Shows
We Teach So Hard!Episode 80 Teacher Summer Read Series: Becoming by Michelle ObamaAll of us at We Teach So Hard felt like we needed an uplifting read, and listeners...THIS book inspired us! By the end of Michelle Obama´s memoir, Becoming, we felt like we had just had a fabulous glass of wine and some girl time with the former first lady. In this episode, we unpack our thoughts about her memoir, share how her story inspired us, and reveal our own sordid (just kidding) connections to her life story. If you´re looking for a great summer read, this book and podcast episode is just for you!...
2020-07-1432 minWe Teach So Hard!Episode 79 Tech Apps, Websites and Resources for Your Virtual ClassroomWhen you have to learn a lot in a short amount of time, it´s not unusual to feel overwhelmed. In fact, we´ve grown to expect those emotions! In this episode, we discuss apps, websites and online resources that we found when teaching in our virtual classrooms this spring. We unpack ideas for how to best use them and share what worked and what didn´t. If you´re worried about this fall and the possibility of teaching remotely again, this episode is just for YOU! BE SURE TO check out the links below. Many are mentioned in this...
2020-07-0133 minWe Teach So Hard!Episode 78 Teacher Summer Read Series: UNTAMED by Glennon DoyleOur first book in our summer read series, Untamed is the perfect avenue for self-reflection. Most have us have been in our own little physical cages over the last 3 months of shelter-in-place, but what about those metaphorical cages we find ourselves in? In this episode, we explore Doyle´s book from the teacher´s perspective. We know all too well about societal cages. And because we would not be true to ourselves if we didn´t explore some yummy recipes to accompany this summer read, we´ve included some INCREDIBLE food and cocktail recommendations to help you explore what it m...
2020-06-2338 minWe Teach So Hard!Episode 76 Looking Ahead to the Unknown: Making Connections in the New Digital School YearWe know, we know. It feels like you just ended your school year...or maybe you have! But with all the uncertainty, we are already thinking ahead to the new school year. Will we be teaching remotely? Will we be back in our classrooms? Or, will we be teaching in a hybrid situation? No matter what, we will be making connections with a new classroom of students. This episode is about how to make those important connections...DIGITALLY. You do not want to miss this episode of We Teach So Hard!
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2020-06-1734 minWe Teach So Hard!Episode 75 Organizing Your Virtual Classroom for the EOYNormally, you'd be breaking down your classroom, cleaning off shelves, recycling your piles of paper, and taking bulletin boards down. But in our virtual classroom, how do we close up for the end of the school year? CAREFULLY! If we want to face the possibility that we might be virtual at the start of the school year, how we close up our digital world now could make a big difference. Don't suffer from PANDEMIC PANIC! We all did this March, but we sure don't want to have to teach that way again in the fall! This episode outlines some...
2020-06-1034 minWe Teach So Hard!Episode 74 Saying Goodbye In Your Virtual ClassroomYou don't teach sooooo hard...you've been teaching TOOOOO hard! We Teach So Hard is back with a new podcast episode about saying goodbye to your students in a virtual classroom. This episode is chocked full of ideas for celebrating your students' success with goodbye and gift ideas. With school districts and state governments limiting the type of contact we can have with our students, these ideas are sure to fill that huge void, just a little bit. Give this episode a listen. We promise you won't be disappointed!
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2020-06-0331 minWe Teach So Hard!Episode 73 Book Talk Theme Talk: Poetry BooksRoses are red...violets are blue...we're feeling a little bit anxious, how about you? This past week has been mind-blowing, emotional, and anxiety-ridden for all of us-teachers and students. What better way to reclaim some calm (and maybe sanity) than to wax a little poetry. Poetry reminds us of our humanity, gives us an outlet for our emotions, and helps us stay in the present moment. Welcome to We Teach So Hard's monthly book talk theme talk where we share books around a common theme, along with ideas that you can use in your classroom or virtual teaching...
2020-03-1831 minWe Teach So Hard!Episode 72 Trying Classroom Service Projects With Your StudentsIt seems like everywhere we look on social media, we're seeing article after article about teaching empathy in the classroom. One of our favorite ways to teach empathy is to do service projects with our kiddos. Nothing develops empathy, belonging, and community quite like a service project. In this episode, we discuss a myriad of reasons to try service projects and share a wealth of service project ideas that we've tried with our own students. In fact, we have so many ideas, we had to cut ourselves short! If you're looking for a way to teach your students about...
2020-03-1127 minWe Teach So Hard!Episode 71 Tackling Project-Based Learning...Like a Linebacker!Project-based learning is sooooo much fun! Right? But it can be daunting, too. The preparation, the organization, the performance-based assessments- Ugh! Sometimes it feels like we're suiting up for a football game, only to figure out that we forgot the football once we get out on the field! All kidding aside, there's a lot that goes into a successful project-based learning opportunity. Join us as we give a play-by-play account of what you need to make it impactful for your learners.
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2020-02-2530 minWe Teach So Hard!Episode 70 Fostering a Culturally Responsive Classroom, Part 4: Choice & Differentiated AssessmentWelcome to our last episode in our Fostering a Culturally Responsive Classroom. In this episode, we relive our tragic elementary school cooperative project experiences and pick at the group-grade scabs and scars we all carry. In a culturally responsive classroom, choice is offered to students. That doesn't mean it's a free for all. On the contrary, choice can be as simple as offering a couple of different ways for students to show what they have learned and retained after a learning opportunity. We discuss the rationale for this approach, as well as a myriad of ideas for how...
2020-02-1831 minWe Teach So Hard!Episode 69 Book Talk Theme Talk: Books About HopeWelcome to our sixth episode of Book Talk Theme Talk. This month, We Teach So Hard is discussing hope-themed books to enrich your reader's workshop. In this episode, we offer a wealth of kidlit recommendations and teaching ideas. Some of these ideas you can implement in your classroom the next day! With suicide being the 2nd leading cause of death in children under the age of 24, this theme seem especially important. You don't want to miss this one!
When you're done listening, be sure to visit our blogs because we've linked up our ideas this month!
2020-02-1140 minWe Teach So Hard!Episode 68 Fostering a Culturally Responsive Classroom, Part 3: Changing AttitudesThis episode has got us singing our Patti LaBelle! Some sequins, a few feathers, and a blinged-out mic... "I got a new attitude!" In this 3rd episode of our 4-part series, we explore how culturally responsive practices can provide an attitudinal paradigm shift for our students. We include some tips and ideas for stretching your pedagogy so it's inclusive and responsive to ALL learners!
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2020-02-0533 minWe Teach So Hard!Episode 67 Fostering a Culturally Responsive Classroom, Part 2: Motivation & EngagementIn this second episode of a 4-part series on the culturally responsive classroom, we explore how we foster student motivation and engagement. We muck around in four research-based conditions that must be present for student motivation and engagement: Establishing inclusion, developing attitude, enhancing meaning, and engendering competence. We know, we know. Those are some BIG WORDS, but we promise that there are some great ideas to get you started on the path toward increased student engagement!
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2020-01-2927 minWe Teach So Hard!Episode 66 Fostering a Culturally Responsive Classroom: A Safe & Respectful EnvironmentIn this first episode of a 4-part series on the culturally responsive classroom we explore how we build a respectful environment where our students feel safe and valued. We answer questions like: How do we make sure that all students feel safe enough to take learning risks? We give tips for building a bridge with parents, educating ourselves on cultural norms, and setting up classroom structures (physical and pedagogical) that support all students. You don't want to miss this series! It's a biggie!
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2020-01-2129 minWe Teach So Hard!Episode 65 Book Talk Theme Talk: We're in the Mood for LOVE!"Love is a Many Splendored Thing..."
"All You Need is Love..."
"Love Me Tender..."
Love IS in the air at We Teach So Hard! February is just around the corner and there's no time like the present to start gathering books to teach and think about the theme of love with your kiddos. This is the 5th episode in our Book Talk Theme Talk series. If you haven't listened to our previous Book Talk episodes, be sure to check them out!
In this episode, we talk about tons of texts and...
2020-01-1229 minWe Teach So Hard!Episode 64 Looking for Some Action? Try a Classroom Action Research!You're over the hump of the school year. January is here, and it's a new month, new year. If you're anything like us, January is for tweaking ... Sometimes we tweak classroom management strategies; sometimes we tweak instructional strategies. If you're looking to make some changes in your classroom, or with your students, this episode is for you. We explore the components of an action research plan, discuss what IS action research, and what isn't, and give some examples of successful action research we've tried in our own classrooms.
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2020-01-0833 minWe Teach So Hard!Episode 63 Teaching Your Students to Self-AssessWe've all had those students. When you ask them how they think they did, they always say, "I did awesome!" Sometimes, they ask questions like, "What if we don't really think we need improvement? Then what do we do?" THAT'S CRAZY TALK, isn't it? In this episode, we discuss ways to move your students past the crazy talk, toward real self-assessment. If you'd like to stop banging your head against that metaphorical brick wall, give this episode a listen!
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2019-12-0428 minWe Teach So Hard!Episode 62 Book Talk Theme Talk: Using Books to Teach About HonestyAnother book list for you because no one has time to hunt for books when you're teaching themes. November's theme is HONESTY. This is We Teach So Hard's fourth Book Talk-Theme Talk post. In this episode, we share fantastic children' books for teaching about honesty, along with tons of lesson ideas, too. We've done the hard work for you so you don't have to! Give this episode a listen. And, if you missed our first three themed book talks on BELONGING (EPISDOE 49), PERSEVERANCE (EPISODE 53), BULLYING (EPISODE 57), check those out, too!
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2019-11-2728 minWe Teach So Hard!Episode 61 4th in The Technology Series: Using Technology to DifferentiateRaise your hand if you have umpteen million learner needs in your one little ole' classroom. Differentiation is the name of the game, and yet it can be one of the most challenging things to implement in your teaching. In this episode we discuss ways to use technology to help you differentiate. We talk about apps and programs, and then go beyond to explore more creative ideas. Even the most technologically challenged can do this because we've got you covered!
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2019-11-1926 minWe Teach So Hard!Episode 60 3rd in the Technology Series: Using Technology to Engage StudentsWhat's a teacher to do with her reluctant learners? You plan, you agonize, you teach small group lessons... sometimes the urge to throw up your hands and yell, "I give up!" is overwhelming. Adding technology to your lessons can be that missing link. Our 21st century learners are different than we were in school. They come to us as digital citizens. So why not meet them where they are at? In this episode, we discuss ways to infuse technology into your every day teaching. Purposeful technology planning can truly rock your classroom world. This is the third episode...
2019-11-1325 minWe Teach So Hard!Episode 59 2nd in the Technology Series: Using Technology for CollaborationWant an engaging approach to collaboration? Try adding technology. Whether you're teaching kids how to podcast or setting up book discussion skyping sessions across your school district, state, country, or even the world, adding technology to any collaborative lesson can really motivate your learners. In this episode, we discuss ways we've used technology to teach collaboration...and we wouldn't be "us," if we didn't rant a little, too. This is the second episode in our technology series. If you missed the first, be sure to check that out, too!
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2019-11-0624 minWe Teach So Hard!Episode 58 1st in the Technology Series: Using Technology That TeachesWhat's that we hear? Is that wailing and the gnashing of teeth? Did someone say, "Technology?" All kidding aside, technology is a powerful teaching tool, but it can bring a teacher to his or her knees when it doesn't work the way it's supposed to. In this episode, we explore different apps and websites that we've used in our classrooms to teach content. We also include some tips for getting started before you add the technology to your lessons. If you're looking for some new tech ideas, this one's for you. Be sure to stop back over...
2019-10-2931 minWe Teach So Hard!Episode 57 Book Talk Theme Talk: Books About BullyingWe love book lists. In fact, we suspect that most teachers do because we have so much on our plates. Looking for books with similar themes so we can work our literary magic with cross-text connections is so time consuming. This is We Teach So Hard's third Book Talk-Theme Talk post. In this episode, we share four fantastic children's books for teaching about bullying. We share tons of lesson ideas, video links and a few freebies, too. We've done the hard work for you so you don't have to! Give this episode a listen. And, if you missed our first...
2019-10-2031 minWe Teach So Hard!Episode 56 Behavior Modification 101: No Bells Needed!We think behavior modification is like going to Weight Watchers. We plan ahead, set things up for success, buy a new scale, and then fall apart on the third day of the first week. In our classrooms, we plan ahead, put things in place so the behavioral plan is successful, create a new scale or feedback form, and then fall apart on third day of the first week. CONSISTENCY is key, but if you're anything like us, consistency is hard, too. In this episode we explore the what, the when, and the how of behavior modification plans...
2019-10-1539 minWe Teach So Hard!Episode 55 Getting Your Students to Self-ReflectSometimes, goal-setting with students can feel like a root canal. You know it's needed, but the time expense, effort, and white-knuckled anticipation can be daunting. We want our students to think about their learning and how it changed their thinking, but often times they're just not there yet. This episode breaks down some great approaches for leading your students to self-reflection. Self-reflection is necessary to cement learning, change behaviors, and continue on a life-long learning path. Don't miss this episode as we share practical advice for teaching reflective thinking skills.
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2019-10-0827 minWe Teach So Hard!Episode 54 Why Did The Chicken Cross The Road? Exploring Humor in The ClassroomThe classroom that laughs together, learns together. That's our mantra at We Teach So Hard. Humor is such a powerful teaching tool. Whether we're laughing at ourselves or enjoying a good curriculum-based joke, when our students' eyes are shining, we know we've got them hooked. Listening to this episode will for sure make you chuckle, and we promise you'll come away with some new tricks to use the next day in your classroom!
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2019-09-2524 minWe Teach So Hard!Episode 53 Book Talk-Theme Talk: Books For Teaching About PerseveranceWe love book lists. In fact, we suspect that most teachers do because we have so much on our plates. Looking for books with similar themes so we can work our literary magic with cross-textual connections (sounds kind of kinky, doesn't it?) is so time consuming. This is We Teach So Hard's second Book Talk-Theme Talk post. In this episode, we share four fantastic children's books for teaching about perseverance. We share tons of lesson ideas, video links and a few freebies, too. We've done the hard work for you so you don't have to! Give this episode a...
2019-09-1530 minWe Teach So Hard!Episode 52 Just a Bunch of Manic Mornings? Add a Little Zen to Your A.M.Remember that old Bangles song? "Just another manic Monday...wish it was Sunday..." Sometimes every one of our mornings feels like a manic Monday. If this is your norm, then this episode is just for you. Who wants five Monday mornings in a row? No one we know. In this episode we discuss the importance of routines and self care strategies to add a little zen into your morning wake ups. It's back-to-school season, and we all could use a little morning "tune up!"
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2019-09-0321 minWe Teach So Hard!Episode 51 Whattaya Mean We Have To Work Together? Cooperative Learning 101We've all struggled with cooperative learning, either as teachers of students. In this episode we explore ways to get your kids collaborating without waging war. We explore the HOW, laugh a little, and vent a little! It’s the perfect topic for your start of the school year!
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Tracy @ http://www.mossyoakmusings.com/
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2019-08-2829 minWe Teach So Hard!Episode 50: Fifty Reason We Love Teaching! Come Celebrate With Us!There MUST be 50 reasons to love teaching! We are celebrating our 50th podcast episode! Help us celebrate and enter to win the We Teach So Hard teacher bag filled with back-to-school goodies. What's in the bag? Check this list out!
1. A $20 TpT gift card
2. A $100 Arbonne gift certificate
3. A free pair of LuLaRoe leggings
4. LipSense gloss and lip color
5. A giant post-it pack
6. A set of Flair pens
7. A darling mouse classroom timer
8. Godiva chocolate
9. Two back-to-school picture books: Be Good...
2019-08-1909 minWe Teach So Hard!Got Theme? August's Book Talk on BelongingWelcome to We Teach So Hard's inaugural themed book talk episode! Every 2nd week of the month, we'll be exploring books around a central theme. This month's theme is BELONGING. It seems like the perfect back-to-school focus. In each episode, we'll introduce 4 books and share lesson ideas for using them in your classroom.
In this episode, we explore the theme of BELONGING and introduce a myriad of ideas for using our book recommendations in your classroom. Who hasn't ever felt the sting of exclusion? All of us have felt it in varying degrees. Our need to...
2019-08-1129 minWe Teach So Hard!Episode 48 Student Discourse 101: Teaching Kids How to TalkAccountable talk. On-task talk. Turn and talk. No matter what you call it, we can all agree that it's really important that our students learn how to engage in discourse. They need to be able to share their thinking, provide evidence, build on each other's responses, and disagree with their peers without losing their minds. The beginning of the school year often causes us to miss our kiddos from the year before. After all, we had them "trained." They knew how to discuss and disagree. They could support their thinking. We worked hard to get them there. There's nothing...
2019-08-0728 minWe Teach So Hard!Episode 47 When Professional Development Disappoints: It's Time For An UnconferenceWe've all been there, and it's usually on the day before school. We're trapped in a PD when we have 1,001 other more pressing things to do. Research says, however, that the best teacher professional development is teacher-driven and teacher-centered. We're no different than our students when it comes to learning, so why can't we have choice, collaboration and fun? This episode of We Teach So Hard outlines some ways to hold your own "unconference" with your teaching posse. Taking charge of your learning can be a game changer!
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2019-07-2824 minWe Teach So Hard!Episode 46 Summer Reads Series: Goodbye For NowIt's our last summer read and we're crying in our cocktails, but this one is thought-provoking, we promise! Goodbye For Now by Laurie Frankel is a modern science fiction novel that left us thinking about many "what-ifs." If you had the opportunity to talk with a loved one who has passed, with the help of technology, would you do it? What might be some of the drawbacks? What are the responsibilities of the people who create that technology? This book is part love story, part science fiction. If you haven't read it yet, don't listen until you do because this po...
2019-07-1435 minWe Teach So Hard!Episode 45 Summer Reads Series: Autism in HeelsJoin us for our 3rd episode in our Summer Reads Series. In this episode, we discuss a memoir, Autism in Heels by Jennifer Cook O'Toole. As teachers, there's a lot to sink our teeth into with this book. O'Toole writes about her "otherness," about never fitting in and the bond she shared with her father. It wasn't until her own children were diagnosed with Aspergers, that she realized that she, too, was on the spectrum, as was her father. The memoir goes on to explore how Autism appears differently in girls. Give this podcast a listen...
2019-07-0939 minWe Teach So Hard!Episode 44 Summer Reads Series: Where The Crawdads SingHey lovely listeners! We hope you're enjoying your summer as much as we are. Welcome to the second installment of We Teach So Hard's Summer Reads Series where we suggest pleasure-read books and hold book club discussions. This episode, our title is a recent bestseller, Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens. This read is filled with lyrical language, and heartbreaking abandonment. It's a gorgeous coming-of-age story of survival, physical survival and emotional survival. Kya will break your heart. She broke ours, for sure. Delia Owens' writing is like a prose poem. Transcendent!
If you haven't read...
2019-07-0131 minWe Teach So Hard!Episode 43 Summer Reads Series: The Samurai's GardenAhhhhhhhh... It's summer, finally. Welcome to the first installment of We Teach So Hard's Summer Reads Series where we suggest pleasure-read books and hold book club discussions. This episode, our title is The Samurai's Garden by Gail Tsukiyama. This is the perfect first read for the summer, because the author tells an enthralling story about love, isolation, and honor. Matsu, Stephan and Sachi's story will leave you feeling like you've just completed a fabulous meditation. Seriously, her writing is that good.
If you haven't read the book yet, then save this podcast episode for after...
2019-06-2430 minWe Teach So Hard!Episode 42 Can a Teacher Get a Little Encouragement? Surviving the End of the Year MadnessThe end is in sight! Nothing can bring relief and yet instill panic like that statement. We're bedraggled, exhausted, and wishing we had a margarita instead of that third cup of coffee. And, we have miles to go before we sleep. Nothing can be more disheartening than watching online teacher friends posting their vacation cocktails while you're still mucking through your last days of school. This post is just for you. You've got this...you're almost there!
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2019-06-1130 minWe Teach So Hard!Episode 41 A Teacher's Most Embarrassing Moments: How to Grin and Bear ThemToilet paper on your shoe? Skirt tucked into your tights? Or maybe, hygiene mishaps? We've all been there. We've all had those moments when we wish the filing cabinet would just swallow us up. This episode is for any and all teachers who've faced embarrassment (or hid from it). Either way, we've got you covered! At the very least, you'll have a good laugh on us as we share our own humiliations. It's okay, we KNOW you're laughing with us, not at us.
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2019-06-0420 minWe Teach So Hard!Episode 40 How to Keep Your Kiddos Learning Over the SunmerWatermelon. Swimming. Barbecue. These are words that come to mind when we think of summer. We don't think "math worksheets" when we think of summer. In this episode, we discuss ways to help your students avoid the dreaded summer slide without a math worksheet in sight. If you're looking for a way to engage your students over the summer, then this episode is for you!
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Tracy @ http://mossyoakmusings.blogspot.co...
2019-05-2922 minWe Teach So Hard!Episode 39 The End Is Near: Planning For Your EOY CelebrationsPlanning for your end-of-year classroom celebrations doesn't have to feel apocalyptic! We offer tips and suggestions for some great ways to celebrate your kiddos. You won't have to smash your piggy bank, either, we promise! Our EOY mantra is "Keep it simple. Keep it inexpensive. Keep it fun!" Give this episode a listen if you're searching for ideas.
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2019-05-2227 minWe Teach So Hard!Episode 38 Excedrin-Free End-of-the-Year Organization: Get Out Your Packing Tape!The end is in sight, and you have to think about packing up your classroom for the summer. Whether you're required to pack up your entire room for the summer, or tuck your teaching goodies away in cabinets and closets, this episode is for you. It doesn't have to be a headache. Listen in as we discuss ways we keep ourselves organized... or not (SOME of us are a little unorganized, but we get an A+ for effort). We laugh a little, and bitch a little, but you'll come away with a new idea or two!
2019-05-0732 minWe Teach So Hard!SPECIAL Announcement from WE TEACH SO HARD! It's a Giveaway! Happy Teacher Appreciation Week to YOU!Calling all listeners! This announcement is JUST for you, because YOU TEACH SO HARD! Listen, and click the link below to enter!
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2019-05-0701 minWe Teach So Hard!Episdoe 37 Glue Gun At The Ready? It's Almost Mother's Day!Looking for the perfect Mother's Day craft for your kiddos to do this week? SO ARE WE! Seriously though, sometimes Mother's Day can be difficult to navigate. We've all had students who have lost mothers, are in foster care, or have absentee moms. This holiday can be emotionally challenging. In this episode, we share creative writing and craft ideas, a few good books, and some ideas for helping our kiddos who struggle this time of year. This episode is for you because YOU TEACH SO HARD!
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2019-05-0123 minWe Teach So Hard!Episode 36 So You're Teaching Summer School?You're tired...bone tired, but someone has got to pay the bills, so you're teaching summer school this year! It doesn't have to be doom, gloom and drudgery. Summer school can be a fantastic time to try out new teaching ideas, themes, projects and lessons. It doesn't have to be worksheet-driven. For your sanity, and your kiddos' survival, give this episode a listen. We've got great ideas for you, because you TEACH SO HARD!
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2019-04-2425 minWe Teach So Hard!Episode 35 Outdoor Education: The Antidote for Waning AttentionDo we hear wailing and the gnashing of teeth? The end is near, and your students are squirrely and CHECKED OUT. Don't freak out! Take them outside! In this episode of WE TEACH SO HARD, we share fun end-of-year ideas for taking the learning and teaching outside. Spring is in the air, don't despair! Take it outside. Student engagement will soar!
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2019-04-1727 minWe Teach So Hard!Episode 34 Granola and Peace Signs...Lesson Ideas for Earth DayWe've got the future of the planet in our classrooms. Earth Day is a fantastic opportunity to begin conservation conversations and education with your students with the intent that Earth Day might be celebrated EVERY DAY. This episode is chocked full of ideas to use with your students throughout the spring months...literacy, math, science and social studies! We've got all the bases covered for your Earth Day celebrations.
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2019-04-0929 minWe Teach So Hard!Episode 33 Interdisciplinary Projects Can Save Your SanityWe're galloping toward the year's end. There's standardized testing to get through...HOURS of it, in fact. Field trips, assemblies, learning celebrations, and don't forget about your evaluation, report cards, common assessments, and closing up your classroom. When we think about our school life in the months of April, May and June, it's hard not to hyperventilate. BECAUSE WE STILL HAVE TO TEACH, and let's face it-our students are checked out! Interdisciplinary projects can save your sanity. They really can! They'll keep the learning going, engage your kids, and help you get in all those standards you still have...
2019-04-0331 minWe Teach So Hard!Episode 32 Roses Are Red, Violets Are Blue, Sunshine is Yellow & National Poetry Month is COOL!April is National Poetry Month and we at We Teach So Hard have collectively decided that it is one of our favorite months! Poetry can rock your readers and writers workshops. It doesn't have to be intimidating, and we show you how. This podcast is filled with fabulous ideas for incorporating poetry in your classroom. Be sure to check out our blog posts too! They are overflowing with FREE poetry ideas this week, just for you! From free verse to formulaic patterns, from reading strategies to writing tools, we've got you covered!
Tracy @ https://mossyoakmusings...
2019-03-2432 minWe Teach So Hard!Episode 31 Maybe It's the Luck of the Irish!Maybe we'll never find the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow, but we feel dang lucky to be teachers. There's nothing easy about our jobs, but the BEST parts of being a teacher make everything worthwhile. If you're feeling down or your energy is low, this podcast is for you. We're looking for and reclaiming our "rainbows."
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2019-03-2131 minWe Teach So Hard!Episode 30 Standardized Testing and Your SanityIt's getting to be that time of year. Test prep... test prep... TEST PREP! You know what we're talking about, don't you? The testing manual says it should take an hour to complete the test, and it takes three hours. Nothing says, "I need a drink" like testing days. In this episode, we bitch and moan, share tips and tricks, and we laugh and cry a little, too. Listen to this instead of chewing your nails down to the quick!
Like what you hear? Then you HAVE to check out our blogs. We share...
2019-03-1230 minWe Teach So Hard!Episode 29 What Teachers Wished the Public Understood About TeachingCalling all #LOSER teachers! This episode is just for you. Join us as we laugh, cry (and maybe rage, a little) about what we wish people understood about teaching. We'll explore public perceptions, funding, political perceptions, and how we rise above the crap. You don't want to miss this one!
Like what you hear? Be sure to follow us on your listening platform. REALLY like what you hear? Drop us a rating or comment. You can visit us at our blogs, as well. Check out the links below!
Tracy @ https://mossyoakmusings.blogspot.com/
2019-03-0527 minWe Teach So Hard!Episode 28 March is Reading Month Merriment & MadnessMarch is Reading Month and Read Across America week are just around the corner? Are you ready? We love the intention of these celebrations...the cool learning activities, the goal setting, the diving into good books with our kiddos. But we'd be lying if we didn't admit that these things can add a layer of crazy to our classrooms. Give this episode a listen. We share our ideas for keeping our reading celebrations student-centered.
Like what you hear? Then you need to visit our blogs! This week, we're linking up to share ideas with you.
2019-02-2629 minWe Teach So Hard!Episode 27 Teacher Fashion Throughout the YearsDo you remember floaty long dresses, appliqued with apple patches? Did you own teacher necklaces made from wooden blocks? How about your shoes? Did you wear "teacher shoes?" If you need a good laugh, this episode is FOR YOU! Join us as we talk trash about our teacher fashion sense throughout the years. We promise you won't be sorry you listened!
Like what you hear? The you MUST check out our blogs! This week, we're writing about our fashion faux pas, too!
Tracy @ https://mossyoakmusings.blogspot.com/
Kathie @ https://www.triedandtrueteachingtools.com/
2019-02-1730 minWe Teach So Hard!Episode 26 Finding the Bootstraps When Staff Morale is LowWe've all been there. Whether it's at a state, community or building level, things happen that affect our morale. Sometimes, it's really hard to come to work. When we're down, it affects our whole learning community, including the students. How do you bounce back when everything or everyone around you is in the dumps? This episode is for YOU!
Like what you hear? Visit us at:
Tracy @ https://mossyoakmusings.blogspot.com/
Retta @ http://rainbowcitylearning.blogspot.com/
Kathie @ https://www.triedandtrueteachingtools.com/
Deann @ https://socrateslantern.com/
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2019-02-1232 minWe Teach So Hard!Episode 25 Field Trip Follies: The Good, The Bad & The UglyNothing says FUN (or mayhem) like taking 25 + kiddos to the zoo, the museum, or the farm. In this episode, we laugh, we cry, we commiserate, and we talk trash about our best tips for a successful field trip experience for EVERYONE! You don't want to miss this episode!
Like what you hear? Then come visit us at our blogs. We write about our classrooms every week and offer ideas, resources and freebies. Come visit!
Tracy @ http://mossyoakmusings.blogspot.com
Retta @ http://rainbowcitylearning.blogspot.com
Kathie @ https://www.triedandtrueteachingtools.com/
...
2019-02-0630 minWe Teach So Hard!Episode 24 Brace Yourself & Gird Your Loins! It's Teacher Evaluation Time!It's teacher evaluation season. Are you crunching data? Studying Marzano? Tossing and turning at night? This episode is just for you! Join us as we talk about the "good ole' days" when teacher evaluation made sense, or at the very least, was more authentic. We've got some "do as I say, not as I do" stories to entertain you as well!
Like what you hear? Then stop by our blogs and visit us. We've got tons of goodies and ideas waiting for you!
Tracy @ http://mossyoakmusings.blogspot.com/
Kathie @ https://www.triedandtrueteachingtools.com/
2019-01-3132 minWe Teach So Hard!Episode 23 When Your Classroom Management Needs TweakingWe've all been there! It's January, and the kiddos have returned to the classroom. Sometimes it seems like they've forgotten every routine and procedure they knew before winter break. We've got you covered with some humorous (an serious) tips to get everyone back in line!
Like what you hear? Be sure to follow our blogs in the links below! We share tons of tips and treasures with our followers each week!
Tracy @http://mossyoakmusings.blogspot.com
Deann @https://socrateslantern.com
Retta @http://rainbowcitylearning.blogspot.com/
Kathie @https://www.triedandtrueteachingtools...
2019-01-2427 minWe Teach So Hard!Episode 22 Culturally Responsive Teaching: What If It Was MLK Jr. Day Everyday?Martin Luther King Jr. day is coming up, and teachers are teaching, crafting, and reading with their kids about his life. But what if we taught about the things Dr. King held near and dear to his heart throughout the school year? What does it mean to be a culturally responsive teacher? Join us as we discuss this very important topic!
Like what you hear? Check out our blogs for more great tips and ideas!
Tracy @ http://mossyoakmusings.blogspot.com
Kathie @ https://www.triedandtrueteachingtools.com/
Deann @ https://socrateslantern.com/
...
2019-01-1630 minWe Teach So Hard!Episode 20 A Teacher's Winter Break Potluck: Food, Booze & BooksWe've worked so hard. YOU'VE worked sooooo hard! It's time to kick your feet up, stay in your jammies all day, eat some good food, drink some yummy cocktails and read some great books. Remember? Some authors actually write fiction for adults, too! Join us as we potluck together. We've curated our favorite winter break recipes for entrees, cocktails, and desserts. And, we're recommending some great reads to keep your heart happy. PSSSSTTTT! We've included some winter break freebies for you, too! Because YOU TEACH SO HARD!
Visit our blogs to snag recipes, book recommendations and freebies!
Tracy @ http://mossyoakmusings...
2018-12-1827 minWe Teach So Hard!Episode 19 STOP the INSANITY! Teacher Self CareWe might be aging ourselves, but remember that fitness guru Susan Powell and her "Stop the insanity" commercials? That sums up our teacher angst this time of year. Stop the insanity...cuz we wanna get off this bus! December always feels like cardiac arrest for teachers. Give us a listen as we laugh and cry our way through self-care ideas!
Like what you hear? You can read more by visiting us below!
Tracy @ http://mossyoakmusings.blogspot.com/
Kathie @ https://www.triedandtrueteachingtools.com/
Deann @ https://socrateslantern.com/
Retta @ http://rainbowcitylearning.blogspot.com
Image credit: Jennifer Ward
"The Show Must Be Go"...
2018-12-1223 minWe Teach So Hard!Episode 18 Fur, Feathers & Scales: Animals in Your ClassroomHissing cockroaches, live chickens, exploding cricket cages and more! This episode is meant for all teachers who have ever contemplated having animals in their classroom...and for those teachers who would never dream of it! Seriously, this episode might make you pee your pants...some of us might have in the recording of it. Let us entertain you with the highs and the lows of classroom pets.
Like what you hear? Come join our Facebook group at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/497555223992033/
Or visit us at any of the links below!
Tracy @ http://mossyoakmusings.blogspot.com/
Retta @ http://rainbowcitylearning.blogspot...
2018-12-0526 minWe Teach So Hard!Episode 17 Stem...Steam...PBL? Decoding the AcronymsSTEM? STEAM? PBL? What's the difference? Give us a listen as we discuss the differences, the reasons for incorporating it in your classroom, as well as some practical tips and tricks for success. Let us entertain you with a few fails of our own, as well!
Like what you hear? Visit us at our blogs below! We promise, you won't be sorry you stopped by! Don't forget to comment or rate our podcast!
Tracy @ http://mossyoakmusings.blogspot.com/
Retta @ http://rainbowcitylearning.blogspot.com/
Kathie @ http://www.triedandtrueteachingtools.com/
Deann @ https://socrateslantern.com/
Image credit: Jennifer Ward
"The Show Must Be...
2018-11-3030 minWe Teach So Hard!Episode 16 It's A Teacher Thanksgiving!Mashed potatoes, stuffing, cranberries and TURKEY! It's a buffet of Thanksgiving topics for teachers! We're laughing and crying our way through Thanksgiving cocktails, teaching ideas, sing-a-long songs, culturally responsive teaching, and more! You don't want to miss this episode...we PERFORM a head banging rendition of our favorite Thanksgiving song! The words are included for you below! And don't forget to enter our giveaway! It closes this Sunday. You could win $100 for Amazon, Tieks, Starbucks, or Teachers Pay Teachers! Check out the link below!
ENTER HERE https://nam01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.rafflecopter.com%2Frafl%2...
2018-11-1427 minWe Teach So Hard!Episode 15 Attitudes of GratitudeDo you have an attitude of gratitude? Do your students? How do you teach gratitude? Join us as we explore books and resources for teaching gratitude, not just in November, but all year long! The research says our brains and our bodies are healthier when we learn how to incorporate gratitude into our daily lives. We end this podcast by THANKING YOU, our listeners, with a $100 giveaway! We've got big things planned. Join us!
Want to enter our giveaway? Click this link http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/a5d60bf35/
And visit our blogs! We've linked up to offer...
2018-11-0620 minWe Teach So Hard!Episode 14 The Election: Teaching With Intention to Work Through ContentionJoin us as we explore approaches to use when you teach about the election. What happens when students have questions that are difficult to answer? How do you remain neutral? How do you discuss American politics today? DO YOU discuss American politics? This podcast can be a starting point for your classroom lessons!
Like what you hear? Visit us at
Kathie @ https://triedandtrueteachingtools.com
Retta @ http://rainbowcitylearning.blogspot.com/
Tracy @ http://mossyoakmusings.blogspot.com/
Deann @ https://socrateslantern.com/
Image Credit: Jennifer Ward
"The Show Must Be Go" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License
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2018-10-3022 minWe Teach So Hard!Episode 13 Parents and Students and Teachers...OH MY!It's that time of year again...parent-teacher conferences. Nothing causes sleepless nights and stomach butterflies like the anxiety we feel as we prepare for conferences. But guess what? Parents get nervous, too! And if you do student-led or student-involved conferences, your students are a bundle of nerves as well. That makes for a lot of anxiety around the conference table. Join us as we share tips and war stories to make your conferencing less anxious!
Like what you hear? SUBSCRIBE to WE TEACH SO HARD! Rate us or drop us a comment and tell us what you'd like to hear...
2018-10-2421 minWe Teach So Hard!Episode 12 Halloween Horror or Heaven?Hey there! What are you going to be for Halloween this year? Sexy pirate? Sexy witch? Sexy panda? Seriously though, come laugh and plan your Halloween survival strategies with us at We Teach So Hard. We've got you covered with some funny stories and expert tips!
Like what you hear? Then you need to follow us or rate us!
You can also find us on our blogs. We love to write almost as much as we love to talk. Come visit!
Tracy @ https://mossyoakmusings.blogspot.com/
Deann @ https://socrateslantern.com/
Retta @ http://rainbowcitylearning.blogspot.com
Kathie @ https://www.triedandtrueteachingtools.com/
...
2018-10-1827 minWe Teach So Hard!Episode 11 Lie #4: You're an Imposter!Ever feel like you're an imposter? Everyone else around you has it all together or fits the teacher mold, but you're not a REAL teacher, because you're not like them. We ALL feel like this sometimes. Come laugh and commiserate with us as we explore the lie #4, a lie we often tell ourselves! It's the IMPOSTER SYNDROME! No antibiotic needed, we promise!
Like what you hear? Comment or rate us! OR...visit us below!
Tracy @http://mossyoakmusings.blogspot.com/
Kathie @https://www.triedandtrueteachingtools.com/
Deann @https://socrateslantern.com/
Retta @http://rainbowcitylearning.blogspot.com/
Image by Jennifer Ward
"The Show Must...
2018-10-1124 minWe Teach So Hard!Episode 10 Lie #3 Those Who Can't... TeachHush your mouth and raise your hand if you've ever heard the saying, "Those who can do; those who can't, teach." I know, right? Nothing makes us roll our eyes more than that lie. Listen in as we talk shop, laugh a little, and rant a little as we explore lie #3.
Don't forget to rate us on iTunes or subscribe!
Like what you hear? Consider joining our facebook group at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/497555223992033/?ref=bookmarks
OR, join us on our blogs! We've got lots of good stuff to share with you!
Deann @ https://socrateslantern.com/
Tracy @ http://mossyoakmusings...
2018-10-0326 minWe Teach So Hard!Episode 9, Lie #2: Nice Girls Don't Speak UpGirl! Shut your mouth! Ever have anyone tell you that? Nice girls don't talk politics. Nice girls don't stand up when they're being abused by employers. Nice girls don't speak up when it's wrong for kids. Seriously? Speaking up doesn't mean you're a "B----!" Come laugh, cry, and examine why women teachers believe those lies about "nice girls."
Like what you hear? Then come visit us in our Facebook group! We're getting ready to begin a book study about emotional resilience for teachers. https://bit.ly/2voXw4C
Or, visit us at our blogs!
Deann @ https://socrateslantern.com/
Tracy @ https...
2018-09-2624 minWe Teach So Hard!Episode 8: The Lies Teachers Believe Series - You Are Not EnoughLiar, liar pants on fire! We need to scream it from the rooftops! Society tells us lies about teachers, and we believe them. Join us as we explore lie #1...You are not enough. You know you believe it, at least some of the time. Many of us spiral through a tornado of guilt. Join us as we laugh, rant, and problem solve our way through this belief.
Like what you hear? Be sure to SUBSCRIBE or rate us. Or consider joining our facebook group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/497555223992033/?ref=bookmarks
Or come visit us at our blogs. We LOVE...
2018-09-1928 minWe Teach So Hard!Episode 7 Organization InterventionThe dust has settled and the new school year has begun. Your desk is piled with papers and the name tags on your students' desks have begun to peel. How do you maintain your classroom organization when you're drowning in a tidal wave of paper work, reports, data folders, assessments and ungraded papers? Join us as we discuss organizational tricks...like hosting an after school bonfire to manage your paper work... JUST KIDDING! Kind of.
If you like what you hear, be sure to visit us in our WE TEACH SO HARD facebook group. We're starting a new book study...
2018-09-1127 minWe Teach So Hard!Episode 6 Building Relationships 101In this latest episode of WE TEACH SO HARD, we explore ways to build relationships with parents and students and share some humor along the way. Give it a listen for some tips and tricks to make your start to the school year smoother.
Like what you hear? Then CHECK US OUT! We blog weekly...and it's good stuff...meaty stuff...stuff you wanna have...we promise!
Tracy @ http://mossyoakmusings.blogspot.com/
Deann @ https://socrateslantern.com/
Kathie @ https://www.triedandtrueteachingtools.com/
Retta @ http://rainbowcitylearning.blogspot.com/
Image by Jennifer Ward
"The Show Must Be Go," "Life of Riley," "March of...
2018-09-0526 minWe Teach So Hard!Episode 5: Great Books Can Make Your Year Stellar!Join WE TEACH SO HARD as we talk shop about great back-to-school reads that foster community, conversation, and collaboration. In this episode we explore ways to use picture books with all students, as well as some great chapter books to start your school year. Project ideas abound! Be sure to visit our blogs this month for more ideas and free resources about starting your year off right with winning books.
Like what you hear? Then follow us at the links below:
Kathie @ http://www.triedandtrueteachingtools.com/
Tracy @ http://mossyoakmusings.blogspot.com/
Retta @ http://rainbowcitylearning.blogspot.com
Deann @ https://socrateslantern.com/
...
2018-08-2622 minWe Teach So Hard!Episode 4: Setting the Stage With Open House & Parent Curriculum NightGot the open house blues? Got the curriculum night flop sweats? This episode is just for you! Crickets and second graders running amok work wonders for establishing those parent relationships! This episode of WE TEACH SO HARD is filled with tips and tricks (along with a few nightmare stories) for a successful open house or curriculum night.
Like what you hear? Then follow us at the links below:
Tracy @ http://mossyoakmusings.blogspot.com/
Kathie @ http://www.triedandtrueteachingtools.com/
Deann @ https://socrateslantern.com/
Retta @ http://rainbowcitylearning.blogspot.com/
OR join our WE TEACH SO HARD Facebook group https://bit.ly/2voXw4...
2018-08-2221 minWe Teach So Hard!When Your Team Isn't A DreamMost every teacher has encountered this: A team that isn't a dream. Sometimes, the experiences are humorous. Sometimes, they are soul-crushing. What do you do when your teaching team is the stuff of nightmares? WE TEACH SO HARD commiserates, laughs, and discusses some tips for surviving a hard teaching situation.
Don't forget to follow us so you don't miss one single podcast!
Like what you hear? You can find us below, too, where we blog about our teaching journeys. Or, join our facebook group, We Teach So Hard!
Tracy @ http://mossyoakmusings.blogspot.com/
Deann @ https://socrateslantern.com/
Kathie @ http://www...
2018-08-1522 minWe Teach So Hard!Keeping It Real On The First Day Of SchoolThe fearsome foursome share tips and ideas for a successful first day, as well as how to wash the parent nose prints off your classroom windows. Listen for fun activities to teach classroom procedures, foster community, and thrive instead of survive.
Share your favorite 1st day ideas in the comments!
Like what you hear? Then follow us at the links below:
Tracy @ http://mossyoakmusings.blogspot.com/
Kathie @ http://www.triedandtrueteachingtools.com/
Deann @ https://socrateslantern.com/
Retta @ http://rainbowcitylearning.blogspot.com/
OR join our WE TEACH SO HARD FACEBOOK GROUP
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"The Show Must Be Go," "March...
2018-08-0820 minWe Teach So Hard!Episode 1: Classroom Set-up DramaJoin us, Retta, Kathie, Tracy & Deann, as we laugh and cry over classroom set-up drama...waxed floors, no air conditioning, emergency room mishaps and mansweat! Plus, some tips for making your set up go smoother.
When Retta's not knitting knockers, you'll find her sprinkling glitter in hopes of making the world a better place.
When Tracy's not strumming her ukulele at midnight, you'll find her hugging trees on the trail.
When Kathie's not attending high tea, you'll find her in tree pose, attempting serenity.
When Deann's not time trekking through history, you'll find her with her husky, fighting rabbits in...
2018-08-0119 min