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Always A Lesson's Empowering Educators PodcastBonus: Empowering Educators Podcast 10th BirthdayLet's celebrate together as Always a Lesson's Empowering Educators Podcast turns 10! Tune in on this live recording in celebration of all things over the past ten years. Throughout the episode, Gretchen talks past and present about the experience, the fun, and the amazing educators she's been able to meet along the way.
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Connect with Gretchen
Email: gretchen@alwaysalesson.com
Blog: Always A Lesson
Facebook: Always A Lesson
Twitter: @gschultek
Instagram: Always.A.Lesson
Linkedin: Gretchen Schultek Bridgers
Book: Elementary EDUC 101: What They Didn’t Teach Yo...
2025-06-1440 minAlways A Lesson's Empowering Educators Podcast307: Behind the Scenes of the PodcastIt's the last podcast of the year! In this special episode, Gretchen reflects over the behind the scenes work of the podcast. She talks about who she intended the podcast for: new teachers, teachers in a slump and teacher leaders and how it has evolved over time. Gretchen shares how she has used the head, heart, hands strategy to plan every episode- a strategy that will serve you well in planning for professional developments that you may lead. Be sure to tune into this fun episode of the Empowering Educators Podcast.
Quotables
It’s important that you he...
2023-12-2519 minAlways A Lesson's Empowering Educators Podcast279: Q&A with GretchenGet to know Gretchen a little bit more! You'll enjoy this special Q&A episode with Gretchen. Learn about her biggest triumphs, mistakes, holiday favorites and teacher lounge must haves. You'll get to know Gretchen all while leaving empowered.
Quotables
Let me help you figure out a way it can work for you in your classroom so that all students can be successful.
It’s going to be okay. Even on your worst day you didn’t ruin a kid’s life.
Kids are going to have a hard time connecting with you if you’re just trying to be perfect...
2022-11-2836 min
Always A Lesson's Empowering Educators Podcast279: Q&A with GretchenYou'll enjoy this unique episode of the Empowering Educators Podcast- it's Q and A time with your host, Gretchen. You'll learn more about Gretchen all why leaving empowered yourself.
Links mentioned in this episode:
Teach Like a Champion- https://amzn.to/3Ac2aEw
Get Better Faster- https://amzn.to/3GeqhGx
Harry Wong- https://amzn.to/3O3cUee
Essential 55- https://amzn.to/3E6ffR8
Move Your Bus- https://amzn.to/3GbqoTm
End of Molasses Classes- https://amzn.to/3hFCfim
Excellent 11- https://amzn.to/3DYerxC
Quotables
Let me help you figure out a way it can work for you in...
2022-11-2837 minAlways A Lesson's Empowering Educators Podcast244: Podcast Coaching with Dr. Brittany RincónDr. Brittany Rincón is a teacher, boy mom, podcast host, and the owner of The Podcasting Teacher. She helps teachers become leaders by finding their voice through podcasting in order to grow and scale their businesses. Brittany believes that every teacher is a leader who has a story and a message worth sharing with the world. She completed her Ed.D in Curriculum and Instruction and serves as a Grade Level Leader at her current school. As a Podcast Coach, she helps teachers start, launch, and grow their podcasts through 1:1 coaching and courses. Tune in to hear this bonus e...
2021-07-2632 minAlways A Lesson's Empowering Educators PodcastBonus Episode- Here Comes Baby!In this personal episode, Gretchen gives live updates on Baby Elijah's birth story.Gretchen discusses thoughts on going into labor, having a baby during the Covid-19 era and what it is like transitioning into a family of five. Tune in to hear about the details of Gretchen's third pregnancy and first baby boy!This episode is sponsored by Power School/Schoology’s Time for Teachers initiative. Connect with GretchenEmail: gretchen@alwaysalesson.comBlog: Always A LessonFacebook: Always A LessonTwitter: @gschultekInstagram: Always.A.LessonLinkedin: Gretchen Schultek BridgersGoogle+: Gretchen Schultek BridgersBook: Elementary EDUC 101: What They Didn...
2020-08-2135 minAlways A Lesson's Empowering Educators Podcast219: Being Effective with Lindsey HoweLindsey Howe is currently a first year PreK- 5 Assistant Principal/Instructional Coach for 3 elementary schools in Massachusetts. She previously was a 3rd- 5th grade teacher. She is an avid believer that all students deserve the best and are capable of learning at high levels. She spends the majority of her time pushing the educational envelope by encouraging teachers to learn and understand best practices in education and ditching practices that don't serve kids. In her spare time Lindsey enjoys working out, relaxing on the beach, and devouring the best PD books.
Quotables:
One thing I highly, highly recommend...
2020-08-1744 minAlways A Lesson's Empowering Educators Podcast217: Systems and Routines with Kelly JacksonKelly taught for 6 years in the elementary classroom- 2nd and 3rd grade. During that time she loved teaching and encouraging her kiddos but found that her strength as a teacher really was in the area or organization. In 2016, she started her blog, The Simply Organized Teacher. Shortly after launching that blog, she launched a podcast Simply Teach. In 2018, she left the classroom to move abroad (Germany) for her husband's job. Since then, she has been working with busy and overwhelmed teachers to help them get their systems and routines in place so they can have organized classrooms that allow them to...
2020-08-0328 minAlways A Lesson's Empowering Educators PodcastBONUS: The Power of CommunityBuilding a community is essential for growth. If you have never been part of an empowering community, it is nearly impossible to create one in your classroom or school building. Tune in to hear tips from coaches in the trenches for what aspects meant the most to them in finding an empowering community.Enroll in the Teacher Leader Mastermind Fall 2020 Cohort here. Connect with GretchenEmail: gretchen@alwaysalesson.comBlog: Always A LessonFacebook: Always A LessonTwitter: @gschultekInstagram: Always.A.LessonLinkedin: Gretchen Schultek BridgersGoogle+: Gretchen Schultek BridgersBook: Elementary EDUC 101: What The...
2020-07-1524 minAlways A Lesson's Empowering Educators Podcast213: Expectations with Erica TerryErica Terry is a 17 year educator, who currently serves as a professional learning consultant and coach committed to empowering co-teachers to build collaborative relationships and transform instruction in inclusive classrooms to meet the needs of all students. In addition to her role as a consultant, she also is an edupreneur and host of the Classroom to CEO Podcast, where she equips educators to build an online business and create multiple streams of income. While empowering educators to create a life they love embodies her professional passion, her husband, Melvin and daughter, Eva are the driving force and greatest blessings in h...
2020-06-1537 minAlways A Lesson's Empowering Educators PodcastBONUS: Behind-the-Scenes with GretchenGretchen pulls back the curtain in this bonus episode. You get to hear from the folks that support Gretchen the most as they ask her fun, serious, personal and professional questions.
Shout out to bonus episode co-host Adam Bridgers with cameos by Cole (Teach Glitter Grow), Kristen (Nashville Littles), Amber (Burned-In Teacher) and Nikki (Simply Coaching & Teaching).
Sponsorship
This episode is sponsored by Power School/Schoology’s Time for Teachers initiative
Connect with Gretchen
Email: gretchen@alwaysalesson.com
Blog: Always A Lesson
Facebook: Al...
2020-06-0857 minAlways A Lesson's Empowering Educators PodcastBONUS: Stay Empowered!This episode has an exciting announcement for only loyal podcast listeners. It is a way to go deeper with the content learned on this show and provides a community of support in the implementation process of growing from teacher to an empowered educator.Learn more here:https://alwaysalesson.teachable.com/p/empowering-educators-membership/Don't forget the time-sensitive code by 5/17/20: FOUNDERSponsorshipThis episode is sponsored by Power School/Schoology’s Time for Teachers initiativeConnect with GretchenEmail: gretchen@alwaysalesson.comBlog: Always A LessonFacebook: Always A LessonTwitter: @gschultekInstagram: Always.A.LessonLinkedin: Gr...
2020-05-1106 minAlways A Lesson's Empowering Educators Podcast210: School Leadership with Missy EmlerMissy is the Director of Innovation at a regional service agency in Wisconsin and the Educational Administration Program Coordinator at the University Wisconsin-Platteville. When engaging in conversations with Missy, her energy and enthusiasm for learning are contagious. She is a relentless advocate for school leaders and their learning needs as they maneuver their way through this time of massive change in education. Missy is the parent of three children.
You can also check out the first time Missy was a guest on the podcast here: Episode 20: Bonus Edition - Interview with Melissa Emler
Quotables
I have stopped talking about the t...
2020-05-0448 minAlways A Lesson's Empowering Educators Podcast209: Reverse the Chain of CommandIf you want to truly hone your leadership craft in a way that has a tremendous impact, ask the right people for feedback. You can read all the books, follow all the people, and take all the conferences, but if you do not hear from the ones you lead about how they need and want to be led better, then you’ll never transform into the most impactful leader you can become. Tune in for 3 easy steps on how to reverse the chain of command and achieve new heights in your leadership.QuotablesWhen I paid at...
2020-04-2021 minAlways A Lesson's Empowering Educators Podcast208: Do the NEXT Right ThingDuring uncertain times, the overwhelm can be debilitating. By focusing on doing the next right thing, you can strategically move forward, build momentum and gain sanity. Tune in to learn a 3 part system that will help you navigate any new situation you face so that you come out on the other side successful.QuotablesYou make the best decision you can at the time with the knowledge and skills that you have so don’t beat yourself up if down the path you gain insight and decide to change direction or tacticsEvery moment you ta...
2020-04-0618 minAlways A Lesson's Empowering Educators Podcast204: Are you Right for the Job?If you are a teacher in transition or distress, have no fear! This challenging season you are navigating will not last forever. In fact, the quicker you can jump to action for becoming the ideal person for your dream job, the faster you will be able to claim it as your own. Tune in for some solid advice on becoming the right hire and 3 tips for making that a reality right now.QuotablesYou cannot control who someone else is or isn’t, but you can control who you are and what you stand for and wh...
2020-02-1017 minAlways A Lesson's Empowering Educators Podcast203: 3 Focal Areas to Transform Your TeachingWhen you first begin teaching, there are so many changes you want to make to your instructional practice. Knowing what tweaks to make and which ones to save for later can be a daunting task. This podcast episode will walk you through 3 focal areas of your instruction that will have the biggest impact on student achievement and your own teaching proficiency. This way you get more bang for your buck with every change you make.QuotablesStudent achievement and teacher proficiency are HUGE in how we measure our educational effectiveness.Some of these tasks are time...
2020-01-2717 minAlways A Lesson's Empowering Educators Podcast201: Listen to the Voice WithinSometimes we ignore our inner voice that prompts us to discover our greatest assets. We are too consumed with fitting in when we need to stand out in our own unique way. Our gifts will not only enhance our lives, but those around us who we lead. Tune in to hear 3 practical steps you can take in the new year to listen to the voice within so that you can grow to your truest potential.Quotables We are all born with something that sets us apart.Our greatest asset can’t reach its potential if you’re sp...
2019-12-3017 minAlways A Lesson's Empowering Educators Podcast200: Are you Convinced You're Elite Yet?Hitting the 200th episode milestone means you have been learning and taking action on 200 edu-lessons! That is something to celebrate. This episode thanks you the listener for all the hard work you have been doing investing in your own potential. Your favorite past episodes are revisited, past guests make an appearance and I share an action step to bring your 2020 goals to fruition. Tune in to remain empowered for 200 more episodes!Quotables:You take the tips you’ve gained from my lessons learned and you’ve spruced them up to fit your circumstancesYou might not think you...
2019-12-1633 minAlways A Lesson's Empowering Educators Podcast199: Educators, I Celebrate YouEducators are the most amazing creatures. This episode is completely devoted to the unbelievable educators who do the most important job on Earth. There is an encouraging message for new teachers, teacher leaders, teachers in distress and teachers in transition. Every educator is celebrated!Quotables· Implementing small, simple changes every day can have extraordinary results.· Being an educator is tough and requires a different set of mental, emotional and physical muscles.· We show up because our mission is bigger than our problems.· A hard day is a short-term problem. A negative mindset is a...
2019-12-0213 minAlways A Lesson's Empowering Educators Podcast198: Establishing a Positive CultureIt’s not all rainbows and butterflies in a classroom or school building. Sometimes the negativity can spread like wild fire and deteriorate a class or school culture. Tune in to hear how to initiate a positive culture, rebuild a culture when it’s broken, and turn around a negative culture. Not only will teachers learn tips for the classroom and teacher leaders for the school, but a secret trick is shared for how to maintain a positive culture once it is established.QuotablesA positive culture is something that can feel like takes FOREVER to esta...
2019-11-1817 minAlways A Lesson's Empowering Educators Podcast197: What Kind of Investment Are you Making?In order for us educators to make the impact we desire and were meant for, we have to invest in ourselves in a way that allows that inner gift to make its way outward. Tune in to hear 3 steps on how to unlock your potential by investing in yourself. (You’ll also get to hear personal stories of how I have done this in business and life.)QuotablesThe mundane daily work is where the rubber meets the road. Its where we shine up and show outI choose my direction. I choose my attitude and vision.Yo...
2019-11-0419 minAlways A Lesson's Empowering Educators Podcast196: How Do You Want To Be?Teaching tiny humans is more than lesson plans with standards and objectives. Teaching is a way to help guide a young person along their learning path so that they discover their inner skills and talents, use their school knowledge to propel those gifts, and then go out into the world to leave their mark. As educators, how are we helping students discover how they want to inspire the world? Tune in to hear my teaching confession and action tips you can implement right now to do better for every kid in front of you.
Quotables
If...
2019-10-2115 minAlways A Lesson's Empowering Educators Podcast194: Being a Knowledge Hoarder is Holding you BackWe often overly consume and under-implement. I call this practice “knowledge hoarding” and it isn’t helpful in getting us to reach our goals or potential. We need to implement what we are learning instead of overloading our brains with knowledge time and time again. Tune in to hear 5 tips to making sense of our knowledge hoarding in our mind and in our physical spaces so that we can take action plus gain 3 tips to develop new habit cycles to avoid knowledge hoarding.
Quotables
We have created a new problem where you have all the knowledge and ze...
2019-09-2320 minAlways A Lesson's Empowering Educators Podcast193: When You Can’t Find the AnswerNo matter how much experience we have as educators, there are moments in our career where we have no answers. Our heads are banging against the wall and our brains are overworked trying to figure out solutions to the obstacles we are facing without any relief in sight. Luckily, our experiences help us recognize these obstacles faster in the future and overtime we figure out a system for working through hard times to find answers. Tune in to hear a 4 part system that continues to work for me to find clarity in my edu-situations.QuotablesSometimes...
2019-09-0918 minAlways A Lesson's Empowering Educators Podcast192: 5 Secrets to Success in the ClassroomNew teachers struggle to hone in on the most important factors to ensure a strong start and finish to their very first school year due to all the distractions of shiny objects on social media. Tune in to hear 5 secrets to success that help any new teacher achieve veteran status in no time. You’ll unlock the strategies to lay a strong foundation while upping your technique and finesse game.QuotablesIts simple. But it is also simply overlooked.That is what makes teachers great… they get past the barriers kids put up, and they use that...
2019-08-2623 minAlways A Lesson's Empowering Educators Podcast189: Do you Push, Pull or Guide?Instructional coaching and teacher leadership are essential for moving the needle in student achievement and teacher proficiency. But the way coaches are leading teachers ends up landing flat because they are either pushing too hard or pulling too far. The secret to great teacher leadership is being a guide on the side- not pushing or pulling too much. Tune in to hear 3 steps to ensure you pass the ownership baton to teachers so that the improvement is long term.
Quotables
When we make decisions under pressure, on a short time frame, we lack the intention and...
2019-07-1522 minAlways A Lesson's Empowering Educators Podcast188: Turn your Whelm Upside DownOverwhelm can get the best of us. In fact, too many teachers are leaving the profession due to their plates being full for far too long. When you learn how to recognize overwhelm before it overcomes you, you can begin to hack away at your schedule so that you conserve energy and happiness for what matters most- teaching. Tune in to hear 5 tips and get access to an amazing opportunity for teachers struggling to beat the overwhelm.QuotablesReflection and evaluation are powerful tools we often overlook because we think we don’t have time.You ca...
2019-07-0111 minAlways A Lesson's Empowering Educators Podcast187: Permission to Fill Your CupSometimes you can be so tuned in that you don’t realize your candle is burning out. For teachers, summer is a great time to unplug by becoming a learner in something new. You have permission to fill your cup in another passion so that you can be great at your main passion as an educator. Tune in to learn how to best utilize your summer break so that you are a lifelong learner but also a well-rested, rejuvenated teacherQuotablesDon’t feel bad about needing a break. Everyone has their limit and it doesn’t mean...
2019-06-1711 minAlways A Lesson's Empowering Educators Podcast186: Amplify your ImpactIt’s time we take what is working in our own classrooms and share it with other educators so that they can replicate our success. To truly amplify our impact in our classroom, school buildings, and community we need to figure out where we excel and make it accessible to others so that they can repeat our success. Follow the four-step proven method shared in this episode to amplify your impact by increasing teacher proficiency and student achievement in the classroom.Quotables:Why do we have to contain our impact?If we are able to find su...
2019-06-0316 minAlways A Lesson's Empowering Educators Podcast184: Developing your Leadership StyleThe term “teacher leader” encompasses so many jobs in and around a school building. Learning how to lead others can be tricky and confusing. But when you understand the variety of leadership styles that are out there and you reflect on your strengths and weaknesses, you are able to create your own style of leadership. Tune in to hear four common leadership types as well as the cost and benefits of each so that you can get to work developing your own style to lead others.Quotables:I didn’t differentiate my style based on who I was...
2019-05-0517 minAlways A Lesson's Empowering Educators Podcast183: Remain Passionate When Your Toes are to the FireEducators experience stress just like all other professions. Sometimes those seasons of stress feel never ending and can even convince you that your life in education will never be any different than the ugly struggle it is right now. The truth is, seasons of stress when your toes are to the fire are moments for growth. Tune in to hear a 3 step system to help you tackle those seasonal stressors while never losing your passion along the way.QuotablesWhether you sink or swim, you learn what to do next time.Stress is an old friend… It...
2019-04-2213 minAlways A Lesson's Empowering Educators Podcast182: Keep the Main Thing the Main ThingIt is easy this day in age to get distracted. Teachers can easily fall down a rabbit hole full of shiny, sparkly classroom implementations that don’t always lead to student learning or teacher effectiveness. Tune in to hear what the “main thing” is when it comes to teaching and tips to hone your craft in the areas of lesson design and execution.QuotablesCutesy classroom décor.. is the icing on the cake, but it’s not the ingredients to make a cake, let alone a good one.You cannot be great in teaching if you don’t...
2019-04-0813 minAlways A Lesson's Empowering Educators Podcast181: The Reward of Developing PeopleBeing a teacher is more than just teaching content lessons. It is the life-giving work of an educator to develop the people in front of them every day. One way to do that is to provide appropriate challenge and support so that overtime students begin to rely on themselves to overcome hardships. Tune in to hear tips on how to elevate your lesson design process so that it stretches students in a comfortable, rewarding way.QuotablesGive me a sticker and I will do my very best for a few minutes. Give me a warm smile...
2019-03-2514 minAlways A Lesson's Empowering Educators Podcast179: Leadership like Rock, Paper… PencilAs teacher leaders, we have many pencils in our lives that need our attention to be sharpened so that their talents come to fruition. But if we do not provide the paper so that these pencils can develop and create their masterpieces, then it’s all for not. Tune in to hear an inspiring analogy from an elite educator plus my quick tips to put things into action!QuotablesPencils, however, become dull over time, losing the ability to put forth life changing work. It isn’t until they are sharpened that they can cont...
2019-02-2514 minAlways A Lesson's Empowering Educators Podcast178: Leverage Your SurroundingsAs leaders, we sometimes think we have to know and be able to do everything. The truth is, were only need to know of people and things to help us along the way. Tune in to hear 3 ways you can leverage your surroundings so that you can maximize your influence in helping teachers.Quotables“If you are on social media, and you are not learning, not laughing, not being inspired or not networking, then you are using it wrong.” Germany Kent . [mentioned by @medahl]You are as good as you use your resources.Use what you got...
2019-02-1111 minAlways A Lesson's Empowering Educators Podcast177: Developing Good Students into Great HumansAs educators we have a daily duty to help our students develop into their potential, both in life and academia. In honor of Martin Luther King, Jr., this episode focuses on how his prolific words ring true in our classroom practices to ensure our students can be kind and do good each and every day.Quotables (in honor of MLK, Jr.)Be Kind“Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, ‘what are you doing for others?’”“The surest way to be happy is to seek happiness for others.”“The time is always ripe to do RIGHT.”Do Good“N...
2019-01-2813 minAlways A Lesson's Empowering Educators Podcast176: When High Expectations Debilitate YouHaving high expectations isn’t a bad thing, until they no longer are achievable and as a result, debilitate you. Tune in to hear my story of how I dealt with the reality of not being able to live the life I once had and adjusted my mindset and action steps to reach new heights in a more manageable way under those new circumstances.QuotablesI am going to treat myself better and give myself space to be imperfect.I take my worst attribute and do what I can to avoid it coming to the surface an...
2019-01-1414 minAlways A Lesson's Empowering Educators Podcast174: You Might Just Be a SuperheroFacing obstacles is a daily occurrence in the life of a teacher. Oftentimes, we educators rely on our support systems to help us overcome struggles, but it turns out when we allow ourselves to be independent and work through our trials alone, we see just what we are made up of…and we make it out on top every time. A superhero lives within each of us if we would just follow the simple 5 step process shared in this episode.QuotablesI might be a superhero on the inside, but I’m not perfectIf I continue to r...
2018-12-2424 minAlways A Lesson's Empowering Educators Podcast173: Take Charge of Your EvolutionA mentor is a great thing to have as a learner; until you sit waiting for them to tell you what to do and when to do it. You will never become all that you are meant to be by waiting on someone else to tell you how to do it. Tune in to hear a 5 step process to help you take charge of your own evolution as an educator, all while being the mentee yourself!QuotablesMentorship means you are learning to go to the next levelI fired my mentorYou never grow when you are...
2018-12-1712 minAlways A Lesson's Empowering Educators Podcast172: #WorkLifeHarmony‘Work Life Balance’ seems to be the new craze, but it’s unrealistic to think that work and life can be equally balanced on a scale. Inevitably, one takes over more time and energy than the other. But if we can learn to keep work and life living in harmony with each other, then we might just have found the secret to success. Tune in to hear more about the term ‘Work Life Harmony’ from the great mind of Jeff Bezos with additional inspiration from Simon Sinek.QuotablesIt’s hard to create a strong team when people...
2018-12-0313 minAlways A Lesson's Empowering Educators Podcast171: Burning Out Isn’t An OptionBurn out can happen to anyone and teachers are no exception. But, burn out is taking too many great teachers out of the classroom and into other professions. Our nations’ students deserve the best to be in front of them everyday. Tune in to hear 8 ways to acknowledge and prepare for burned out moments so that they do not become catapults relocating teachers to other professions.QuotablesElite educators are going to deal with things head on before they become too big to bear and burned out moments are so much easier to handle when they re...
2018-11-1911 minAlways A Lesson's Empowering Educators Podcast169: Unveil the Value in the Daily GrindEvery career choice has a daily grind. Unfortunately, some daily grinds are a lot more difficult than others and the daily grind of a teacher falls into that category. Teacher leaders can partner with teachers to unveil the value in the daily grind so that these tasks not only get completed but the passion for teaching doesn’t get lost in the day-to-day job requirements. Tune in to hear how to help teachers stay in love with teaching.QuotablesThis is why we lose great teachers because although they are talented and passionate, the job of be...
2018-10-2215 minAlways A Lesson's Empowering Educators Podcast168: Let Students Lead the WayStudents have the insight into how they learn best. It’s up to the educator to tap into this insight when designing lessons so that potential isn’t wasted in a child. There is always a reason behind a student behavior and when educators know their kids in and out, they can uncover these motivations and preferences prior to a learning experience so that the time is used productively and successfully for all students to hone skill sets. Tune in to hear 3 characteristics you should discover about every student before delivering a lesson.
Quotables
I was so busy stud...
2018-10-0832 minAlways A Lesson's Empowering Educators Podcast167: Even Out the IngredientsTeaching can be a challenge when balance is lacking in the classroom, whether academic or behavior related. By evening out the ingredients of the classroom composition, teachers can sustain balance, sanity and happiness for all. Tune in to hear multiple strategies for problem solving the lack of balance in your classroom.
Quotables
I grew through pain and built up my game
When our life is crazy and we are feeling all sorts of emotions, it’s usually because something is out of whack
It’s a trial and error process
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2018-09-2417 minAlways A Lesson's Empowering Educators Podcast166: Control the ChangeChange is inevitable. It happens to the best of us. But, when change happens to us, it can be challenging to make the most of the opportunity because our emotions get in the way. Tune in to hear 4 tips for how to control the change happening to you so that you can still become your very best.
Quotables
It’s a blip on the screen; it’s not a forever thing
It’s a temporary setback that will lead to a long-term upgrade.
Maybe your future role doesn’t have a connecting street to your current role and you have...
2018-09-1020 minAlways A Lesson's Empowering Educators Podcast165:Differentiating Instruction with Cole Alexander
Cole graduated from the University of Houston – Downtown with a bachelor’s degree in Urban Education. She spent the last 7 years teaching Pre-K and Kindergarten in Title 1 schools in Houston, Texas and the last two years teaching in the STEAM lab in an Early Childhood Center. Cole is passionate about giving students hands-on learning experiences and differentiating instruction. When she is not teaching, you can find her chasing around her sweet 1 year old boy, drinking LOTS of coffee, creating products to share with other educators, or catching up on her guilty pleasure – reality TV!
Quotables
Have a passion and lov...
2018-08-2724 minAlways A Lesson's Empowering Educators Podcast164: Lead with a Little GraceEffective leaders lead people from a place of grace not from an agenda. Everyone faces stressors on the job and being able to acknowledge the timing and size of such stressors in order to lead others towards effective change requires intention and grace. Tune in to hear how to meet your job requirements while leading others towards beneficial change during the Back-to-School mayhem.QuotablesGrace is probably the best tool in your tool belt in helping anyone improveWhen you know better, you do betterWhen you build relationships out of grace, you get additional time put on...
2018-08-1315 minAlways A Lesson's Empowering Educators Podcast163: It’s Time for Your Educator UpgradeThe hardest thing to do is become better on your own when no one is watching. Staying motivated and clear on your purpose without the pressure of a deadline or request from a member of influence is harder than imaginable. Tune in to hear how you can make a significant upgrade to your edu-self so that you maximize your potential and student achievement for the upcoming school year.QuotablesWhen I freed myself from the realization that I wasn’t a bad person or a bad teacher but that I had an opportunity to be a be...
2018-07-3014 minAlways A Lesson's Empowering Educators Podcast162: Integrate Technology the RIGHT WayThe technological myth in classrooms today is a trifecta: 1) if students aren’t learning on a technological device, then they aren’t learning at all 2) if teachers aren’t incorporating technology into a lesson, then they aren’t effective 3) if schools aren’t outfitted with the latest technology devices then they are behind, broke or operating on an old-school mentality. These assumptions couldn’t be further from the truth. Tune in to hear how to integrate technology the RIGHT way, not just in today’s world but in any classroom, anywhere at any time.QuotablesYou invest in tech...
2018-07-2322 minAlways A Lesson's Empowering Educators Podcast161: Finding Magic in Every Kid, Every DayThere are moments throughout the day where kids reach out to an adult hoping to make a connection. Oftentimes, these attempts are not recognized by busy adults and in the end opportunities go unnoticed for a child to fulfill their potential. Tune in to hear a powerful story about Les Brown who defied all odds to become his best self all because of a special teacher in his life.QuotablesWe as educators are in such a powerful position to help or hinder a child’s futureIf you open yourself to the possibility that it can ha...
2018-07-1622 minAlways A Lesson's Empowering Educators Podcast160: Love, Support, and Involve with Dr. James Davis
Dr. James Davis has been an educator for the past 17 years, serving as a Professor, Principal, Assistant Principal of Instruction, and classroom teacher. He has his Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction with a concentration in Urban Education. His areas of expertise include school turn-around, elementary education, middle grades education, increasing student achievement, and teacher effectiveness. Dr. Davis has presented and been published at both the state and national level. As a former Principal of the Year and Teacher of the Year, Dr. Davis works daily in an enthusiastic manner on his personal mission statement, to Love Kids, Support Teachers, In...
2018-07-0956 minAlways A Lesson's Empowering Educators Podcast159: Snag a Piece of Humble PieNo one arrives at greatness haphazardly. It takes time, dedication, patience and FEEDBACK. But, feedback can be hard to swallow, especially if it points out a weakness. It’s important to remember that even the best of the best receive feedback on a daily basis and because of that they are effective. Without the perspective and honesty of feedback, it is hard to perfect our craft. Tune in to hear 4 steps for how to snag a piece of humble pie and enter into your greatness!QuotablesFeedback [is] the difference between you rising to the top or...
2018-07-0220 minAlways A Lesson's Empowering Educators Podcast158: Protect This 4 Letter WordThere comes a time in your career when you need a respite in order to keep going, as if you are running a marathon and need a quick water or walk break. Too often the education profession loses great teachers because they do not get the respite they require to continue on in this career. Tune in to hear 4 tips to recharge your batteries so that you can continue using your talent to impact students for many years to come!QuotablesBy giving ourselves permission to be spontaneous we are allowing our bodies to recoup, lessening...
2018-06-2522 minAlways A Lesson's Empowering Educators Podcast157: Don’t Confuse Your E’sEngagement and empowerment not only have different meaning, but they hold different values in the classroom as students become leaders of their own learning. Fine tune your definition of engagement and empowerment by listening to this episode as well as gain tips and tricks to upgrade your teaching efficacy in the classroom.QuotablesThe more I passed the baton to my kids, the better they did in the classroomTeachers just assume if their class is engaging that their kids are empowered to take ownership in their learning but that couldn’t be further from the truthWe as...
2018-06-1827 minAlways A Lesson's Empowering Educators Podcast156: Don’t Rush to the RescueIt is easy to categorize student’s potential based on their misbehaviors, but we miss opportunities to help students develop critical skills in order to reflect, adjust and become their best selves. Burgess and Houf state, “separate the deed from the doer and work to change the deed.” Tune in for tips on how to do just this!QuotablesKids make mistakes and they shouldn’t be defined by themWe have to be present without being pushyLearning to recover from a misstep is a crucial life lesson every kid should have the pleasure of learning- and the earl...
2018-06-1024 minAlways A Lesson's Empowering Educators Podcast155: Envision with Angela WatsonANGELA WATSON (formerly Powell) has earned international recognition for her unique contributions to the field of education. A pioneer and trailblazer of modern teacher blogging, she was first known for Ms. Powell’s Management Ideas for Teachers, a website she created in 2003 to share behavior management strategies, teaching techniques, and organizational tips. The site was expanded and renamed TheCornerstoneForTeachers in 2008.
Since then, Angela’s ideas have been featured in thousands of magazine articles, newsletters, and internet resources, and are utilized in teacher preparation and support programs throughout the nation. Having earned a master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction and National Boa...
2018-06-0438 minAlways A Lesson's Empowering Educators Podcast154: Talent Over CurriculumPrograms don’t teach kids, teachers do. We have to protect teaching talent by empowering teachers to take the important pieces of a curriculum and spend more time personalizing their lessons with their passion, talent, and creativity so that students can receive a personalized learning experience to become their best. Tune in to hear how teacher leaders can empower teachers so that their talent leads the way in the classroom.QuotablesIt’s the responsibility of the teacher to take a program and bring it to life with their own talent and expertiseWe educators can’t be rep...
2018-05-2818 minAlways A Lesson's Empowering Educators Podcast153: Students Become What You ThinkTeachers are busy people and oftentimes don’t realize that every interaction they have with a child shapes the self-concept of their students. Regardless of intention, what teachers THINK about a child can be expressed as an expectation that can damage or restore a child’s passion and potential. Tune in to hear solutions for how all teachers can ensure every interaction with students communicates sincere adoration and high expectations.QuotablesEvery interaction sends a messageSend the expectation that we are spending our time wiselyIt’s not that the other teacher is better than you, they just f...
2018-05-2120 minAlways A Lesson's Empowering Educators Podcast152: Silent Confidence Speaks the LoudestIf you want to make a true impact on the teaching profession you need to adjust the way you lead others with a confidence that is silent but effective. Tune in to hear 5 tips on how the best teacher leaders personalize the learning experience of others to ensure they grow as professionals during their lifetime career as educators.Quotables:Let the learner do the leading[Leaders] don’t have much to say but in being silent they say so muchThe quietest person in the room is often the most knowledgeableI am here to do this important wo...
2018-05-1414 minAlways A Lesson's Empowering Educators Podcast151: Balanced Teachers WinLeading a balanced professional and personal life is key to a long life of success and happiness. Tune in to hear how one unbalanced teacher took control of their life and enhanced all parts of it because of the big decision they were strong enough to make. Hear tips for new teachers, teachers in distress and transition and teacher leaders on how to win in life by being a balanced teacher.QuotablesNothing is foreverI can now step into my life and do it better because I took a time outI’m prepared for this unbalance. I...
2018-05-0717 minAlways A Lesson's Empowering Educators Podcast150: Find Your Flow with Beckett HaightBeckett Haight is a former student with special needs who went on to become a Special Educator. After getting expelled from 6th grade he had an IEP and special education services stemming from ADHD and Oppositional Defiance Disorder until graduating high school. This led him to becoming a volunteer in Special Needs classrooms in high school, then a Teacher Assistant for four years while in college, and he has been a Special Education teacher for the past 13 years in California, the Dominican Republic, Kuwait, Ethiopia and now Mexico. He is National Board Certified in Exceptional Needs, a Masters of Scie...
2018-04-3034 minAlways A Lesson's Empowering Educators Podcast149: You Teach More Than SubjectsTeachers have a tremendous opportunity to shape students into their potential so that their future is as bright as possible. A lot of the focus for teaching children is on the curriculum component, when in reality students need even more than that to become their best. Tune in to hear 8 characteristics teachers can employ into their instruction on a daily basis so that students can reach their potential successfully.QuotablesIt’s important kids learn how to dream big enoughIt’s important kids learn how to represent their cause and their school with maturity and confidenceNo matt...
2018-04-2314 minAlways A Lesson's Empowering Educators Podcast148: You Don’t Have To Do It AllNew teachers often feel like they have to prove their ability to teach to students, parents, and colleagues. But it couldn’t be further from the truth. Just landing a job means you are qualified and capable. Learning that you don’t have to do it all in the classroom to showcase your control and ability is quite a freeing truth. Tune in to hear tips on how to pull back to gain control, sanity, and respect in the classroom.QuotablesStrong leaders in the classroom are not the ones on stage, running a tight ship and...
2018-04-1511 minAlways A Lesson's Empowering Educators Podcast147: Avoid the Rumor MillThe spring season in a school building can cause a lot of anxiety as testing begins and talk about changes for the upcoming school year surface. In order for a teacher to close out the current school year successfully (and with all of their sanity intact), they must avoid the rumor mill. Tune in to this episode to hear 5 tips for how to do just that!QuotablesIt’s a juggling act that ends up being so fluid nothing is ever finalLet the rumors go in one ear and out the otherYour kids don’t need to s...
2018-04-0910 minAlways A Lesson's Empowering Educators Podcast146: Ask, Listen, RepeatLeading others can be difficult, but with some guidance, teacher leaders can not only hone their own craft but build capacity in those that they lead. By using a cyclical process of asking questions and listening to the answers, teacher leaders can uncover potential obstacles those they lead are facing before helping a teacher implement a new skill. Tune in for tips and strategies to ask, listen and repeat!QuotablesUse the power of the people to make an impactListen undistractedHelp kiddos get to rigorous levels of understanding by questioning, not telling them how to get...
2018-04-0214 minAlways A Lesson's Empowering Educators Podcast144: The Danger in Instructional ShortcutsStudents learn in a variety of ways which means their behavior while learning is very different too. Often times, we teachers make assumptions based on face value of who is paying attention, who is working hard, who is confused, etc. It’s important that we push past these facades and dig in to what is really going on behind the learning behaviors of our students. Tune in for tips on how to get accurate feedback on student learning needs!
Quotables:
Assumptions are fuzzy and inaccurate
Don’t come to a conclusion based on false evidence
My assu...
2018-03-1916 minAlways A Lesson's Empowering Educators Podcast143: Be A SpongeThe first few years as a teacher in a classroom can be overwhelming trying to learn all of the ropes. But, how a teacher spends this time period is critical to the longevity of their career. Tune in to hear tips and tricks (as well as fabulous resources) for how to be a sponge as a new teacher so that you can be more effective faster!
Quotables
You can take bits and pieces of their strategy to sew together your own
I was open to learning, but I put a system in place so that I...
2018-03-1215 minAlways A Lesson's Empowering Educators Podcast142: Praise Isn’t Just a Professional ThingAcknowledging the talents and contributions of others shouldn’t be limited to something only done in our professional lives. We have to pour into each other in all aspects of our lives. Tune in to hear how I incorporate building relationships through empowering others in my everyday life and how you can do it too!
Quotables
What a waste for that thought to remain just a thought. It does nothing for my progress as a person to think nice things about other people and not tell them.
You never know when it’s your last day. So y...
2018-03-0514 minAlways A Lesson's Empowering Educators Podcast141: Lead Your Own March!Teaching is overwhelming and teachers often put themselves last in self-care. This leads to burn out and a short career. Advocating for your needs can be hard and well, awkward. But by reflecting on what you need, requesting what you need, and requiring what you need you’ll be able to lead your own march! Tune in to hear 4 actionable steps to ensure you advocate for your needs just as successfully as you do for your students.
Quotables
“Just like you advocate for the needs of your students, advocate for yourself. Reflect what you need. Request what...
2018-02-2615 minAlways A Lesson's Empowering Educators Podcast140: Teacher Basics with Kayse MorrisKayse Morris is a teacher by day and a curriculum designer by night. She develops quality resources for teachers grades K-2, 3-5, and 6-8. She has a Bachelors in Early Childhood Education, a Masters in Instructional Technology and a Specialist degree in Educational Leadership. She has a passion for life and thinks that beauty lies within the simple things. Her philosophy is that ‘Simplicity is where the magic happens.’ Kayse thrives on student relationships and rigorous instruction. Her catch phrase is: “Let’s teach on less, love a little more, and change the world one child at a time...
2018-02-1937 minAlways A Lesson's Empowering Educators Podcast139: You Are Your Own LifelineSometimes there’s no other option but to rely on ourselves, dig in our heels, and do the hard work. Developing your teacher craft is no different in that your determination to become greater must outweigh your need to be told what to do. Tune in to hear how to be your own lifeline in becoming your best.
Quotables
“I need to get better at teaching. I want to be better for my students, parents, school… I’m so impatient to get there, but I’m determined to get there.” – Jordan Potrzeba
The most reliable option you have on you...
2018-02-1216 minAlways A Lesson's Empowering Educators Podcast138: What Does this Look Like in My Classroom?There is always something “new” being asked of teachers. It can be quite overwhelming to implement every change while still maintaining your own style in the classroom. Tune in to hear how teacher leaders can help bridge the gap between requirements and teacher freedom.
Quotables
What matters is that teachers feel like they can meet the requirements AND still do their own thing.
I haven’t figured out how to make this work for me.
Your biggest impact comes from your relationship with teachers.
I hope everyone out there has a leader in their professional life who ca...
2018-02-0512 minAlways A Lesson's Empowering Educators Podcast137: Quality Engagement is a DanceEngagement can be a tricky aspect of any instructor’s lesson plan delivery. Ensuring students have high engagement with the content being taught requires a dance between student and teacher. Empowering students with ownership and accountability in the classroom is one way to ensure quality engagement in every lesson. Tune in to hear how to get started!
Quotables
Now is the time to ramp up the student ownership because they don’t need you as much
Don’t waste another minute putting on a show
You’re the guide on the side now
Start small, but be consi...
2018-01-2916 minAlways A Lesson's Empowering Educators Podcast136: Edu-Consumption OverloadInformation is at our fingertips these days, but that isn’t necessarily a good thing. It becomes too easy to over-consume information, leading to anxiety, depression, and overwhelm. Avoid the edu-consumption overload by following three simple steps outlined in this podcast episode.
Quotables
The moment you go a mile wide and an inch deep in any facet of your life, you lose your effectiveness and sanity
Your brain and body need balance
When you consume too much information, your brain cannot sift through it to use it
Your kids need to see that there’s power in m...
2018-01-2219 minAlways A Lesson's Empowering Educators Podcast135: Importance of Movement with Suzanne CresswellSuzanne Cresswell is an occupational and physical therapist who has worked with unique learners for over three decades. Suzanne works to educate and provide proven solutions and strategies to those that parent, instruct and work with unique learners. By creating an understanding of unique learners and their learning behavior, she helps parents, teachers and the students themselves find the ability in learning disability.QuotablesThe heart is the brain behind the brainMovement is necessary for cognitionAsk “How So?”To educate you have to be slightly better than dry and boringTipInco...
2018-01-1532 minAlways A Lesson's Empowering Educators Podcast134: Go Slow to Improve FastTo truly become GREAT at something, it requires intention, practice, reflection, and time. Effective educators are no different. Tune in to hear 8 tips for how new teachers can transform their novice abilities into accomplished, effective talent.
Quotables
Your hard work doesn’t always produce favorable results
“You have to go slow to go fast”
Effective teachers blossom in the most unusual of places
The process is the most important part
Get your head and your heart right and then put your ideas into action
You can’t get better if you don’t stop to think about how...
2018-01-0819 minAlways A Lesson's Empowering Educators Podcast133: You Don’t Need a Title to LeadDon’t wait to step up to the plate and lead those around you just because you don’t have a title. The best leaders don’t have leadership titles because leadership is something you are, not something you do. Tune in to hear strategies for how to overcome obstacles that those who lead without a title face so that you can be your best while helping those around you become their best.
Quotables
“Bring the deer back to the camp”
“Step up to the plate”
We had to work for it and working can’t happen if you st...
2018-01-0114 minAlways A Lesson's Empowering Educators Podcast132: The Classroom Countdown ConundrumUsing a countdown in the classroom can be extremely effective. However, teachers innocently misuse countdowns during instruction. Tune in to hear tips on WHEN and WHEN NOT to use a countdown in the classroom so that student learning is maximized.
Quotables
Countdowns create urgency and keep the focus on behavior management so that we can get down to learning
The best teachers empower kiddos to take charge of the momentum of class
Countdowns should be used sparingly or they lose their effectiveness
Going to school for kids is their job
Join the Always A...
2017-12-2510 minAlways A Lesson's Empowering Educators Podcast131: Slaying the Myth of DifferentiationDifferentiation is the latest buzz in education, but the reality of what it looks like in the classroom has yet to be solidified. Many new teachers struggle with providing personalized learning experiences to their students not because they do not understand what differentiation is, rather it’s the logistical, organizational part of differentiation that leaves them stuck. Tune in to hear what you can do today to begin differentiating instruction for your students!
Quotables
Write everything in pencil
Differentiation really just means whatever you are doing to help students learn, make sure it’s applicable to wher...
2017-12-1812 minAlways A Lesson's Empowering Educators Podcast130: Find Your Own Path with Corey Knight Corey Knight has extensive experience in the classroom with technology. After graduating from Indiana University with a degree in secondary education, he became a classroom teacher at an urban middle school in Indiana. After two years, he began working on my post graduate degree which he earned from Ball State University in Educational Technology and Curriculum.He was immediately offered a job to be a tech coach for the district he worked at, but he kindly rejected the offer in order to stay in the classroom and continue working with students. He has a...
2017-12-1144 minAlways A Lesson's Empowering Educators Podcast129: Keep Healthy Relationships in MotionWhen life gets tough, we need the right people by our side to help us get through it. But in order for those right people to be there we have to do our part and invest in those relationships, regardless of how bad or busy our lives are. Tune in to hear 4 steps to keeping healthy relationships in motion.
Quotables
Sometimes those friendships are just as necessary in our life as food and water
Choose your circle of influence wisely
You can’t expect people to show up for you if you have been putting them on...
2017-12-0410 minAlways A Lesson's Empowering Educators Podcast128: Write Your StoryTeachers face some tough obstacles on their journey in the classroom. But those circumstances don’t define who they are as a person or a professional. Tune in to hear 4 steps for how you can write your story so that it has the impact and ending that you dream of.
Quotables
“Circumstances don’t make your life interesting. You make your life interesting. Write your story.” AMB
Do not let your circumstances take you down, turn you around or worse… eject you out of the game.
Your circumstance does not define you, you define you.
You have to be...
2017-11-2714 minAlways A Lesson's Empowering Educators Podcast127: Classroom Management like PB & JClassroom management can be tricky when we react to student behavior instead of setting up procedures. Oftentimes, we let the heat of the moment control our brain and we end up making decisions that hinder student learning. Tune in to hear two scenarios of classroom management struggles where tips are shared so that the problem and solution go together like a delicious peanut butter and jelly sandwich!
Quotables
One of the major reasons why teachers struggle with classroom management has little to do with their content knowledge or their passion to teach. It all comes down...
2017-11-2014 minAlways A Lesson's Empowering Educators Podcast126: Making Time for All the Parts of YouThe work-life balance struggle is never more real than when you realize there’s more parts than just work and life that you need to balance. Life itself consists of numerous titles (mom, wife, daughter, friend, etc) that are getting put on the back burner. Tune in to hear 3 tips you can implement today to make time for all these different parts of you.
Quotables
Sometimes I feel like my identity is being lost in all this pulling back
There are other parts of me that are getting neglected
I have to say ‘yes’ in the future...
2017-11-1313 minAlways A Lesson's Empowering Educators Podcast124: It’s Not all Rainbows, But it Can BeThe teaching profession is not all rainbows. There are trying times and when teachers do not receive support from their leaders in how to navigate these rougher waters, the rainbows not only disappear but so do the teachers. We cannot risk losing more great teachers to other professions. Tune in to learn 4 steps in how to support teachers in efforts to retain this passionate talent.
Quotables
We as teacher leaders need to prioritize retention of our best and brightest teachers or we might lose them forever.
Grab your net and save these teachers from overwhelm.
It’s...
2017-10-3009 minAlways A Lesson's Empowering Educators Podcast123: Repairing Broken Relationships with ColleaguesEducators are not islands; we work with numerous people all day. There are times where relationships aren’t harmonious and it’s up to us educators to repair these connections so that the partnership can flourish and so can students. Tune in to hear how to repair a broken relationship with colleagues.
Quotables
You NEVER know what people are going through as they sit before you or even work alongside you
You can’t UNDO anything, but you can repair it
Put the work in ahead of time- this is what I call “preventive relationship care”
You have t...
2017-10-2311 minAlways A Lesson's Empowering Educators Podcast122: Work Your Option BA lot of frustrated educators can alleviate their pain by learning to love the detours and obstacles that come their way. This often means embracing options other than their current one, and making the most of those options. Tune in to hear how Option B can be just as amazing as Option A in your professional life when you learn how to work it just right!
Quotables
It’s your reality now and you have to deal with it
Sometimes its your plan A for a season or a moment
Allow the plan to work itself
Do...
2017-10-1615 minAlways A Lesson's Empowering Educators Podcast121: Don’t Be Glib!You can’t live out your potential and bless others if you are not living out your WHY. A future guest inspired me to help you avoid being “glib” because that doesn’t benefit you or those you serve. So tune in to hear what you can do today to put yourself on the right track to living a more purpose-filled life as an educator!
Quotables
When you pour everything you have into something you do, it shows
If we all could just turn up the dial when its comes to being a learner and find more joy...
2017-10-0917 minAlways A Lesson's Empowering Educators Podcast119: Long-Run LeadershipAs a teacher leader it’s so easy to just make decisions without thinking through the ramifications. Long-run leadership describes someone who is forward thinking and makes sacrifices for the good of the group so that down the line everyone benefits. Tune in to hear how you can become a long-run leader in no time!
Quotables
Don’t be that person who puts your own needs before others
When you take your extra energy and pour it back into the group you serve you are elevating the success of everyone
Take your eyes off your feet and...
2017-09-2513 minAlways A Lesson's Empowering Educators Podcast118: Let Your Passion Lead the WaySometimes we are in a career where something is missing. We aren’t quite sure what that something is or what to do about it. This episode will walk you through 5 passion statements to get you moving in the right direction so that your talent will be best showcased and utilized to bless others! Grab your freebie here:
Quotables
Nothing beats work ethic
Just because you are great doesn’t mean you don’t need help
We all make choices daily and those choices can right the ship with the right support
One of the legs on you...
2017-09-1816 minAlways A Lesson's Empowering Educators Podcast117: Simple is BetterQuotables
Social media glamorizes education
Do the basics extremely well
“Big things often have small beginnings.” – Unknown
Practice the little things
The more you hurry, the longer it will take
Require yourself to be consistent
It’s not a forever point, it’s a starting point
Connect with Gretchen
Email: gretchen@alwaysalesson.com
Blog: Always A Lesson
Facebook: Always A Lesson
Twitter: @gschultek
Instagram: Always.A.Lesson
Linkedin: Gretchen Schultek Bridgers
Google+: Gretchen Schultek Bridgers
Book: Elementary EDUC 101: What They Didn’t Teach You in College
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2017-09-1112 minAlways A Lesson's Empowering Educators Podcast116: The Safe KeeperAs teacher leaders we need to create the culture in the school where balance is acceptable and encouraged. Without a healthy teacher, a classroom can never reach its fully potential. Tune in to hear two steps teacher leaders can take today to ensure teachers and students are physically, mentally and emotionally safe. You are ‘The Safe Keeper!”
Quotables
Find you a tribe at school where you can truly be yourself
The great thing about educators is our relationships are not bound by location
If it’s known, appreciated and available, teachers will start healing a little more e...
2017-09-0413 minAlways A Lesson's Empowering Educators Podcast114: Don’t Be A PretenderSometimes we feel as though we need to be the expert in everything and start pretending we have the knowledge and skills required to do it all. The fact is, it’s a sham. We are pretending and the ones who get hurt the most are the children. Tune in to hear how to stop being a pretender and empower yourself to be better without fear, embarrassment or worse, losing your job.
Quotables
[Teachers’] daily choices affect kids the most
Every moment is precious and we cant waste time thinking we will figure it out
Own your...
2017-08-2110 minAlways A Lesson's Empowering Educators Podcast113: Be that Knock at the Door“What do you want to accomplish this year and how can I help you get there?” is a powerful question from a teacher leader to someone that they lead. Act like Publisher’s Clearing House and go knock on your colleagues’ doors during this back to school season and make their dreams come true. Tune in to hear how you can do just that!
Quotables
Step one of relating to people is being in physical proximity to them
We are only as strong as our weakest link
If I am going to lead you, I need to know y...
2017-08-1414 minAlways A Lesson's Empowering Educators Podcast112: The Dysfunction of GradingGrading is only as good as the effectiveness of instruction leading up to it. A grade on an assessment that doesn’t match the learning leading up to it is worthless, demeaning and dysfunctional. Tune in to hear three steps you can take now to ensure you teach hard enough, long enough and deep enough for students to be successful and prepared on their learning journey.
The photo below from my trip to Colorado is discussed in the episode:
Quotables
I don’t give grades, students earn them
Objectify learning
Put more time...
2017-08-0717 minAlways A Lesson's Empowering Educators Podcast111: Building Capacity Through RelationshipsIf you are in education, you are in the people business. In order to have a successful school year, students and teachers need to feel supported. By building capacity, you are investing in people, and that has a high return on investment. Tune in to hear how teacher leaders can empower classroom teachers to attain their own dreams while also meeting school requirements.
Quotables
Teachers focus on kids. Leaders focus on teachers who focus on kids
You may not be in an administrative role but that doesn’t mean your influence has a ceiling
You propel ch...
2017-07-3111 minAlways A Lesson's Empowering Educators Podcast110: Work Smarter Not Harder with Phyl MacomberPhyl Macomber is an award-winning national speaker, author, inclusion specialist, and curriculum strategist. As President of Make A Difference, Inc., Phyl has consulted with and trained thousands of teaching staff. She’s been a guest on several radio shows to discuss simplifying instruction for students of all abilities. Her partnership with Leave No Girl Behind International is training young people in key leadership principles globally. Phyl has created a 4-step simple system called the PACT for how to teach anything to anyone – in a way that students of any ability learn faster and deeper – and, teachers succeed in rea...
2017-07-2441 minAlways A Lesson's Empowering Educators Podcast109: Teacher OverboardThe summer is upon us and teachers are busy relaxing… nope, teachers are busy preparing for a successful school year. This busyness is translating into going overboard in their preparation- especially due to Pinterest/Instagram photos of classroom set ups and inner workings in other classrooms around the world. Tune in to hear how to deal with the pressure of keeping up and making decisions that solely have an impact on student achievement.
Quotables
“I feel badly for new teachers coming into this career thinking that everybody needs to do this.” – Original Poster
“Just because you have a pre...
2017-07-1720 minAlways A Lesson's Empowering Educators Podcast108: The Myth of Classroom DecorTeachers enjoy decorating their classroom, but making over a classroom with stuff does not improve student achievement or instructional effectiveness. Tune in to hear about 3 characteristics that make over a classroom – and one of them is not classroom décor!
Quotables
Making your classroom an effective, enjoyable space without the investment of classroom décor is the number one transformative decision you can make during your career
First you dream it up and then you enforce it
What you let slide, they get away with
It’s not personal, just protocol
A leader is not someone who te...
2017-07-1015 min