S8E61: Building Strong Readers: Structured Literacy in Action
Learning Unlocked
Guest: Kristin McCord, Instructional Specialist - Reading/ELA PreK-6 In this episode, Kristin shares the essential components of early reading instruction and explore what EVERY (PreK-12) educator needs to know to support young readers. From phonemic awareness and phonics to fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension, listeners will gain a deeper understanding of the foundational skills that set students up for lifelong literacy. Learn how to make phonics instruction more engaging, identify struggling readers early, and deliver targeted support with confidence. Whether you're new to teaching...
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S8E60: Unpack the Impact: Tackling Toxic Stress and Strengthening Resilience
Learning Unlocked
Guest: Jessica Smith, Arizona ACEs Consortium Educator In this episode, we unpack the impact of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and explore how different types of stress—positive, tolerable, and toxic—shape student (and adult) behavior, learning, and engagement. This knowledge and awareness can help educators create safe, supportive environments where all students are better able to learn and grow. Resources from this episode:
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S8E59: Bridging Gaps: Scaffolding Curriculum to Meet Student Needs
Learning Unlocked
Guest: Jennifer Kjar, ELA Resource Teacher at South Valley Junior High Listen in as veteran educator Jennifer shares how she personalizes the district ELA curriculum, scaffolds effectively for resource students, and strikes the perfect balance between high expectations and supportive practices. Full of practical tips and warm encouragement, this episode is a must-listen for any teacher looking to engage all learners with strategies, routines, and heart. Resources from this episode:
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S858: Behavioral Insights: Helping Educators Tackle Classroom Challenges
Learning Unlocked
Guests: Kelly Jarett, Cassie Kutzbach, Claudia DeAlba, and Jenn Colvin In this episode, educators will discover strategies for addressing common student behavior challenges like defiance, aggression, and emotional outbursts. They’ll learn proven de-escalation techniques to manage misconduct and maintain classroom respect. Additionally, educators will gain insights into student dysregulation and how to create a supportive environment that fosters emotional regulation and better behavior outcomes. Resources from our behavior team: (has PTR info) Credits: Prevent...
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S8E57: Active Math: Cultivating Thinking Classrooms and Student Engagement
Learning Unlocked
Guest: Alyssa Davis, Spectrum Elementary - 5th Grade In this episode, I sit down with Alyssa Davis to explore the power of active math learning strategies, including the transformative approach of Building Thinking Classrooms by Peter Liljedahl. We discuss practical ways to engage students, foster deep mathematical thinking, and create a classroom culture where every learner thrives. Even if you are not a math teacher, tune in for ideas for strategies that can be used in any lesson!
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S7E56: The Impact of Special Areas on Student Learning
Learning Unlocked
Guests: Natalie Krafft, Oak Tree Elementary - Music and Marissa Gomez, Boulder Creek - Art In this episode, Brit chats with Natalie and Marissa about their world in special areas. We dive into the secrets of how these spaces boost brainpower for all students and snag some nifty tips on sprinkling art and music into regular classrooms too. Tune in for a chat that's sure to spark some joy! Resources:
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S7E55: Tackling Teacher Perfectionism and More!
Learning Unlocked
Guest: Elizabeth Evans, Director of Civic Education Programs at Arizona State University In this episode, Brit and Liz bond over their common enemy: perfectionism! They share their own stories of overthinking and struggling to please others, while giggling their way through practical tips for beating the perfectionism blues. With their help, you'll be able to perform your best, without losing your sanity in the process!
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S7E54: Gamification for Motivation using Classcraft
Learning Unlocked
Guest: Leslee Mizen-Stroud, Middle School Social Studies Teacher In this episode, Brit gets all the details on how Leslee is leveling up her teaching game with Classcraft! This edtech gem is a gamified tool that even non-gamers can rock with their students. Listen in as Leslee "spills the tea" on how Classcraft has revolutionized her teaching style and made her classroom a more engaging and dynamic space for learning. Resources: Leslee's for relationship building and creating a classroom culture. (can be used in partnership with ).
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S7E53: Getting Candid: Grading and Teacher Credibility
Learning Unlocked
Guests: Trisha Shores & Marcus Hire, High School English and Social Science Teachers and Instructional Coaches In this episode, we discussed the intersection of teacher credibility and grading practices and beliefs, namely what it takes to shift the learning focus away from traditional grading and some of the toxic behaviors it can unintentionally create, to a culture that values mastery of learning. The heartfelt moments and candid conversations had about the learning roadblocks teachers can unknowingly build left us wanting more! This conversation takes an honest and hard look at...
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S7E52: Building Community & Confidence with Younger Students
Learning Unlocked
Guest: Jammie Zimmer, Second Grade Teacher Joining Wendy for this podcast is Jammie Zimmer, a second grade teacher who excels at Building Community and Connection. Although she teaches young children, many of her ideas can easily be transferred to classes with older students. Most importantly, catch Jammie's enthusiasm, passion, and pure joy; her love of teaching will reignite yours!
info_outlineGuests: Julia Salce and Wendy Peterson
In this episode, we face “the beginning of the end” of this school year by unlocking three ways to painlessly pivot in order to wrap up this quarter in a positive and productive way.
Want to learn more?
"This Year, Take "Self-Care" Off Your "To-Do" List" by Michelle Trujillo
Uncommon Sense Teaching by Barbara Oakley, PhD, Beth Rogowsky, EdD, and Terrence J. Sejnowski
"Sifting Through The Year": Pivoting from Packing to Placing Template by PGD staff
Unofficial sponsor of this episode: @rise.up.bakery | Rise Up Bakery