Episode 2: “This IS a Test”
Release Date: April 7, 2025
✏️ Episode Description:In this candid conversation, Meghan and Candace dive into the realities of testing season—from personal experiences with standardized testing as students and teachers to the emotional and professional pressures that come with it.
🧪 Topics Covered in This Episode:They reflect on how testing has evolved , what it really measures (or doesn’t), and how it impacts students, especially English learners. Along the way, they share strategies to reduce stress and build confidence during testing season—and yes, they get a little honest about wishing testing could just... go away.
The evolution of state testing from the 80s to now
Test anxiety for both students and teachers
The link between testing, teacher evaluations, and incentive programs
Differences in testing culture across states and school types
How testing affects English learners and transient student populations
Balancing real learning with state mandates
Reflections on vocational pathways and alternatives to traditional assessments
🎲 Segment: Teacher Truth or DareMeghan and Candice play a round of Teacher Truth or Dare.
📚 Book Club UpdateJoin our book club! Culture First Classrooms by Dr. Darrin Peppard
Launch: April 21, 2025
Blog Feature: Dr. Peppard’s behind-the-scenes look
Hoping to feature Dr. Peppard in an upcoming bonus interview episode
Grab your copy via Bookshop.org to support indie bookstores (not an ad—we just love it!)
❤️ Special Thanks:Co-Host: Candice Miller
Producer: Meghan Wells
Our amazing Teach Better Ambassador Group—you keep us going.
Produced on Adobe Podcast Creator | Music by Adobe
📲 Connect with Us
Meghan Wells:
Twitter/X: @MeghanI
Instagram & Threads: @teachermegwells
BlueSky: @meghanmwells
Candace Miller:
Instagram: @cm7teacha
Facebook: Coming soon (she promises!)
💬 Final Words:
Thanks for tuning in to No Name Paper: The Teacher Podcast.
Because teaching is anything but one-size-fits-all.
