3 Reasons to Use Podcasting With Students

Michele HaikenBlog, Connect Better, Engage Better, Innovate Better, Lead Better

TL;DR: Tai Poole hosts an acclaimed podcast exploring diverse topics with experts, inspiring students to start their own podcasts, requiring minimal equipment but vast creativity. Podcasting develops critical skills: problem-solving, tech proficiency, and the ability to articulate ideas, aligning with modern learning standards. Creating student podcasts empowers learners, fosters global connections, and instills digital citizenship by engaging in authentic, diverse, … Read More

Connecting While Walking and Working

Erik YoungmanBlog, Connect Better, Self Care Better, Teach Happier

TL;DR: The WALK acronym (Wonder, Assist, Learn, Kindness) provides guidance for enhancing connections while walking and working, particularly for educators. Connecting while walking and working creates opportunities for visibility, accessibility, recognition, and two-way communication, fostering positive interactions and learning experiences. Planning what to read or work on, being aware of how to walk courteously, and considering the use of tools … Read More

Episode 57: The Grass Fire Analogy with Hal Bowman

Darrin PeppardLeaning Into Leadership

Hal Bowman joins the podcast to talk about what thriving schools have in common, how leaders can best communicate the truth about their campuses, and what we can do to increase the men coming in and decrease the men leaving education. That, plus a #PepTalk on this week’s show. MORE EPISODES

Difficult Conversations with Students and Parents: New Strategies for a New Year

Erin LebacqzBlog, Connect Better, Engage Better, Lead Better, Manage Better, Reflect Better

TL;DR: Difficult conversations with students or parents are here to stay. We can improve the outcome of these conversations with strategies designed to minimize emotional responses. Consider using the word “you” with care and purpose when discussing negative or critical topics. Use intentional verb choice to affect the tone of your messages or conversations. Focus on the goal or outcome, … Read More

De-escalation Strategies During a Tough Conversation

Joshua StamperBlog, Connect Better, Engage Better, Lead Better, Manage Better, Reflect Better

TL;DR: There are a number of de-escalation strategies one can use to diffuse any tough conversation: (1) Move to a private area. (2) Be empathetic and non-judgmental. (3) Keep your tone and body language neutral. (4) Provide choices. The Teach Better Academy course, Addressing Tough Topics in Schools, shares communication strategies for challenging topics in your school community. As an … Read More