Schoolin' Around Schoolin' Around by Branching Minds

In this episode, Larissa interviews Joel Addis, an elementary school principal, about his experiences and strategies for managing the busy role of a school leader. They discuss the misconceptions and how the role of a principal is different than he expected. Joel emphasizes the importance of being instructionally focused. In this conversation, Joel Addis discusses the importance of time tracking and intentionality in school leadership. He shares how using the SAM process (Strategic Action Model) has helped him prioritize and maximize his time as a school leader. He also highlights the importance of being present and engaged with staff and students, as well as the value of distributive leadership. Overall, the conversation explores how effective time management and intentional leadership can positively impact school culture and student outcomes.
Resources:
Principal Leadership Article
Leader Protocol Guide for Buy-In
National SAM Organization
Request a consultation
Takeaways:
The role of a school principal often comes with many responsibilities that are related to managing the day-to-day operations of a school, which can overshadow the instructional aspect of education.Being instructionally focused is crucial for principals, as there is a direct correlation between principals who spend a majority of their time on instructional activities and student achievement.By tracking and reflecting on how time is spent, principals can make adjustments to ensure that they are effectively prioritizing instructional activities. Time tracking and intentionality are crucial for effective school leadership.Distributive leadership eases the burden on leaders and empowers the team.Effective time management and intentional leadership can positively impact student outcomes.
Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our Branching Minds Website, or sign up for our weekly Newsletter on all things MTSS. Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds. 

Dr. Avis Williams, superintendent of NOLA Public Schools, discusses the district's initiative to address the mental health crisis among students. The district has implemented the 'mental minute' practice, which encourages students and staff to take a minute each day to engage in activities that promote mental well-being, such as reading, journaling, and breathing exercises. Dr. Williams emphasizes the importance of listening to students, using data to guide decision-making, and getting commitment from leaders to prioritize mental health in schools.
Resources:
Mental Health Article
Mental Health Webinar
SEL Guide
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Takeaways
Implementing small, digestible practices like the 'mental minute' can help normalize conversations about mental health and make it more feasible for students and staff to engage in self-care.Partnerships with community organizations, such as Children's Hospital, can provide additional resources and support for mental health initiatives in schools.Listening to students and using data to guide decision-making are essential in addressing the mental health needs of students.Getting commitment from leaders and involving stakeholders in the planning and implementation process is crucial for the success of mental health initiatives in schools.
Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting Branching Minds Website or Sign up for our weekly Newsletter on all things MTSS. Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds. 

In this conversation, Larissa and Britt Shurley discuss the misunderstandings and challenges surrounding MTSS (Multi-Tiered System of Supports) and special education. They emphasize the importance of using language of inclusivity and ensuring that all students have access to differentiated supports. They also discuss the role of MTSS in the referral process and how it can help identify students who need additional support. They address the frustration and emotions that can arise in these situations and provide strategies for leaders to support their staff. Overall, they highlight the collaborative nature of MTSS and special education and the importance of making informed decisions for students.
Resources:
Special Ed Article
Special Ed/MTSS Guide
MTSS Mini Summit 2024
Request a consultation
Takeaways
Using language of inclusivity is important when discussing MTSS and special educationMTSS can help identify students who need additional supportLeaders should provide solutions and resources to support teachersMTSS and special education are collaborative by designTeachers should not feel solely responsible for providing all supportsServices and supports should have an entrance and exit plan
Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting the Branching Minds Website or sign up for our weekly Newsletter on all things MTSS with this link. (https://hubs.la/Q02g9lwV0 )  Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds. 

In this conversation, Larissa and her guest, Caitlin Crossman, from the Professional Services team, discuss the challenges of implementing MTSS (Multi-Tiered System of Supports) in schools and how leaders can prioritize their efforts using the Impact Effort Map. They highlight the importance of focusing on high-impact, low-effort tasks and provide examples of how this tool can be used to streamline the implementation process. 
Resources:
Impact Vs Effort Map
Article: How to Identify MTSS Priorities
How to Lead for Improved Student Outcomes Using Real-Time, Real-Life Insights
Leader Protocol Guide for Buy-In
Takeaways
Implementing MTSS can feel overwhelming, but prioritizing tasks using the Impact Effort Map can help leaders focus on high-impact, low-effort activities.The Impact Effort Map is a visual tool that allows educators to map out tasks based on their impact and effort required.The map helps identify quick wins, major projects, and tasks that can be delegated or scheduled for later.Communication and collaboration with stakeholders are essential for successful implementation.Leaders should regularly reflect on their priorities and be willing to adapt as needed.
Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting Branching Minds Website or Sign up for our weekly Newsletter on all things MTSS with this link.   Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds. 

In this conversation, Dr. Mary O'Meara and Ms. Theresa Donahue from Plainview, Old Beth Page in New York, discuss their district's implementation of a Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS). They highlight the community involvement and diversity in their district, emphasizing the importance of supporting every student. The district's theme of 'Every Student Matters, Every Moment Counts' aligns well with the goals of MTSS. Implementing MTSS, providing data-driven insights, and supporting the district's community efforts has impacted the superintendent's role. The district has made a cultural shift and a long-term commitment to MTSS, focusing on social-emotional learning (SEL) and equipping teachers with Tier 1 interventions.
Resources:
Article: How to Identify MTSS Priorities
Article: How to Build MTSS Efficiency
Leader Protocol Guide for Buy-In
Webinar: How to Lead for Improved Student Outcomes Using Real-Time, Real-Life Insights Buy-In Guide
Learn more about the MTSS platform that Plainview- OBP used to scale their MTSS. Request a consultation
Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visitingBranching Minds Website or sign up for our weekly Newsletter on all things MTSS.
Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds. 

In this episode of Schooling Around, Larissa and LaTisha Cole, Branching Minds Professional Service Consultant,  discuss the importance of effective professional development in implementing and sustaining MTSS (Multi-Tiered System of Supports) in schools. They emphasize the need for educators to have time, space, and support to learn and apply new strategies. The conversation explores practical steps and strategies for bridging the gap between theory and application, such as using data to guide professional development, incorporating case studies and surveys, and creating a culture of continuous improvement. 
Resources:
Article: One Reason Your MTSS Might Be Failing
Leader Protocol Guide for Buy-In
School Leader Guide to PD
MTSS Mini Summit 2024
Request a consultation 
Takeaways
Effective professional development is crucial for implementing and sustaining MTSS in schools.Educators need time, space, and support to learn and apply new strategies.Data should be used to guide professional development and identify areas of need.Bridging the gap between theory and application requires ongoing support and feedback.Innovative methods, such as incorporating fun activities and collaborative learning, can enhance professional development.Obstacles to high-quality professional development include time constraints and competing initiatives.Creating a culture of continuous improvement and celebrating successes can contribute to the sustainability of MTSS implementation.
Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our Branching Minds Website , or Sign up for our weekly Newsletter on all things MTSS with this link. Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds.