Shows
The Education News Comedy Quiz -- Some of the AboveFun Facts, Follow-Ups & Federal Cases — Welcome to the New YearThe new year has arrived -- and it seems someone on our show dropped the ball when it came to inviting guest contestants. But not to worry! Alex and Paul keep things rolling on this month’s quiz by asking each other questions about the latest and quirkiest education news, sharing little known fun facts about schools, and providing follow-ups to stories we originally dug into in prior episodes.So, laugh some, learn some, and even litigate some as we bring you up-to-date on monumental (and not so monumental) education stories and court rulings related to federal ed...
2026-01-1525 min
The Education News Comedy Quiz -- Some of the AboveTeach. Learn. Laugh. Repeat! Educators Dr. Katie McKnight and Dr. Richard Cash Take On The QuizPlay along with this month's quiz as nationally-recognized educators Dr. Katie McKnight and Dr. Richard Cash (and their alter egos) tackle our rigorous (and occasionally ridiculous) questions. Alex and Paul ask about literacy, grading, student vaping, how not to turn-around low-performing schools, special education, test-taking in hot temperatures, teacher oaths, and more. So, laugh some, learn some, and grab a few nuggets of knowledge you can pass off as your own at the office water cooler. Plus, don’t miss our brand new game – Fed or Dread? – where we ponder the latest U.S. Department of Education actions...
2025-12-151h 02
The Education News Comedy Quiz -- Some of the AboveIt's the Education News Comedy Quiz Best Of (Sort of)This month Alex and Paul celebrate the release of this, our sixth episode of the Education News Comedy quiz, by looking back at some of our favorite and funniest moments from the first shows. Is it too soon to do a "Best Of" episode? Probably. But why should that stop us?So, laugh some, learn some and re-live some of the latest – and sometimes not so greatest – public education news stories, as our special guest contestants from around the world of education take the quiz. Featuring guests from our first five episodes:Teachers of the Y...
2025-11-1741 min
The Education News Comedy Quiz -- Some of the AboveSchool's In -- Are You Ready For the Quiz? Play Alongside Teacher John Arthur and Counselor Lori Woodley-LangendorffHow are students doing in class -- and should they be outside more? And who's pulling the carpet out from under public schools? In this month's quiz we tackle these and other timely questions along with special guest contestants Utah Teacher of the Year John Arthur, and school counselor and All It Takes founder Lori Woodley-Langendorff.We’ve got maverick teachers, social emotional learning, sagging science scores, school desks with minds of their own, capricious budget cuts, kickball, and more. So, laugh some, learn some, and grab a few nuggets of knowledge you can pass off as yo...
2025-10-071h 05
Budgeting for Educational EquityThe Education News Comedy Quiz -- A New Show To Help You Process the Latest Goings-On From the World of Public EducationLooking for a fun and informative way to make sense of all the latest education news? The Education News Comedy Quiz -- Some of the Above is a new podcast you may enjoy. It's co-hosted and produced by one of the producers of Budgeting for Educational Equity.On each episode, two special guest contestants from the world of public education take the quiz and discuss key questions and topics in the news. This month you can play alongside high school senior and student advocate Luisa Sanchez and former big city schools' superintendent Richard Carranza. Both a...
2025-09-1056 min
The Education News Comedy Quiz -- Some of the AboveStudent vs. Superintendent: Take the Quiz with Guest Contestants Richard Carranza and Luisa SanchezPlay this month’s quiz alongside high school senior and student advocate Luisa Sanchez and former big city superintendent Richard Carranza. Both are inspiring leaders and change makers who aren’t afraid to challenge the status quo to improve educational systems. Even so, can any of that prepare them for the types of questions Alex and Paul toss their way about the latest and not-so-greatest education news? Listen and find out.This month’s quiz covers topics ranging from presidential physical fitness, parents’ attitudes about life after high school, support for English learners, what’s going on with kinde...
2025-09-0456 minThe Education News Comedy Quiz -- Some of the AboveTake the Quiz with Guest Contestants Jose Luis Navarro and Dr. Holly BlairThis month we’re all being sent to the principal’s office! Play alongside educator-leaders Dr. Holly Blair and Jose Luis Navarro as we ask questions about the latest and not-so-greatest education news. Laugh some, learn some, and grab a few nuggets of wisdom you can pass off as your own in our world-famous quiz games like Surfing the Education Headlines, and Education Data Points of the Month. Plus, test how many famous school principals you know from TV and movies in a special bonus game. Quiz topics range from “Everyone is welcome here” banners, education...
2025-08-0155 min
Adventures in Ed FundingIntroducing a New Podcast: The Some of the Above Education News Comedy QuizThese are definitely challenging times for public funding and public education. So, if you need a bit of laughter to help the latest education news go down easier, there's a new podcast that's got you covered: The Some of the Above Education News Comedy Quiz.Each month you can listen and play along with two special guest contestants from the world of education as they're asked questions about education news and issues. Guest contestants for this episode are two school funding and policy experts who will be familiar to many listeners -- Kevin Gordon and J...
2025-07-0346 min
The Education News Comedy Quiz -- Some of the AboveWho puts the FUN into School Funding and Policy? (We Do!)Need an extra serving of laughter to help the latest education news go down a bit easier? In this month's quiz, play alongside special guest contestants Jannelle Kubinec and Kevin Gordon. Both are school finance and policy advocates who’ve played a vital role fighting for more education funding in California and nationally -- and both offer terrific insights into the issues facing public schools.Laugh some, learn some and grab a few nuggets of wisdom you can pass off as your own in our quiz games like Surfing the Headlines, Education Data Points of the Month, Cl...
2025-07-0145 min
The Education News Comedy Quiz -- Some of the AboveTwo Teachers of the Year Walk Into a Quiz Podcast and...Play the education news quiz alongside special guest contestants Dr. Dorina Sackman-Ebuwa and Dr. Lindsey Jensen -- both State Teachers of the Year (just like Alex!) This month we celebrate graduation season with AI, inquire into recent federal education funding decisions, and contemplate whether the State of Oklahoma has more public schools or pot dispensaries.So...laugh some, learn some, and grab a nugget or two of knowledge you can pass off as your own to impress your colleagues."If you are an educator looking for laughs, a sense of 'I...
2025-05-2949 minThe Education News Comedy Quiz -- Some of the AboveWelcome to the Education News Comedy Quiz -- Some of the AbovePlay along each month with special guest contestants from the world of education as we ask lots of questions about the latest school news and answer -- well, some of them. If you want to laugh while you learn and learn while you laugh, this is the show for you! Plus, hear great insights from the guests and come away with a few nuggets of knowledge you can pass off as your own in our world-famous quiz games like Surfing the Headlines, Education Data Points of the Month, and True, False or Whaaaaattt? We're also th...
2025-05-2301 min
The CharacterStrong PodcastShowing Up Matters: The Power of Daily Connection - Alex KajitaniToday our guest is Alex Kajitani the 2009 California Teacher of the Year and also The Rappin' Mathematician. We talk to Alex about the foundational role that relationships play in education. He unpacks the three essential components every relationship must have and highlights the different types of relationships students navigate daily—with themselves, their peers, the adults on campus, and the content they're learning. Alex challenges the common belief that confidence leads to competence, offering a powerful reframe. He leaves us with a compelling reminder: the simple act of consistently showing up can make a profound difference in a...
2025-05-0919 min
The Authority Podcast — Expert Insights and Fresh Ideas for Education LeadersYou're a Teacher Now! What's Next? with Alex Kajitani and Tom HierckToday I welcome Alex Kajitani and Tom Hierck to the show. Alex and Tom are both award-winning educators and bestselling authors, and together they’ve written their latest title You’re a Teacher Now! What’s Next?We talk about:“What have I got myself into?” The question all new teachers ask.Why is this the book for right now?What Alex and Tom would change about the typical experience for new teachersClassroom management, relationship building, effective instruction, self-care — where to start?The different people to build relationships withWhat it takes to feel and be effec...
2025-03-1847 min
Aspire to Lead313. You’re A Teacher Now! What’s Next?: Featuring Alex Kajitani and Tom HierckIn this week’s episode, I sit down with Alex Kajitani and Tom Hierck, authors of the insightful book You're A Teacher Now! What's Next?. Together, we tackle essential topics for educators at any stage of their career, including the differences between classroom management and behavior management, strategies for building healthy relationships with students, and tools for creating engaging lessons that keep learners motivated.
We also dive into the importance of mental health strategies for teachers, sharing practical tips to maintain balance and resilience in such a demanding profession. Finally, we discuss how educators can determine their long-term ca...
2024-11-1630 min
Principal Center RadioTom Hierck & Alex Kajitani—You're A Teacher Now! What's Next?
Get the book, You're A Teacher Now! What's Next?
Visit Alex' Website, www.AlexKajitani.com
Visit Tom's Website, www.TomHierck.com
About The Author
Tom Hierck has been an educator since 1983 in a career that has spanned all grade levels and many roles in public education, including teacher, administrator, district leader, department of education project leader, and executive director. A prolific author and consultant, his expertise in RTI, MTSS, intervention, assessment, and other topics make him a highly sought-after speaker. He is the author of more than 20 books.
Alex Ka...
2024-10-1427 min
edWebcastsThriving as a New or Guest Teacher Part 1: You’re a Teacher Now! What’s Next?This edWeb podcast is sponsored by Solution Tree.The webinar recording can be accessed here.If you’re a new teacher (or about to be), or you support new teachers, then this edWeb podcast is for you! Join acclaimed educators Tom Hierck and Alex Kajitani for an engaging and insightful look at exactly how you can set yourself up for success this school year and avoid some of the biggest mistakes new teachers make—all while caring for yourself. Regardless of how you have arrived at this teaching job, you leave with real tools and strategies that...
2024-08-051h 01
KEDC Podcast Empowering EdTalksAuthor Episode with Alex Kajitani the "Rappin Mathematician" with Strategies for Teacher Leaders, New Teacher, and Teachers of the YearAlex Kajitani, known as the Rappin Mathematician, is a former middle school math teacher who now inspires and supports teachers through his books, presentations, and resources. He started using rap songs to engage his students and found great success. He has written books for new teachers, teacher leaders, and administrators, providing practical and implementable solutions. His books cover topics such as running effective meetings, resolving conflicts, and navigating the media as a teacher. Alex emphasizes the importance of teacher leadership and encourages teachers to share their remarkable practices with others. He also highlights the need for connection with students...
2024-07-1846 min
Have a Life TeachingTom Hierck and Alex Kajitani: How Knowing Our Students’ DNA Can Help Us Succeed as EducatorsNew teachers coming into the profession often struggle inknowing what to do/learn first. Indeed, as my next guests say, for most new teachers, the goal is simply surviving day to day and to make it into their second yearof teaching. Join me and my guests, Tom Hierck and Alex Kajitani – book authors and Solution Tree education consultants – as we discuss their new book – You’rea Teacher Now! What’s Next? We discussthe importance of forming relationships with both students and colleagues, as the key to survival, and knowing our students’ DNA – Dreams, Needs, andAbilities. We also discuss how admi...
2024-05-2134 min
The Out of the Trenches PodcastEpisode #297: Alex KajitaniAlex Kajitani is the 2009 California Teacher of the Year, and a Top-4 Finalist for National Teacher of the Year. He is the author of several books, including Owning It, which was named “Recommended Reading” by the U.S. Department of Education, and his newest book (for new teachers!), You’re a Teacher Now! What’s Next? is receiving rave reviews! A highly sought after education speaker, Alex is known around the world as “The Rappin’ Mathematician. He has a popular TED Talk, and was honored at The White House.
Find Alex online: / alexkajitani / @alexkajitani / alex.kajitani IG @alexkajitani Multiplication...
2024-05-0233 min
10 Minute Teacher Podcast with Cool Cat TeacherEmpowering New Teachers: Insights from Alex Kajitani, the Rapping MathematicianToday, I interview Alex Kajitani, the 2009 California Teacher of the Year, and a Top-4 Finalist for National Teacher of the Year and author of the book "You're a Teacher Now, What's Next?" In this podcast, we offer encouragement for new teachers and old alike with an emphasis on those in their first year of teaching and how it feels to be at this point in the school year. Alex emphasizes the importance of finding hope and perspective in teaching and shares how any teacher can start fresh at any point in the year to improve their practice. This podcast...
2024-03-0413 min
Assess THAT with Tom & Nat! (Assessment, Feedback, Grading, and Learning)Allow the Negative | Alex Kajitani | Assessment DilemmaIn the Mindset Minute (1:53), Tom shares his thoughts on why we must allow our negative thoughts to flow through us. Then (6:18) Tom is joined by author, speaker, and trapping Mathematician Alex Kajitani to discuss his latest book, "Owning It: Proven Strategies to Ace and Embrace Teaching. Finally, in Assessment Corner (47:20), Tom discusses a common assessment dilemma.
Alex on "X" (Twitter)
Alex on Facebook
Alex on Instagram
www.alexkajitani.com
UPCOMING EVENTS
Grading from the Inside Out
Charleston, SC (Oct. 11-12)
Standards-Based Learning in Action
Seattle, WA (Oct. 16-17)
Grading from the Inside Out
St. L...
2023-09-2558 min
The Tom Schimmer PodcastAllow the Negative | Alex Kajitani | Assessment DilemmaIn the Mindset Minute (1:53), Tom shares his thoughts on why we must allow our negative thoughts to flow through us. Then (6:18) Tom is joined by author, speaker, and trapping Mathematician Alex Kajitani to discuss his latest book, "Owning It: Proven Strategies to Ace and Embrace Teaching. Finally, in Assessment Corner (47:20), Tom discusses a common assessment dilemma. Alex on "X" (Twitter)Alex on FacebookAlex on Instagramwww.alexkajitani.com UPCOMING EVENTS Grading from the Inside OutCharleston, SC (Oct. 11-12)Standards-Based Learning in ActionSeattle, WA (Oct. 16-17)Grading from the Inside OutSt. Louis, MO (Dec. 6-7) NEW BOOKS BY TOM: "Redefining Student Accountability" (NEW...
2023-09-2558 min
A Conversation With BrianAlex KajitaniIn Season 1, Episode 12, Brian speaks with author, speaker, educator and former California Teacher of the year, Alex Kajitani.Alex Kajitani not only has a truly compelling story, but he knows how to tell it in a thoroughly engaging way – and apply what he’s learned to offer real and immediate strategies for effective teaching and leadership (skills needed in every organization and school!). Whether he’s presenting virtually or in-person, Alex’s audiences have been known to laugh and cry, and they always leave with tangible ways to begin making their own shifts toward their highest potential as teach...
2023-01-2751 min
ASSETSHow I became known as "The Rappin' Mathematician"This month, our host Dr. Jobi Lawrence sits with Mr. Alex Kajitani, also known as "The Rappin' Mathematician," California Teacher of the year and co-author of a Chicken Soup for the Soul book. Listen in to hear Dr. Lawrence and Mr. Kajitani rap their way to better understanding how math can be made more comprehensible and how student motivation can be increased with the approach of the "Rappin Mathematician". You won't want to miss this episode and the chance to learn how to go beyond test scores and data, and dive into real-life stories and teachers' actual impact on...
2022-11-1848 min
2022-01-0944 min
Setting the StandardAlex Kajitani and the STS Webinar SeriesWe're back after a summer break, and for this episode, Raymond is joined by Jamie Hurley, CDE's specialist for comprehensive health and physical education. Together, they talk with Alex Kajitani, a California Teacher of the Year, who has helped arrange our presenters for this fall's Setting the Standards webinar series hosted by CDE on the first Wednesday of each month at 3:30 pm.
Links:
Setting the Standards webinar series: https://www.cde.state.co.us/standardsandinstruction/settingthestandardwebinars
Alex Kajitani: https://alexkajitani.com/
Office of Standards and Instructional Support: https://www.cde.state.co.us/standardsandinstruction
Hosts...
2021-08-3118 min
Education Leadership and BeyondEpisode 167: #167 w Alex Kajitani Teacher, Speaker, Author & the Rappin Mathematician!
2021-05-2857 min
#ELB Education Leadership and BeyondEpisode 167: #167 w Alex Kajitani Teacher, Speaker, Author & the Rappin Mathematician!
2021-05-2857 min
The Next 24 HoursBeating Pandemic Fatigue with Gratitude and Resilience - with Alex KajitaniTeachers, parents, principals and administrators—this episode is especially for you. But it’s also the wake up from Pandemic Fatigue that we ALL need. My guest on this episode is teacher-of-the-year turned education guru, Alex Kajitani. He’s sharing invaluable lessons on how to build powerful relationships with students during remote learning, how to cultivate compassion and resilience in your kids (and in yourself!) and what it means to find gratitude and positivity in the midst of grief and hardship. Learn more about my Virtual Assembly Program: https://curtiszimmerman.com/virtual-school-assembly/ Learn m...
2021-02-0851 min
FAACT's RoundtableEp. 43: Communicating and Connecting with Your Child's Teacher During the PandemicAs parents of children with food allergies, we know a strong parent-teacher relationship is key. In this information-packed episode, we sit down with Keynote speaker, Author, former California Teacher of the Year, the Rappin' Mathematician, and the Founder of Multiplication Nation, Alex Kajitani, to explore how to keep those important lines of communication open with our children's teachers. Mr. Kajitani also helps us better understand the importance of teaching our students how to become good, digital learners.To keep you in the know, below are a few, free & helpful links:AlexKajitani.comMultiplicationantion.c...
2020-11-1126 min
Teach Your Class Off RadioTT Classic: Alex KajitaniThanks so much for being a part of this community. If you’d like to ask a question and have it answered LIVE just tune into my YouTube channel, Real Rap with Reynolds, on Sunday night at 5pm eastern time and I’d be happy to answer anything you are wondering about.
Below you can find links to all the different ways we can connect.
Peace.
-Reynolds
_________________________________________________________
Follow us on:
Mail stuff to P.O. Box 11 Gloucester City, NJ 08030 USA
Website: www.realrapwithreynolds.com
iT...
2020-01-241h 04Principal Center RadioAlex Kajitani—Owning It: Proven Strategies to Ace and Embrace Teaching
Interview Notes, Resources, & Links
Get the book, Owning It: Proven Strategies to Ace and Embrace Teaching
Visit Alex's website
Visit the Multiplication Nation website
Listen to Alex discuss Multiplication Nation on Principal Center Radio
Follow Alex on Twitter @AlexKajitani
About Alex Kajitani
Alex Kajitani is a California Teacher of the Year, and the author of three books. A sought-after speaker, he is the founder of Multiplication Nation, an online program to help students master their times tables and have fun doing it.
2019-04-0232 min
Edtech in the ClassroomMultiplication Nation (Featuring Alex Kajitani)In this episode of EdTech in the Classroom, we welcome California Teacher of the Year Alex Kajitani on the program to discuss Multiplication Nation, a fantastic learning platform that helps students get a head start in the math classroom.Follow our PodcastThe TeacherCast Educational Broadcasting Network | @TeacherCastFollow our HostJeff Bradbury | @JeffBradburyAbout Alex KajitaniAlex Kajitani (Kaw-juw-taw-nee) is the 2009 California Teacher of the Year, and a Top-4 Finalist for National Teacher of the Year. He is the co-author of Chicken Soup for the Soul: Inspiration for T...
2018-05-0818 min
From My Mama's Kitchen® Talk Radio ShowChicken Soup for the Soul: Inspiration for Teachers with Alex KajitaniEvery adult can name a special teacher who affected his or her life. Teachers create our collective future, acting as role models and confidants, in addition to their official jobs helping students learn the curriculum. And yet, today teachers are facing funding cuts and low morale, while we head toward a national teacher shortage. What better time than now to show teachers we need and appreciate them? The 101 stories in Chicken Soup for the Soul: Inspiration for Teachers provide our educators with the inspiration and positive reinforcement they deserve every day. “Teaching is not just what we do, teaching is what...
2017-04-251h 14
The Romeo ShowThe World is Your Classroom with Alex KajitaniIn this episode, Romeo Marquez Jr. interviews speaker, trainer & California Teacher of the Year, Alex Kajitani. They discuss success tips on how to succeed as a parent, teacher, and student of life.
About ALEX KAJITANI:
Alex Kajitani was a struggling new teacher at a tough, inner-city school in San Diego. As the students came in each day unable to remember simple math concepts from the day before, yet singing every word to the new rap song on the radio, he realized he needed a new approach. Fed up with the students coming in rapping lyrics ab...
2014-08-1231 min
The Romeo Show#011: The World is Your Classroom with Alex KajitaniIn this episode, Romeo Marquez Jr. interviews speaker, trainer & California Teacher of the Year, Alex Kajitani. They discuss success tips on how to succeed as a parent, teacher, and student of life. About ALEX KAJITANI: Alex Kajitani was a struggling new teacher at a tough, inner-city school in San Diego. As the students came in each day unable to remember simple math concepts from the day before, yet singing every word to the new rap song on the radio, he realized he needed a new approach. Fed up with the students coming in rapping lyrics ab...
2014-08-1200 min
STEAM Channel (Video)STEaM Connect Ascend Conference 2014: Spotlight on TeachersFrom the Inaugural STEaM Connect Ascend Conference 2014, 2009 Teacher of the Year Alex Kajitani presents educators and samples of their STEaM efforts. Series: "STEaM Connect Ascend Conference 2014" [Education] [Show ID: 28114]
2014-03-2832 minSTEAM Channel (Audio)STEaM Connect Ascend Conference 2014: Spotlight on TeachersFrom the Inaugural STEaM Connect Ascend Conference 2014, 2009 Teacher of the Year Alex Kajitani presents educators and samples of their STEaM efforts. Series: "STEaM Connect Ascend Conference 2014" [Education] [Show ID: 28114]
2014-03-2832 min
Power-Up With A Full Audiobook That Is Simply Captivating.Duct Tape Parenting by Vicki Hoefle, Alex Kajitani - forewordPlease visithttps://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/2/audible/170994to listen full audiobooks.
Title: Duct Tape Parenting
Author: Vicki Hoefle, Alex Kajitani - foreword
Narrator: Vicki Hoefle
Format: mp3
Length: 8 hrs and 51 mins
Release date: 02-26-13
Ratings: 4.5 out of 5 stars, 108 ratings
Genres: Parents & Adult Children
Publisher's Summary:
2013-02-268h 51