#EduCrush

Thank you #Educrush

Mon, 15 Jul 2024 18:00:00 +0000

Hey there Friends, It's Alex. I just wanted to come and say thank you to all of you for everything! Thanks especially to Natalie for all she's shared and taught me. I'm working on some new things starting with a new podcast on Youtube (for now) called Curiosity Bridge, the link is below. https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCfdO3NS1bd8fHfKYGsHPasQ Linkedin is best way to connect for those who'd like https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexander-noel-3a292980/ Thanks again, Alex

114 — Five Things I Wish I Knew Before Starting #EduCrush

Mon, 24 Jun 2024 14:11:00 +0000

On her final episode of the #EduCrush podcast, Natalie reflects on her personal growth throughout the past four years of creating the show and shares insights into what's next. Show Notes:

The greatest validation comes from within.
Creativity thrives on consistency.
Equity without introspection is a trap.
You are the solution until you become the problem.
My voice is powerful.

→ Subscribe to Unleash YES, Nat's new podcast with co-host Tom Schimmer.

Introducing...Unleash YES with Tom & Nat!

Fri, 21 Jun 2024 19:59:00 +0000

This new podcast from Natalie Vardabasso with co-host Tom Schimmer will help you leave the politics of your job behind and experience the freedom of becoming your own boss. →Use this link to subscribe/follow on Apple, Spotify, or Google Podcasts!

113 - Dungeons and Formative Assessment w/Andrew Rigby

Mon, 17 Jun 2024 06:00:00 +0000

On this episode Alex interviews passionate and innovative educator Andrew Rigby, on the numerous benefits of TTRPG’s for students in the classroom.
Continue the conversation with Natalie on Twitter or Instagram Continue the conversation with Alex on Twitter or Instagram Join our Facebook group for community, connection and allies. Download Nat's six research-based ways to INSPIRE change in assessment and grading!

112 - Changing Ourselves, Our Assessment Practice & Our Careers (w Starr Sackstein)

Mon, 03 Jun 2024 06:30:00 +0000

Though Starr is considered a leading voice in innovative assessment and grading practices, it didn’t start out that way. Once upon a time, she was a teacher in her classroom on the precipice of making a terrifying change. In this episode, Nat talks with Starr about how her personal growth journey triggered a change in her practices and eventually a major pivot in her career. Learn how Starr learned to let go of control and empower students so you can do the same. Show Notes:

How doing personal, inner work sparks an openness to change and learning, like it did when Starr chose to transform her assessment and grading practices.
The biggest misconception about assessment is not believing that kids are capable of being assessors on their own behalf; it’s vulnerable to release control.
Cultivating respectful education by seeing people and moving together puts joy back in the job.
When being an innovative teacher puts a target on your back.
Leveraging our skills as teachers allows us to move beyond typical jobs in education to expand our impact.
Surrendering to the energy of the universe to allow our path to unfold and find our people.

💬 Continue the conversation with Natalie on Twitter or Instagram 💬Continue the conversation with Starr on Twitter or Linkedin. ✊ Join our Facebook group for community, connection and allies. ✨Download Nat's six research-based ways to INSPIRE change in assessment and grading!

111 – The Court of Public Opinion

Mon, 04 Mar 2024 07:00:00 +0000

Continue the conversation with Natalie on Twitter or Instagram Continue the conversation with Alex on Twitter or Instagram Join our Facebook group for community, connection and allies. Download Nat's six research-based ways to INSPIRE change in assessment and grading! On this episode Alex discusses how the court of public opinion influences policy, ethics and our feelings about assessment.

110 – Hacking Parent Communication (w Crystal Frommert)

Mon, 26 Feb 2024 08:00:00 +0000

✊ Check out the website for the Empowerment Ecosystem Summit for the schedule, locations, and details on how to register! Parent communication isn’t the sexiest part of our jobs, but that doesn’t make it any less critical. Natalie is joined by Crystal Frommert, author of “When Calling Parents isn’t your Calling,” to discuss strategies to proactively partner with parents and how to assert ourselves when communication crosses into disrespectful territory. Show Notes:

Whenever possible, we should lean towards verbal rather than written, digital communication.
Many of us are nervous about talking to parents because of bad past experiences and deep fears of being exposed as a fraud.
Parent communication in education is NOT customer service; we are professionals, not “yes” people.
Strategies for proactive parent communication are meet-the-teacher nights, information nights about special events, or spontaneous positive phone calls home.
A great question to ask when talking to parents about something tough is, “What suggestions do you have for me to support your child through this?”
As we build our expertise, we can avoid talking about grades with parents altogether by sharing evidence of learning directly.

💬 Continue the conversation with Natalie on Twitter or Instagram 💬 Continue the conversation with Crystal on Twitter, Instagram, or her website. ✊ Join our Facebook group for community, connection and allies.

109 – Pillars of the community w/ Rodney Noel

Mon, 05 Feb 2024 07:00:00 +0000

On this episode Alex interviews an expert in the community work that goes on in major cities. He has 20 years of experience working with children and youth, non-profits, schools, and families. He also happens to be my older brother, Rodney Noel.
Continue the conversation with Natalie on Twitter or Instagram Continue the conversation with Alex on Twitter or Instagram Join our Facebook group for community, connection and allies. Download Nat's six research-based ways to INSPIRE change in assessment and grading!

108 – Assessment Identity (w Karley Alleyn)

Mon, 29 Jan 2024 08:00:00 +0000

✨Join us at the 2024 Empowerment Ecosystem Summit! Assessment and identity might not seem like a logical pairing on the surface, but they are a powerhouse combo for learning and professional growth. Everyone has an assessment story that we carry into the school space and those experiences determine what we believe to be true about ourselves, learners, and learning. Today Natalie reconnects with her childhood friend, Karley Alleyn, to explore the shared childhood experience that was fundamental to their assessment identities and what Karley learned about the role of authentic mentorship in its continued development during her Masters research. Show Notes:

Natalie and Karley’s shared history of competitive rhythmic gymnastics is the foundation of their assessment identity to “please, perform, and perfect” and a focus on external rewards.
Assessment identity is our understanding of assessment through our experiences as a student, educator, and as a human being.
Karley chose narrative inquiry as the method for her assessment identity research as story is the foundation of our identities.
This topic is important for all educators as it is an invitation to courageously look inward and share who you truly are.
Authentic mentorship opportunities, not coerced or forced partnerships, are a powerful space for educators to develop their assessment identity as they enter the profession.
An important first step in exploring assessment identity is to go inward and ask, “What was my first transformative assessment experience and how has it impacted my teaching practice?”

💬 Continue the conversation with Natalie on Twitter or Instagram 💬 Continue the conversation with Karley on Instagram ✊ Join our Facebook group for community, connection and allies. ✨Download Nat's six research-based ways to INSPIRE change in assessment and grading!

107 – Learning for Need, Honour, and Awe

Mon, 22 Jan 2024 07:00:00 +0000

Happy new year! What are the things in this world that make your jaw drop? Things that are so awesome that you can’t help but get excited about it, about learning about it and experiencing it? On this episode of #Educrush, Alex explores knowledge for need, for honour and for awe as we take some time to look to the past and to space! Links to SN 1006 because it’s awesome. https://www.eso.org/public/images/eso1308b/ https://www.nasa.gov/universe/supernova-remnant-sn-1006/
Continue the conversation with Natalie on Twitter or Instagram Continue the conversation with Alex on Twitter or Instagram Join our Facebook group for community, connection and allies. Download Nat's six research-based ways to INSPIRE change in assessment and grading!

106 - Let go of limiting BS and transform your life

Mon, 15 Jan 2024 08:00:00 +0000

✨Join us at the 2024 Empowerment Ecosystem Summit! Sometimes, our focus on external change is just a reflection of the deeper changes we know we're avoiding in ourselves. Go read that again. Join Natalie for a solo episode to seize the new year and finally let go of the toxic habits, patterns, and relationships in your life to manifest your deepest desires. And no, manifesting isn’t magic, it’s science. Learn the biological basis for this powerhouse practice and a three-step process to apply it to your own life. 💬 Continue the conversation with Natalie on Twitter or Instagram ✊ Join our Facebook group for community, connection and allies. ✨Download Nat's six research-based ways to INSPIRE change in assessment and grading! Show Notes:

A game of high/low for the holidays.
Natalie gets personal about the 15-year karmic cycle she’s ready to release.
The science behind manifesting as described by Dr. Bruce Lipton in “Biology of Belief.”
A three-step process to tap into creative visualization and clear blocks.

105 – Reflections on Community

Mon, 18 Dec 2023 07:00:00 +0000

This week on #Educrush, Alex is looking back on some of the interviews that match with what has turned out to be the focal point of the year…Community.
Continue the conversation with Natalie on Twitter or Instagram Continue the conversation with Alex on Twitter or Instagram Join our Facebook group for community, connection and allies. Download Nat's six research-based ways to INSPIRE change in assessment and grading!

104 – Assessment, Change and Mindset through Story (w Tom Schimmer)

Mon, 11 Dec 2023 14:23:11 +0000

In this crossover episode, Natalie joins fellow podcast host and co-author, Tom Schimmer, to discuss how story is critical to rehumanize assessment, embrace the messiness of change, and to cultivate the mindset necessary for inner peace. 💬 Continue the conversation with Natalie on Twitter or Instagram 💬 Continue the conversation with Tom on Twitter or Instagram ✊ Join our Facebook group for community, connection and allies. ✨ Check out the website for the Empowerment Ecosystem Summit for the schedule, locations, and details on how to register! Show Notes:

Rehumanizing assessment through story allows us to tap into deeper learning, build empathy, and demonstrate cultural expansiveness while gathering evidence of the critical competencies.
When students are the storytellers, they develop agency.
Storytelling in the classroom can range from micro moments to macro projects, and capture evidence of the standards as well as metacognition and reflection.
Change requires leaders to become storytellers to model the vulnerability of making mistakes and trying something new.
The stories we tell ourselves determine our mindset.
If you live to please others you'll lie to yourself, but when you tell yourself the truth, you'll find your inner peace, even if that doesn't make everyone happy.

103 – Sharing Cultures without Fear

Mon, 04 Dec 2023 07:00:00 +0000

As the winter Holiday’s loom, now is the time of the year that I and others start to think about family. The countdown is on and we’re ready for a break. What does it look like to use this time, leading to the holidays, as an opportunity for personal growth and community building? Join Alex for a brief discussion on sharing traditions for the season! **Note from Alex** This episode is shorter than usual because I am sicker than usual but I hope you still enjoy!
Continue the conversation with Natalie on Twitter or Instagram Continue the conversation with Alex on Twitter or Instagram Join our Facebook group for community, connection and allies. Download Nat's six research-based ways to INSPIRE change in assessment and grading!

102 - The Goal of Inclusion, is to Not Need Inclusion (w Dr. Shelley Moore)

Mon, 27 Nov 2023 08:00:00 +0000

As soon as we say the word inclusion, there’s an exclusion. Designing an education system that is grounded in the mindset that all students belong and are capable of high levels of learning is the real goal. Dr. Shelley Moore joins Natalie to talk about what inclusion means to her and how we can make change through collaboration, standards-based approaches, and stories. 💬 Continue the conversation with Natalie on Twitter or Instagram 💬 Continue the conversation with Alex on Twitter or Instagram 💬 Continue the conversation with Shelley on Twitter or Instagram ✊ Join our Facebook group for community, connection and allies. ✨Check out the website for the Empowerment Ecosystem Summit for the schedule, locations, and to register! Show Notes:

A personal story for Shelley that reveals the transformative power of inclusive education was in grade 8 when she experienced a middle school program that was organized in cohorts, supported by tech and inquiry-based.
The vision for ideal inclusion is that we don’t need to talk about it anymore; as long as there’s inclusion, there is also exclusion.
Two ways to reduce stress and workload in inclusive education are through collaboration and thinking standards-based.
Stories and humour are critical for making change in a complex system like education.
We don’t need ability groups for all students to receive the support they need to be successful, especially as these groups limit students from grade-level instruction.
Inclusion requires us to build our capacity to teach strategically, and two powerful strategies are designing learning progressions and fluid, goal-oriented groups.

101– Beginning Equity Conversations w/ Dr. Shirley Steinberg

Sun, 19 Nov 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Diversity, equity and inclusion will always be a complicated subject. It’s worthwhile to learn and to grow from it, because that allows us as teachers to create environments where all students can learn. Not just about the subject matter that we’re trying to teach but learn about what it means to be considerate of the communities we’re in and the people we encounter. This week on #Educrush, Alex interviews Professor and Author, Dr. Shirley Steinberg as they start to explore what it means to consider Diversity, equity, inclusion, and accommodation.
Continue the conversation with Natalie on Twitter or Instagram Continue the conversation with Alex on Twitter or Instagram Continue the conversation with ______ on Twitter or Instagram Join our Facebook group for community, connection and allies. Download Nat's six research-based ways to INSPIRE change in assessment and grading!

99 – From Science Teacher to STEM School Founder (w Stephanie Lammlein)

Mon, 13 Nov 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Fasten your seatbelts as Natalie takes you on a journey through the inception, challenges, and triumphs of Bio-Med Science Academy with its founder, Stephanie Lammlein. They explore how she turned a bold vision into reality, how the students are thriving in this educational ecosystem and the impact it's making on the rural community it serves. 💬 Continue the conversation with Natalie on Twitter or Instagram 💬 Continue the conversation with Stephanie on Twitter or Linkedin ✊ Join our Facebook group for community, connection and allies. 📅 Register for Natalie's two-day grading workshop in St. Louis, MI. ✨Download Nat's six research-based ways to INSPIRE change in assessment and grading! Show Notes:

The tipping point for Stephanie to leave the classroom and create a STEM school was mastery of her craft and frustration with being trapped in a box.
The hallmark of a thriving STEM classroom is students experimenting with things we don’t already know the answer to.
Creating a school requires legislative backing and many pivots.
The integration that STEM requires challenges both students and teachers to learn to navigate social-emotional hurdles.
Assessment in an integrated STEM school requires a shift to assessing competencies over products.

99 – The Person, The Team and the Task

Mon, 06 Nov 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Leadership is often cited as one of the most important and contentious parts of school’s life. Many dream of being a leader that is effective and inspiring and many more have opinions on what exactly a leader needs in order to be effective and inspiring. What if we focused on the leadership that lives in all of us? What does it look like to move away from a system where one person is always at the top and shift to looking at having the right leader for the right time. This week on #Educrush, lets explore a little of leadership and what it looks like when it is distributed through democracy. When Teachers Run the School https://www.ascd.org/el/articles/when-teachers-run-the-school
Continue the conversation with Natalie on Twitter or Instagram Continue the conversation with Alex on Twitter or Instagram Continue the conversation with ______ on Twitter or Instagram Join our Facebook group for community, connection and allies. Download Nat's six research-based ways to INSPIRE change in assessment and grading!

96 – Five Culture Fixes for Schools

Mon, 30 Oct 2023 07:00:00 +0000

In this solo episode, Natalie honors the Halloween season by describing five ghastly ghouls haunting our schools: phantom policies, zombie meetings, dementor processes, and the control and avoidance poltergeists. Learn what they are and how to defeat them! 💬 Continue the conversation with Natalie on Twitter or Instagram 🎧Listen to the podcast episode that inspired this episode: “Slaying your Organizational Debt Monster.” 🎥Watch Rodney Evans describe organizational debt. ✊ Join our Facebook group for community, connection and allies. ✨Get on the list for advance tickets for the Empowerment Ecosystem Summit! Show Notes:

Organizational debt is the policies, practices and ways of working that are no longer serving their purpose, leading to bureaucracy.
Phantom policies are born of a idiosyncratic mistake and scare teachers from more meaningful practice (e.g. teachers must have 5 entries per week in their grade book).
Zombie meetings are routine meetings that have lost their soul. (e.g. PLC meetings).
Dementor processes suck the life out of creativity and innovation. (e.g. committees as a part of the change process).
The control poltergeist haunts leaders lacking connection and leads to a culture of permission.
The avoidance poltergeist haunts leaders who feel unsafe and leads to a culture of influence.
The fix to all of these issues is the thing we tend to avoid in our workplaces, tough conversations (with ourselves and others).

97 – Athletics for Education w/ Nick Waterbury

Mon, 23 Oct 2023 06:00:00 +0000

School or Athletics? That’s the question we often ask students athletes if grades begin to slip. What if we are misunderstanding the role that sports have in the education space? How can teams help students better grasp the concepts in the academic classroom. This week Alex sits down with Teacher, Coach and Athletic Director Nick Waterbury, who has spent time on a local and national and international level, giving opportunities for students and teachers to learn about leadership and participate in the athletics as an extension of education.
Continue the conversation with Natalie on Twitter or Instagram Continue the conversation with Alex on Twitter or Instagram Continue the conversation with ______ on Twitter or Instagram Join our Facebook group for community, connection and allies. Download Nat's six research-based ways to INSPIRE change in assessment and grading!

94 – Learning, Assessment and Belonging in Physical Health Education (w Josh Ogilvie)

Mon, 16 Oct 2023 15:49:13 +0000

Is participation the only thing that can be assessed in Phys Ed class? How might health be integrated as a goal alongside physical activity? Nat joins Canadian PHE and assessment expert Josh Ogilvie to explore what’s possible for Phys Ed when we embrace conversation, personal inquiry and belonging. Show Notes:

The shift to Physical “Health” Education (PHE) was an intentional one to explore the intersection between movement and mental health.
The ideal goal of a PHE program is for each student to arrive at an awareness of the type of “mover” they are and what personal benefit it provides.
There is no equity in assessing participation in PHE as it does not consider the competence, confidence, and satisfaction each learner is experiencing in that space.
PHE teachers have more to offer than being a glorified recreational facilitators.
Competition is an important concept to explore in PHE, albeit within the context of student voice and choice.
PHE teachers cannot assess every student at once, but they can practice sound assessment by embracing more conversation as an artifact of learning.

💬 Continue the conversation with Natalie on Twitter or Instagram 💬 Continue the conversation with Josh on Twitter or his website. ✊ Join our Facebook group for community, connection and allies. ✨Download Nat's six research-based ways to INSPIRE change in assessment and grading!

95 – Perilous Burnout

Mon, 09 Oct 2023 06:00:00 +0000

What is burnout? Why does it have such a tight grasp on discussions of educator’s efficacy and longevity? This week on #Educrush Alex discusses learnings about the insidious natures of and potential strategies for dealing with Burnout. **For the curious, here are some links to the papers I read that don’t cost money or require membership at a university library.** National Library of Medicine https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8834764/#:~:text=Although%20definitive%20evidence%20has%20not,cynicism%20or%20depersonalization%20%5B29%5D. 35 Years https://scholar.google.ca/scholar_url?url=https://www.psicopolis.com/burnout/BUpdf/35anni.pdf&hl=en&sa=X&ei=epAZZf_7D66P6rQPvLWsmAQ&scisig=AFWwaebEJ6E5AQf9n1j2BFICaeRk&oi=scholarr
Continue the conversation with Natalie on Twitter or Instagram Continue the conversation with Alex on Twitter or Instagram Continue the conversation with ______ on Twitter or Instagram Join our Facebook group for community, connection and allies. Download Nat's six research-based ways to INSPIRE change in assessment and grading!

93 – Are you an EduPreneur? (w Dr. Will Deyamport III)

Mon, 02 Oct 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Where is the space for entrepreneurship in education? How might visionary educators expand their impact outside the four walls of their classroom and school? Dr. Will joins Natalie to discuss what an EduPreneur is and how we can disrupt our limiting beliefs around money and worthiness to become one. Show Notes:

Dr. Will’s mission in education is to fill the “hope gap"
An EduPreneur is someone who wants to make a greater impact in education without being confined by the rules of the system.
Breaking through limiting money mindsets means recognizing our value and owning it.
By making a documentary featuring successful EduPreneurs, Dr. Will learned it requires finding your niche, being patient and not being afraid to pivot.
Becoming an EduPreneur is a pathway to achieve transformation and the first step to getting there is discovering your element.

💬 Continue the conversation with Natalie on Twitter or Instagram 💬 Continue the conversation with Dr. Will on Twitter or Linkedin 🎥 Watch Dr. Will’s documentary film “The Edupreneur” ✈️ Attend the “Grading from the Inside Out” two-day workshop in St. Louis. ✊ Join our Facebook group for community, connection and allies. ✨Download Nat's six research-based ways to INSPIRE change in assessment and grading!

93 – A Student's View on Community

Mon, 25 Sep 2023 06:00:00 +0000

This week on #Educrush, we’re talking to a recent high school graduate and previous guest to the pod, Reese Gagne. She shares her insights about the value, complexity and elusive nature of community as she begins her post-secondary journey, and we begin our school year! Links: Continue the conversation with Natalie on Twitter or Instagram Continue the conversation with Alex on Twitter or Instagram Join our Facebook group for community, connection and allies. Download Nat's six research-based ways to INSPIRE change in assessment and grading!

92 – The Functionality, Narrative, and Aesthetic of Design (w Christine Boos)

Mon, 18 Sep 2023 07:00:00 +0000

What makes for good design? If teachers are to see themselves as learning designers, what qualities might guide their work? Join Natalie as she talks to a professional interior designer to discover parallels to teaching. Show Notes:

If architects create the outside of a building, interior designers create the inside (of which decoration is only one small piece).
Good design is more of a noun than a verb that includes functionality, inclusiveness, aesthetics, and a powerful user experience.
There are many parallels between the qualities of good design and good teaching.
Sound design principles include the use of space and a design narrative.
A common mistake folks make when approaching design is to adhere to the status quo and over-emphasize aesthetics.
When designing our physical school spaces, access to nature and inspiring imagery, along with flexible uses of space, should be our guide.

💬 Continue the conversation with Natalie on Twitter or Instagram ✊ Join our Facebook group for community, connection and allies. ✨Download Nat's six research-based ways to INSPIRE change in assessment and grading!

91 – Apathy the Enemy

Mon, 11 Sep 2023 06:00:00 +0000

This week on #Educrush Alex talks a little bit about his summer learning and discusses the true enemy of education, Apathy.
Continue the conversation with Natalie on Twitter or Instagram Continue the conversation with Alex on Twitter or Instagram Continue the conversation with ______ on Twitter or Instagram Join our Facebook group for community, connection and allies. Download Nat's six research-based ways to INSPIRE change in assessment and grading!

90 – The time I began anew...and failed.

Mon, 04 Sep 2023 07:00:00 +0000

In the season 4 opener, Natalie comes to you solo to share a story of failure that reveals an important truth about change. 💬 Continue the conversation with Natalie on Twitter or Instagram ✊ Join our Facebook group for community, connection, and allies. ✨Download Nat's six research-based ways to INSPIRE change in assessment and grading!

89 – Season 3 Reflection!

Mon, 03 Jul 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Nat and Alex come together to answer the season 3 inquiry question, “How might we rehumanize education through story?” by reflecting on what they learned from conversations with guests. Show Notes: · Nat and Alex check-in. (0:30) · Stories are the bedrock of community and how we decolonize education. (3:15) · To tell a story of personal growth, we need to feel that we belong. (7:45) · We must rewrite the stories about leadership, wellness, and power that limit our humanity in school spaces. (9:50) · Updating the story of education as it relates to work in our modern world. (17:00) · Why is it so hard to change what we know we need to change? (22:00) · The connection between story, accessibility, and story. (25:45) · Looking forward to summer and beyond. (34:40) Follow Natalie: Twitter | Instagram Follow Alex: Twitter | Instagram Follow the Podcast: Twitter | Instagram

88 – Decolonization Through Story (w Carolyn Roberts)

Mon, 26 Jun 2023 07:00:00 +0000

What is decolonization? How is story integral to it? How might we all become better at receiving and telling stories? Natalie joins Indigenous scholar, teacher and changemaker Carolyn Roberts to discuss circle work, deep listening, performative allyship and finding our voices. Carolyn’s Blog Post, “It’s about representation: Let’s talk about The Outsiders and Animal Farm.” Carolyn’s Podcast Series, “Walking in Relation” Follow Natalie: Twitter | Instagram Follow the Podcast: Twitter | Instagram Follow Carolyn: Twitter | Website Show Notes Why stories and circles are inherently decolonizing. (11:35) How can teachers honor indigenous storytelling? (16:05) The barriers to accepting story as valid evidence of learning in schools. (18:50) Opportunities to decolonize the education system writ large. (26:05) How the adults in schools can learn to listen and create psychological safety (30:35) Why it is critical for leaders and teachers to tell better stories to rebuild relationships. (38:34) The purpose of education. (49:28)

87 – Learning for All w/ Ceri Riley

Mon, 19 Jun 2023 06:00:00 +0000

This week on #Educrush, Writer, Producer and Science communicator Ceri Riley shares her experiences being an educator outside of the classroom, the challenges that she has faces and the importance of making sure that everyone has access to learning! Ceri on Twitter: @Ceriley Alex on Twitter: @MrAlexNoel Natalie on Twitter: @natabasso Podcast on Twitter: @educrushpod Podcast on Instagram: @educrushpod Links Mentioned: https://open.spotify.com/show/22OJWsluntwDB1siMFIA9V?si=8ece44d390e3487b https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/scishow-tangents/id1441251826

86 – What if students took a stand against racism? (w Harsh, Victoria, Chris & Katie)

Mon, 12 Jun 2023 07:05:00 +0000

Who is the greatest lever for change in our education system? Teachers? Parents? Students? In this episode, Natalie connects with three former students and their mentor teacher from Prince George, Canada, to explore how students can become visionary catalysts who spark learning in an entire community. Video #1 - Stories and Experiences: https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=PyX81hRIVgA#dialog&ab_channel=SchoolDistrictNo.57 Video #2 - Impact: https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=7Q00FZfoqjM&ab_channel=SchoolDistrictNo.57 Video #3 - Hope and Allyship: https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=1T7P3tRDrLM&ab_channel=SchoolDistrictNo.57 Video #4 - For Educators: https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=tOKUlkcPNMY&ab_channel=SchoolDistrictNo.57 Join the Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/empowermentecosystem Follow Natalie: Twitter | Instagram Follow the Podcast: Twitter | Instagram Show Notes:

Who is the greatest lever for change in our education system? (1:30)
The inciting incident; a polarizing costume at Halloween following the renaming of a school. (11:50)
The collective decision by the DSAC students in response to the racism they witnessed in their community. (22:03)
The critical difference between “student voice” and agency. (27:03)
Grounding themselves in the first persons' principles to navigate the process. (32:40)
The brave conversations, pushback, and productive discomfort in the SD57 community as a result of the learning series videos. (34:58)
Key insights and learnings that emerged from each journey. (44:33)
Student advice for teachers about how to develop their own agency to make change in the education system. (51:15)
The purpose(s) of education. (55:04)

85 – Word and Story w/ Wakefield Brewster

Mon, 05 Jun 2023 06:00:00 +0000

Description: This week on #Educrush we hear from Calgary’s Current and the first ever Black Poet Laureate of the city, Wakefield Brewster as he shares with us the importance of story and poetry and education. Wakefield on Twitter @LyricalPitpull Wakefield on Instagram @Wakefield_Brewster Alex on Twitter: @MrAlexNoel Natalie on Twitter: @natabasso Podcast on Twitter: @educrushpod Podcast on Instagram: @educrushpod Links Mentioned: https://wakefieldbrewster.com/

84 – Building Community by Telling the Story of Us (w Melody McAllister)

Mon, 29 May 2023 06:00:00 +0000

What is community? How do we build it, and break it? Who are we as a wider education community? Natalie connects with former teacher and current community engagement strategist, Melody McAllister, to unpack the complexities of both youth and adult communities in the age of social media. Join the Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/empowermentecosystem Follow Natalie: Twitter | Instagram | Linkedin Follow the Podcast: Twitter | Instagram Follow Melody: Twitter | Instagramv | LinkedIn Email: hello@educrushpod.com Show Notes: · Melody’s education journey thus far. (6:25) · What is community? (9:45)) · How to tell the story of a classroom community; building a classroom community with parents. (13:30) · The power of co-creation to build community. (20:00) · Leveraging music and check-in questions to make everyone welcome immediately. (20:20) · Who are we as an education community? (30:25) · We need to stop attacking each other on social media and giving ammunition to the critics. (39:15) · How can we honor one another as whole people and get back to a place of unity? (48:35) · A hopeful note about the purpose of education. (55:15)

83 - Pursuing Passions w/ Nick Hughes

Mon, 22 May 2023 06:00:00 +0000

Description: This week Alex talks to Multimedia Specialist and Search and Rescue volunteer Nick Hughes. He share how his experiences with high school influenced his passions today. What does it look like for teachers to nurture the interests and passions of students and where might that start lead them in their lives? Alex on Twitter: @MrAlexNoel Natalie on Twitter: @natabasso Podcast on Twitter: @educrushpod Podcast on Instagram: @educrushpod

82 – #EESummit23 Debrief (w Katie White & Tom Schimmer)

Mon, 15 May 2023 15:06:08 +0000

Fresh off the first-ever Empowerment Ecosystem Summit in Vancouver, BC, Natalie sits down with co-hosts Katie White and Tom Schimmer to reflect on highlights, insights, and next steps for the innovative event. Show Notes: · What’s sticking with each of us immediately after the event. (10:25) · Rethinking the concept of the “middle” in education and how tension shows up in creative work. (19:45) · Tweaks to the event design to better meet the vision. (23:30) · Moments that will stick with us. (27:00) Follow Natalie: Twitter | Instagram Follow the Podcast: Twitter | Instagram Follow Katie: Twitter | Instagram Follow Tom: Twitter | Instagram Email: hello@educrushpod.com

81 – Education, Physical Education w/ Alora Popow

Mon, 08 May 2023 06:00:00 +0000

This week on #Educrush, our guest Alora Popow shares the importance of both the Physical and Education portion of Physical Education. As a PE teacher herself, Alora shares her Philosophy of education, how classroom outcomes intertwine with outcomes in the gym space and how we can better utilize physical education to aid our instruction of class outcomes. Don’t forget to sign up the Empowerment Ecosystem Summit!
https://sites.google.com/view/empowermentecosystemsummit/home Alex on Twitter: @MrAlexNoel Natalie on Twitter: @natabasso Podcast on Twitter: @educrushpod Podcast on Instagram: @educrushpod

80 – The Discipline of Wellness (w Jonathan Erickson)

Mon, 01 May 2023 06:05:00 +0000

Wellness is so much more than a pizza party or a coffee cart; it’s deep, personal excavation and ruthless time management. Jonathan Erickson is currently the principal of Parras Middle School in Redondo Beach, California, and he joins Natalie to share what he learned about the discipline of wellness when he studied it during his PhD, and how he’s bringing it to life in his school. Show Notes: · Jonathan’s journey through innovative teaching contexts and a PhD in mindfulness and workplace outcomes. (5:50) · Wellness; the story being told and how we can rewrite the narrative. (11:30) · Rethinking teacher education and after-school care to build collective capacity in social-emotional learning. (16:00) · Th importance of designing for academic engagement as a facet of social-emotional learning for all. (25:35) · Determining a defensible position to inspire rethinking. (33:20) · How a principal can create the conditions for wellness on their campus. (37:25) · Managing your time so you can show up for people. (44:00) · The purpose of education (53:50) Register for the Empowerment Ecosystem Summit: https://sites.google.com/view/empowermentecosystemsummit/home Follow Natalie: Twitter | Instagram Follow the Podcast: Twitter | Instagram Follow Jonathan: Linkedin Email: hello@educrushpod.com

79 - Cross Curricular Conversations to Energize Your Time w/Alex Noel

Mon, 24 Apr 2023 06:00:00 +0000

This week we further explore what we started in Ep 72, where Natalie and Alex talked about what it means to “craft a public narrative” in education. Welcome to part of Alex’s public Narrative. “Cross Curricular Conversations to energize your time.” Don’t forget to sign up the Empowerment Ecosystem Summit!
https://sites.google.com/view/empowermentecosystemsummit/home Alex on Twitter: @MrAlexNoel Natalie on Twitter: @natabasso Podcast on Twitter: @educrushpod Podcast on Instagram: @educrushpod Links Mentioned: https://open.spotify.com/episode/3b3q7KO62YBCDgRdvBwtgT?si=11eb0df263704caa https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/crafting-a-public-narrative/id1529486348?i=1000600616054

78 – What is the future of education?

Mon, 17 Apr 2023 20:41:40 +0000

This season, we have explored many stories of education here in the present, but what is the future of education? Join Natalie to play within two future simulations that will stretch your capacity to discover creative opportunities, today. Empowerment Ecosystem Summit website: https://sites.google.com/view/empowermentecosystemsummit/home Follow Natalie: Twitter | Instagram Follow the Podcast: Twitter | Instagram Email: hello@educrushpod.com Show Notes: · When does the future start? (4:45) · Jane McGonigal, SuperStruct, and the power of a future simulation to build our capacity for creativity today. (7:00) · Future simulation #1: CurriculumGPT (15:00) · Future simulation #2: IncorporatED (24:30) · 10 ways anything can be different in the future. (32:00)

77 - Restorative Education w/ Kelsey Brown

Mon, 10 Apr 2023 06:00:00 +0000

This week on #Educrush we dive into how our expectations of students change the stories that they get to tell about themselves. Kelsey Brown talks a bit about a restorative justice program run out of the Calgary Youth Justice society. Alex on Twitter: @MrAlexNoel Natalie on Twitter: @natabasso Podcast on Twitter: @educrushpod Podcast on Instagram: @educrushpod Show Notes: 10:45 Introduction 15:30 Community mentorship 17:08 How students have negative interactions with their school communities. 20:00 Students participating in risk behaviors. 23:14 Schools allowing students to be a part of their communities. 27:48 The importance of community 30:14 The purpose of education Links Mentioned: https://calgaryyouthjustice.ca/ https://calgaryyouthjustice.ca/programs-services/cyjc/ https://calgaryyouthjustice.ca/get-involved/volunteer/

76 – What if students rewrote the narrative of school? (w Breana Jacques & Shannon Finnegan)

Mon, 03 Apr 2023 06:00:00 +0000

Breana Jacques and Shannon Finnegan are two “engagement guides” at the Collaborative Lab School in Minneapolis with a fascinating mission: to empower students to reinvent school. What principles do students think school should follow? What do they think should be assessed? How do they want to feel? They join Natalie to share the story of how they’ve shared power with students as co-designers of school and are rewriting the narrative of education. Show Notes: · Introduction to Breana and Shannon, two “engagement guides” at the Collaborative Lab School. (7:30) · How reimagining the role of a teacher is energizing and rehumanizing. (12:00) · What students want when they are empowered to co-design school. (19:30) · The co-design journey that led to the Collaborative Lab School. (29:00) · Co-designing an assessment system grounded in competencies. (36:45) · The barriers that folks are facing in traditional contexts that keep them from sharing power and co-designing with students. (49:00) · The purpose of education. (60:00) Empowerment Ecosystem Summit website: https://sites.google.com/view/empowermentecosystemsummit/home Breana & Shannon's podcast, The Loop: https://thelooppodcast.weebly.com/ Follow Natalie: Twitter | Instagram Follow the Podcast: Twitter | Instagram Email: hello@educrushpod.com

75 - Project Based Story Telling (w/ Jill Engler)

Mon, 13 Mar 2023 06:00:00 +0000

Jill on Twitter: @engler_jill Alex on Twitter: @MrAlexNoel Natalie on Twitter: @natabasso Podcast on Twitter: @educrushpod Podcast on Instagram: @educrushpod

74 – Performing Gender Scripts in Schools (w Jason Ablin)

Mon, 06 Mar 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Throughout history, we have told the story of girls as precious eggs and boys as kept princes. However, as we begin to explore gender identity as a spectrum rather than a binary, it’s time to update this narrative and that begins with interrogating the scripts we perform when talking to students. Author, speaker and gender awareness coach, Jason Ablin, joins Natalie to unpack this gender equation in schools and uncover how it is impacting literacy and numeracy achievement. Follow Natalie: Twitter | Instagram Follow Jason: Twitter | Website Follow the Podcast: Twitter | Instagram Email: hello@educrushpod.com Jason’s new book “The Gender Equation: How to Create Equity and Fairness for All Students” is out now! Show Notes: · Introducing Jason Ablin. (5:00) · Jason’s first move as a new principal to remove the gender barriers to learning. (8:00) · The origin story for Jason’s passion in gender-related issues. (14:00) · How students and teacher respond to each other in ways that uphold gender bias. (19:30) · Girls as “precious eggs” and boys as “kept princes.” (28:45) · An academic rationale for taking gender issues seriously in school. (32:15) · A first step for a leader looking to tackle gender bias in their school. (44:30) · The purpose of education. (49:45)

73 - Facing Homeless (w/ David Conrad)

Mon, 27 Feb 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Dave Conrad is the Community Engagement Program Director at a Non-Profit organization called the Mustard Seed. They are an organization that specializes in providing aid to people around Canada who are facing homelessness. On this episode, Dave and Alex explore what life could be like for students who could be experiencing homelessness and the importance of dignity and person first language. Alex on Twitter: @MrAlexNoel Natalie on Twitter: @natabasso Podcast on Twitter: @educrushpod Podcast on Instagram: @educrushpod Show Notes: Introduction [09:17] What leads students into experiencing homelessness [01:39] Things teachers can look for [10:56] School communities can provide support [16:08] The discomfort of showing others dignity [20:24] Students benefit from volunteering [24:38] Talking to students about homelessness [26:57] The purpose of education [32:42] Significant quotes: “I think the key to it is, we need to see people for more than their experience they’re going through right now. We need to see people for more than how they are presenting right now” 17:23 “I think first and foremost we need to be treating people with dignity, building relationships out of that place, and then there are practical supports that can come into that, but it all needs to come out of a place of relationship.” 18:10 Links Mentioned: Homelesshub.ca

72 – Crafting a Public Narrative

Mon, 20 Feb 2023 14:18:11 +0000

A public narrative is a framework to help us craft a story that inspires others to take action. In this “coaching call” episode, Natalie walks Alex through the creation of his own public narrative for a cause he is passionate about. Follow Natalie: Twitter | Instagram Follow Alex: Twitter Follow the Podcast: Twitter | Instagram Email: hello@educrushpod.com Show Notes:

Unpacking the “public narrative” framework as designed by Marshall Ganz. (3:30)
Clarifying the story of now and a specific call to action. (13:20)
Finding empathy with high school teachers in the story of us. (32:45)
Bringing it home with the story of self to make it personal. (40:30)
Episode takeaways and a call to action. (1:06)

Apply to the Empowerment Ecosystem --> https://calendly.com/natabasso/60-minute-meeting

Bonus - Exploring Discrimination w/ Alex Noel

Mon, 13 Feb 2023 07:00:00 +0000

On this week’s episode, Alex explores his own thoughts and history around discrimination. Alex on Twitter: @MrAlexNoel Natalie on Twitter: @natabasso Podcast on Twitter: @educrushpod Podcast on Instagram: @educrushpod Links Mentioned: https://twitter.com/lyricalpitbull

70 – The Inspiring History of Rebel Black Communities (w Dr. Crystal Menzies)

Mon, 06 Feb 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Stories are a powerful tool for liberation when we see ourselves in a character that demonstrates ingenuity and creativity on their quest for freedom. In particular, the stories of rebel Black communities can inspire our youth today when they are told alongside stories that describe historical violence and oppression. Dr. Crystal Menzies is a qualitative researcher and entrepreneur on a mission to uncover the hidden history of Black folks. She joins Natalie to tell the story of Maroon communities and how she is likewise on a quest to discover liberated spaces outside of the limitations of schools and organizations. Show Notes:

Crystal’s journey in the education system as a student and a teacher. (10:15)
The mission that Crystal embarked on to tell a different story about the history of Black folks. (15:00)
The lack of integrity in organizations who are equity-seeking that led Crystal to seek liberation outside of the system. (23:30)
What are Maroon communities? (28:00)
Poor white folks often allied with Maroon communities. (34:00)
Challenging the “poor unfortunate souls” narratives to unearth joy. (39:35)
Unlearning the unattainable standards of grind culture, like a false sense of urgency, as an act of personal liberation. (45:30)
Reimagining education through the lens of relationships with self, others, and the land. (50:50)
The purpose of education is to co-construct a healthy relationship with our youth. (56:45)

Apply for the Empowerment Ecosystem: https://forms.gle/TD6ediiZzz3d49ti8 The website for Crystal’s company, EmancipatED: www.emancipatededucation.com Follow Natalie: Twitter | Instagram Follow Crystal: LinkedIn | Instagram Follow the Podcast: Twitter | Instagram Email: hello@educrushpod.com

68 - Addressing Speech Barriers (w Alex Henderson)

Mon, 30 Jan 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Bio: After a long and winding educational road (including a graduation during the pandemic), Alex now works as a speech language pathologist in both school and health settings. She believes that her role in the classroom is supporting inclusion, in whatever form that takes. Description: On this week’s episode we discuss speech pathology and the profound impact that it can have on students’ education and their future. Alex Henderson shares her insights, expertise, and optimism! Alex on Twitter: @MrAlexNoel Natalie on Twitter: @natabasso Podcast on Twitter: @educrushpod Podcast on Instagram: @educrushpod Show Notes: Define speech pathology [04:05] Speech pathology in schools [09:19] Speech problems that interfere with learning [12:17] Supporting skill development [16:42] Spotting language disorders [29:51] Tools for development [32:53] The purpose of education [36:29] Significant quotes: “Any kid can learn to be a communicator, it might not look like everybody else, but everyone can learn to communicate.” 31:38 Links Mentioned: Project core http://www.project-core.com/communication-systems/

BONUS – What is the Empowerment Ecosystem? (w Lynnette, Kyle, and Danelle)

Mon, 23 Jan 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Six months ago, Natalie quit her job to unleash her entrepreneurial spirit on a mission to reimagine education. Now, she’s back with an update about the Empowerment Ecosystem, an online program that provides the community, coaching, and tools for change agents to build an empowering assessment system. She’s joined by three founding members, Lynette Earle, Kyle Webb, and Danelle Almaraz, who share their experiences in the ecosystem. Ready to make REAL change? Book a 45-minute call with Natalie to see if the Empowerment Ecosystem is a fit for you: https://calendly.com/natabasso/60-minute-meeting Follow Natalie: Twitter | Instagram Follow the Podcast: Twitter | Instagram Email: hello@educrushpod.com Show Notes:

The backstory of becoming an entrepreneur and creating the Empowerment Ecosystem. (1:18)
What drew three founding members of the Empowerment Ecosystem, Lynnette Earle, Danelle Almaraz and Kyle Webb, into the program. (15:22)
How community, the “high-yield, low-prep” practical activities, and tools to handle difficult conversations have been the most impactful parts of the experience. (20:12)
Exciting ways that Lynnette, Danelle, and Kyle are taking up this work in their different contexts. (26:12)
Lessons learned about change leadership while building an empowering assessment system. (36:12)
Advice for people on the fence about investing in themselves and joining the ecosystem. (41:20)
The purpose of education. (47:10)

67 - The Story of Neghbourhoods w/ Srimal Ranasinghe

Mon, 16 Jan 2023 07:00:00 +0000

On this episode of #Educrush, Alex talks to a Planner named Srimal Ranasinghe who believes whole heartedly that one of the keys to students thriving is looking at the spaces that we all spend time in. Listen while they discuss why it’s important and what it may look like to design spaces with health and engagement in mind. Alex on Twitter: @MrAlexNoel Natalie on Twitter: @natabasso Podcast on Twitter: @educrushpod Podcast on Instagram: @educrushpod Show Notes: Intro [00:40] Today’s Guest [05:17] What does a planner do [05:43] The importance of urban planning for students [10:15] Useful, Safe, Comfortable and Interesting spaces 16:20 Well laid out neighbourhoods [21:31] Schools taking action [33:53] Planning for equity [41:36] The purpose of education [50:17] Significant quotes: “There’s four factors that spaces need to be… useful, safe, comfortable and interesting.” [16:43] “When you step out on the streets, how much of the street is taken up by asphalt automobile space vs spaces that are designated and welcoming to pedestrians and other forms of mobility?”[29:05] “Can you actually imagine a different way of being in your community, and the community actually looking a different way?” [36:22] “Can we start looking at some of those foundational issues and making tweaks so that we can set up all schools for success in the longer term?” [40:54] “Talking about equity, It’s a question of “Can we design our spaces in a way that it welcomes the most vulnerable people”” [46:00] Links Mentioned: < http://www.sustainablecalgary.org/>

66 – The Story of Street Data (w Shane Safir)

Mon, 09 Jan 2023 07:00:00 +0000

What if qualitative evidence were amplified to the same status as quantitative data in our education system? How might our schools transform if we tapped into the rich insights that come from story, anecdotes, experience, and emotion? Shane Safir, author of “The Listening Leader” and recent co-author of “Street Data” with Jamila Dugan, joins Natalie to discuss why we need to amplify qualitative evidence to engage in equity transformation cycles, and how these cycles will radically transform our approach to pedagogy and assessment. Show Notes:

How Shane’s story as a mom, daughter, and teacher in a youth prison informs her mission to cultivate equitable education. (6:20)
Why schools privilege quantitative data over the deep insights that come from stories and emotion. (10:30)
Street data is qualitative data that forces us to shift from being statisticians and technicians to ethnographers. (13:30)
Equity transformation cycles aim to be decolonizing as they are endless, iterative, and adaptive. (16:30)
Is the achievement gap a mythology? (21:50)
Jamila Dugan offers important equity traps and tropes including “doing” equity, tokenizing equity, and boomerang equity. (25:45)
Centering street data through a pedagogy of voice. (28:15)
We can’t reimagine pedagogy without reimagining assessment. (30:30)
Remove grades from feedback to build a culture of revision and redemption. (33:15)
Rubrics increase equity as they lift the veil on implicit criteria that teachers have in mind and share power when we co-create them with students. (36:50)
The purpose of education according to James Baldwin. (44:15)

Shane’s newest book with co-author Jamila Dugan, “Street Data: A Next Generation Model for Equity, Pedagogy and School Transformation.” Follow Natalie: Twitter | Instagram Follow the Podcast: Twitter | Instagram Follow Shane: Twitter | Website Email: hello@educrushpod.com

65 – The Ghosts of Grading Past, Present and a Future Yet to Come

Mon, 19 Dec 2022 07:00:00 +0000

In this holiday special, Natalie explores the topic of grading through the lens of the Charles Dickens classic, A Christmas Carol. Get ready for a visit from the ghosts of grading past, present and a future yet to come! Show Notes: The ghost of grading past. (2:29) The ghost of grading present. (11:05) The ghost of grading yet to come. (21:03) Follow Natalie: Twitter | Instagram Follow the Podcast: Twitter | Instagram Email: hello@educrushpod.com

64 – PodSwap: Disrupt Education (w Peter Hostrawser)

Mon, 12 Dec 2022 15:24:39 +0000

On this PodSwap episode, Natalie connects with Peter Hostrawser, one of the co-hosts of the Disrupt Education podcast, to talk about edu-podcasting, the industrial story of school that needs disrupting, and how Spikeview empowers students to tell their story. Show Notes: Peter’s backstory; what called him into education and what he’s doing now. (2:00) Creating a podcast to stay grounded and connected as an educator in a siloed system that won’t ask the uncomfortable questions. (7:15) The industrial story of school that we need to let go of. (12:30) How the conditioning of the industrial system makes it hard to embrace new instructional approaches. (16:25) Understanding the next generation of parents; millennials are becoming allies for innovative teachers. (23:00) How funding, leadership, and professional culture need to change to disrupt education. (25:30) Spikeview is a tool to help learners tell their stories. (34:40) The purpose of education. (43:00) READY TO APPLY? If you’re a change agent that wants to amplify your voice and build an empowering and equitable assessment system in your context, click the link below to schedule a time to see if we're a fit to work together inside of The Empowerment Ecosystem: https://calendly.com/natabasso/60-minute-meeting Follow Natalie: Twitter | Instagram Follow the Podcast: Twitter | Instagram Follow Peter: Twitter | Linkedin Follow Disrupt Education: Twitter Email: hello@educrushpod.com

63 – A New Story of Leadership, Work and Change (w Meghan Donohoe)

Mon, 05 Dec 2022 07:00:00 +0000

What does a Tarot card reading have to do with leadership? How is our current story of work depressing? What are we getting wrong about change in our schools and organizations? Natalie joins Meghan Donohoe who is a Principal Catalyst at the Southern Alberta Institute for Technology to answer these questions and more! Show Notes: Reliving the “answers” we discovered during a Tarot card reading. (8:15) What a Tarot card reading had to do with leadership. (16:45) The art of staying in a space of vision and embracing multiple ways of sense-making by tapping into the Forer effect. (22:00) How the story of work is changing. (27:15) Embracing the innovation of things by focusing on the innovation of ways. (31:50) Mistakes we’ve made when leading for transformation. (38:55) The purpose of education. (53:55) Interested in joining The Empowerment Ecosystem? Book a time to schedule an interview to see if it’s a fit for you! Follow Natalie: Twitter | Instagram Follow the Podcast: Twitter | Instagram Follow Meghan: Twitter | Linkedin Email: hello@educrushpod.com

62 - Connecting Through Drama and Dance

Mon, 28 Nov 2022 07:00:00 +0000

This week on #Educrush I chat with Drama Teacher Arlene Orchard and Dance Instructor and Teacher Hayley Jonason as we continue our look into how electives and options courses lead students to build confidence and belonging in the classroom. Arlene on Instagram: @ArleneOrchard_Writer Alex on Twitter: @MrAlexNoel Natalie on Twitter: @natabasso Podcast on Twitter: @educrushpod Podcast on Instagram: @educrushpod

61 – Interdisciplinary Magic in Middle Level Land (w Preston Hickert)

Mon, 21 Nov 2022 07:00:00 +0000

A story about the permission, vulnerability and challenge inherent in creating an interdisciplinary middle school program. Preston Hickert is a teacher from Kansas City and he joins Natalie to share his story of “playing the mud” to learn with his students. Show Notes: Despite originally pursuing journalism and film, Preston ended up bringing a passion for storytelling to the classroom as a teacher. (6:10) Exploring the magic of the middle years. (11:30) High Tech High was the inciting incident for an interdisciplinary approach to middle school that develops human skills. (17:05) Are we rescuing kids from challenge? (24:00) Playing the mud and embracing co-creation and uncertainty. (26:10) What evidence might capture the story of student learning? (32:30) New challenges emerging several years into the project. (40:35) Educators need to learn by doing and embrace vulnerability to model authentic learning. (43:34) The purpose of education. (51:50) Follow Natalie: Twitter | Instagram Follow the Podcast: Twitter | Instagram Follow Preston: Twitter Email: hello@educrushpod.com

60 - Belonging in the Band Room (w Adam Mailman)

Mon, 14 Nov 2022 07:00:00 +0000

On this episode of #Educrush we talk with Adam Mailman, a teacher, conductor, and musician who sees the potential for the music classroom to allow student to explore their limits. We explore some of the experiences and strategies that students undergo in the band room and how that can potentially apply to other spaces in school. Alex on Twitter: @MrAlexNoel Natalie on Twitter: @natabasso Podcast on Twitter: @educrushpod Podcast on Instagram: @educrushpod Show Notes: Introduction 02:37 Music lends itself to community building 04:17 Skipping over the obvious 09:07 The Value of Music 11:21 Things to develop relationships in the class 15:36 Reminders of why 22:34 Things we can take from the band room 25:25 How do we support the band room 34:16 Thu purpose of Education 42:00

59 – The Psychology of Engagement, Agency and Learning (w Don Berg)

Mon, 07 Nov 2022 07:00:00 +0000

The field of psychology offers important perspectives on topics integral to education, especially engagement, agency and learning. Teacher, author, and psychologist Don Berg joins Natalie to unpack the concept of agentic engagement and to explain what joy has to do with equity and deeper learning. Show Notes: Two things more people in education should take seriously from the field of psychology; unconscious processing and social engineering. (8:30) Unpacking the concept of “fauxchievement” and why we need to focus on learning instead. (14:45) The “good” that we want to create in schools, namely agentic engagement. (18:30) How the structure of schools is a barrier to agentic engagement. (27:45) Why it’s a problem that we are behaviorally engaged in shallow learning in our schools and workplaces and why we need to look for the byproduct of deeper learning, joy. (33:47) The purpose of education. (44:05) Follow Natalie: Twitter | Instagram Follow the Podcast: Twitter | Instagram Connect with Don: Website Email: hello@educrushpod.com

58 - Stories of Belonging

Mon, 31 Oct 2022 06:00:00 +0000

On this episode of #EduCrush we are talking through the idea of belonging. Particularly in music class through out my years of school. I think that belonging can be a key component in student success, and this is the start of a series where we explore where that can come from and how we can learn from what other teachers do in their classes.

57 – Myths, Power and the Space to Dream (w Elizabeth Lesser)

Mon, 24 Oct 2022 06:00:00 +0000

Power is neutral, but how we use it determines whether it is positive or negative. The old story of power tells of dominance and control and sees it as a finite resource that must be hoarded. But, how might we rewrite the story of power to include more feminine values? Elizabeth Lesser is the author of several bestselling books, has given two popular TED talks, and is one of Oprah Winfrey’s Super Soul 100, a collection of a hundred leaders who are elevating humanity. She joins Natalie to explore the mythical stories that have defined us, how we might do power differently, and why we need to “dream a little” in schools post-pandemic. Show Notes: How words like “spiritual” can put us into a box we don’t belong in. (8:20) An introduction to Cassandra, the namesake behind the title of Elizabeth’s book, “Cassandra Speaks.” (11:05) The complexity and backlash when trying to amplify women’s stories in our current context. (19:30) Why it’s not about “getting” power, but about doing power differently. (24:40) How studying women under stress can expand our widely accepted understanding of “fight or flight”. (28:55) The cultural shift around power in culture and education. (35:35) How educators can heed Toni Morrison’s words and, “dream a little before you think” post-pandemic. (43:35) Do no harm but take no shit. (49:25) The purpose of education. (51:25) Check out Elizabeth’s newest book: “Cassandra Speaks: When Women are the Storytellers, the Human Story Changes” Follow Natalie: Twitter | Instagram Follow the Podcast: Twitter | Instagram Follow Elizabeth: Twitter | Instagram | Website Email: hello@educrushpod.com

56 - Curiosity

Mon, 17 Oct 2022 06:00:00 +0000

This week on #Educrush we are exploring the idea of questions! What does the best day at school look like? Kids are known for their ability to dream BIG right? Do the systems of schools nurture this natural inquisitiveness or is there something that we’re doing that stifles that in the classroom? I spoke with a few people, including a 5th grader and his mother about curiosity. Alex on Twitter: @MrAlexNoel Natalie on Twitter: @natabasso Podcast on Twitter: @educrushpod Podcast on Instagram: @educrushpod Links Mentioned: Ken Robinson: Do Schools Kill Creativity Ghana Education Minister

55 – My Assessment Story: the rise of Natalie the grade grubber

Mon, 10 Oct 2022 06:00:00 +0000

Brene Brown says, "When we deny our stories, they define us. When we own them, we can write a brave new ending." Natalie's work in assessment, in many ways, has been her way of writing a "brave new ending" to her own experiences in school. In this episode, she comes to you solo to share how she broke free from perfectionism and a need for external validation to finally find her voice. Show Notes: A bold decision following the first failure on an assessment called the Mad Minute. "Did you ace it?" The dark side of grade grubbing. An optimistic new beginning, and a devastating resurgence. "Making the Grade" on The Happiness Lab podcast Follow Natalie: Twitter | Instagram Follow the Podcast: Twitter | Instagram Email: hello@educrushpod.com

54 - The Story of Teachers' First Day

Mon, 03 Oct 2022 06:00:00 +0000

On this week’s episode of #Educrush we continue to work through the essential question “How can we rehumanize education through story?”. We talk to various teachers about their experiences with the first day of school and reflect on the idea that teachers are students too. Alex on Twitter: @MrAlexNoel Email Alex: Alex@learnfirstyyc.com Natalie on Twitter: @natabasso Podcast on Twitter: @educrushpod Podcast on Instagram: @educrushpod

53 – Reality Check on the "Real World" (w Dr. David Finch)

Mon, 26 Sep 2022 06:00:00 +0000

For too long, the “real world” has been a mythical place that only exists in schools when teachers are trying to make students do things they don’t want to do. Stories of the real world create a culture of compliance. It begs the question… what’s it really like in the world of work beyond school? Dr. David Finch is a Full Professor and Senior Fellow at the Institute for Community Prosperity at Mount Royal University in Calgary, Alberta. He joins Natalie to offer his research findings on the “enabling skills” that are required in every industry for a city to be able to adapt and tap into the competitive advantage of the future; learning. Get ready for a reality check on the real world! Show Notes: Show Notes: Embracing a mindset of disruption to see opportunities for improvement, then make change happen. (8:00) Natural resources are no longer the competitive advantage for a city; now it’s the adaptive capacity of people. (9:40) Determining the skills required of a city to enable constant and rapid change. (19:00) A need for more accountability in high school and university for the development of enabling skills; rethinking what is meant by “foundational” skills. (26:15) Shocking findings from the Talent Ecosystem Audit in Calgary that reveal most of the learning happening in the city is devalued. (32:50) Disrupting the monopoly that credentialed organizations (schools, universities) have on “learning” (40:30) Follow Natalie: Twitter | Instagram Follow the Podcast: Twitter | Instagram Follow David: Linkedin Email: hello@educrushpod.com

52 - The Stories of Parents and School

Mon, 19 Sep 2022 06:00:00 +0000

On this Episode, we continue our look into how people feel about the first day of school. At least we tried, but in the process of spending time interviewing Parents, our theme for the episode shifted. This episode is simply about the stories of parents and School. You will hear from two parents as well as hear me summarize a few of the other conversations that I had. Truth be told, this was a challenging episode to work on, but I found it to be a worthwhile endeavor. I hope that as we continue to explore this question of rehumanizing education that you feel empowered to hear the stories of those around you, interacting with the education space.

51 – Ungrading in a High School STEM Classroom (w Chris Sarkonak)

Mon, 12 Sep 2022 06:00:00 +0000

One of the most persistent narratives of the school system is that it’s a place where students do work in exchange for grades. However, what would school look like if grades didn’t exist? Chris Sarkonak is one of many teachers involved in the grassroots movement called “ungrading” to move school away from a culture of compliance, towards a culture of authentic learning. He joins Natalie to talk about why he tried this approach in his Physics classroom, how he pulled it off, and why it helps to cultivate growth, risk-taking and confidence in learners. Show Notes: Understanding “ungrading” as a journey, rather than a destination. (9:45) The unintended outcomes of the traditional, events-based grading system. (13:00) How to launch an alternative assessment approach in a way that inspires all learners to think differently about grading. (18:00) Reorganizing assessment and grading around skills to better learn the content. (23:45) Determining percentage grades in partnership with students (and parents). (35:45) Providing ongoing communication with parents outside of grades. (40:00) The purpose of education. (46:30) There are FOUR spots left in the Empowerment Ecosystem --> Book a meeting with Natalie if you want in! Grading from the Inside Out Workshop, Long Beach, CA --> Register here! Connect with Natalie: Twitter | Instagram | nvardabasso@gmail.com Connect with the Podcast: Twitter | Instagram | hello@educrushpod.com Follow Chris: Twitter | sarkonak.christopher@bsd.ca

The First Day of School From Students

Mon, 05 Sep 2022 06:00:00 +0000

During this season, we’re looking at the role story has to play in how we see and interact with education. There are many people and perspectives needed for us to answer this question. Today you are going to hear from students, some at the very beginning of school life, some at the end and some far beyond the hallways of high school. They are going to share their perspectives, not about school in general, that’s too big. Today, we’re tackling the first day of school. Alex on Twitter: @MrAlexNoel Email the Podcast: hello@educrushpod.com Podcast on Twitter: @educrushpod Natalie on Twitter: @natabasso Podcast on Instagram: @educrushpod Podcast Website: www.educrushpod.com Show Notes: Introduction 00:38 Introducing our guests 02:42 Most memorable first day of school 03:11 Significant thoughts on the first day school 05:29 What they would tell their teachers 09:35 The Purpose of Education part one 11:51 Trent Interview 16:30 The first day is the start of the story 20:47 The Purpose of Education part two 26:08 The Children Interview 29:07 Significant quotes: We’re All a bit terrified, go easy on us 09:43 Reese Just be real, what can you actually achieve with us 10:31 Nathan 100% I appreciated you so much 11:22 Nicole If we’re moving humanity forward the general population has the right to know everything [about atoms] as well 14:17 Ryan That first moment is like chapter one. It sets the tone of the narrative and it’s a lot easier to keep going with the same story than to course correct … you’ve already started telling yourself the story of the kind of year you’re going to have and that sets the tone 21:10 Trent The teacher can set the tone of how a student is seen, heard, and validated 22:05 Trent My teacher held the power to dismiss what I was about to say, to minimize it or to embarrass me by it, even accidentally. But they held the space, creating permission for me to be myself. 22:15 Trent

49 – The SECRET to rehumanizing education...

Mon, 29 Aug 2022 13:00:00 +0000

Welcome to season 3 of #EduCrush! As a primer for the season, we are talking about the secret to “rehumanizing” education. It is something that we ALL do naturally, yet don’t understand very well. Learn what this powerful tool is and how it helps to elevate our consciousness, build empathy, and create a positive culture. Follow the #EduCrush podcast: Twitter | Instagram Follow Natalie: Twitter | Instagram Email: hello@educrushpod.com Are you struggling with any of the following? Motivating learners to take ownership of their learning. Inspiring others to rethink their assessment and grading practices. Creating a meaningful feedback system without burning out. The Empowerment Ecosystem is for people who want to go from feeling lonely, misunderstood, and demoralized by the status quo to feeling empathetically connected and impactful so that they amplify student voice and show their community how powerful assessment can be. You'll learn how to clarify your vision, open empathetic dialogue with others, co-create irrefutable evidence of learning with students, and coach others to rethink and unlearn. Interested? Chat with Natalie to learn more. Book a call!

Season 3 Trailer

Wed, 24 Aug 2022 20:12:17 +0000

We're back, baby! This season, we're trying something new and organizing our episodes around a central theme: story. Join us as we release new episodes every Monday to explore the essential question, "How might we rehumanize education through story?" Follow Natalie: Twitter | Instagram Follow Alex: Twitter | Instagram Follow the podcast: Twitter | Instagram Email the podcast: hello@educrushpod.com

Season 2 reflection (...and a season 3 REVEAL!)

Mon, 04 Jul 2022 11:00:00 +0000

In the final episode of season 2, Nat and Alex come together to look back on the highs, lows, and learnings from the past year and reveal the season 3 theme. #conceptbasedpodcasting Show Notes: Checking-in on our rose/thorn moments this past school year. (1:20) The unanticipated benefits of podcasting that Alex has experienced since joining EduCrush. (5:20) Exploring the differences between season one and two of the podcast. (7:00) In his half-season with the podcast, Alex is learning that we can reimagine education as “an avenue for people to develop their stories and to share.” (12:30) Unpacking Nat’s vision for a reimagined education that is authentic and empowering. (19:00) Topics we are curious to explore in season three (and an impromptu reveal of the season three theme!). (25:00) Activating community and going solo in season three. (30:20) Teach Better Conference: www.teachbetterconference.com/register -- Use code "educrush22" for $50 off registration! Email the Podcast: hello@educrushpod.com Podcast on Twitter: @educrushpod Natalie on Twitter: @natabasso Alex on Twitter: @MrAlexNoel Podcast on Instagram: @educrushpod

47 – Managing Ambiguity to Unlock the Joy of Creativity (w Dr. Caroline Brookfield)

Mon, 27 Jun 2022 06:00:00 +0000

If you were to scroll through most job postings today, you will likely see creative thinking listed as a required skill. And yet, many workplaces do not have the psychological safety for this skill to thrive. On the episode, Natalie is joined by Dr. Caroline Brookfield who is a veterinarian that discovered her passion for creativity late in life as she began to explore performance and stand-up comedy. Listen to learn about the many researched benefits of creativity for both individuals and organizations and how we can all tap into the joy of this skill by remembering the acronym D.A.N.C.E. Show Notes: A story to restore hope for change amidst a bleak moment in history. (3:30) Unpacking what it means to be a “reluctant creative.” (10:18) What we would see on creativity’s Instagram feed. (17:30) The researched benefits of creativity for individuals and organizations. (22:00) Organizational responses to employees with creative ideas to avoid status quo thinking. (28:45) Exploring the small habits of everyday creativity through the acronym D.A.N.C.E.—daydreaming, ambiguity, novelty, curiosity, and edit later. (40:00) The purpose of education. (56:45) Teach Better Conference: www.teachbetterconference.com/register -- Use code "educrush22" for $50 off registration! Caroline’s Website: https://carolinebrookfield.com/ Email the Podcast: hello@educrushpod.com Podcast on Twitter: @educrushpod Natalie on Twitter: @natabasso Podcast on Instagram: @educrushpod

Project Feature: Sustainability Summit

Mon, 20 Jun 2022 06:00:00 +0000

This week a passionate teacher team talks about taking bold steps to innovate in their own classrooms to give students hope through a project they called the Sustainability Summit. Charlotte Nixon, Mark Schuegraf and Neil Frail bring their experience and expertise together to form an audacious team taking on an ambitious project. Show Notes: Overview of the sustainability Summit 02:23 Students presenting to students 3:53 What inspired the project 7:12 Organizing the scope of the project to align with outcomes 8:54 Students rising to challenges presented by large projects 12:23 Students working outside of traditional educational silos 16:44 Working with teachers in other disciplines 19:59 Key learnings from this experience 23:29 The purpose of education 27:52 Charlotte on Instagram: @C.jnixon Email the Podcast: hello@educrushpod.com Podcast on Twitter: @educrushpod Alex on Twitter: @mralexnoel Natalie on Twitter: @natabasso Podcast on Instagram: @educrushpod

46 – Leading Adult Learners with a Lens of Inquiry (w Jessica Vance)

Mon, 13 Jun 2022 15:56:00 +0000

How might school leaders apply inquiry-based learning in their work? If we know that inquiry can inspire curiosity, connections, and agency for our students, how might it transform the professional learning culture of a school? Jessica Vance is an Enrichment and Environment Coordinator in Austin, Texas, and author of the newly released book, “Leading with a Lens of Inquiry: Cultivating Conditions for Curiosity and Empowering Agency.” On the episode, she connects with Nat to talk about the power of intentions, inquiry-based learning as a framework for designing PD, and practical ways that adult learners can make their learning visible. Show Notes: Housekeeping and a reflection on the concept of supervision. (2:00) How our value of connections shows up in our lives and morning routines. (8:00) Balancing the need for management as a school administrator with the call to become a leader of inquiry. (10:45) Drawing from the work of Kath Murdoch to describe the process of inquiry for adults. (17:35) Supporting the continuity of professional learning to build trust in the school community. (25:25) Advice for school leaders to find a sense of balance in the chaos of the day. (30:40) Practical and powerful ways to make adult learning visible. (40:25) Co-designing a year of professional learning around a concept, rather than a topic. (46:00) The purpose of education. (51:10) Book an empathy interview with Nat if you are a change agent who wants to explore the intersection between assessment, grading, and equity --> click here to book a time! Jess on Twitter: @Jess_VanceEDU Email the Podcast: hello@educrushpod.com Podcast on Twitter: @educrushpod Natalie on Twitter: @natabasso Podcast on Instagram: @educrushpod Podcast Website: www.educrushpod.com

Being a Bad Student Made Me a Good Teacher

Mon, 06 Jun 2022 06:00:00 +0000

How was school for you? I mean as a student. For me, it was a bit rough at points. School has always been a struggle for me. That said, I would not trade the experiences I’ve had as a student. They made me who I am, the showed me what it looks like when a teacher believes in you. I think those experiences give me real insight into the mind of students who struggle. This week, we’re talking a bit about how being a bad student made me a good teacher. Alex on Twitter: @MrAlexNoel Email the Podcast: hello@educrushpod.com Podcast on Twitter: @educrushpod Natalie on Twitter: @natabasso Podcast on Instagram: @educrushpod Podcast Website: www.educrushpod.com Show Notes: Introduction 00:00 Elementary 2:48 Literal Bridge Building 5:24 Junior High 7:08 Compliments 9:50 High School 10:30 Panic Attacks 11:46 Graduation 13:19 Post Secondary 15:19 Hitting my stride 19:18 Becoming a teacher 21:01 My thank you note 23:08 Conclusion 23:44

45 – Cultivating Education in a Correctional Facility (w Dawn Matthews-Nichols)

Mon, 30 May 2022 06:00:00 +0000

Have you ever wondered if one of your students is capable of murder? Well, what if you knew that your entire class had committed violent crimes? How would you build a positive classroom culture!? Dawn Matthews-Nichols has been teaching since 1987 in a variety of settings with “emotionally disturbed” youth. She’s seen education from the margins and has some powerful advice for mainstream teachers. Show Notes: A call to action for progressive teachers wanting to amplify their impact and challenge the status quo! (1:37) Can revolutionary knowledge be held by those benefiting from the current system? (5:23) What drew Dawn into education and what made her decide to not teach in a school right away. (9:25) Working with “emotionally disturbed” youth at Project Trust and the Calgary Young Offenders Centre. (16:39) The demographic factors of students in the Young Offenders Center. (32:15) Sustaining the work of change through joy, boundaries, and emotional regulation. (35:52) Building relationships and trust through classroom expectations. (41:42) Exploring the over-representation of BIPOC youth in the jail system. (45:02) The advice that Dawn offers to mainstream teachers from her years working in a correctional facility. (49:07) The purpose of education. (56:16) Connect with Natalie if you’re a progressive teacher that wants to break free from the pressure of the status quo and amplify your impact --> Book a 45-minute one-to-one! Email the Podcast: hello@educrushpod.com Podcast on Twitter: @educrushpod Natalie on Twitter: @natabasso Podcast on Instagram: @educrushpod

Strategy Hack: Developing Confident Writers (w Karri Johnson)

Mon, 23 May 2022 06:00:00 +0000

I don’t remember learning writing strategies. Not that no one tried to teach it to me, it didn’t sink in. More than that though, I was and am still struggling to find my voice as a writer. Recently, I’ve learned that I’m not alone in this. Karri Johnson is a seasoned teacher who understands the nuances of literacy education. This week, she walks us through ways that we can build confident writers. Karri On LinkedIn: @Karri Johnson Email the Podcast: hello@educrushpod.com Podcast on Twitter: @educrushpod Alex on Twitter: @mralexnoel Natalie on Twitter: @natabasso Podcast on Instagram: @educrushpod Podcast Website: www.educrushpod.com Show Notes: Typical approaches to writing instruction 01:38 Issues that arrive with common strategies for teaching writing 3:47 How should we teach writing 5:11 Students finding their identities as writers 12:25 Changing who we teach writing 16:16 Modeling writing even if we aren’t confident 19:31 Tips for teaching writing differently 23:00 Potential Pitfalls in writing instruction 26:57 Final thoughts 29:36 Links Mentioned: https://theconfidentwriter.ca/

BONUS – Why I quit my job...

Tue, 17 May 2022 02:26:34 +0000

Nat is coming to you solo in this bonus episode because she quit her job last week... but it's not for the reasons you might think! Email the Podcast: hello@educrushpod.com Podcast on Twitter: @educrushpod Natalie on Twitter: @natabasso Podcast on Instagram: @educrushpod Podcast Website: www.educrushpod.com

Project Feature Cross Curricular Courses (w/ Jessica Bates)

Mon, 09 May 2022 06:00:00 +0000

This week’s project feature is about breaking down the barriers between the siloed subjects that we’ve all become comfortable with. Jessica Bates is a 17-year teaching veteran who has made her career about asking the questions “what are the things that unite our subjects?” During this episode, Jessica talks about the ins and outs of combining the entirety of Social and Science in her Grade 9 classroom. Show Notes: Cross Curricular in high school 1:00 Social and Science integration 4:13 What does it to start reaching beyond your comfort zone for the sake of cross curricular teaching 10:28 How the students deal with the shift of Social and Science together 16:05 What reporting look like when combing social and science 20:11 Some key takeaways 26:25 The purpose of education 28:09 Links Mentioned: The Teacher Effectiveness Framework

44 – Identity-Affirming Curriculum for Black Youth (w Kaya Henderson)

Mon, 02 May 2022 06:00:00 +0000

Traditional curriculum does not situate Black youth in a positive light and Kaya Henderson is on a quest to do something about it. Kaya is perhaps best known for serving as Chancellor of DC Public Schools from 2010-2016 and as the co-host of “Pod Save the People” podcast. Now, she is the co-founder and CEO of Reconstruction, a technology company delivering a K-12 supplemental curriculum that situates Black people, culture, and contributions in an authentic, identity-affirming way. In episode 44, she connects with Natalie to discuss the misconceptions about culturally-responsive teaching and how removing the barriers of the school system can unlock passion and joy. Show Notes: The need for caucusing in diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts. (2:30) Why Kaya is unapologetically Black. (7:40) How the traditional curriculum doesn’t situate Black children in a positive light and how Reconstruction is offering a different perspective. (9:20) Playing an inside-outside game to change the school system. (13:10) The teaching job is the most resistant to change and people are starting to demand more meaningful and manageable work. (17:20) An identity-affirming national Black curriculum. (19:30) Misconceptions exist about culturally-responsive teaching in a predominantly white teaching force. (22:55) The underrepresented period in American history called “Reconstruction” which is a narrative of Black excellence and the namesake of Kaya’s company. (26:35) Being liberated from the school system ignites creativity and curiosity. (31:40) Co-creating curriculum with a team of “reconstructors” who are passionate about the mission and experts at creating a culture of belonging. (36:35) Reimagining education to be more flexible and indulge the passions of students. (42:25) The purpose of education. (45:00) View full show notes here! Kaya on Twitter: @HendersonKaya Email the Podcast: hello@educrushpod.com Podcast on Twitter: @educrushpod Natalie on Twitter: @natabasso Podcast on Instagram: @educrushpod Podcast Website: www.educrushpod.com Resources: https://reconstruction.us/home

43.1 – Civil Engagement and Digital Literacy w/ Meagan Heard

Mon, 25 Apr 2022 06:00:00 +0000

Today’s controversial topics tend to center around truth. Discussions can become so heated that many simply choose not to engage. Meagan Heard is a teacher who seeks a world where students have the skills to navigate difficult topics. This week, Megan gives a crash course on digital literacy. View full show notes Meagan on Twitter: @meaganerd Email the Podcast: hello@educrushpod.com Podcast on Twitter: @educrushpod Natalie on Twitter: @natabasso Alex on Twitter: @mralexnoel Podcast on Instagram: @educrushpod Podcast Website: www.educrushpod.com  Show Notes: Start of interview 1:30 Students are very engaged with what’s happening around them 2:25 Validating a plurality of perspectives 3:55 Discussing tribalism with the students 6:46 How to have productive conversations in the classroom 8:05 Addressing when what is taught comes into conflict with what students hear from home 10:35 Teaching students to assess a source (digital literacy) 12:36 Aiming to gain the skills of a journalist 23:09 Encouraging students to pursue truth 24:23 Preparing students for when the truth makes them uncomfortable 27:41 The purpose of education 31:53 https://ctrl-f.ca/ https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Main_Page https://www.snopes.com/

43 – Activating Agency to Grow Readers (w Penny Kittle)

Mon, 18 Apr 2022 06:00:00 +0000

Why do so many teenagers hate reading? Renowned author and Literacy advocate Penny Kittle believes it has everything to do with a lack of “book love” and that teachers have the capacity to ignite it. On the episode, she connects with Natalie to discuss how to expose students to a wide variety of books, conference to unlock the reading life, and ultimately, grow student agency by allowing them to make decisions as readers (and writers). Show Notes: An interesting fact about Penny you might not find in her Heineman bio. (4:45) Why do so many teenagers hate reading? (7:50) How we can both teach the canon and allow choice simultaneously to provide a balance of perspectives in books. (12:40) Getting resourceful when your school doesn’t have a library. (16:15) Modelling being a reader and honoring the sacred nature of in-class reading time. (18:40) The threads to tug on when conferencing with a reader. (24:45) Saying less to listen with curiosity and learn more about the reading life. (29:10) Who is holding the power in a book? Who is holding power in schools? Whose story are we living in? (34:15) Getting out of our students’ way to ignite agency. (42:30) Building analytical skills through digital composition. (44:40) The purpose of education. (46:00) View full show notes here! Penny on Twitter: @pennykittle Email the Podcast: hello@educrushpod.com Podcast on Twitter: @educrushpod Natalie on Twitter: @natabasso Podcast on Instagram: @educrushpod Podcast Website: www.educrushpod.com

42 – Decolonization, Love and Witnessing at Mill Bay Nature School - Pt. 1 (w Cayla Brown & Kim Ondrik)

Mon, 04 Apr 2022 06:00:00 +0000

In the simplest of terms, decolonization means moving from a triangle to a circle. From a hierarchy to a community. In the episode, Natalie joins the Head Learner of the Mill Bay Nature School, Kim Ondrik, and the Smuqw’a’ (middle years) Clan Leader, Cayla Brown, to learn how they are building a decolonized school together through love and witnessing. Show Notes: Telling the story of how Kim and Cayla taught me how to show up, even when I can’t control the outcome. (1:10) Kim became an educator to try to change the system, but now finds herself leading the implementation of the British Columbia competency curriculum. (9:09) Cayla’s journey as an educator began in Special Education, but she now finds herself having to unlearn to align her practice with her pedagogy. (14:36) How Mill Bay Nature School is q’shintul (community) through a process of co-creation and the invitation for everyone to show up as their whole selves. (19:20) What is meant by the phrase, “pedagogy from the inside out.” (25:03) How the educators of Mill Bay Nature School are taking up the work of decolonization. (29:22) What it means to “take it up.” (35:45) The power of gathering and doing something together in the quest for sustainable change. (38:48) Disrupting the “triangle” of hierarchy in the context of assessment. (54:00) Removing the context of competition in assessment through the process of witnessing. (1:00:45) View full show notes here! Cayla on Twitter: @bayla_crown Kim on Twitter: @kondrik4 Email the Podcast: hello@educrushpod.com Podcast on Twitter: @educrushpod Natalie on Twitter: @natabasso Podcast on Instagram: @educrushpod Podcast Website: www.educrushpod.com

42 – Intergenerational Learning, Sustainability, and Space at Mill Bay Nature School - Pt. 2 (w Cayla Brown & Kim Ondrik)

Mon, 04 Apr 2022 06:00:00 +0000

We’ve all heard the adage “with age comes wisdom” but what does it mean to be wise? If we view our work as educators through the lens of sustainability and legacy, the wisest thing we might do is lift up those younger than us to continue our work long after we are gone, especially in schools. In part two of Natalie’s conversation with Cayla Brown and Kim Ondrik, we unpack these ideas further before holding space for both guests to share their biggest wonders as they continue to co-create Mill Bay Nature School. Show Notes: Why might we take up intergenerational learning? (2:50) Stepping into our collective capacity to be wise by looking for ways to uplift others, especially children. (10:40) Does benign neglect create space and roominess for growth without the hindrance of pestering attention? And when or to whom might space imply dismissal? (22:30) Biggest wonderings that both Cayla and Kim have while building a decolonized school. (33:35) The purpose of education. (44:00) View full show notes here! Cayla on Twitter: @bayla_crown Kim on Twitter: @kondrik4 Email the Podcast: hello@educrushpod.com Podcast on Twitter: @educrushpod Natalie on Twitter: @natabasso Podcast on Instagram: @educrushpod Podcast Website: www.educrushpod.com

Strategy Hack: Processing Speed w/ Erin Ellis

Mon, 21 Mar 2022 06:00:00 +0000

This week we’re talking strategy. How we can we best help students who struggle with processing speed? When our students encounter difficulties, it can be heart breaking but how can we help students to reach their potential? Our guest Erin Ellis goes over strategies for our students to shine. View full show notes here! Erin on LinkedIn Erin Ellis Email the Podcast: hello@educrushpod.com Podcast on Twitter: @educrushpod Natalie on Twitter: @natabasso Alex on Twitter: @mralexnoel Podcast on Instagram: @educrushpod Podcast Website: www.educrushpod.com Show Notes: Define processing speed (1:18) Misconceptions about processing speed (2:00) Things to look for in students suspected of having processing problems (5:03) Peg Dawson and Executive Functions (7:24) Parents role is understanding the needs of the student (8:36) Strategies to use in the classroom today (11:35) Understood.org list (13:04) The benefits of instructional design (18:01) How to know strategies are working (19:29)

41 – Narrating the Learning Journey using Self-Assessment & Portfolios (w Katie White)

Mon, 14 Mar 2022 06:00:00 +0000

Too often, self-assessment is treated as a capstone, rather than a catalyst, and portfolios as a scrapbook, rather than a learning tool. On this episode, we go beyond the mistakes we’ve made with self-assessment and portfolios to discover how they can help students tell the story of their learning. Katie White is a Canadian author, consultant, and leader, and she joins Natalie to discuss practical ways that students can document learning, analyze evidence, and set goals while honoring their dignity as humans. Show Notes: Katie’s story as a curious disrupter. (4:30) Tackling common misconceptions around self-assessment. (8:30) Unpacking the quote, “Self-assessment is far greater than demonstrating compliance and perfection” from Katie’s most recent book on the topic. (13:00) Portfolios; the potential and the pitfalls. (18:40) Letting go and letting kids experience the consequences of their decisions. (26:45) A process for documenting learning that disrupts perfectionism and honors student dignity. (28:30) Delaying judgement in analysis by slowing down to notice and name. (37:30) Engaging in goal setting by viewing mentor texts and imagining possibilities. (43:00) The purpose of education. (51:15) View full show notes here! Katie on Twitter: @KatieWhite426 Email the Podcast: hello@educrushpod.com Podcast on Twitter: @educrushpod Natalie on Twitter: @natabasso Podcast on Instagram: @educrushpod Podcast Website: www.educrushpod.com

Going Gradeless

Mon, 07 Mar 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Going gradeless is one of those terms that generates excitement or dread, depending on your interpretation. It’s a scary notion as a teacher to just take a chance and dive in. Charlotte Nixon, a seasoned teacher and playwright, has done just that. On this episode Charlotte explores with us the lessons she learned going gradeless in her High School English class. Show Notes: Charlottes teaching style 2:41 The projects inspirations 3:15 The structure of the unit 3:30 Students learning the outcomes to determine their grades 5:13 The role of the outcomes 8:30 Student’s reactions to going gradeless 10:22 Benefits seen in the students 16:00 Summarizing the experience 18:00 What does reporting look like 19:53 Final takeaways 23:02 Charlotte on Instagram @C.jnixon Email the Podcast: hello@educrushpod.com Podcast on Twitter: @educrushpod Natalie on Twitter: @natabasso Alex on Twitter: @mralexnoel Podcast on Instagram: @educrushpod Podcast Website: www.educrushpod.com

40 – How Principals Build Trust (w Tim Carlson)

Mon, 28 Feb 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Teaching has always been a profession that demands a lot from its practitioners. Between the global health crisis, political unrest and helping students navigate what the world is and is becoming, teachers need support from principals who are supportive and reliable. Tim Carlson is a School Principal and PhD candidate who embodies what it means to show teachers that they are supported. On this episode, we talk about things that principals can do to build trust in their communities. Towards a definition of leadership. (14:42) The evolution of leadership in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. (17:35) Finding a balance between being an instructional leader and being an administrator. (20:26) How getting back into the classroom to teach changed Tim's perspective on instructional leadership. (26:00) Evaluating teacher effectiveness during observations by watching for relationships. (29:55) Leadership through the lens of a parent. (31:48) Being proactive to build trust in a school community. (33:57) Practical strategies for building trust. (35:13) Fostering effective collaboration. (37:08) Advice for responding to crisis as a principal. (39:09) Characteristics of organizations that can pivot. (42:20) The purpose of education. (45:55) Tim on Twitter: @bowriverteacher Email the Podcast: hello@educrushpod.com Podcast on Twitter: @educrushpod Natalie on Twitter: @natabasso Alex on Twitter: @MrAlexNoel Podcast on Instagram: @educrushpod Podcast Website: www.educrushpod.com 

39 – Reclaiming Inquiry-Based Learning through Co-Design (w Trevor MacKenzie)

Mon, 14 Feb 2022 07:00:00 +0000

A misconception about inquiry-based learning is that it means leaving students to “discover” the curriculum on their own. This couldn’t be further from the truth. Trevor MacKenzie is a high school teacher, author, and speaker who is internationally recognized as a thought leader in inquiry-based education. In the episode, we talk about what inquiry is (and isn’t) to better understand how to partner with students as co-designers of learning. Show Notes: How the Freedom Convoy is like the backlash against inquiry-based learning in Alberta. (1:45) What is inquiry-based learning? What is it not? (8:35) Scaffolding students for success in independent “Free Inquiry” through co-design opportunities. (12:45) Assessment as inquiry-based learning. (17:50) How can we include students in evidencing learning over time? (20:30) Amplifying formative feedback (outside of a grade) and allowing students the opportunity to make mistakes and rehumanize assessment. (23:30) Why Trevor wrote a book that focuses on assessment in the context of inquiry-based learning. (29:15) Building towards the pinnacle of student empowerment; co-creating report cards. (32:00) Expand student understanding of products to demonstrate learning. (39:00) Giving students ownership over the parameters of learning. (42:30) The purpose of education. (44:10) View full show notes here! Trevor on Twitter: @trev_mackenzie Email the Podcast: hello@educrushpod.com Podcast on Twitter: @educrushpod Natalie on Twitter: @natabasso Podcast on Instagram: @educrushpod Podcast Website: www.educrushpod.com

38 – Disruption, Storytelling, and Values in a Thinking Classroom (w Peter Liljedahl)

Mon, 31 Jan 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Many of our institutional norms are causing “studenting” behavior that stifles thinking. Dr. Peter Liljedahl’s research aims to disrupt this behavior through “contrarian experimental methodology” and he has discovered 14 practices that liberate thinking in the classroom. Though his research took place in Mathematics, his findings are applicable for any educator that wants to tap into the emotional experience through story and teach with integrity to their values. Show Notes: Peter’s love for teaching has been transferred to teaching teachers. (6:55) Unpacking what is meant by “studenting” behaviour. (8:25) Research as contrarian experimental methodology. (13:53) Being cavalier with curriculum to nurture problem-solving. (19:50) The role of storytelling in a thinking classroom. (25:00) Rewriting each student’s story through the emotional experience in Math. (31:20) The dominance of the noun over the verb of education. (33:00) We evaluate what we value. (33:55) Rethinking rubrics to enhance their ability to offer feedback to students. (39:15) Shifting homework from a highly monitored compliance task to an optional check for understanding. (42:10) The foundational practice in a thinking classroom. (51:00) Living into the verb of education. (57:50) View full show notes here! Peter on Twitter: @pgliljedahl Email the Podcast: hello@educrushpod.com Podcast on Twitter: @educrushpod Natalie on Twitter: @natabasso Podcast on Instagram: @educrushpod Podcast Website: www.educrushpod.com

37 – How can Assessment Cultivate Equity, Learning & Community? (w Adelee Penner)

Mon, 17 Jan 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Assessment has many negative emotions attached to it due to the history of the word, yet it has so much potential to cultivate the equitable learning communities we all dream of. Adelee Penner has experienced the school system in a wide range of roles, from teacher to leader, public to private, and system-wide to independent. In the episode, we discuss how changing our approach to assessment can open our doors to each other as colleagues, and our students as learners.

36 – The Learning Diamond: A Mentor, a Champion, a Coach, and Ourselves

Mon, 03 Jan 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Though we are learning more about the importance of human connections in schools and workplaces, which are the relationships that actually drive learning? In this solo episode, host Natalie Vardabasso explains how our relationships with a mentor, a champion, a coach, and ourselves create the optimal learning diamond.

35 – Elevating Sex Ed in the Curricular Hierarchy (w Alex Noel)

Mon, 13 Dec 2021 00:00:00 +0000

We all have memories of Sex Ed that are filled with embarrassment and shame. How might we change our collective experience of this topic? How might we reimagine Sex Ed as relationship education? Alex Noel worked for many years as a Sexual Health educator before stepping into his own classroom as a high school Science and Math teacher. The contrast of these two educational experiences has given him a passionate insight into how we might better achieve our collective goal of growing healthy kids.

38 – Reimagining Education with Passion, Purpose, and Projects (w Loni Bergvist)

Mon, 06 Dec 2021 00:00:00 +0000

Loni discovered a purpose-driven passion for PBL as a teacher at High Tech High in San Diego and has been on a quest to bring it to the world. She is currently the founding partner of “Imagine If” a Denmark-based organization that aims to reimagine education to be authentic, collaborative, student-owned, and equitable.

37 – Project Feature: Nature Documentary Film Festival (w Jaclyn Demmers)

Mon, 22 Nov 2021 00:00:00 +0000

On the episode, we unpack how students were challenged to deepen and demonstrate their understanding of Ecosystems and Visual Literacy in a grade 7 interdisciplinary project. Teacher Jaclyn Demmers also shares her newfound insights about the potential of students with learning disabilities when given creative opportunities that spark their curiosity.

36 – Uncovering the Truth About Teacher Leadership (w Randy Swift & Pedro Dones III)

Mon, 15 Nov 2021 00:00:00 +0000

What is the truth about teacher leadership? Is it an exciting opportunity to become a change agent, or, is it just another managerial manifestation of the status quo? Randy Swift and Pedro Dones III are two teacher leaders from New York who have had very different experiences in the role. On the episode, we explore their perspectives and how they have each brought their unique purpose to life as teacher leaders.

BONUS – EduPodlooza 2021: Poetry Slam

Mon, 08 Nov 2021 07:00:00 +0000

EduPodlooza is an all-day marathon, live-stream event featuring some of the dopest names in the education podcast space. The poetry slam segment was a collaboration between the following EduPodcasters who shared their own poems and responded to poems that had been submitted digitally:

Mealey & Tudisco of Unprofessional Development (@unprocast)

Gerardo Munoz of Too Dope Teachers and a Mic (@TooDopeTeachers)

Traci Bowder of Intelligogy (@intelligogy)

Natalie Vardabasso of EduCrush (@educrushpod)

35 – Coaching Change in Schools (w Tim Lewis)

Sun, 31 Oct 2021 23:41:43 +0000

Despite our best intentions, collaboration in schools often looks more like cooperation (at best), or polite dysfunction (at worst). As an NCAA div 1 basketball coach and strategic business development professional, Tim Lewis has learned a lot that can help us build the schools we’ve always dreamed of, together. On the episode we discuss teaching like a coach, unleashing teams with collective accountability, and taking the imperfect first step to make your mission statement a reality.

34 – Project Feature: Forest of Fright (w Leeanne McLim)

Sun, 24 Oct 2021 23:00:00 +0000

In this project feature episode, we explore how drama teacher Leeanne McLim reimagined the classic “Haunted House” project in response to the pandemic. While students learned a myriad of life skills through planning, pitching, designing, and hosting the event, Leeanne discovered a deeper appreciation for interdisciplinary collaboration.

33 – What is the literacy of our lives? (w Brent Saccucci)

Sun, 17 Oct 2021 23:00:00 +0000

On the episode, we explore the relationship between social-emotional learning and lower-case "l" literacy.

32 – Pointless Assessment Practices (w Sarah M. Zerwin)

Sun, 03 Oct 2021 23:00:00 +0000

For too long, the purpose of assessment has been to collect points for a gradebook. As a high school English teacher, Sarah Zerwin decided to uphold a better purpose for assessment: learning. On the episode, Sarah discusses many “point-less” assessment practices such as emphasizing reflection, dialogue, and process. Listen to learn how to shift from a culture of compliance towards a culture of authentic engagement.

View full show notes: https://educrushpod.com/podcast/pointless-assessment-practices

31 – Gender Norms, Violence and Body Autonomy (w Dr. Gerald Walton)

Sun, 26 Sep 2021 23:28:36 +0000

Gender-based violence continues to be a problem in our society and stems from limiting gender norms, specifically for boys and men. Dr. Gerald Walton is a professor in the Faculty of Education at Lakehead University in Ontario and his area of study has been gender identity, violence in schools, and the larger concept of rape culture. On the episode, we discuss how teachers can disrupt the modern patterns of gender-based violence by supporting their students to understand body autonomy.

30 – Strategy Hack: Executive Functions (w Becca Bouchard)

Sun, 19 Sep 2021 19:33:50 +0000

Strategy hacks are designed to be bite-sized episodes that provide teachers a tool they can use in their classroom, tomorrow.

Executive Functions (EFs) are higher orders in the brain that allow us to manage and process the world we live in. In this strategy hack, Becca talks about a practical way to invite students to understand EFs so they can get the most out of lessons and set personal growth goals.

View full show notes at: https://educrushpod.com/podcast/strategy-hack-executive-functions/

29 – Teacher Powered Schools (w Zaynab Baalbaki)

Sun, 12 Sep 2021 20:46:13 +0000

What would a school look like if teachers were in charge? How would administrative tasks be managed? What impact would this have on student learning? Zaynab Baalbaki previously worked for Escuela Verde, a public charter school in Wisconsin that operates as a testing lab for the Teacher Powered Schools network. On the episode, she shares her experience working as a teacher with no formal leadership and why this is so important for equity.

28 – Project Feature: Voices of Democracy (w Jodi Garagan & Katy Funtasz)

Mon, 06 Sep 2021 06:00:00 +0000

On project feature episodes, school-based practitioners tell the story of how they disrupted the status quo in their context. In this episode, learn about how a team of grade 6 teachers and an instructional coach worked together to breathe life back into Social Studies through current events, student voice, and an authentic audience.

Read this episode as a blog post at https://educrushpod.com/podcast/project-feature-voices-of-democracy/

27 – Liberating Creativity

Sun, 29 Aug 2021 23:10:06 +0000

Creativity is an energizing force that allows us to breathe new life into our work as educators. In this solo episode by host Natalie Vardabasso, learn more about what exactly creativity is (and isn’t), why it needs liberating, and how to do just that in our classroom and schools.

View the episode as a blog post at https://www.educrushpod.com/liberating-creativity/

Season 2 Trailer!

Mon, 23 Aug 2021 06:00:00 +0000

EduCrush is a podcast that aims to reimagine and rehumanize education. In the second season, host Natalie Vardabasso will continue to feature the dope and disruptive humans who are leading change and unleashing authentic learning. Season two will also introduce bite-sized project features and strategy hacks to equip educators to make innovative ideas a reality in their classrooms.

26 – Treat Each Gift as a Learning Opportunity for All (w Dr. Leyton Schnellert)

Mon, 28 Jun 2021 06:00:00 +0000

In the final episode of season one, Dr. Leyton Schnellert describes how he disrupts both teacher education and academic research by designing learning experiences that are interdisciplinary, inclusive, and always in the context of real classrooms. As Leyton says, “The kids are the curriculum and diversity is a resource that helps me teach better and helps everyone learn from each other.”

View full show notes at www.educrushpod.com!

25 – Reimagining Numeracy Instruction (w Kim Petersen & Sheryl Walters)

Mon, 14 Jun 2021 06:00:00 +0000

Math has traditionally been a space dominated by the simple binary of right and wrong answers, but the modern world requires skills, dispositions, and competencies that demand complexity. Kim Petersen and Sheryl Walters have spent the past year creating a “Profile of a Math Learner.” Learn what that is, what it includes, and practical instructional strategies that bring it to life in the classroom.

View full show notes at www.educrushpod.com!

24 – When you Call Them Low, you Teach Them Low (w Ken Williams)

Mon, 31 May 2021 06:00:00 +0000

Teacher expectations have a massive impact on student learning, and yet, they are often one of the most forgotten factors in school improvement efforts. In the episode, Ken brings the humor, heart and hammer to call our attention to the limiting beliefs that reside in many school cultures and how educators need to work together to move ALL students to and through the bar.

View full show notes at www.educrushpod.com!

23 – A More Adaptive Way of Working (w Rodney Evans)

Mon, 17 May 2021 06:00:00 +0000

It doesn’t matter if you work in a company, a hospital, a not-for-profit organization, or a school, we are all facing the same problem; our ways of working are limiting the potential of humans to adapt to complex challenges. On the episode, we explore the hierarchical structures of our past which are still plaguing us today, and how the adults in a school can better work together to transform education for students.

View full show notes at www.educrushpod.com!

BONUS – PodSwap! Ready, Set, Growth (w Nick Moskaluk)

Mon, 10 May 2021 06:00:00 +0000

I thought I was a unicorn until I met Nick Moskaluk; the only other edupodcaster in Calgary. Turns out, we have even more in common including a reluctance to become a teacher, a love for creativity in the classroom, and a low-key obsession with the brilliant minds in the educational field.

22 – What Will it Take to Transform Education? (w Dr. Greg Bass)

Mon, 03 May 2021 06:00:00 +0000

To achieve equity and meet the demands of the future, many of our institutions and operating systems are due for a massive overhaul. But what does exactly does that look like? As a former principal, superintendent, deputy minister of education and current CEO, Dr. Greg Bass has spent his career leading transformational change and has learned that it requires courage, collaboration, and a culture of trust.

View full show notes at www.educrushpod.com!

BONUS – PodSwap! Unprofessional Development (w Mealy & Tudisco)

Mon, 26 Apr 2021 06:00:00 +0000

Unprofessional Development, hosted by Mealy and Tudisco, features the hilarious stories teachers tell in the workroom, the barroom, and the coffee house. In the true spirit of PodSwaps, this three-way interview covers a wide range of topics including Frankensteined careers, magic wands, and fictional teachers. You might call it...funprofessional.

Follow @unprocast on Twitter and stay tuned for more updates about the EduPodLooza on June 27th!

21 – Where are all the Teachers of Colour? (w Gerardo Muñoz & Kevin Adams)

Mon, 19 Apr 2021 06:00:00 +0000

As male teachers of colour in their school district, Gerardo and Kev felt like unicorns. That is, until they found each other and started to talk about their shared experiences on a podcast called Too Dope Teachers and a Mic. On the episode, we explore the microaggressions they’ve experienced while working in a predominantly white profession and how we can build a more culturally responsive practice in our classrooms.

View full show notes at www.educrushpod.com!

20 – Are my Students Engaged? (w Dr Sharon Friesen)

Mon, 05 Apr 2021 06:00:00 +0000

Engagement is a key outcome of every teacher’s practice, but what does it actually look like? In 2009, Dr. Sharon Friesen led a study to figure out how many students across Canada were engaged in school socially, academically, and intellectually. The findings will floor you.

BONUS - PodSwap! The Ed Podcast (w Shane Lawrence)

Mon, 29 Mar 2021 06:00:00 +0000

PodSwap(n): when two podcasters jump on each others' shows to double down on the awesome.

In this bonus episode, I chat with Shane Lawrence, host of The Ed Podcast. We talk podcasting (obviously), what he's learned about teaching after interviewing over 160 guests, and the joyful discovery of making things.

19 – The Opportunities of Online Learning (w Natalie Conway)

Mon, 22 Mar 2021 06:00:00 +0000

In his book Atomic Habits, author James Clear says, “Environment is the invisible hand that shapes human behavior.” So how might a teacher’s practice change if they were no longer within the walls of a traditional classroom? On the episode, learn from a teacher, instructional coach, and fellow podcaster about how teaching in an online environment offers new possibilities.

View full show notes at www.educrushpod.com!

18 – Creativity, Connections and Trusting our Intuition (w Michelle Hoogveld)

Mon, 08 Mar 2021 07:00:00 +0000

As a former art teacher turned celebrated artist, Michelle has learned a lot about creativity and how it can transform education. Dream with us about a future for education that is grounded in the “basics”; love, passion, and connections.

View full show notes at www.educrushpod.com!

17 – Build a School, but Make it a Farm (w Mark Turner)

Mon, 22 Feb 2021 07:00:00 +0000

Many of us are trying to find ways to connect school to the wider community, but what would happen if a community was empowered to create their own school? Learn how a teacher took creative control of his career by co-designing a unique learning experience called “The Farm” with fellow members of his rural, Albertan community.

View full show notes at www.educrushpod.com!

16 – Journeys to Reconciliation (w Maureen Kelly-Gibson & Tienneke Calder)

Mon, 08 Feb 2021 07:00:00 +0000

Trying a different approach to learning in our classrooms can be daunting but collaborating with a colleague can help us find comfort in the discomfort of change. On the episode, we learn how two educators leaned into uncertainty, curiosity, and the community to create an award-winning project.

View full show notes at www.educrushpod.com!

15 – Providing Space for Reconciliation in Canada's Schools (w Sarah Midanik)

Mon, 25 Jan 2021 07:00:00 +0000

Reconciliation is a personal journey that all Canadian educators have been called to embark upon. But where does that journey start? Where does it end? How might we walk the long and uncertain road together? Sarah Midanik is an inspiring Indigenous professional and leader who is honoring the legacy of Gord Downie and Chanie Wenjack by helping educators to take #reconciliACTION.

View full show notes at www.educrushpod.com!

14 – The Innovator's Heart (w Jim Gray)

Mon, 11 Jan 2021 07:02:00 +0000

At nearly 90-years-old, Jim Gray has learned a thing or two about innovation as a legendary Canadian entrepreneur, philanthropist, and engaged citizen. Turns out, what it takes to be an innovator is also what makes for living a quality life; curiosity, connections, and confidence.

View full show notes at www.educrushpod.com!

13 – The Innovator's Path (w NBee)

Mon, 11 Jan 2021 07:01:00 +0000

Who we are as people largely influences how we embrace creativity and innovation in our lives and work. Though our reasons for embracing change might be different, the need for collaboration and a risk-tolerant culture is universal. Learn from a business innovation consultant about the many different paths that innovators might follow and the cultural conditions that amplify the journey.

View full show notes at www.educrushpod.com!

12 – The Innovator's Mindset (w George Couros)

Mon, 11 Jan 2021 07:00:00 +0000

Teachers are innovators when they embrace new and better ways of making learning happen in the classroom. However, leaders need to be innovators as well to inspire teachers to take a risk and try something different. Learn more about innovation in the educational space and the barriers that we must overcome to bring new ideas into schools.

View full show notes at www.educrushpod.com!

BONUS – A Sneak Preview!

Mon, 04 Jan 2021 07:00:00 +0000

In honor of the new year, I have a special treat for you... Stay ready for not one, not two, but THREE new episodes next week featuring three different guests, all talking about one topic: innovation. Listen to this bonus episode for a sneak preview!

11 – Digital Storytelling (w Jodi Garagan)

Mon, 21 Dec 2020 07:00:00 +0000

Stories are integral to our humanity and a powerful tool in many industries. Learn how to facilitate a project that builds a safe community through storytelling, while also building students’ writing and digital literacy skills.

View full show notes at www.educrushpod.com

10 – Why Take Media Seriously in School? (w Özlem Sensoy)

Mon, 07 Dec 2020 07:00:00 +0000

Media plays a critical role in how we make sense of ourselves, others, and the world around us. On the episode, I reconnect with one of my favorite professors to unpack the concept of social justice education before we look at ways we can disrupt privilege by incorporating media into the classroom.

View full show notes at www.educrushpod.com

09 – Is my feedback working?

Mon, 23 Nov 2020 07:00:00 +0000

When we are responsible for the learning and growth of others, we know that feedback is our greatest ally. However, feedback must land with the person receiving it if it is going to motivate them to take the next steps. In this solo episode, I share how to make feedback work.

08 — Using Assessment to Drive Learning (w Tom Schimmer)

Mon, 09 Nov 2020 07:00:00 +0000

Assessment has the potential to either amplify or inhibit learning. On the episode, we dig into how to assess to cultivate deeper learning and develop the competencies students will need for the 21st century.

View full show notes at www.educrushpod.com

07 – Leaning into Difficult Conversations (w Pat Worthington)

Mon, 26 Oct 2020 06:00:00 +0000

Conflict is inevitable in education, but luckily it is also an opportunity to build more meaningful connections with those work with. Learn practical strategies from a Human Resources specialist that allow you to seek to understand when things get tense.

View full show notes at www.educrushpod.com.

06 – We Are Wired for Connection (w Dr. Jody Carrington)

Mon, 12 Oct 2020 06:00:00 +0000

What does it mean to connect with someone? Learn from a psychologist how our connections regulate our emotions, and the policies and biases that drive disconnection in our schools and society.

View full show notes at www.educrushpod.com.

05 – Building Belonging with Circle Meetings (w Christie Gomke)

Mon, 28 Sep 2020 06:00:00 +0000

Circle meetings are a protocol that provides a safe space for students to practice their social skills and tackle topics that matter most to them. Learn how to facilitate them to build a culture of belonging in your classroom.

04 – Real Reconciliation (w Jesse Thistle)

Mon, 14 Sep 2020 06:00:00 +0000

How we experience learning in our own life has a huge impact on the experiences we create for our students. Find out how a Metis-Cree assistant professor created a philosophy of learning after surviving addiction, homelessness, and reclaiming his indigenous identity.

View full show notes at www.educrushpod.com.

04 – Real Reconciliation (w Jesse Thistle)

Mon, 07 Sep 2020 06:00:00 +0000

03 – What is the Purpose of Education? (w Ted Spear)

Thu, 27 Aug 2020 16:55:47 +0000

COVID-19 has raised many questions about the purpose of education throughout North America and elicited very different answers from educators, parents and politicians. To better understand this current debate, we look at the reasons we’ve educated our kids throughout history and imagine how our schools might change if we clearly define our why.

02 – Non-Racist is a Cop Out (w Amber Cook)

Thu, 27 Aug 2020 16:49:20 +0000

Now is the time to lean into the discomfort of talking about race. On this episode, we acknowledge our identities as a Black American and a white Canadian and discuss what it means to be anti-racist, and the #SmallGreatThings we can do as educators.

01 – Beginner's Mindset

Thu, 27 Aug 2020 16:26:04 +0000

Welcome to #EduCrush! In honor of something new, we are going to discuss how to adopt a beginner’s mindset by getting curious, knowing where to look, and giving ourselves the permission to explore new routes.

Show Notes:

Feelings check about the first episode. [0:30]
What is a beginner’s mindset? [4:06]
Getting curious. [5:52]
Knowing where to look in your professional practice. [9:14]
Giving yourself the permission to explore new routes. [11:03]