Shows
Teaching Learning Leading K-12Suzy Pepper Rollins - Boys in the Back: The Downward Spiral of Boys in School - 728
Suzy Pepper Rollins - Boys in the Back: The Downward Spiral of Boys in School. This is episode 728 of Teaching Learning Leading K12, an audio podcast.
Suzy Pepper Rollins is the author of 3 Books: Learning in the Fast Lane, Teaching in the Fast Lane & Teaching Vulnerable Learners. She has produced her first short documentary entitled "Boys in the Back" in which 4 educators provide insights on the downward spiral of boys in school.
Suzy notes - We are in the midst of an urgent national boy crisis. Failing grades, low college admissions, high percent o...
2024-12-1231 min
Teaching Learning Leading K-12Suzy Pepper Rollins - The Promise of Acceleration: A Strength-Based Plan to Propel Academically Vulnerable Learners - 583
Suzy Pepper Rollins: The Promise of Acceleration: A Strength-Based Plan to Propel Academically Vulnerable Learners. This is episode 583 of Teaching Learning Leading K12, an audio podcast.
Suzy Pepper Rollins is an author, consultant, and speaker who works with schools across North America to create success in ALL learners. Her particular passion is to change the academic trajectory of vulnerable learners. She is the author of Learning in the Fast Lane and Teaching in the Fast Lane, both by ASCD. Her book Teaching Vulnerable Learners (W.W. Norton) details strategies for students who are...
2023-07-2743 min
Teaching Learning Leading K-12Suzy Pepper Rollins - Teaching Vulnerable Learners: Strategies for Students who are Bored, Distracted, Discouraged, or Likely to Drop Out -Suzy Pepper Rollins talks with me about her latest book - Teaching Valuable Learners: Strategies for Students who are Bored, Distracted, Discouraged, or Likely to Drop Out. This is episode 313 of Teaching Learning Leading K12, an audio podcast.Suzy Pepper Rollins is an author, consultant, and educational innovator. Her mission is to create academic success in ALL learners by imbedding instructional practices that create energized, autonomous, focused learners. She is the author of Teaching Vulnerable Learners (WW Norton) and two books by ASCD: Learning in the Fast Lane and Teaching in the Fast Lane.Suzy’s key...
2020-09-2345 min
Educational discussion with MyEdExpert founder Suzy Pepper RollinsEp 44 – Making School a Nicer PlaceMaking School a Nicer Place
A Conversation with Jeff Kubiak
Jeff Kubiak is out to make school a nicer, kinder place. An elementary teacher-turned-principal, Jeff didn't just struggle in school - he hated the place. One teacher turned him around...and he's still thanking her. What a pleasure this podcast guest is! He believes that school (and the world) can be changed by "random drops of kindness." Jeff has written a children's book, aptly called, One Drop of Kindness. Jeff has an inspiring story – from a kid who hated school to trying to make school the best place possible for all ki...
2019-04-3026 minEducational discussion with MyEdExpert founder Suzy Pepper RollinsEncore Presentation – Stations in the Fast Lane!Stations in the Fast Lane!
By Suzy Pepper Rollins
Stations can be one of the most impactful instructional frameworks for student-centered learning. Student autonomy, creative thinking, vocabulary development, student engagement– the potential benefits can be almost awe-inspiring. But stations can also be a bit misleading. Students APPEAR to be digging in on the task, but are they really understanding what they are doing? How much are they relying on one another? Crafting truly successful station rotation lessons can be daunting. This podcast spells out the benefits of station teaching, the biggest question to answer, and “Watch Outs!” Plus, some tips on implement...
2019-04-2319 minEducational discussion with MyEdExpert founder Suzy Pepper RollinsEp 43 – What it Feels Like to Have ADHDWhat it Feels Like to Have ADHD
A Conversation with Kevin J. Roberts
What’s it like to have ADHD? Consider some of the traits: difficulty staying on task, distractibility, trouble sitting still, and poor organizational skills. Now, let’s place these students in a school setting in which success largely depends on being able to: sit in a desk, pay attention, be organized, and stay on task. Our podcast guest this week knows a lot about the topic. Kevin J. Roberts has penned numerous books on ADHD and Cyber Addiction. He also has ADHD and works as a coach for fell...
2019-04-1634 minEducational discussion with MyEdExpert founder Suzy Pepper RollinsEp 42 – The Teenage Brain & How a “Fist Bump” Might Just HelpThe Teenage Brain & How a “Fist Bump” Might Just Help
A Conversation with Terence Houlihan
As a classroom teacher and school counselor, Terence Houlihan became fascinated with the teenage brain. This unique time in their lives is one of great change – how can we help them survive…better yet, thrive during this time? Terence shares some fascinating research, such as how the teenage brain often misreads facial expressions, resulting in defensiveness. Plus, some amazing science about what the sleep-deprived teenage brain looks like – yikes! From their heightened self-awareness to hormonal changes to brain differences, this information is so essential in working with...
2019-04-0929 minEducational discussion with MyEdExpert founder Suzy Pepper RollinsEp 41 – Got Stress? The Zen Teacher is On Call…Got Stress? The Zen Teacher is On Call…
A Conversation with Dan Tricarico
A teacher for over 25 years, Dan Tricarico loves his work, even views his classroom as a sanctuary of sorts. Teachers like Dan are passionate people. He, like most of us, chose this career to positively impact the world. Think about it. All the students in our classrooms have their own “stories” as Dan calls them. They’ve got their stuff to deal with – family drama, pressure from grades, hurt feelings from a friend. We have our stuff – the car needs tires, stacks of papers to mark. Now, pile on innumerab...
2019-04-0230 minEducational discussion with MyEdExpert founder Suzy Pepper RollinsEp 40 – What Would Captain Kirk Do? Leadership Lessons from Star TrekWhat Would Captain Kirk Do? Leadership Lessons from Star Trek
A Conversation with Jon Wennstrom
Jon Wennstrom is a talented, experienced school leader; in fact, he was the 2018 Michigan PTA Principal of the Year. Wisdom, perspective, and a passion for the work is what he brings to the podcast this week. As a kid, Jon watched Star Trek with his dad. He observed philosophies of leadership in Captain Kirk, and he uses some of those today in his presentations on effective school leadership. From letting experts do their jobs to getting out of your comfort zone to utilizing technology, Jon’s hu...
2019-03-2624 minEducational discussion with MyEdExpert founder Suzy Pepper RollinsEp 39 – The G Word: A New Film Project About What It’s Like to Be GiftedThe G Word: A New Film Project About What It’s Like to Be Gifted
A Conversation with Marc Smolowitz
Marc Smolowitz is an award-winning film maker with over 50 successful films in his portfolio. His new project is called The G Word, which discusses the economic, cultural, and gender diversity of our nation’s gifted and talented population. Marc’s film highlights the educational challenges, as well as the social isolation and emotional sensitivities these children sometimes face. The project reveals a robust community of families and educators who are working hard to meet the needs of gifted children. The director hig...
2019-03-1935 minEducational discussion with MyEdExpert founder Suzy Pepper RollinsEncore Presentation – Lessons Learned From a Turnaround PrincipalLessons Learned From a Turnaround Principal
A Conversation with Dr. Scott Neil
Dr. Scott Neil has a passion for struggling learners…because he was one. His career morphed into being a top turnaround principal, and he’s uncovered some truths along the way. A key point of our conversation is this: A high number of students being flagged for interventions may indicate the need to examine our core classroom practices. His wisdom and pragmatism are refreshing! He takes schools on a journey to better align their curricula. Scott explains what rigor, a word we may get tired of hearing about, really l...
2019-03-1233 minEducational discussion with MyEdExpert founder Suzy Pepper RollinsEncore Presentation – Social Media and Student Communication – A Compelling PerspectiveSocial Media and Student Communication: A Compelling Perspective
A Conversation with Angela Stockman
Rather than viewing social media as an inhibitor to our teaching, Angela Stockman makes a compelling case for embracing this medium as a teaching tool. Truly an innovative thought leader, her perspective on opening new “corridors of learning” for students by utilizing technology to nurture writing is inspiring. Although she describes herself as a “hot mess” in high school, she clearly has it together as an educator/author! Look for her guidance in teaching “cool” and “warm” feedback in the classroom. Another overriding theme of this session is a poignant remind...
2019-03-0523 minEducational discussion with MyEdExpert founder Suzy Pepper RollinsEncore Presentation – Bringing the Wonder of Math to StudentsBringing the Wonder of Math to Students
A Conversation with Jerry Burkhart
Math is so much more than pacing guides and practice sheets. If that’s the world you have found yourself in, totally understandable… but here’s some first aid! Jerry Burkhart is about math adventure, creativity, and wonderment. He is a math treasure who works with districts to create tasks that move students to really think about math. A big talking point in the podcast: The balance between the speed of math learning and true depth. He is a true believer that we (yes, you!) often underestimate our math abiliti...
2019-02-2632 minEducational discussion with MyEdExpert founder Suzy Pepper RollinsEp 38 – 7 Strategies for Student Success7 Strategies for Student Success
By Suzy Pepper Rollins
This podcast includes right now ways to create success in all students. From closing the rigor gap to moving every student to academic success, these 7 “Go To” strategies are tweaks, not overhauls.
Let’s take a breath, step back, and reflect on some things that we can do today, right now, to make academic success attainable for all. The urgency we sometimes feel to push harder and race through might just be counterproductive. Listen up, take notes, and share with your team. What’s working? What’s not? And what can we ditch?
2019-02-1928 minEducational discussion with MyEdExpert founder Suzy Pepper RollinsEncore Presentation – Now That’s A Good Question!Now That’s A Good Question!
A Conversation with Erik Francis
Are questioning techniques one of the keys to getting students to go further and dig deeper into concepts? According to our guest, Erik Francis, YES! The author of Now That’s a Good Question! How to Promote Cognitive Rigor Through Classroom Questioning (ASCD) shares how his students used to robotically repeat information back to him…without even the courtesy of a citation. However, he discovered that when he posed a thought-provoking question, things changed. Faces lit up, conversations were sparked…everything changed. He is seriously a master of questioning and shares...
2019-02-1233 minEducational discussion with MyEdExpert founder Suzy Pepper RollinsEncore Presentation – Unwrapping the “Gifts” of ADHDUnwrapping the “Gifts” of ADHD
A Conversation with Kevin Roberts
Our podcast guest is extraordinary in many ways. An author/expert on ADHD, Kevin Roberts also supports those with cyber addictions. In fact, Kevin was featured in a fascinating 20/20 episode on gaming and screen addiction. Kevin is both gifted intellectually, has ADHD, and was a former gaming addict – so he knows these topics thoroughly! A captivating speaker, Kevin offers help to educators and families in ways to support those with ADHD and cyber addiction – and he draws the connection between the two. He’s penned two books on ADHD – another two combating cy...
2019-02-0535 minEducational discussion with MyEdExpert founder Suzy Pepper RollinsEp 37 – The Future of Education: Are YOU Ready?The Future of Education: Are YOU Ready?
A Conversation with Dr. Ryan Schaaf
According to our podcast guest, the future will belong to students who can learn, unlearn, and relearn, …and adapt quickly. Ryan Schaaf is the co-author of the new book, A Brief History of the Future of Education: Learning in the Age of Disruption. The truth is, the job landscape is changing so rapidly that students need long-term skills in order to adapt to this incredibly fast-moving, disruptive time. Jobs that were formerly the mainstays of the economy, such as bookkeeping, customer service, and even law, are now done lar...
2019-01-2231 minEducational discussion with MyEdExpert founder Suzy Pepper RollinsEncore Presentation – Keeping Kids CuriousKeeping Kids Curious
A Conversation with Gerald Aungst
As students get older, they tend to ask less questions and are less likely to take learning risks. Are they inherently less curious…or does curiosity fall victim to learning targets and pacing guides? Guest Gerald Aungst shares fascinating research and insights into amplifying learners’ sense of wonderment. This “Curiosity Engineer” is so enlightening in blending new research with pragmatic next-day steps to encourage curiosity in all learners. So interesting to hear the difference between curiosity and engagement, and the five factors of curiosity. In addition, he discusses the connection between the engineering d...
2019-01-1529 minEducational discussion with MyEdExpert founder Suzy Pepper RollinsEp 36 – How to Think Big in an Incremental WorldHow to Think Big in an Incremental World
By Suzy Pepper Rollins
Quick! Think of a great idea that came from a small thinker... Still waiting… This is a Go Big, Swing for the Fences podcast. So much of the world of education is incremental: Get 3% more students to pass the math test or reduce referrals by 4%. Big thinkers don’t want to just inch up a little. We are world changers. So, grab your ideas, listen up, and let’s get moving!
2019-01-0818 minEducational discussion with MyEdExpert founder Suzy Pepper RollinsEp 35 – Starting Over, Starting Fresh…or Getting StartedStarting Over, Starting Fresh…or Getting Started
A Conversation with Dr. Rick Jetter
Ever thought, “Boy, I’d sure like to tell that superintendent a few things about the real world…The world inside the walls of my classroom.” Ever been a district leader and thought, “Hmmm…wonder what teachers are thinking about these policies we’ve cooked up?”
Dr. Rick Jetter can see both sides of things pretty clearly. He used to be a superintendent. Now he’s a classroom teacher. He’s loving the experience, but boy, is he tired. His world view from being in both worlds is a starting over story th...
2019-01-0130 minEducational discussion with MyEdExpert founder Suzy Pepper RollinsEncore Presentation – What Would Leonardo daVinci Do?Full STEAM Ahead: What Would Leonardo daVinci Do?
A Conversation with STEM Author Carolyn DeCristofano
Wow – there’s a LOT going on in science education right now. Next Generation Science Standards and new state standards can bring challenges, but also opportunities for wonderment and creativity. The insightful and talented STEM author/consultant Carolyn DeCristofano makes this feel so DOABLE. Carolyn herself used to think, “Hey, what’s art got to do with science?” Her mentor (and the subject of one of her books) for the “A” in STEAM? Leonardo daVinci. Carolyn is simply masterful in her implantation of “cross-cutting content,” central to new standar...
2018-12-1828 minEducational discussion with MyEdExpert founder Suzy Pepper RollinsEp 34 – Bringing the Wonder of Math to StudentsBringing the Wonder of Math to Students
A Conversation with Jerry Burkhart
Math is so much more than pacing guides and practice sheets. If that’s the world you have found yourself in, totally understandable… but here’s some first aid! Jerry Burkhart is about math adventure, creativity, and wonderment. He is a math treasure who works with districts to create tasks that move students to really think about math. A big talking point in the podcast: The balance between the speed of math learning and true depth. He is a true believer that we (yes, you!) often underestimate our math abiliti...
2018-12-0432 minEducational discussion with MyEdExpert founder Suzy Pepper RollinsEp 33 – Unwrapping the “Gifts” of ADHDUnwrapping the “Gifts” of ADHD
A Conversation with Kevin Roberts
Our podcast guest is extraordinary in many ways. An author/expert on ADHD, Kevin Roberts also supports those with cyber addictions. In fact, Kevin was featured in a fascinating 20/20 episode on gaming and screen addiction. Kevin is both gifted intellectually, has ADHD, and was a former gaming addict – so he knows these topics thoroughly! A captivating speaker, Kevin offers help to educators and families in ways to support those with ADHD and cyber addiction – and he draws the connection between the two. He’s penned two books on ADHD – another two combating cy...
2018-11-2735 minEducational discussion with MyEdExpert founder Suzy Pepper RollinsEp 32 – 5 Truths (And Myths!) About Student-Centered Learning5 Truths (And Myths!) About Student-Centered Learning
By Suzy Pepper Rollins
Educators have been progressing toward more student-centered learning for a while now. The intent of this podcast is to help with that trajectory. The podcast outlines 5 big ideas to help continue our work in creating learning experiences that inspire deep student engagement, critical thinking, collaboration, and student accountability. In addition to these big ideas, there are some myths and a few hurdles to tackle as well.
Just this week! Suzy Pepper Rollins has posted her Pie Chart Instructional Frameworks for everyone!
2018-11-0624 minEducational discussion with MyEdExpert founder Suzy Pepper RollinsEncore Presentation – Gifted Students Underachieving?Gifted Students Underachieving?
A Conversation with Todd Stanley
Is there such a thing as a “struggling” gifted learner? Yes! A significant number of gifted learners fail to reach their potential. In fact, 1 in 4 of high school dropouts are typically identified as gifted. Some are bored. Others have learned to play the game of school so well that they just punch the clock. And some students bow to peer pressure and try to appear less intelligent to just fit in.
Join this fascinating conversation with expert/author Todd Stanley as we delve into the habits of underachievement and ways to help these kids...
2018-10-3032 minEducational discussion with MyEdExpert founder Suzy Pepper RollinsEp 31 – Stations in the Fast Lane!Stations in the Fast Lane!
By Suzy Pepper Rollins
Stations can be one of the most impactful instructional frameworks for student-centered learning. Student autonomy, creative thinking, vocabulary development, student engagement– the potential benefits can be almost awe-inspiring. But stations can also be a bit misleading. Students APPEAR to be digging in on the task, but are they really understanding what they are doing? How much are they relying on one another? Crafting truly successful station rotation lessons can be daunting. This podcast spells out the benefits of station teaching, the biggest question to answer, and “Watch Outs!” Plus, some tips on implement...
2018-10-2319 minEducational discussion with MyEdExpert founder Suzy Pepper RollinsEp 30 – Now That’s A Good Question!Now That’s A Good Question!
A Conversation with Erik Francis
Are questioning techniques one of the keys to getting students to go further and dig deeper into concepts? According to our guest, Erik Francis, YES! The author of Now That’s a Good Question! How to Promote Cognitive Rigor Through Classroom Questioning (ASCD) shares how his students used to robotically repeat information back to him…without even the courtesy of a citation. However, he discovered that when he posed a thought-provoking question, things changed. Faces lit up, conversations were sparked…everything changed. He is seriously a master of questioning and shares...
2018-10-1633 minEducational discussion with MyEdExpert founder Suzy Pepper RollinsEncore Presentation – How’s This School Thing Working for Our Kids?How’s This School Thing Working for Our Kids?
Let Them Speak: A Conversation with Dr. Rick Jetter
Get inspired by Dr. Rick Jetter’s approach to seeking out student voices about how school is working out for them. This self-described “Boundary Pusher” talks about going out on their “turf” and asking students about just about everything, from programs to procedures at school. He shares some surprising turns in his quest to hear his “customers” opinions. Risky business, right? But its ok – Dr. Jetter makes the process seem SO doable. Especially for the podcast: Rick and his coauthor Rebecca Coda have created a FABULOUS...
2018-10-0925 minEducational discussion with MyEdExpert founder Suzy Pepper RollinsEncore Presentation – What’s Wrong (Or Right) with These Kids?What’s Wrong (Or Right) with These Kids? New Ways to Teach the “Always On” Generation
A Conversation with Ryan Schaaf
Turns out, technology use in the “Always On” generation HAS changed our kids’ brains. Expert Ryan Schaaf shares research on how students today read differently, multi-task more, and handle instant gratification. This fascinating conversation provides insights into how to teach this generation – a most unique group that has always had instant access to information. Ryan blends research and pragmatism in this balanced approach to using technology in the classroom for real world learning. Ryan has posted open downloads for you on MyEdExpert he...
2018-10-0225 minEducational discussion with MyEdExpert founder Suzy Pepper RollinsEp 29 – How are Those Essential Questions Working Out?How are Those Essential Questions Working Out?
Suzy Pepper Rollins
Every day, students file off buses after seven hours of schooling to questioning parents, “What’d you learn at school today? Mumbled responses often sound like this: “I couldn’t tell you.” Or worse: “Nothing.”
This podcast offers a solution that helps students not just organize this mass of information coming at them but helps them retain information: standards walls. Rather than isolated essential questions or “I Can” statements, standards walls are a visual depiction of learning targets in the form of a unit road map. Because a student’s day can be just too much...
2018-09-2515 minEducational discussion with MyEdExpert founder Suzy Pepper RollinsEncore Presentation – What’s This Got to Do With ME? Good Question!What’s This Got to Do With ME? Good Question!
A Conversation with Denis Sheeran
All day long, more stuff just keeps coming at kids. Slope in one class, inertia in another, and someone killed a mockingbird in yet another. What in the world does any of this have to do with ANYTHING? Guest Denis Sheeran inspires us to discover those answers. And guess what? Relevance is all around us. From food shows to commercials to just about everywhere, this highly engaging author captivates learners to look around and see how relevant what we are learning in school today really is...
2018-09-1836 minEducational discussion with MyEdExpert founder Suzy Pepper RollinsEp 28 – Getting Students to “Fail Forward” & Think Like EngineersGetting Students to “Fail Forward” & Think Like Engineers
A Conversation with STEM Expert Ann Kaiser
What a perspective STEM expert Ann Kaiser has about students thinking like engineers! For younger learners, she uses those famous civil engineers “The Three Pigs” to teach the engineering process. And, rather than have an elaborately complex road map for the Engineering Design Process, she breaks it down into 3 simple steps that every learner (and teacher) can embrace. This former engineer and Fulbright Distinguished Teacher shares pragmatic guidance on cultivating divergent thinkers and getting students to “Fail Forward” like engineers. A WOW podcast for every educator and le...
2018-09-1133 minEducational discussion with MyEdExpert founder Suzy Pepper RollinsEncore Presentation – The Power of AccelerationFrom Struggling to Successful: The Power of Acceleration
A Tale of Hope from Suzy Pepper Rollins
For years, the dominant method of support for students with gaps has been remediation, the reteaching of skills missed in past years. The idea was “If we could just fix these kids and go back and reteach everything they missed, they’d be just fine.” Of course, as they are moving backwards in time, their peers are moving forward. And then we scratch our heads and ponder how the gaps got bigger… It can feel pretty futile, for learners and educators.
This session is about a dif...
2018-09-0416 minEducational discussion with MyEdExpert founder Suzy Pepper RollinsEp 27 – Motivating ALL StudentsMotivating ALL Students
With Suzy Pepper Rollins
What motivates one student to jump in and do his/her best…while another slumps over, seemingly unwilling to try? This conversation gets under the hood of what makes some students authentically engage and persevere …while others withdraw from tasks. Students want to be successful at school, so what’s wrong? After a brief discussion of the fundamentals of student motivation, Suzy offers 7 tips that work across the board for learners. Got some demotivated kids? Listen up!
2018-08-2818 minEducational discussion with MyEdExpert founder Suzy Pepper RollinsEncore Presentation – Better Days at SchoolBetter Days at School: Can Mindfulness Help?
A conversation with Daniel Rechtschaffen
School can be a stressful whirlwind of activity. For teachers, rushing to get to meetings, worry about test scores, getting lessons ready and grades entered. And that’s just us…What about students? Trying to pay attention all day, complete tasks, and follow rules. What if we all just paused for a few seconds? Crazy, right? Mindfulness expert/author/therapist Daniel Rechtschaffen discusses what mindfulness is and how it just might benefit teachers and students. For students, evidence suggests a decline in office referrals and perhaps an increase in test scor...
2018-08-2224 minEducational discussion with MyEdExpert founder Suzy Pepper RollinsEncore Presentation – Transforming Classroom ExperiencesAverage to Awesome: Transforming Classroom Experiences
A Conversation with Monica Genta
Monica Genta almost left the profession, largely due to the weight of all the “stuff.” Thank goodness she didn’t! A middle school teacher, a motivator, and an author, her passion lies in creating “adventures in learning.” From her “quack attack” to her “pitch pipe” responder, she’s always tweaking her methods to find things that work. A believer in celebrating “little nuggets of awesome” every day, her teaching journal developed into one of her books. Every educator will be motivated to see the world through Monica’s eyes…and mindset!
Monica’s website...
2018-08-1528 minEducational discussion with MyEdExpert founder Suzy Pepper RollinsEp 26 – The Power of the Opening MinutesThe Power of the Opening Minutes
With Suzy Pepper Rollins
The opening minutes hold tremendous power for learning. Student motivation, reading comprehension, intellectual curiosity, and the value of a task all hinge on starting with something powerful! Unfortunately, these moments may have been "hijacked" along the way and turned into a "Do Now" classroom management moment. Do this now while I take attendance, fill out some forms, rotate my tires, etc. No More! That's the subject of our short podcast this week.
But wait! Here are some amazing free resources by our fabulous authors to support make these opening minutes super...
2018-08-0718 minEducational discussion with MyEdExpert founder Suzy Pepper RollinsEp 25 – Using Improv in the ClassroomUsing Improv in the Classroom
A Conversation with Dr. Katie McKnight
“It crazy works.” That’s how prolific literacy author Katie McKnight describes using improv in the classroom. This high energy, passionate educator details some of the benefits this kinesthetic approach brings to kids, including a big chunk of what we teach in reading and writing. But there’s more! Improv teaches problem solving and encourages a sense of community, as students’ step into a role of making their classmates shine with the valued concept of “Mistakes are gifts.” This approach can be used in all classrooms as a valued brain break as w...
2018-07-3135 minEducational discussion with MyEdExpert founder Suzy Pepper RollinsEp 24 – Tips for 1-1 ClassroomsTips for 1-1 Classrooms
A Conversation with Dr. Monica Burns
From the time she first opened her magical delivery of tablets for her own classroom, Monica Burns has discovered ways to lift students via technology. A believer in “Tasks Before Apps,” her thoughtful, realistic approach has a focus of providing more opportunities for learners. She provides pragmatic suggestions from room arrangements to ways to capture learning to managing student work. Listen for her suggestions on Spark Video and Flip Grid as ways to involve every learner. This prolific ed tech author/presenter has posted a bundle of Spark Video graphic organiz...
2018-07-2424 minEducational discussion with MyEdExpert founder Suzy Pepper RollinsEp 23 – Let Them Speak!Let Them Speak!
A Conversation with Rebecca Coda and Dr. Rick Jetter
How was your flight? How was the chicken? What can we do differently? It seems like every time we frequent a business, we’re queried…sometimes hounded… for feedback. Why? Businesses have learned that to thrive and improve, they urgently need commentary from their clientele. But how often do we ask our clients - our students - their opinions about their school experiences?
Rebecca Coda and Dr. Rick Jetter, coauthors of Let Them Speak! How Student Voice Can Transform Your School, are on a mission to change the conversat...
2018-07-1733 minEducational discussion with MyEdExpert founder Suzy Pepper RollinsEp 22 – Gifted Students Underachieving?Gifted Students Underachieving?
A Conversation with Todd Stanley
Is there such a thing as a “struggling” gifted learner? Yes! A significant number of gifted learners fail to reach their potential. In fact, 1 in 4 of high school dropouts are typically identified as gifted. Some are bored. Others have learned to play the game of school so well that they just punch the clock. And some students bow to peer pressure and try to appear less intelligent to just fit in.
Join this fascinating conversation with expert/author Todd Stanley as we delve into the habits of underachievement and ways to help these kids...
2018-07-1032 minEducational discussion with MyEdExpert founder Suzy Pepper RollinsEncore Presentation: Google Between Their EarsEncore Presentation: Google Between Their Ears
A Conversation with Laurel Schmidt
“Let’s be curious together” is the approach this inquiry-based learning expert embraces. Early in her teaching career, she realized that the weight of pacing guides – what she was expected to “cover” - was daunting. This realization led her to the understanding that the most valuable thing that she could teach students was HOW to think. The session begins with fascinating insights on the “caveman” brain and how we can use this knowledge to nurture deep, analytical thinkers. Look for the tidbit on exactly how long educators can endure silence or wait time...
2018-07-0331 minEducational discussion with MyEdExpert founder Suzy Pepper RollinsEp 21 – From Physics Teacher to Best-Selling AuthorFrom Physics Teacher to Best-Selling Author
A Conversation with Mark Cheverton
Former physics teacher Mark Cheverton’s novels have been published in 31 countries and 19 languages; in fact, he’s a New York Times best-selling author. He shares some of his insights about getting students excited about reading and writing. His books are Minecraft novels, and have intriguing titles like Invasion of the Overworld and Bones of Doom. He’s learned that kids often have a fear of writing, because they worry about making mistakes, or being wrong. What’s he’s learned: when students are experts in a topic, the writing seem...
2018-06-2627 minEducational discussion with MyEdExpert founder Suzy Pepper RollinsEp 20 – Lessons Learned From a Turnaround PrincipalLessons Learned From a Turnaround Principal
A Conversation with Dr. Scott Neil
Dr. Scott Neil has a passion for struggling learners…because he was one. His career morphed into being a top turnaround principal, and he’s uncovered some truths along the way. A key point of our conversation is this: A high number of students being flagged for interventions may indicate the need to examine our core classroom practices. His wisdom and pragmatism are refreshing! He takes schools on a journey to better align their curricula. Scott explains what rigor, a word we may get tired of hearing about, really l...
2018-06-1933 minEducational discussion with MyEdExpert founder Suzy Pepper RollinsEp 19 – Henry Ford’s Not Hiring AnymoreHenry Ford’s Not Hiring Anymore
By Suzy Pepper Rollins
In 1914, Henry Ford had applicants lined up for good paying jobs building the Model T. What traits in potential employees were they seeking? Largely, the ability to perform a repetitive, specialized task all day long. Boy, have things changed! Companies today are seeking entirely different qualities in candidates: independent thinking, problem solving, working well in a team, and communication skills. How do we get there? The great news is that the student-centered classroom can not only increase student achievement scores, but can also teach critical soft skills, such as leadership, team-wor...
2018-06-1319 minEducational discussion with MyEdExpert founder Suzy Pepper RollinsEp 18 Everything You Always Wanted to Know About English Language Learners…But Were Afraid to AskEverything You Always Wanted to Know About English Language Learners…But Were Afraid to Ask
A Conversation with Beth Skelton
Imagine what it would be like to take a physics class or math class in something other than your primary language. Imagine going to lunch and not be able to understand all the conversations that surround you. What’s it like to be in their shoes? How can we best support our English Language Learners academically and socially? Author/Expert Beth Skelton provides illuminating answers, including the stages of language acquisition, the role of the ELL teacher, and guidance on flexibl...
2018-06-0531 minEducational discussion with MyEdExpert founder Suzy Pepper RollinsEp 17 Using Stations to Elevate LearningUsing Stations to Elevate Learning
A Conversation with Dr. Katie McKnight
Well-crafted learning stations can be a marvelous thing to behold! Our guest, Dr. Katie McKnight, is the perfect expert and author for this conversation! Learner autonomy, collaborative learning, authentic engagement, leadership skills – these are just a few of the possibilities stations bring. But there’s even more! We know how easily students’ brains wander through these long school days. Stations offer novelty, different ways of demonstrating understandings, and choice. Not crazy about this station – guess what? There’s something new just around the corner!
Katie is incredibly well versed in station teach...
2018-05-2934 minEducational discussion with MyEdExpert founder Suzy Pepper RollinsEp 16 Top 5 Instructional Habits to Kick – Can We Talk?Top 5 Instructional Habits to Kick: Can We Talk?
by Suzy Pepper Rollins
Slightly irreverent but good natured in intent, here’s the “Top 5” list of instructional habits we might just want to rethink. Sure, the brain needs habits; otherwise, it may get overloaded. But which of these habits are working for our kids…and which should get kicked to the curb? Here’s the crazy part: we’ve all done these at one time or another…why? Because they are habits! Suzy has also posted a short power point of these top five, with alternative ideas for these. So, play along with your own l...
2018-05-2215 minEducational discussion with MyEdExpert founder Suzy Pepper RollinsEp 15 From Struggling to Successful – The Power of AccelerationFrom Struggling to Successful: The Power of Acceleration
A Tale of Hope from Suzy Pepper Rollins
For years, the dominant method of support for students with gaps has been remediation, the reteaching of skills missed in past years. The idea was “If we could just fix these kids and go back and reteach everything they missed, they’d be just fine.” Of course, as they are moving backwards in time, their peers are moving forward. And then we scratch our heads and ponder how the gaps got bigger… It can feel pretty futile, for learners and educators.
This session is about a dif...
2018-05-1516 minEducational discussion with MyEdExpert founder Suzy Pepper RollinsEp 14 Making Learning PersonalMaking Learning Personal
A Conversation with Kathleen McClaskey
All of our students have stories to tell. Learning more about our learners’ stories is the focus of our discussion with personalized learning expert Kathleen McClaskey. What are their challenges? Their interests? Their dreams? Kathleen shares the benefits of personalized learning and valuable tools of implementation, such as using learning profiles and gathering student voice. Look for critical connections between Universal Design for Learning and personalized learning. Kathleen brings next-day ideas to making learning personal. Because, after all, it’s their learning, right?
Kathleen has graciously shared 2 urgently resourceful documents: One clarifies the differen...
2018-05-0925 minEducational discussion with MyEdExpert founder Suzy Pepper RollinsEp 13 Got Game? How Playing Games Can Change School CultureGot Game? How Playing Games Can Change School Culture
A Conversation with Susan Ragsdale and Ann Saylor
It’s all good news in this session with two guests who conduct workshops in building positive connections and leadership skills via games and service. Got Game? You will after this podcast! Guests Ann and Susan call it “Playing with Purpose.” They use games to start conversations, tackle awkward issues, build trust, and even boost brain energy! Susan and Ann are change agents who see the possibilities in all students, teachers, and leaders. They also reach beyond school walls and help create service learning...
2018-05-0130 minEducational discussion with MyEdExpert founder Suzy Pepper RollinsEp 12 Keeping Kids CuriousKeeping Kids Curious
A Conversation with Gerald Aungst
As students get older, they tend to ask less questions and are less likely to take learning risks. Are they inherently less curious…or does curiosity fall victim to learning targets and pacing guides? Guest Gerald Aungst shares fascinating research and insights into amplifying learners’ sense of wonderment. This “Curiosity Engineer” is so enlightening in blending new research with pragmatic next-day steps to encourage curiosity in all learners. So interesting to hear the difference between curiosity and engagement, and the five factors of curiosity. In addition, he discusses the connection between the engineering d...
2018-04-2429 minEducational discussion with MyEdExpert founder Suzy Pepper RollinsEp 11 What’s This Got to Do With ME? Good Question!What’s This Got to Do With ME? Good Question!
A Conversation with Denis Sheeran
All day long, more stuff just keeps coming at kids. Slope in one class, inertia in another, and someone killed a mockingbird in yet another. What in the world does any of this have to do with ANYTHING? Guest Denis Sheeran inspires us to discover those answers. And guess what? Relevance is all around us. From food shows to commercials to just about everywhere, this highly engaging author captivates learners to look around and see how relevant what we are learning in school today really is...
2018-04-1836 minEducational discussion with MyEdExpert founder Suzy Pepper RollinsEp 10 Full STEAM Ahead – What Would Leonardo daVinci Do?Full STEAM Ahead: What Would Leonardo daVinci Do?
A Conversation with STEM Author Carolyn DeCristofano
Wow – there’s a LOT going on in science education right now. Next Generation Science Standards and new state standards can bring challenges, but also opportunities for wonderment and creativity. The insightful and talented STEM author/consultant Carolyn DeCristofano makes this feel so DOABLE. Carolyn herself used to think, “Hey, what’s art got to do with science?” Her mentor (and the subject of one of her books) for the “A” in STEAM? Leonardo daVinci. Carolyn is simply masterful in her implantation of “cross-cutting content,” central to new standar...
2018-04-1028 minEducational discussion with MyEdExpert founder Suzy Pepper RollinsEp 09 Our Students’ Brains – Google Between Their Ears?Our Students’ Brains: Google Between Their Ears?
A Conversation with Laurel Schmidt
“Let’s be curious together” is the approach this inquiry-based learning expert embraces. Early in her teaching career, she realized that the weight of pacing guides – what she was expected to “cover” - was daunting. This realization led her to the understanding that the most valuable thing that she could teach students was HOW to think. The session begins with fascinating insights on the “caveman” brain and how we can use this knowledge to nurture deep, analytical thinkers. Look for the tidbit on exactly how long educators can endure silence or wait...
2018-04-0331 minEducational discussion with MyEdExpert founder Suzy Pepper RollinsEp 08 Better Days at School – Can Mindfulness Help?Better Days at School: Can Mindfulness Help?
A conversation with Daniel Rechtschaffen
School can be a stressful whirlwind of activity. For teachers, rushing to get to meetings, worry about test scores, getting lessons ready and grades entered. And that’s just us…What about students? Trying to pay attention all day, complete tasks, and follow rules. What if we all just paused for a few seconds? Crazy, right? Mindfulness expert/author/therapist Daniel Rechtschaffen discusses what mindfulness is and how it just might benefit teachers and students. For students, evidence suggests a decline in office referrals and perhaps an increase in test scor...
2018-03-2724 minEducational discussion with MyEdExpert founder Suzy Pepper RollinsEp 07 Average to Awesome – Transforming Classroom ExperiencesAverage to Awesome: Transforming Classroom Experiences
A Conversation with Monica Genta
Monica Genta almost left the profession, largely due to the weight of all the “stuff.” Thank goodness she didn’t! A middle school teacher, a motivator, and an author, her passion lies in creating “adventures in learning.” From her “quack attack” to her “pitch pipe” responder, she’s always tweaking her methods to find things that work. A believer in celebrating “little nuggets of awesome” every day, her teaching journal developed into one of her books. Every educator will be motivated to see the world through Monica’s eyes…and mindset!
Monica’s website...
2018-03-2628 minEducational discussion with MyEdExpert founder Suzy Pepper RollinsEp 06 Tasks Before AppsTasks Before Apps
A Conversation with Dr. Monica Burns
A leading expert on maximizing the power of digital tools in the classroom, Dr. Monica Burns’ focus is on the strategic use of digital tools to reach learning targets. She has a masterful knowledge of just about every class tech tool out there but maintains her sharp focus on keeping learning front and center. Monica presents a compelling case for “quality versus quantity” in our use of technology rather than “screen time” or going “paperless.” Look for her approach to leveling the playing field for all students via digital tools. She also discusses s...
2018-03-2028 minEducational discussion with MyEdExpert founder Suzy Pepper RollinsEp 05 The Inclusion Classroom – Do’s, Don’ts, and Do BettersThe Inclusion Classroom: Do’s, Don’ts, and Do Betters
A Conversation with Toby Karten
The co-taught classroom can be a wonderful professional experience and impactful for learners, but it can also bring challenges. Special education expert and author Toby Karten provides sage wisdom as she offers five pragmatic do’s to support this collaborative model. From positive mindset to shared responsibilities to the role of leaders, Toby’s pragmatic guidance will enhance our teaching partnerships so that all students can be best served…and help us avoid some classroom tug-of-wars. Listen with your teaching partner!
Toby Karten has posted parts of her S...
2018-03-1329 minEducational discussion with MyEdExpert founder Suzy Pepper RollinsSpecial Edition: Higher Math Test Scores – Tips from a “Math Ninja”Higher Math Test Scores: Tips from a “Math Ninja”
A Conversation with Dr. Steve Warner
This short podcast is especially for teachers, parents, and students preparing for college entrance exams. It’s a conversation with Dr. Steve Warner, who is a math professor who specializes in increasing SAT/ACT/AP math scores. Dr. Warner has written over 20 books on the subject and has analyzed feedback from thousands of students. These are pragmatic tips for students to increase their scores in a short period of time.
Grab a pencil and take notes on this one! This is nuts and bolts, highly pragmatic...
2018-03-1219 minEducational discussion with MyEdExpert founder Suzy Pepper RollinsEp 04 Top Myths About Gifted Students…And How to Serve ThemTop Myths About Gifted Students…And How to Serve Them
A Conversation with Todd Stanley
There may be more misconceptions about students identified as gifted than any other group. We might be thinking: high achievers who enter med school at fourteen, right? Our guest author, Todd Stanley, helps clarify some myths about this group and differentiates between high achievers and gifted students. Turns out, gifted individuals might need to be on our radars as potentially dropping out of high school. Todd also builds the case for why he believes gifted programs are so essential to students’ development and well-being.
Todd’s open dow...
2018-03-0732 minEducational discussion with MyEdExpert founder Suzy Pepper RollinsEp 03 Social Media and Student Communication – A Compelling PerspectiveSocial Media and Student Communication: A Compelling Perspective
A Conversation with Angela Stockman
Rather than viewing social media as an inhibitor to our teaching, Angela Stockman makes a compelling case for embracing this medium as a teaching tool. Truly an innovative thought leader, her perspective on opening new “corridors of learning” for students by utilizing technology to nurture writing is inspiring. Although she describes herself as a “hot mess” in high school, she clearly has it together as an educator/author! Look for her guidance in teaching “cool” and “warm” feedback in the classroom. Another overriding theme of this session is a poignant remind...
2018-02-2223 minEducational discussion with MyEdExpert founder Suzy Pepper RollinsEp 02 What’s Wrong (Or Right) with These Kids?What’s Wrong (Or Right) with These Kids? New Ways to Teach the “Always On” Generation
A Conversation with Ryan Schaaf
Turns out, technology use in the “Always On” generation HAS changed our kids’ brains. Expert Ryan Schaaf shares research on how students today read differently, multi-task more, and handle instant gratification. This fascinating conversation provides insights into how to teach this generation – a most unique group that has always had instant access to information. Ryan blends research and pragmatism in this balanced approach to using technology in the classroom for real world learning. Ryan has posted open downloads for you on MyEdExpert he...
2018-02-2225 minEducational discussion with MyEdExpert founder Suzy Pepper RollinsEp 01 How’s This School Thing Working for Our Kids?How’s This School Thing Working for Our Kids?
Let Them Speak: A Conversation with Dr. Rick Jetter
Get inspired by Dr. Rick Jetter’s approach to seeking out student voices about how school is working out for them. This self-described “Boundary Pusher” talks about going out on their “turf” and asking students about just about everything, from programs to procedures at school. He shares some surprising turns in his quest to hear his “customers” opinions. Risky business, right? But its ok – Dr. Jetter makes the process seem SO doable. Especially for the podcast: Rick and his coauthor Rebecca Coda have created a FABULOUS...
2018-02-1325 min
Teaching Learning Leading K-12143: Teaching in the Fast Lane with Suzy Pepper RollinsYou may remember Suzy from a couple of earlier interviews: Episode 2 where we talked about her instructional program called Math in the Fast Lane and on Episode 43 we talked about her book Learning in the Fast Lane. She is a national presenter, life-long educator, founder of Math in the Fast Lane ( a resource for helping teachers in grades 3-8 help kids with better understanding math), and now the author of two books published by ASCD- Learning in the Fast Lane and Teaching in the Fast Lane.Suzy is energetic and passionate about helping teachers help their kids b...
2017-05-0830 min