Teaching Channel Talks

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New teacher? Seasoned veteran? Leader in a school or district? No matter what your role, being in education these days is tough. We’re here to help. Join our host, Dr. Wendy Amato, as she tackles challenging issues in education with experts in the field and discusses how to inspire meaningful, vibrant, and fun PD, shifting perceptions about professional learning. read less

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[Episode 107] Ending Antisemitism through Education and Empowerment (w/Dr. Luke Berryman, The Ninth Candle)

[Episode 107] Ending Antisemitism through Education and Empowerment (w/Dr. Luke Berryman, The Ninth Candle)

Join Dr. Wendy Amato in this impactful episode of Teaching Channel Talks as she speaks with Dr. Luke Berryman, founder of The Ninth Candle, an organization dedicated to transforming Holocaust education. Discover how Dr. Berryman's unique background in classical music and the history of Nazi Germany inspired him to create educational programs that challenge misconceptions and foster critical thinking.In this episode, Dr. Berryman discusses:The Ninth Candle’s inquiry-based approach to teaching the Holocaust.Misconceptions about Jewish resistance and the myth of Nazi infallibility.How The Ninth's Candle's customized holocaust education programs help educators meet the unique needs of their schools and communities.Gain insights into how we can move beyond storytelling to empower our students with tools for critical analysis and historical context. Whether you’re a teacher, school leader, or simply passionate about education, this episode offers valuable perspectives on combating antisemitism and fostering deeper understanding.Resources for Continued LearningIn this episode, Dr. Wendy Amato and Dr. Luke Berryman explore how educators can reshape Holocaust education to empower students and combat antisemitism. To build on this conversation and incorporate these insights into your teaching, explore the following resources:Here’s the complete show notes section with everything integrated:Connect with The Ninth CandleThe Ninth Candle offers customized Holocaust education programs designed to foster critical thinking, challenge misconceptions, and promote historical inquiry. Learn more about their work by visiting, The Ninth Candle Programs, or reach out to their team (info@theninthcandle.com) to develop a customized program that equips students with the tools to critically analyze historical documents and gain a deeper understanding of the Holocaust and its lessons for today.Connect with The Ninth Candle on : Facebook | Instagram | X | LinkedInDiscover Resisting Nazism by Dr. Luke BerrymanThe question that’s asked most often on The Ninth Candle's programs is, "Why didn’t more people resist Nazism?" Luke's years of discussing the answer inspired him to write Resisting Nazism.Ever since it began, Nazism has faced resistance from people of all faiths, nationalities, and political affiliations—but many of them have been forgotten. Like the German artists who risked their lives by drawing caricatures of the Nazis in the 1920s, or the man who infiltrated the SS to try and expose the Holocaust in the 1940s, or the women who uncovered former Nazis as part of a groundbreaking documentary in the 1970s. The list goes on.Resisting Nazism will be the first book to connect such stories, creating a vivid picture of resistance to far-right extremism across the generations. It's built on deep research, and on interviews with the people involved, their families, and their colleagues, and with academic experts. It will be published by Rowman & Littlefield before the end of 2026.

Episodes

[Episode 107] Ending Antisemitism through Education and Empowerment (w/Dr. Luke Berryman, The Ninth Candle)

[Episode 107] Ending Antisemitism through Education and Empowerment (w/Dr. Luke Berryman, The Ninth Candle)

Join Dr. Wendy Amato in this impactful episode of Teaching Channel Talks as she speaks with Dr. Luke Berryman, founder of The Ninth Candle, an organization dedicated to transforming Holocaust education. Discover how Dr. Berryman's unique background in classical music and the history of Nazi Germany inspired him to create educational programs that challenge misconceptions and foster critical thinking.In this episode, Dr. Berryman discusses:The Ninth Candle’s inquiry-based approach to teaching the Holocaust.Misconceptions about Jewish resistance and the myth of Nazi infallibility.How The Ninth's Candle's customized holocaust education programs help educators meet the unique needs of their schools and communities.Gain insights into how we can move beyond storytelling to empower our students with tools for critical analysis and historical context. Whether you’re a teacher, school leader, or simply passionate about education, this episode offers valuable perspectives on combating antisemitism and fostering deeper understanding.Resources for Continued LearningIn this episode, Dr. Wendy Amato and Dr. Luke Berryman explore how educators can reshape Holocaust education to empower students and combat antisemitism. To build on this conversation and incorporate these insights into your teaching, explore the following resources:Here’s the complete show notes section with everything integrated:Connect with The Ninth CandleThe Ninth Candle offers customized Holocaust education programs designed to foster critical thinking, challenge misconceptions, and promote historical inquiry. Learn more about their work by visiting, The Ninth Candle Programs, or reach out to their team (info@theninthcandle.com) to develop a customized program that equips students with the tools to critically analyze historical documents and gain a deeper understanding of the Holocaust and its lessons for today.Connect with The Ninth Candle on : Facebook | Instagram | X | LinkedInDiscover Resisting Nazism by Dr. Luke BerrymanThe question that’s asked most often on The Ninth Candle's programs is, "Why didn’t more people resist Nazism?" Luke's years of discussing the answer inspired him to write Resisting Nazism.Ever since it began, Nazism has faced resistance from people of all faiths, nationalities, and political affiliations—but many of them have been forgotten. Like the German artists who risked their lives by drawing caricatures of the Nazis in the 1920s, or the man who infiltrated the SS to try and expose the Holocaust in the 1940s, or the women who uncovered former Nazis as part of a groundbreaking documentary in the 1970s. The list goes on.Resisting Nazism will be the first book to connect such stories, creating a vivid picture of resistance to far-right extremism across the generations. It's built on deep research, and on interviews with the people involved, their families, and their colleagues, and with academic experts. It will be published by Rowman & Littlefield before the end of 2026.

[Episode 106] Building "Future Ready" Students (w/Lindsey Dixon, NAF)

[Episode 106] Building "Future Ready" Students (w/Lindsey Dixon, NAF)

Are we equipping students with the skills they need to succeed beyond the classroom?Join Dr. Wendy Amato in this episode of Teaching Channel Talks as she sits down with Lindsey Dixon, the Vice President of Product and Innovation at NAF. Lindsey shares how NAF, a national nonprofit leader in career readiness education, leverages technology to extend its mission to high schools nationwide. Learn about the innovative KnoPro platform, designed to provide students with real career opportunities and the importance of passion-based and project-based learning. Lindsey also dispels myths about career and technical education and underscores the value of holistic educational models. Discover how NAF evolves to ensure all students have access to future-ready skills and opportunities.Resources for Continued LearningIn this episode, Dr. Wendy Amato and Lindsey Dixon explore the essential elements of preparing students for future-ready careers. To build on this conversation and bring these practices into your school or classroom, take advantage of these valuable resources:KnoPro connects students with real-world projects and industry mentors to develop career-ready skills. Download their Work-Based Learning Platform Overview to see how you can offer hands-on, meaningful experiences for your students.For nearly 45 years, NAF has pioneered immersive, career-focused teaching. Their flexible programming, curriculum resources, and public-private partnerships help ensure students graduate with the skills, networks, and confidence to succeed.Is your school preparing students for the challenges of the future? Download this resource on How to Know If Your Students Are Truly Future Ready to evaluate your curriculum, student experiences, and program design.

[Episode 105] Teaching Social Justice to Shape Young Minds (w/Dr. Shelby Kretz)

[Episode 105] Teaching Social Justice to Shape Young Minds (w/Dr. Shelby Kretz)

How can we introduce social justice topics to young learners in a meaningful way? In this episode of Teaching Channel Talks, Dr. Wendy Amato sits down with Dr. Shelby Kretz, founder of Little Justice Leaders, to discuss the importance of teaching social justice at the elementary level. Discover how Little Justice Leaders’ curated educational boxes empower teachers and parents to guide children in understanding diversity, inclusion, and other significant themes. As she reflects on her own journey, Dr. Kretz explains how early exposure to justice paves the way for impactful, lifelong change in communities.Resources for Continued LearningIn this episode, Dr. Wendy Amato and Dr. Shelby Kretz discuss how educators and parents can introduce social justice topics in ways that resonate with young children. To continue this journey and bring practical, impactful tools to your classroom, we encourage you to explore these valuable resources.Start by diving into the Creating an Inclusive Classroom Culture Mini-Course. This course offers educators step-by-step guidance to create learning spaces where every student feels represented and valued.Looking to enhance the diversity in your curriculum? Little Justice Leaders’ comprehensive Checklist to Deepen Classroom Representation can help you evaluate and broaden the materials and voices included in your lessons.Make complex topics approachable for students with the “Explained for Kids” YouTube series. Designed to break down intricate social justice themes into kid-friendly explanations, this series supports teachers and parents in sparking meaningful discussions.Finally, engage your students with hands-on learning by trying out 3 Activities to Teach Kids About Social Justice. These activities provide a fun, interactive way for children to explore important concepts while building empathy and understanding.

[Episode 104] Teaching Channel Talks Episode 104: How Drama Supports Authentic Expression Across Any Subject Area (w/Sam Marsden)

[Episode 104] Teaching Channel Talks Episode 104: How Drama Supports Authentic Expression Across Any Subject Area (w/Sam Marsden)

How can drama transform learning beyond the stage? In this episode of Teaching Channel Talks, our host Dr. Wendy Amato welcomes Sam Marsden, drama instructor and author of Drama Games for Early Years, to explore drama as a powerful interdisciplinary tool for every classroom. Sam opens up about her personal journey with dyslexia and how drama helped her overcome learning challenges, while also explaining how it fosters safe spaces for authentic self-expression. Tune in to discover practical strategies to harness drama’s power to boost student engagement and confidence in your classroom!Resources for Continued LearningSam Marden has many resources for Teaching Drama to Empower Your Students, including her latest book, Drama Games for Early Years: (4-7 Years), mentioned in this episode. She has also written books on acting games for 8-18 year-olds, improv, and creative writing.Even if yoou're not a drama instructor, these games can help your students express themselves and get out oof your comfort zone. Sam has provided a free sample from one of her books to get you started.

[Episode 103] Empowerment in Education from the Inside Out (w/Trish Keiller)

[Episode 103] Empowerment in Education from the Inside Out (w/Trish Keiller)

In this episode of Teaching Channel Talks, Dr. Wendy Amato welcomes Trish Keiller, the CEO and Founder of Roots Education, for an insightful conversation on creating thriving school environments. Trish shares her unique experience blending academic and wellness strategies while focusing on empowering students and educators from the inside out through practical, daily wellness rituals. Learn Trish’s favorite tips for cultivating a thriving culture in schools and hear her perspective on growth mindset and language shifting for fostering a more positive and effective learning environment.Resources for Continued LearningIn this episode, Wendy asks about Roots Education. Visit the site to learn more about Trish’s Brain-Body Literacy programs, professional development opportunities, and workshops for teachers and school leaders.You’ll also find free resources like this downloadable on Language Shifts for Educators mentioned in the episode.

[Episode 102] Revolutionizing Teacher Training with AI and Classroom Simulations (w/Mark Atkinson)

[Episode 102] Revolutionizing Teacher Training with AI and Classroom Simulations (w/Mark Atkinson)

Join Dr. Wendy Amato in this episode of Teaching Channel Talks as she explores the intersection of artificial intelligence and ethics in education with Mark Atkinson, CEO of Mursion. Learn how Mursion's AI-powered simulation platform is revolutionizing teacher training by offering educators a safe space to practice under pressure, receive real-time coaching, and improve rapidly—without posing risks to real students. This discussion dives into how these simulations enhance teaching skills, support classroom management, and foster emotionally intelligent teaching practices.Resources for Continued LearningThis conversation focuses on how early career teachers are using Mursion to enhance their teaching. If you’d like to learn more about how you or your district can harness the power of Mursion for teacher training, request a demo.You can also download an overview of Mursion, to learn more about the impact of using simulations in training.During this conversation, Mike and Wendy noted that a tool like Mursion can be a great pairing to using video in the classroom. Teaching Channel’s Empower Platform has the tools you need to get started using video for professional coaching and feedback.

[Episode 101] Teaching the Beautiful Intersection of Language and Culture (w/Dr. Kaishan Kong)

[Episode 101] Teaching the Beautiful Intersection of Language and Culture (w/Dr. Kaishan Kong)

Join Dr. Wendy Amato and Dr. Kaishan Kong, for an enriching conversation about the intricate relationship between language proficiency and cultural understanding. Episode 101 of Teaching Channel Talks focuses on the powerful impact of global virtual exchanges and introduces practical strategies for integrating cultural context into language education. Dr. Kong shares personal anecdotes, classroom strategies, and insights into navigating social justice in teaching, making this episode a must-watch for educators looking to cultivate intercultural competence in their students.In this episode, Wendy and Dr. Kaishan Kong discuss Collaborative International Online Learning (COIL) as a key component of language learning. COIL fosters communication skills in both home and new languages through intentionally designed activities. To learn more, visit their website.The episode also highlights the Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning (CASEL), which supports the implementation of social-emotional learning programs in school districts while building support among parents and educators.Resources for Continued LearningFor a deeper exploration of the intersection between language and culture, check out Dr. Kong’s book, Intercultural Citizenship in Language Education: Teaching and Learning Through Social Action. The book examines the framework of Intercultural Citizenship across various US teaching contexts.Wendy also asks Dr. Kong about her article, Crossing the River by Feeling the Stones: Understanding and Integrating Social Justice in Chinese Language Class. Listeners can access the full journal and explore other articles Dr. Kong has contributed to that relate to the topics in this episode.Additionally, Dr. Kong shares insights about the virtual exchange program her students participate in. She has provided a comprehensive description and outline of this project for listeners to explore further.

[Episode 100] Unifying for Diversity in Education: How KDP is Walking the Walk (w/Dr. Angela Goodloe)

[Episode 100] Unifying for Diversity in Education: How KDP is Walking the Walk (w/Dr. Angela Goodloe)

In this episode of Teaching Channel Talks, Dr. Wendy Amato welcomes Dr. Angela Goodloe, President-elect of Kappa Delta Pi (KDP). This conversation focuses on Dr. Goodloe's extensive involvement with KDP and the organization’s commitment to inclusive education while highlighting the importance of critical thinking, teacher accountability, and educator support. Dr. Goodloe also shares practical advice for new teachers, emphasizing the value of listening, self-reflection, and cultural sensitivity.Resources for Continued LearningDr. Goodloe has contributed to several articles and journals on the topics discussed in this episode. Explore the links below to learn more about KDP and Dr. Goodloe's work involving diversity, cultural responsiveness, and ethics in education.Teacher Candidates Using Annotated Technology Foster Cultural Responsiveness and EthicsThe “Awakening Dragon”: Addressing Policies and ProceduresEmergent Themes from the 2020 KDP Diversity Summit: Teacher Educators’ Awareness of Factors That Support and Retain Prospective Teachers of ColorIn this episode, Angela and Wendy talk about the use of AI for instructional support. The K12 Hub has several resources for you to explore more on this topic:Teaching Channel Talks Episode 70: Why is ChatGPT Intimidating Educators? (w/Shouvik Paul)50 ChatGPT Prompts for Teachers65 AI Prompts for Lesson Planning

[Episode 99] From Phonics to Fluency: Inside the RedThread Literacy Program (w/Robin Rubenstein)

[Episode 99] From Phonics to Fluency: Inside the RedThread Literacy Program (w/Robin Rubenstein)

In this episode of Teaching Channel Talks, our host Dr. Wendy Amato discusses the importance of literacy and reading with Robin Rubenstein, Director of Curriculum and Implementation at K12 Coalition. This conversation centers around K12 Coalition's Red Thread literacy curriculum, a K-8 program designed to integrate the science of reading into everyday instruction and to address gaps in existing literacy education materials. In this discussion, Robin and Wendy cover the foundational components of the Red Thread program, the creation process of decodable texts, the significance of explicit instruction in reading strategies, and the ongoing professional learning support provided to educators.Resources for Continued LearningThis episode focuses on K12 Coalition's RedThread literacy program, a holistic reading program that's redefining literacy education. Learn more about how you can bring RedThread to your school.K12 Coalition is offering a free resources so you can try our the RedThread literacy program in your classroom including a sample lesson plan, student workbook, and decodable book. Download your free samples of the RedThread Foundations Curriculum and experience the difference firsthand!During the episode, Robin and Wendy reference an NYU study on the RedThread Foundations program. You can read the full comparative study on the RedThread website

[Episode 98] Educate. Affirm. Include. Disrupt. Supporting Our Trans and Nonbinary Students (w/Rebecca Kling & Vanessa Ford)

[Episode 98] Educate. Affirm. Include. Disrupt. Supporting Our Trans and Nonbinary Students (w/Rebecca Kling & Vanessa Ford)

In this episode of Teaching Channel Talks, Dr. Wendy Amato welcomes Rebecca Kling and Vanessa Ford, authors of the "Advocate Educators Handbook: Creating Schools Where Transgender Students Thrive." Drawing from their personal journeys in advocacy and education, this conversation focuses on the urgent need to support transgender and non-binary students. Learn about their four-pillar approach: educate, affirm, include, and disrupt, and gain valuable insights and practical tips for fostering an inclusive and affirming school environment in this inspiring and informative discussion.Resources for Continued LearningGet the Book: This episode focuses on the pillars discussed in Rebecca and Vanessa's book, Advocate Educators Handbook: Creating Schools Where Transgender Students Thrive, available wherever books are sold. New Course Offering: Teaching Channel is proud to offer course 5344: Understanding and Affirming Transgender and Non-binary Students which uses the Advocate Educators Handbook along with additional resources and strategies for supporting trans and nonbinary students.Handbook Extra: Inside the Advocate Educator's Handbook, Rebecca and Vanessa have curated a comprehensive list of additional resources for further exploration.Know Your Policies: Unsure about the laws and policies in your state? Check out this detailed map from the Movement Advancement Project to stay informed.

[Episode 97] Raising the Bar in Teacher Certification (w/Nathan Estel, Passage Preparation)

[Episode 97] Raising the Bar in Teacher Certification (w/Nathan Estel, Passage Preparation)

In this episode of Teaching Channel Talks, Dr. Wendy Amato welcomes Nathan Estel, Managing Director of Passage Preparation, to discuss the high standards in teacher certification tests and how Passage Preparation is helping educators meet them. Discover how their innovative approach, including diagnostic assessments, customizable study plans, comprehensive study guides, and personalized coaching, ensures teachers are well-equipped for certification and classroom success. Nathan shares insights from his extensive background in education, highlighting the program's unique strategies designed to enhance teaching skills, boost confidence, and ensure classroom readiness. Join us for an essential conversation on supporting educators in meeting certification standards and improving teaching quality across the country.Resources for Continued LearningConnect with Nathan Estel on LinkedIn.Connect with Passage Preparation on Instagram | Facebook | LinkedInTeaching Channel is proud to partner with Passage Preparation in supporting continuous professional development for new teachers. Learn more about the teacher certification prep courses available for your state and get ready to conquer your next test!

[Episode 96] Why Teachers Need to Detach for Better Connections (w/Dr. Jen Johnson)

[Episode 96] Why Teachers Need to Detach for Better Connections (w/Dr. Jen Johnson)

In this episode of Teaching Channel Talks, host Dr. Wendy Amato discusses teacher burnout with Dr. Jen Johnson, including the THRIV model—a practical burnout management strategy for educators. Dr. Johnson shares the importance of detachment, setting boundaries, and the significance of honoring one's humanness to prevent burnout. Additionally, she highlights strategies such as mindful self-compassion and the importance of community to support educators in managing and preventing burnout.Resources for Continued LearningThis conversation focuses on the strategies for burnout prevention and recovery included in Dr. Johnson's book, THRIVing After Burnout: A Teacher's Compassionate Guide.In this discussion, Wendy and Dr. Johnson talk about the Teacher Care Network (TCN) and the THRIV community, learn more and join this free, supportive group of educators on the TCN website.

[Episode 95] How Khan Academy is Taking AI to the Next Level in Education (w/Dr. Kristen DiCerbo)

[Episode 95] How Khan Academy is Taking AI to the Next Level in Education (w/Dr. Kristen DiCerbo)

In this episode of Teaching Channel Talks, host Dr. Wendy Amato welcomes Kristen DiCerbo, Ph.D., Chief Learning Officer at Khan Academy, for an engaging discussion about Khanmigo, the AI-powered tutor and teaching assistant. Discover how this AI tool leverages large language models to help students get unstuck and assist teachers with administrative tasks and lesson planning. In this conversation, Dr. DiCerbo explains the science behind Khanmigo, emphasizing its role in activating prior knowledge and sparking curiosity in students while supporting teachers with customizable lesson hooks and plans.Resources for Continued LearningKhanmigo is currently free for teacher use, learn more about this AI-powered digital tool and explore how Khanmigo can be your ultimate teaching assistant!Learn more about how the AI behind Khanmigo was developed in Kristen's article: How We Built AI Tutoring ToolsIn this episode, Kristen talks about using prompt engineering to craft high-quality lesson plans using Khanmigo. Learn more about how Kristen and her team trained Khanmigo's AI to understand key pedagogical principles, curriculum standards, and the diverse needs of learners in her article: Prompt Engineering a Lesson Plan: Harnessing AI for Effective Lesson PlanningDuring the episode, Kristen and Wendy talk about Khanmigo's integration with iteach's teacher preparation program. Learn more about how these organizations are ensuring new teachers with how to use AI ethically and effectively in their classroom from day one by visiting iteach.

[Episode 94] Supporting, Inspiring, and Retaining Early Career Educators (w/Desiree Brown @with_love_teaching)

[Episode 94] Supporting, Inspiring, and Retaining Early Career Educators (w/Desiree Brown @with_love_teaching)

Join host Dr. Wendy Amato in this episode of Teaching Channel Talks as she welcomes Desiree Brown, an early career elementary teacher and the reigning Miss Tobyhanna 2024. This conversation explores Desiree's teaching career, the need to support early career educators, and ways to foster a love of learning in students. Desiree also shares the impact her involvement in pageantry has had in her career, her advocacy for teacher self-care, and her current children's book project.Resources for Continued LearningDesiree uses her social platform, "With Love Teaching" to share her teaching experiences but that's not her only endeavor! You can also connect with her on Instagram to learn more about Desiree's pageantry and platform, or check out her website for more teacher resources.

[Episode 93] Making Science Fun with Educational Comics (w/ Laura Balliett, Cool School Comics)

[Episode 93] Making Science Fun with Educational Comics (w/ Laura Balliett, Cool School Comics)

In this episode of Teaching Channel Talks, Laura Balliett, creator of Cool School Comics, joins our host Dr. Wendy Amato to share her journey in making science learning accessible and captivating for every learner. Together, they delve into how these one-page science cartoons engage students and enhance their understanding of scientific concepts. This conversation highlights how Cool School Comics aligns with educational standards, supports flexible learning environments, and meets the diverse needs of educators and learners.Resources for Continued LearningCool School Comics is more than just a comic; it’s a powerful learning tool designed to make scientific concepts accessible to all students. These one-page infographics, accompanied by worksheets, guided notes, and interactive activities, are aligned with the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) and presented in a format that students find engaging. Laura has provided a Free Earth Day Comic for our K12 Hub audience, or you can shop all available Cool School Comics.In this episode, Laura mentions that Cool School Comics started out as Cool School Rap. Now you can check out Laura's original Order of Operations Rap that started it all!

[Episode 92] Courageous Book Choices and Why They Matter (w/ Dr. Elizabeth Wilkins)

[Episode 92] Courageous Book Choices and Why They Matter (w/ Dr. Elizabeth Wilkins)

In this episode of Teaching Channel Talks, Dr. Elizabeth Wilkins, alongside our host Dr. Wendy Amato, discusses the impact of book bans. Wendy and Elizabeth explore how these bans hinder authentic learning by omitting essential themes like violence, mental health, and race. Emphasizing the need for inclusive reading materials, they urge educators to involve students and parents in book selection and foster open discussions despite challenges.Resources for Continued LearningIn this episode, Dr. Elizabeth Wilkins references book ban data from Pen America, you can learn more about the trend of banning books in America and see the full data here.Check out the book Dreamland Burning, by Jennifer Latham, which Dr. Wilkins lists as one of the banned books she has used in class. For our Teaching Channel listeners, Dr. Wilkins has provided downloadable "Banned Bookmarks" for you to print and share with other teachers or your students.

[Episode 91] Unlocking Student Success Through Cognitive Skills (w/ Dr. Greg King)

[Episode 91] Unlocking Student Success Through Cognitive Skills (w/ Dr. Greg King)

This episode of Teaching Channel Talks features a conversation between Dr. Wendy Amato and Dr. Greg King, the Director of Research from Mindprint Learning, discussing how different cognitive skills in students impact how they process information. They delve into the importance of leveraging cognitive skills for personalized learning, the impact of Mindprint assessments on student growth, and the practical application of data in educational settings to empower students and improve teaching strategies.Resources for Continued LearningIf you enjoyed this episode, you can learn more about how MindPrint Learning’s cognitive assessment is helping students identify their strengths and reach their highest potential by visiting their website.Teaching Channel is proud to partner with MindPrint Learning with a new course that helps teachers who have access to the MindPrint Learning Assessment engage every learner in their classroom. If you’re a part of the MindPrint community, you can check out course 5298: Science of Learning: A Practical Approach to Engaging Every Learner.

[Episode 90] Rethinking the Educator Mindset (w/ Dr. Walter Lee)

[Episode 90] Rethinking the Educator Mindset (w/ Dr. Walter Lee)

In this episode of Teaching Channel Talks, our host, Dr. Wendy Amato, welcomes Dr. Walter Lee, Assistant Professor of Middle/Secondary Education at the University of South Carolina Upstate, to discuss educator mindsets and the importance of positive self-concept. In this conversation, Dr. Lee shares his equity-focused approach for preparing the next generation of educators for the classroom, ensuring they are properly equipped to handle everything thrown at them—including parent-teacher conferences!Resources for Continued LearningIf you enjoyed this episode, you can learn more from Dr. Lee on his YouTube channel where he posts more information about the Call Me MiSTER program and tips for improving your mindset and wellbeing.Dr. Lee is a board member of the Association for Middle Level Education (AMLE), an international organization specifically for middle school educators. As the go-to middle school resource for research, best practices, and professional development, AMLE is a community of over 350,000 middle-level educators connecting and supporting each other.Learn more and join the community!This episode focuses on self-concept and equity, learn more about the important role these factors play in education in Dr. Lee’s article, Rising Tides, Sinking Boats – A Focus on Equitable Practices.

[Episode 89] Why Students Lose When Consensus Requires Comfort (w/Dr. Howard Fields III)

[Episode 89] Why Students Lose When Consensus Requires Comfort (w/Dr. Howard Fields III)

In this compelling episode of Teaching Channel Talks, Dr. Wendy Amato hosts Dr. Howard Fields III, Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources and adjunct professor of education at Harris-Stowe State University. In this eye-opening exploration, Howard and Wendy examine challenges in educational equity, unravel the complexities of DEI efforts, and shed light on why a consensus that prioritizes comfort is a disservice to our students.Resources for Continued LearningIf you enjoyed this episode, you can learn more from Dr. Fields by visiting his website or listening to his mini-podcast, How to Achieve Educational Equity. He has also provided an Educational Equity Professional Learning Plan for our listeners working toward educational equity within their schools or organizations. In addition, Dr. Fields has authored two books focused on educational equity that are mentioned in this episode:Transfers & Open Enrollment: The Denigration of Black School CommunitiesHow to Achieve Educational EquityIn this episode, Wendy and Howard discuss his work developing and training an Educational Equity GPT. Watch a video to see this AI tool in action or test it for yourself.

[Episode 88] Middle School vs Junior High? What's Changing in Middle Level Education (w/Jack Berckemeyer of AMLE)

[Episode 88] Middle School vs Junior High? What's Changing in Middle Level Education (w/Jack Berckemeyer of AMLE)

Junior High. Middle School. No matter what the name on the sign outside says, what's important is the work happening on the inside. In this episode, Wendy welcomes Jack Berckemeyer of the Association for Middle Level Education (AMLE) for a candid conversation about the big changes happening in how educators approach middle school. Jack stresses the importance of middle school teachers connecting with their students during this crucial time in their academic careers and how staying up-to-date on the fads, fashion, and slang of this age group can help in student success.Resources for Continued LearningThe Association for Middle Level Education (AMLE) is an international organization specifically for middle school educators. As the go-to resource for research, best practices, and professional development, AMLE is a community of over 350,000 middle level educators connecting and supporting each other. Learn more and join the community!Jack Berckemeyer is a successful author who has written several books focusing on middle level education. In this episode, Jack and Wendy talk about the following titles:Successful Middle School: This We BelieveSuccessful Middle Schools: TeamingManaging the Madness: A Practical Guide to Understanding Young Adolescents & Classroom ManagementDeliberate Optimism: Still Reclaiming the Joy in Education 2nd Ed