Beyond the Classroom

“The influence of our teachers is indelibly woven into the fabric of our lives.” This is the first sentence in chapter one of Julie Schmidt Hasson’s book Safe, Seen, and Stretched in the Classroom. I have previously shared this beautiful quote in my writing because I know that the impact teachers have extends far beyond …

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Connecting Paths

“Connection is why we’re here. It’s what gives purpose and meaning in our lives.” Brené Brown said in her Ted Talk “The Power of Vulnerability.” I have listened to this same Ted Talk multiple times. If you haven’t yet experienced it, I genuinely recommend taking some time to do so. After you listen, you may …

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You Have the Floor

"The journey to shatter the ceiling is truly admirable. However, there's another perspective or formula that we should consider– raising the floor. It's not always about reaching higher. Sometimes it's about adding your best to what you have." This beautiful sentiment was shared in Laura McDonnell’s latest blog post, Raise Your Floor where she delves …

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Let’s Embrace a Coaching Mindset

As I ponder the upcoming new year, I find myself frequently reflecting on my journey. The trajectory of my career has been a beautiful one, but it is safe to say that my growth and development as a human being and educator rests on the shoulders of those who generously took the time to mentor …

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Reading the Walls

“At any moment we can start being more of the person we dream to be — but which moment are we waiting for?” This sentiment is a quote from an unknown author I recently came across in a social media post. It is exciting to think about how, at any given moment, we possess the …

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Raindrops: Amplifying Ripples of Impact

“You think you're too small to make a difference?” I keep rereading this line over and over again from a short passage titled, “Advice From a Raindrop'' by Kim Stafford. Dan Reichard shared this brilliance in a Legacy of Learning:Teaching For Lasting Impact by Meghan Lawson Voxer book study group I am facilitating. It reminds …

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This is Why We Write

About four years ago, my educational journey intersected with George Couros through his book, The Innovator’s Mindset, during a mentor program I led in a previous school district. George's words consistently ignited inspiration within me, shaping my thoughts and sparking numerous insightful exchanges. During one virtual mentor meeting, George challenged me in front of our …

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Leading in the Mess of Learning

If you are in education for the right reasons, you are continuously keeping students at the heart of decision-making and are working tirelessly to bring the mission and vision of your organization to fruition. A few years ago, I embraced a formal leadership role. When stepping into that space, it felt important to be the …

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Enhancing Student Learning with Podcasts: From Consumption to Creation

by Elisabeth Bostwick and Lauren M. Kaufman The digital age has revolutionized the way we access and digest information. In a world where knowledge is right at our fingertips, it can feel as if teaching and learning are in a constant state of transformation. Due to the evolution of technological advances, both adults and kids …

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