate a sense of ownership among students.

Dscover how assigning specific roles to students within the classroom can:

Boost Engagement: Amy discusses strategies that empower students to actively participate in their own education. From leading discussions to designing class activities, these roles can turn passive learners into enthusiastic contributors.

Foster Ownership: Learn how giving students responsibilities and decision-making authority can instill a sense of ownership over their learning journey.

Promote Collaboration: Discover how student leadership roles can enhance teamwork, communication, and empathy among peers. 

Prepare for Real-Life Challenges: These experiences in leadership roles prepare students for life beyond the classroom. From problem-solving to adaptability, these skills are invaluable for future success.

Join Amy as she uncovers the tremendous potential of "Students as Leaders" and how this approach can transform education, one classroom at a time. Whether you're an educator, a student, or a parent, this episode will leave you inspired to embrace this innovative approach and empower the leaders of tomorrow.

Subscribe to New Teacher Talk and be part of the conversation about revolutionizing education through student leadership. Don't miss this episode packed with actionable insights that will change the way you view education.

Ep 49: Selecting Texts for Language Learners

Having trouble finding text that supports your English Learners?  Join Dr. Erin Laverick, as she shares tips on how to select texts for students learning to read in a new language while considering linguistic, individual, and socio-cultural differences. Erin shares her experience in language education, where every word matters, and every learner is unique.

This podcast will empower you with the knowledge and tools to make informed choices when it comes to selecting the right texts for your language learners. From understanding the importance of linguistic diversity to tailoring reading materials to individual proficiency levels and cultural backgrounds, Erin’s engaging examples will inspire you to create a learning environment that fosters a love for reading and language acquisition.

Listen now and embark on a path to helping learners read, learn, and grow in a new language.

Ep 48: Crafting Effective Lessons for Top Evaluations

Welcome back to New Teacher Talk! In this episode, Melissa Laun shares a template for lesson planning, to help you prepare for that all-important teacher evaluation. Whether you're a seasoned educator or just starting your teaching career, facing an evaluation can be nerve-wracking. But fear not, because we've got your back!

Explore the art and science of crafting a lesson plan that not only impresses your evaluator but also creates a rich and engaging learning experience for your students. Our guest expert, Melissa Laun, an experienced educator and teacher evaluation guru, shares invaluable insights and practical tips to ensure your lesson plan shines on evaluation day.

In this episode, you'll learn how to simplify your thinking about lesson planning to make it efficient and effective.

Whether you're gearing up for a formal observation or simply want to elevate your teaching game, this episode is packed with actionable advice to help you not only survive but thrive during teacher evaluations.

Don't let the stress of evaluation hold you back from being the best educator you can be. Tune in to this episode and transform your lesson planning skills, ensuring a successful evaluation and a more enriching classroom experience for your students. So grab your pen and notebook, and let's get planning for teacher evaluation success!

Subscribe to New Teacher Talk today, and never miss an episode filled with insights to help you excel in your teaching journey. Remember, your success as a teacher is our passion!

Ep 47: Parent-Teacher Conferences: A Teacher’s Guide for Success

In this episode of New Teacher Talk, Dr. Nedra Cossa is here to help you prepare for parent-teacher meetings, offering valuable insights and expert tips to help you prepare effectively. Nedra explores the significance of these conferences in a child's educational journey and how they can foster productive partnerships between families and teachers.

Nedra discusses key topics, including:

Setting clear goals: Discover how defining your objectives for the conference can lead to more meaningful discussions and better outcomes for your child's education.

Communication strategies: Learn how to effectively communicate your concerns and questions, while also listening actively to your child's teacher.

Gathering evidence: Understand the importance of collecting relevant information about your child's progress, behavior, and challenges to facilitate a constructive dialogue with the teacher.

Building rapport: Explore techniques for building positive relationships with educators and fostering a collaborative atmosphere in which everyone works together for the benefit of the child.

Tips for teachers: Get a teacher's perspective on how educators can prepare for parent-teacher conferences to ensure a successful and informative meeting.

Whether you're a seasoned pro or planning your first parent-teacher conference, this episode provides a comprehensive guide to help you make the most out of this crucial opportunity to support your child's education. Join us as we empower teachers with the tools you’ll need for productive and insightful conversations during parent-teacher conferences.

Ep 46: Creating an Environment of Celebration

Welcome to another inspiring episode of New Teacher Talk, where we delve into the art of teaching and fostering a dynamic learning atmosphere. In today's episode, Dr. Alisa Ross is excited to explore the transformative concept of "Creating an Environment of Celebration in Your Classroom."

Education isn't just about conveying knowledge; it's also about nurturing a positive and inclusive environment where students thrive and feel valued. Join Alisa as she uncovers the secrets of making your classroom a place where celebrations of achievements, big or small, are woven into the very fabric of learning.

Alisa will explore:

• The Power of Recognition: Discover how acknowledging and celebrating students' accomplishments can boost their self-esteem and motivation to excel.
• Building Confidence: Learn how creating a celebratory atmosphere can help students overcome challenges, take risks, and become more confident learners.
• Fostering Inclusivity: Explore strategies to ensure that every student feels recognized and appreciated, regardless of their abilities or backgrounds.

Get ready to take away actionable tips, activity ideas, and classroom practices that you can implement immediately to start celebrating success with your students. You'll be inspired by practical examples that showcase how small gestures of celebration can make a profound impact on the learning journey. Whether you're a new teacher eager to create a vibrant learning environment from the start or a seasoned educator looking to rejuvenate your teaching style, this episode will provide you with the tools and inspiration you need to embark on a journey of celebration and growth.

Ep 45: Mastering Assessment: A Guide for New Teachers

Join our guest, Ashley Platz, as she shares ways to support new teachers in understanding and utilizing effective assessment practices in the classroom. In this episode, Ashley delves into how to get started with assessment, including formative assessments, summative assessments, giving real-life examples to help new teachers develop a strong assessment toolkit. From creating clear learning objectives and designing meaningful assessments to analyzing data and providing constructive feedback, this podcast equips new teachers with the necessary skills to assess student progress effectively. Join Ashley as she navigates how to get started with assessment and data use, empowering you to become a confident and skilled assessor in your classroom.

Ep 44: Culturally Responsive Classrooms: Nurturing Inclusive Learning Environment

Join Taylor Green, a fourth grade teacher, for an enlightening episode of New Teacher Talk as we dive into the transformative power of implementing culturally responsive teaching practices. In this episode, Taylor explores the importance of recognizing and valuing the diverse cultural backgrounds, experiences, and identities of students in our classrooms. Taylor shares practical strategies, research-based approaches, and personal anecdotes to help educators create inclusive learning environments where all students feel seen, heard, and respected. From incorporating culturally relevant curriculum and instructional materials to fostering meaningful relationships and promoting student voice and agency, Taylor unpacks key elements of culturally responsive teaching. Whether you're an experienced educator or just starting your teaching journey, this episode offers valuable insights and actionable steps to deepen your understanding and implementation of culturally responsive practices. Tune in and join us in our mission to create classrooms that celebrate diversity, promote equity, and empower every student to thrive.

Ep 43: The Professional Path: Professional Doesn’t Mean Perfect

In this engaging podcast episode, we hear from an early career teacher, Mary Kallenbach, who shares insightful tips and experiences on making the transition from college student to professional educator. Join Mary as she delves into the unique challenges and opportunities that arise during this pivotal phase of a teaching career. Mary candidly discusses the adjustments and mindset shifts required to thrive in the classroom, offering practical advice on time management, setting boundaries, and establishing a professional identity. Discover valuable strategies for building relationships with students, collaborating with colleagues, and navigating the administrative aspects of teaching. Whether you're a recent graduate or soon-to-be educator, this episode provides invaluable insights and guidance to help you successfully transition into the role of a professional educator and make a lasting impact on the lives of your students. Tune in and embark on your journey to becoming a confident and effective educator.

Ep 42: Unleashing Potential: The Seven C’s of Special Education

Welcome to "Unleashing Potential: The Seven C's of Special Education" podcast, where Dr. Jacqueline Cleven explores essential principles that empower educators, parents, and individuals involved in special education to unlock the full potential of every learner. In this podcast, Dr. Cleven delves into the transformative power of the Seven C's, a guide to understanding and supporting  students with special needs, providing insights and strategies that promote inclusive education and foster an environment of growth and empowerment. Whether you are an educator, parent, or advocate for inclusive education, this podcast is your guide to unlocking the potential of students with special needs. Tune in to "Unleashing Potential: The Seven C's of Special Education" and embark on a journey of knowledge, inspiration, and transformation in the world of special education. Together, let's create inclusive communities where every learner can thrive.

Ep 41: Creating an Inspiring Classroom Set Up and Environment

Join Michelle Ball, a fifth grade teacher, as she explores the art and science of setting up a classroom that fosters engagement, collaboration, and optimal learning. In this episode, Michelle explores practical strategies, innovative ideas, and expert insights to help educators design a classroom that nurtures student growth and creativity. From furniture arrangement and visual displays to organization systems and sensory elements, she covers it all. Michelle has added a resource for you with visual reminders of how to design your classroom.  Whether you're a seasoned teacher looking for fresh inspiration or a new educator seeking guidance, this podcast offers valuable tips and inspiration to transform your classroom into an empowering space where students thrive. Tune in and embark on a journey to create a dynamic and inviting learning environment for your students.