10 Minute Teacher Podcast with Cool Cat Teacher

Jam-packed with cool classrooms, cool apps, and cool teaching ideas, full-time teacher and award-winning edtech influencer, Vicki Davis, who blogs as the Cool Cat Teacher Blog, loves to interview awesome teachers and educators from around the world on this teacher podcast. Her goal is to interview the most in-classroom teachers on one helpful teacher podcast. This encouraging show will give you quick ideas you can use right away. You can follow Vicki @coolcatteacher on all social media and join the conversation.

12 Easy Ways to Teach Kids to Code: Hour of Code & CS4Ed Week 2024 12/04/2024

Teaching and Having Gratitude and Thankfulness 11/27/2024

How to Get Kids Excited About Writing 11/19/2024

How to Get Kids Excited About Writing Speech-to-text, audio, personal drawings and pictures, and writing about things kids love are all part of helping kids get excited about writing. In today's show, we talk to 15-year educator Randi Ahrndt about encouraging kids to get excited about writing as we discuss interactive writing strategies and one of the best free tools for teaching writing. We also talk about an authentic project of having kids write a personal book and the various steps of making it happen. We'll explore how to leverage technology and interactive strategies to turn even the most reluctant students into enthusiastic writers. Discover how to encourage creativity and self-expression in your classroom for all grades. Show notes: Questions Answered in This Show: What are the best free writing apps for classrooms, including tools like Book Creator? How can teachers use interactive strategies to make writing more engaging? Why is sharing writing with an authentic audience crucial for student motivation? How can speech-to-text tools support struggling writers? What role does student choice play in creating excitement for writing projects? How do graphic organizers help students overcome writer's block? How can teachers balance the demands of teaching foundational skills with writing practice? Key Takeaways: Free Apps for Writing: Explore tools like Book Creator, Canva, and Google Docs to enable multimodal storytelling and provide accessibility options such as speech-to-text. Interactive Strategies: Foster excitement with activities like project pitches, peer feedback, and sharing stories with family or classmates. Practical Tips: Encourage frequent writing through journaling, passion projects, and low-pressure feedback to build confidence. Authentic Experiences: Showcase student work with tools like eBooks, digital displays, and class libraries to celebrate their creativity. Sponsor: Book Creator is my favorite tool for teaching writing and promoting student creativity! With its user-friendly platform, students can create vibrant eBooks featuring text, images, audio, and even video. ✅ Get 3 months FREE of Book Creator Premium with the code COOLCATTEACHER! 🎨 Connect directly to Canva, personalize books, and ignite a love for writing in your classroom. 👉 Learn more about how can improve literacy in your classroom! Disclosure: This is a sponsored post. While I was compensated by Book Creator, all opinions expressed here are my own. I only share tools I personally use and believe will benefit my audience. /episode/index/show/10minuteteacher/id/33987622

Practical Tips on How to Teach Reading from Jennifer Serravallo 11/14/2024

NASSP Principal of the Year 2025: Dr. Tracie Anderson Swiley 11/02/2024

An Interesting Interview with My Principal: Meet Jonathan Dyal 10/09/2024

How to Help Students and Schools in Traumatic Times 10/01/2024

How to Help Students and Schools in Traumatic Times In today’s episode, we discuss a critical issue many schools are facing—how to help students and staff heal from trauma. Whether it's a safety event, severe weather like Hurricane Helene, or individual traumas, schools across the nation are navigating unprecedented challenges. To help students learn, we must first help them process what they've been through. As Lana Penley says, "In moments of crisis, we need to provide space for students and teachers to process what they've been through before diving back into academics." I want to acknowledge those still in the midst of trauma, like those affected by ongoing flooding in North Carolina. We have to meet their immediate needs first, as we cannot move forward until people feel safe and supported. While my hometown of Camilla, Georgia, was spared from the worst of Hurricane Helene, I know many of you are still facing tremendous struggles, and my heart is with you. In this episode, Lana Penley shares her powerful story of transformation. After her school burned down, she realized that test scores weren’t the primary goal—what truly mattered was creating a sense of community, connection, and healing. As her school focused on relationships, both with students and among the staff, they saw remarkable changes: teachers felt less burnout, students were more engaged, and yes, test scores went up. This episode is a resource for educators and principals who are hurting, who want to help their students, and who need to know that it’s okay to pause and heal before pushing forward. Show notes, guest bio, and transcript: https://www.coolcatteacher.com/e865 Questions Answered in this Episode How do you help students and teachers heal after a traumatic event in a school community? What are the key steps to take in the aftermath of trauma, such as a hurricane or school safety event? How can schools create connection and community to create a safe learning environment? What practical strategies can teachers use to bring social-emotional learning into their classrooms? How can educators balance the need for academic progress with the emotional needs of students and staff? What lessons did Principal Lana Penley learn from her school burning down, and how did it change her approach to education? Why is it important to address the emotional needs of teachers as well as students in times of crisis? What role does mindfulness and stress reduction play in helping students and staff recover and thrive? /episode/index/show/10minuteteacher/id/33279107

Things That Will Make a Truly Great Principal 09/23/2024

Things That Will Make a Truly Great Principal In today’s episode of The 10-Minute Teacher Podcast, we sit down with well-known educator and author George Couros to dive into his latest book, . With insights from educators, principals, and contributors from around the world, George discusses how great principals build strong relationships, encourage continuous learning, and create environments that elevate both teachers and students. (I also was able to contribute a chapter about my principal and we talk about that a little as well.) Questions Answered in This Podcast: What makes a great principal? What are the five pillars of effective school leadership? How can principals build strong relationships with their staff and students? Why is servant leadership important in education? How do principals promote a collaborative school environment? What is the role of vision in school leadership, and how should it be developed? How can principals support teachers to help them grow and succeed? What characteristics do the best principals and teachers share? How can school leaders balance autonomy and accountability for their staff? How does a principal’s presence in the classroom impact school culture and teacher performance? Whether you're a principal, teacher, or aspiring leader, this episode is packed with valuable lessons on how to lead with vision, purpose, and empathy whether you're leading a school or your classroom. Sponsor: Mirrortalk.ai - Today's show is sponsored by by Swivl. This incredible verbal reflection tool for students uses AI to respond in a way that will help coach my students on the task at hand. Whether they are building websites or working on teams, the feedback helps me see where students are and coaches them to higher levels of performance. Go to now to sign up for your free, 60-day trial. Show Notes and Full Transcript: 👍 Enjoyed this podcast? Was this video helpful? Leave a review wherever you listen to shows. ✅ WHERE TO FIND ME 🌐 Check out my blog: 🐦 Twitter: @coolcatteacher 📘 Facebook: /coolcatteacher 📸 Instagram: /coolcatteacher 🔗 LinkedIn: /in/coolcatteacher Disclosure of Material Connection: This is a “sponsored podcast episode.” The company who sponsored it compensated me via cash payment, gift, or something else of value to include a reference to their product. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I believe will be good for my readers and are from companies I can recommend. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising." /episode/index/show/10minuteteacher/id/33165882

What Makes Kids Excited to Learn? 09/16/2024

What Makes Kids Excited to Learn? We want our students to be engaged and to want to learn. Particularly since the pandemic, many schools have struggled to engage learners. Today's episode shows us not only how we can creatively include play in our classrooms, no matter the age group or subject, but also why it's never too late to re-engage students. Additionally, Dr. Nash shares fascinating data from a recent survey involving over 6,000 administrators, teachers, parents, and students that reveals the importance of student engagement and how play-based learning can drive meaningful educational experiences across all ages. Additionally, we learn how play-based learning can drive meaningful educational experiences across all ages. Show Notes: Key Questions We Answer in the Show: How does play-based learning impact student engagement and educational outcomes? What does the latest research from LEGO Education tell us about current engagement levels in schools? How can teachers incorporate hands-on, playful learning even in older grade levels? What are some practical examples of how purposeful play can solve real-world classroom challenges? Why is fun important in education, and how can teachers strike a balance between fun and learning objectives? Key Research Insights (go to to read the full report.) 35% of administrators report that students are disengaged in school, leading to issues like absenteeism and poor information retention. 83% of attendance rates are tied directly to hands-on, engaging learning experiences. 84% of surveyed educators believe that hands-on learning can improve test scores. Only 2 in 5 students report regularly experiencing play-based learning, despite strong support from both teachers and students for its benefits. Show Sponsor: Hands-on learning through play is backed up by research. Please go to to see the new report on classroom engagement. To support this method of teaching, check out the full range of hands-on learning experiences you can bring to your classroom with LEGO Education. Disclosure of Material Connection: This is a “sponsored podcast episode.” The company who sponsored it compensated me via cash payment, gift, or something else of value to include a reference to their product. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I believe will be good for my readers and are from companies I can recommend. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising." /episode/index/show/10minuteteacher/id/33064847

The Spectacular Story of Quest Academy: Whole School Competency-Based Learning 09/09/2024

The Spectacular Story of Quest Academy: Whole School Competency-Based Learning Nicki Slaugh is a trailblazing principal who pioneered personalized competency-based learning at Question Academy Junior High in Utah. Nicki's innovative approach has captured national attention, increasing student engagement, test scores, and teacher retention. In today's episode, Nicky shares the journey of shifting from a traditional school to a dynamic, customized learning environment where every student thrives at their own pace. Here’s what we’ll cover in today’s episode: How did Nicki transform her school culture to engage students and raise test scores? What strategies did she use to retain teachers and increase enrollment? How does personalized, competency-based learning work in a real classroom setting? What role does technology play in her innovative model? How did Nicki empower teachers and students with voice and choice in learning? What advice does she have for schools looking to implement similar changes? Show notes and transcript: Sponsor: EVERFI from Blackbaud Do you want to equip your students for success in both their careers and personal lives, but find yourself racing against the clock? EVERFI is your go-to solution! Their entire suite of K-12 products aligns with state standards and has earned the prestigious ISTE Seal. These digital lessons are crafted to empower your students to excel in our dynamic world. Engage and inspire with interactive, self-paced lessons, meticulously designed by content experts. From financial literacy and workforce readiness to character building, mental health and prevention education – these lessons are tailored for students across all grade levels. Best of all, thanks to EVERFI’s generous partners, these research-based resources come at no cost to all K-12 schools, districts and students. Visit to get started today for free. Disclosure of Material Connection: This is a “sponsored podcast episode.” The company who sponsored it compensated me via cash payment, gift, or something else of value to include a reference to their product. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I believe will be good for my readers and are from companies I can recommend. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising." /episode/index/show/10minuteteacher/id/32977552

Remarkably Simple Ways to Teach Students to Read 09/02/2024

Remarkably Simple Ways to Teach Students to Read Join us as Pam Allyn, a renowned literacy expert and author of influential books such as Every Child a Super Reader, shares her unique insights on how teachers can foster a love of reading in their students. She not only defines the Science of Reading movement but also addresses concerns from critics who fear it might diminish the role of skilled teachers. Pam discusses common mistakes in how many students are taught reading and shares practical strategies for teachers to improve reading instructional methods. Whether you're a veteran educator, parent, or new to teaching, this episode is packed with practical advice and strategies to help you inspire your students to become lifelong readers. Questions Answered in this Episode What is the science of reading movement, and how does it benefit students? How can teachers balance phonics instruction and fostering a love of reading? What common mistakes do schools make when teaching reading, and how can they be avoided? H ow can teachers integrate writing into their reading instruction to enhance literacy? What practical strategies can teachers implement to make phonics and fluency instruction more engaging for students? Show notes and full bio of the guest: Sponsor: EVERFI from Blackbaud Do you want to equip your students for success in both their careers and personal lives, but find yourself racing against the clock? EVERFI is your go-to solution! Their entire suite of K-12 products aligns with state standards and has earned the prestigious ISTE Seal. These digital lessons are crafted to empower your students to excel in our dynamic world. Engage and inspire with interactive, self-paced lessons, meticulously designed by content experts. From financial literacy and workforce readiness to character building, mental health and prevention education – these lessons are tailored for students across all grade levels. Best of all, thanks to EVERFI’s generous partners, these research-based resources come at no cost to all K-12 schools, districts and students. Visit to get started today for free. Disclosure of Material Connection: This is a “sponsored podcast episode.” The company who sponsored it compensated me via cash payment, gift, or something else of value to include a reference to their product. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I believe will be good for my readers and are from companies I can recommend. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising." /episode/index/show/10minuteteacher/id/32862997

How California is Improving Computer Science Education 08/26/2024

How California is Improving Computer Science Education How can teachers without a computer science background effectively teach the subject? What does effective Computer Science professional development look like? Today, Omar Shepherd from California shares how they are seeking to train teachers in California with the Seasons of CS program to do just that. Computer Science can be integrated into any subject. Furthermore, Computer Science for everyone is a strategic issue for states and countries. Omar shares the importance of Computer Science and how California computer science teachers like him are working to reach more teachers with the knowledge they need to integrate computer science. Show notes and full bio of the guest: Sponsor: EVERFI from Blackbaud Do you want to equip your students for success in both their careers and personal lives, but find yourself racing against the clock? EVERFI is your go-to solution! Their entire suite of K-12 products aligns with state standards and has earned the prestigious ISTE Seal. These digital lessons are crafted to empower your students to excel in our dynamic world. Engage and inspire with interactive, self-paced lessons, meticulously designed by content experts. From financial literacy and workforce readiness to character building, mental health and prevention education – these lessons are tailored for students across all grade levels. Best of all, thanks to EVERFI’s generous partners, these research-based resources come at no cost to all K-12 schools, districts and students. Visit to get started today for free. Disclosure of Material Connection: This is a “sponsored podcast episode.” The company who sponsored it compensated me via cash payment, gift, or something else of value to include a reference to their product. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I believe will be good for my readers and are from companies I can recommend. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising." /episode/index/show/10minuteteacher/id/32740842

How to Use AI to Promote Equity Now 08/19/2024

How to Use AI to Promote Equity Now In today's episode, we dive into the transformative potential of AI in promoting equity in education with Victoria Thompson, one of ISTE's 2023 "Top 20 to Watch" and author of the book Elevate Equity in EdTech. While many educators are understandably concerned about AI's potential biases, Victoria shares her perspective on how AI tools like speech-to-text, translators, and others are leveling the playing field in classrooms in remarkable ways. Victoria works to give you some actionable insights on introducing AI, how we're already using it, and ways we can understand how AI can be used positively. She also encourages us to look at AI startups and certifications with a critical eye and shares what she looks for in a certification program. Show notes: Sponsor: EVERFI from Blackbaud Do you want to equip your students for success in both their careers and personal lives, but find yourself racing against the clock? EVERFI is your go-to solution! Their entire suite of K-12 products aligns with state standards and has earned the prestigious ISTE Seal. These digital lessons are crafted to empower your students to excel in our dynamic world. Engage and inspire with interactive, self-paced lessons, meticulously designed by content experts. From financial literacy and workforce readiness to character building, mental health and prevention education – these lessons are tailored for students across all grade levels. Best of all, thanks to EVERFI’s generous partners, these research-based resources come at no cost to all K-12 schools, districts and students. Visit to get started today for free. Disclosure of Material Connection: This is a “sponsored podcast episode.” The company who sponsored it compensated me via cash payment, gift, or something else of value to include a reference to their product. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I believe will be good for my readers and are from companies I can recommend. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising." /episode/index/show/10minuteteacher/id/32631857

3 Surprisingly Easy AI Strategies for Every Classroom 08/14/2024

3 Surprisingly Easy AI Strategies for Every Classroom Monica Burns and I talk about three AI strategies for every classroom. In this podcast we'll answer the following questions: How can AI be used to generate ideas and connect to student interests? What privacy considerations should be taken into account when using AI tools? How can teachers prepare for the discontinuation of EdTech tools? Why are Diffit and Brisk Teaching two of Monica's favorite AI tools, and how can they be used in education? In today's show, Monica Burns discusses three AI strategies for every classroom, emphasizing the use of AI to generate ideas, connect to student interests, and speed up communication. Additionally, we discuss the importance of expertise in supervising AI, the role of AI in formative assessment, and how to protect student privacy if you're using a public AI tool. As we discuss new tools, we must be realistic about tools that may go away at some point, as many did during Web 2.0. So, Monica shares insights on preparing for the potential discontinuation of EdTech tools and highlights the significance of transferable skills. As we finish, we discuss two of Monica's favorite AI-powered educational tools, including Diffit and Brisk Teaching. Sponsor: EVERFI from Blackbaud Do you want to equip your students for success in both their careers and personal lives, but find yourself racing against the clock? EVERFI is your go-to solution! Their entire suite of K-12 products aligns with state standards and has earned the prestigious ISTE Seal. These digital lessons are crafted to empower your students to excel in our dynamic world. Engage and inspire with interactive, self-paced lessons, meticulously designed by content experts. From financial literacy and workforce readiness to character building, mental health and prevention education – these lessons are tailored for students across all grade levels. Best of all, thanks to EVERFI’s generous partners, these research-based resources come at no cost to all K-12 schools, districts and students. Visit everfi.com/coolcat to get started today for free. Disclosure of Material Connection: This is a “sponsored podcast episode.” The company who sponsored it compensated me via cash payment, gift, or something else of value to include a reference to their product. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I believe will be good for my readers and are from companies I can recommend. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising." /episode/index/show/10minuteteacher/id/32581567

Revealing Essential AI and Cybersecurity Literacies Everybody Needs to Know 08/05/2024

How to Prevent AI Cheating: Integrity in the AI Age 07/29/2024

Some Big AI Problems: The Eliza Effect and More 06/08/2024

Some Big AI Problems: The Eliza Effect and More Yes, everyone is talking about AI. However, how do the concerns about AI apply to our classrooms today? Tom Mullaney talks about concerns with: The Eliza effect—where people attribute human characteristics such as trust and credibility to text-generating computers—can be dangerous when combined with the biases and inaccuracies inherent in large language models. It is vital for educators to understand this as we talk about AI with students. There are concerns about using AI as "guest speakers" even for something seemingly "harmless" like "the water cycle." Concerns with humanizing AI. Discussing the "On the Dangers of Stochastic Parrots" paper by Dr. Emily M. Bender et all which discusses the ethical issues and harms of large language models, including bias and environmental racism. Debunking the myth that AI will have values and beliefs. Practical applications of AI in the classroom The challenges of citing generative AI in the classroom. Why it is vital to teach about AI's ethical implications and encourage critical thinking with the use of AI in the classroom. Why educators should stay informed about AI so they can guide students to effectively and responsibly use the AI that is becoming embedded in their technology. Sponsor: Juicemind - As I taught coding this year in AP Computer Science Principles, I found JuiceMind so useful. Not only do they have the team coding tools we educators need (since Replit was discontinued) but they have Kahoot-like games where students can write code as part of the quizzing process. Juicemind also works with many math courses. I love their tools for studying in my coding classes and highly recommend Juicemind. Disclosure of Material Connection: This is a “sponsored podcast episode.” The company who sponsored it compensated me via cash payment, gift, or something else of value to include a reference to their product. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I believe will be good for my readers and are from companies I can recommend. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising." /episode/index/show/10minuteteacher/id/31663972

How Do We Really Engage Students? with Eric Sheninger 06/03/2024

Practical Ways to Overcome Procrastination 04/15/2024

How Women's Unique Insights Transform Leadership 04/11/2024

How Women's Unique Insights Transform Leadership In a world constantly demanding excellence and innovation, it is easy to overlook a fundamental truth: the way we treat each other has profound implications on our productivity, motivation, and overall well-being. So many educators juggle dual responsibilities of nurturing young minds and meeting their own family's needs. This balance is particularly challenging for many women in education. Creating environments where everyone is valued is vital to strengthening our schools. Dr. Tracee Perryman, author of Elevating Women Leaders: Stories of Strength, Survival, and Success, discusses the importance of understanding and addressing women's unique needs and motivations. Our conversation aimed to inspire and guide listeners, help women advocate for themselves, express their needs (before they resign with no notice), and be assertive in ways that help. Show notes and full transcript: Sponsor: Everyone remembers THAT teacher. The study hall teacher who walked you through your first college application. The social studies teacher who taught you what taxes were AND how to file them. The math teacher who used student loans to show you how interest worked. YOU can be that teacher---and EVERFI wants to help you make that kind of impact with FREE digital lessons for K thru 12 students. From budgets and banking to credit and savings, you’ll find a financial literacy topic that’s right for your classroom. And especially during April, Financial Literacy Month, there’s no better time to equip students with smart decision-making around finances. Learn how you can share these FREE resources with students and give them a financial foundation that lasts a lifetime. Check out EVERFI’s free financial literacy lesson plans at . Disclosure of Material Connection: This is a “sponsored podcast episode.” The company who sponsored it compensated me via cash payment, gift, or something else of value to include a reference to their product. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I believe will be good for my readers and are from companies I can recommend. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising. /episode/index/show/10minuteteacher/id/30781713

4 Essential Ingredients to Engage Students in the AI Age 04/03/2024

4 Essential Ingredients to Engage Students in the AI Age A.J. Juliani, author if the upcoming book Meaningful & Relevant: Engaging Learners in an Age of Distraction (will be posted here when it is live), talks about how this generation has changed, the hinge of history now upon us and what it means to be an excellent educator in this age with his four ingredients of what creates a meaningful learning experience. His powerful examples help us understand what we can become to engage and transform our classrooms in positive ways (and keep what works.) His talk will inspire and encourage you. Show notes, transcripts and links.: Sponsor: Everyone remembers THAT teacher. The study hall teacher who walked you through your first college application. The social studies teacher who taught you what taxes were AND how to file them. The math teacher who used student loans to show you how interest worked. YOU can be that teacher---and EVERFI wants to help you make that kind of impact with FREE digital lessons for K thru 12 students. From budgets and banking to credit and savings, you’ll find a financial literacy topic that’s right for your classroom. And especially during April, Financial Literacy Month, there’s no better time to equip students with smart decision-making around finances. Learn how you can share these FREE resources with students and give them a financial foundation that lasts a lifetime. Check out EVERFI’s free financial literacy lesson plans at . Disclosure of Material Connection: This is a “sponsored podcast episode.” The company who sponsored it compensated me via cash payment, gift, or something else of value to include a reference to their product. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I believe will be good for my readers and are from companies I can recommend. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising." /episode/index/show/10minuteteacher/id/30650578