powerED Up

Ken Ehrmann
powerED Up

We are powering education up by empowering you! Join us to talk about everything education with the hosts and weekly interviews. We will interview teachers to find out what makes great teachers and how we can all grow together.

  1. 181: Breaking the Cycle: Poverty and Education

    6 DE MAR.

    181: Breaking the Cycle: Poverty and Education

    In this conversation, Bryan Kerns shares his unique journey from being a math teacher to becoming the 2025 Tennessee Teacher of the Year and a fire science educator. He discusses the importance of building relationships with students, innovative teaching methods, and the challenges faced by students in his community. Kerns emphasizes the need for a supportive environment and the impact of education on breaking the cycle of poverty. He also provides insights into his engaging fire science curriculum and the excitement it brings to students. In this conversation, Bryan Kerns shares his innovative approach to teaching fire science, emphasizing real-world experiences, teamwork, and personal responsibility. He discusses the transformative impact of his program on students, fostering a sense of belonging and purpose. Kerns also reflects on the importance of grit and resilience in education, advocating for a teaching philosophy that prioritizes student engagement and personal growth. The discussion highlights the power of forgiveness and the need for educators to create meaningful connections with their students, ultimately shaping their futures and communities. Takeaways Bryan transitioned from math to fire science due to his passion. Building relationships with students is crucial for their success. Kerns uses innovative methods to boost students' confidence in math. He believes in giving students a fresh start in the classroom. Understanding students' backgrounds helps tailor education to their needs. Grades can sometimes hinder true learning and understanding. Kerns' community is supportive, helping students succeed despite challenges. His fire science curriculum prepares students for immediate careers. Engagement and hands-on learning are key in Kerns' teaching style. Kerns aims to break the cycle of poverty through education. Students engage in real firefighting experiences. Classroom responsibilities foster teamwork and accountability. Fire science education transforms students' lives. Grit developed in math applies to real-world challenges. Forgiveness is a powerful lesson for students. Innovative teaching keeps educators excited and engaged. Students find purpose and belonging in their squads. Real-world applications enhance learning and retention. Teaching grit prepares students for future challenges. Building relationships is key to student success. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Bryan Kerns and His Journey 03:03 Transition from Math to Fire Science Teaching 05:58 The Importance of Relationships in Education 09:11 Innovative Approaches to Teaching Math 12:04 Creating a Fresh Start for Students 14:49 Understanding Student Backgrounds and Challenges 17:50 The Role of Grades in Education 20:58 Community Context and Student Demographics 23:46 Overview of Fire Science Curriculum 27:10 Engaging Students in Fire Science Learning 29:36 Engaging Students with Real-World Firefighting Experience 34:40 Building Teamwork and Responsibility in the Classroom 39:55 Transformative Impact of Fire Science Education 40:54 Lessons from Teaching: Grit and Real-World Applications 49:52 The Power of Forgiveness in Education 54:43 Innovative Teaching: The Key to Student Engagement Connect with Bryan: Email: bkerns@k12k.com Website: https://sites.google.com/k12k.com/dbhs-pulaski-club Help us out! Help us reach new listeners on iTunes by leaving us a rating and review! It takes just 30 seconds, and instructions can be found here. Thanks! We appreciate it! Apple Podcast Review

    1h2min
  2. 180: Creating a Positive Learning Environment in Math

    20 DE FEV.

    180: Creating a Positive Learning Environment in Math

    In this episode of the Powered Up Podcast, host Ken Ehrmann speaks with Heather Smith, the 2024 Burroughs Welcome Fund North Carolina Teacher of the Year. They discuss the importance of building relationships with students, innovative teaching strategies, and the role of community in education. Heather shares her passion for math and STEM education, emphasizing the need for empathy and real-life connections in teaching. The conversation also touches on the challenges teachers face and the importance of gratitude and intentionality in fostering a positive classroom environment. Takeaways Building relationships with students is crucial for their success. Teachers need to be confident in their math instruction. Empathy in teaching can enhance student engagement. Creating a safe learning environment encourages risk-taking. Community involvement is essential for effective education. Innovative teaching strategies can reignite passion for teaching. Gratitude can help teachers navigate challenging days. Understanding students' backgrounds is key to supporting them. Professional development should focus on practical strategies for teachers. Teachers must be authentic and true to themselves. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Heather Smith and Her Journey in Education 04:07 The Transition from Elementary to Middle School Teaching 07:11 Understanding Math Education: Bridging Gaps 10:08 Building Confidence in Math: Strategies for Success 13:02 Creating a Positive Math Environment 16:17 The Role of Schools in Community Resilience 28:59 Advice for New Teachers in Rural Areas 30:12 Building Community Connections in Education 36:18 Understanding Students' Home Lives 40:17 Exploring the Importance of Local Context 44:17 Innovative Teaching Strategies and STEM Education 51:55 Empathy in Teaching and Student Engagement   Twitter: @Teach_HSmith  Instagram: H_SmithTeaches  Help us out! Help us reach new listeners on iTunes by leaving us a rating and review! It takes just 30 seconds, and instructions can be found here. Thanks! We appreciate it! Apple Podcast Review

    1h1min
  3. 179: Fostering Interdependence: A New Learning Paradigm

    6 DE FEV.

    179: Fostering Interdependence: A New Learning Paradigm

    In this episode of the Powered Up Podcast, Ken Ehrmann speaks with De'Shawn Washington, the 2024 Massachusetts Teacher of the Year, about the importance of executive functioning skills in education. They discuss De'Shawn's journey into teaching, the strategies he employs to teach organization and time management, and the significance of feedback and peer review in the writing process. The conversation also touches on the challenges of grading writing, the need for reflection in learning, and innovative practices that foster community in the classroom. De'Shawn emphasizes the role of teachers as models of learning and the importance of building relationships with students to enhance their educational experience. Takeaways Invest time in teaching executive functioning skills. Feedback should be an ongoing process, not just at the end. Building community in the classroom is essential for student engagement. Teachers should model learning for their students. Peer review can enhance writing skills and foster collaboration. Grading writing is subjective and should involve student input. Creating spaces for discussions helps resolve conflicts. Small group instruction is critical for targeted learning. Reflection is key to personal and professional growth in teaching. Teachers should embrace their role as learners alongside their students. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to De'Shawn Washington 04:35 Journey into Education and Personal Growth 08:57 Teaching Executive Functioning Skills 15:46 Building Interdependence in Learning 23:02 Feedback: Supportive vs. Constructive 28:47 Grading Writing: A Collaborative Approach 39:08 The Importance of Reflection in Teaching 44:24 Strategies for Effective Writing Feedback 48:42 Innovative Approaches to Writing Conferences 52:17 Creating a Positive Classroom Environment 55:27 Embracing the Role of a Learner 57:25 Building Community Through Empathy Circles 01:01:26 Connecting with Educators and Changemakers

    1h9min
  4. 178: Strategies to Support Students Speaking English as a Second Language

    16 DE JAN.

    178: Strategies to Support Students Speaking English as a Second Language

    In this episode of the Powered Up Podcast, Lee Perez returns to discuss effective strategies for supporting English Language Learners (ELLs) in the classroom. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the differences between social and academic language, the need for patience, and the value of viewing students from an asset perspective. Lee shares his experiences and insights on instructional strategies, the silent phase of language acquisition, and creating a welcoming environment for ESL students. The conversation highlights the challenges and rewards of teaching multilingual learners and the necessity of culturally responsive teaching practices. In this conversation, Lee Perez discusses the importance of culturally responsive teaching and the effective use of students' native languages in the classroom. He emphasizes the need to lower the effective filter for English Language Learners (ELLs) during their silent phase and the benefits of dual language strategies. The discussion also covers modifying expectations for ELLs in mainstream classrooms and the significance of making learning engaging and relevant to combat chronic absenteeism. Lee shares insights on the challenges of writing for ELLs and the necessity of sheltered curriculum to support their learning. Takeaways Teachers will have ESL students regardless of certification. Language acquisition takes time; be patient with students. Social language is different from academic language. Look at students from an asset perspective, not a deficit perspective. Multilingualism is a superpower; students can learn anything. Challenge students when they are ready; don't hold back. Language transfer can be utilized in instruction. Creating a low-stress environment helps language acquisition. The silent phase is a natural part of language learning. Culturally responsive teaching fosters connection and understanding. Culturally responsive teaching helps lower the effective filter for ELLs. Students are eager to learn English; it just takes time. The silent phase is crucial in language acquisition. Dual language strategies enhance cognitive rigor and language skills. Writing is often the hardest skill for ELLs to master. Engaging students with their interests can improve learning outcomes. Chronic absenteeism is a significant issue in education today. Sheltered curriculum is essential for ELL success. Patience and understanding are key when teaching ELLs. Language development is a process that requires time and support.

    1h4min
  5. 177: Strategies for Successful Co-Teaching

    21/11/2024

    177: Strategies for Successful Co-Teaching

    In this episode of the Powered Up Podcast, hosts Ken Ehrmann and Jessica Saum engage with educators Paul Garcia and Leana Malinowsky to explore the intricacies of co-teaching. They discuss the importance of building strong relationships between co-teachers, the need for flexibility in teaching styles, and the effective use of technology to enhance collaboration. The conversation highlights personal experiences, challenges, and strategies for creating a successful co-teaching environment that benefits all students. This conversation delves into the intricacies of co-teaching, focusing on strategies for effective collaboration between general and special education teachers. The speakers discuss the importance of empowering paraprofessionals, utilizing various instructional models, and fostering a supportive environment for both teachers and students. They emphasize the need for communication, collaboration, and continuous professional development to enhance teaching practices and student outcomes. Takeaways Co-teaching requires a strong relationship between educators. Flexibility in teaching styles is essential for effective co-teaching. Building rapport quickly is crucial in a co-teaching setup. Utilizing technology can streamline communication and planning. Both teachers should actively participate in instruction. It's important to share responsibilities in the classroom. Co-teaching can enhance student learning experiences. Regular communication is key to successful collaboration. Teachers should advocate for their roles in co-teaching. Creating a seamless classroom environment benefits all students. It's important to find ways to take a teaching role in low leverage situations. Allow yourself to go through the process of planning and instruction. Quality tier one instruction is essential for all students. Team teaching can be enjoyable and beneficial for student engagement. Empowering paraprofessionals can enhance classroom dynamics. Building positive relationships with paraprofessionals is crucial. Teaching can be isolating; reach out for support. Observing other teachers can provide valuable insights. Collaboration requires humility and a willingness to learn from others. Continuous professional development is key to effective teaching. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Co-Teaching Dynamics 11:58 Building Relationships in Co-Teaching 24:08 Navigating Teaching Styles and Responsibilities 32:09 Leveraging Technology for Effective Collaboration 32:29 Navigating Co-Teaching Dynamics 39:35 Effective Instructional Models in Co-Teaching 46:00 Empowering Paraprofessionals in the Classroom 54:03 Collaboration and Support in Education Help us out! Help us reach new listeners on iTunes by leaving us a rating and review! It takes just 30 seconds, and instructions can be found here. Thanks! We appreciate it! Apple Podcast Review

    1h3min
  6. 176: Insights from a School-Based OT to Help Support Students Needs

    07/11/2024

    176: Insights from a School-Based OT to Help Support Students Needs

    Chelsea Tompkins, a school-based occupational therapist, shares her experience working with students and teachers to support their educational needs. She discusses the importance of real-time interventions and the challenges of generalizing skills. Chelsea emphasizes the need for accommodations and modifications to address executive functioning skills, such as organization and planning. She also highlights the impact of sensory issues on behavior and the importance of understanding and addressing these needs. Collaboration between teachers and occupational therapists is crucial in creating a supportive learning environment. In this conversation, Chelsea Tompkins, an occupational therapist, discusses the importance of providing sensory support and motor labs in the classroom. She emphasizes the need for flexible seating options, sensory breaks, and sensory input tools such as fidgets and weighted blankets. Chelsea also explains the significance of motor labs in helping students develop motor skills and integrate reflexes. She suggests that teachers can implement strategies such as visual supports, consistent expectations, and grading rubrics to support students with executive functioning abilities. Overall, the conversation highlights the importance of considering the individual needs of students and providing them with the necessary support to succeed in the classroom. Takeaways Real-time interventions are essential for addressing students' needs and promoting skill generalization. Accommodations and modifications can support executive functioning skills, such as organization and planning. Sensory issues can impact behavior, and it is important to understand and address these needs. Collaboration between teachers and occupational therapists is crucial in creating a supportive learning environment. Provide sensory support and tools such as flexible seating, sensory breaks, and fidgets to help students with sensory needs. Implement motor labs to help students develop motor skills and integrate reflexes. Use visual supports, consistent expectations, and grading rubrics to support students with executive functioning abilities. Consider the individual needs of students and provide them with the necessary support to succeed in the classroom. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 03:09 Working with Different Age Groups 03:56 Skills Addressed by OTs 08:15 Common Classroom Practices that Impact Students' Processing 11:18 Understanding Sensory vs. Behavioral Needs 14:25 Examples of Sensory and Behavioral Issues 18:51 Accommodations and Modifications for Students 22:28 Supporting Students with Sensory Needs 24:22 Creating a Supportive Learning Environment 24:50 Supporting Students with Sensory Needs 26:14 Developing Motor Skills through Motor Labs 30:53 Allowing Infants to be Active for Kindergarten Readiness 34:13 Supporting Students with Executive Functioning Abilities 38:15 Creating a Supportive Classroom Environment 44:44 Assuming Positive Intent and Understanding Roles 46:24 Providing Consistent Expectations and Visual Supports Email: chelsea.tompkins@cps.k12.ar.us  Help us out! Help us reach new listeners on iTunes by leaving us a rating and review! It takes just 30 seconds, and instructions can be found here. Thanks! We appreciate it! Apple Podcast Review

    56min
  7. 175: STRIVE to Teach Happier

    24/10/2024

    175: STRIVE to Teach Happier

    In this episode of the Powered Up Podcast, hosts Ken Ehrmann, Rob Dunlop, and Suzanne Dailey discuss their experiences in education, focusing on the challenges and triumphs of returning to the classroom, the importance of teacher energy, and the role of happiness in teaching. They explore the complexities of supporting new teachers, the expectations for professional growth, and the significance of building relationships in the classroom. The conversation emphasizes the need for grace and optimism in the teaching profession, especially during the early years. In this conversation, Rob Dunlop and Suzanne Dailey discuss the importance of rational optimism in education, emphasizing the need for teachers to maintain a positive mindset while acknowledging challenges. They explore strategies for supporting new teachers, the significance of agency in personal well-being, and the balance between professional responsibilities and personal life. The discussion highlights the necessity of self-reflection, gratitude practices, and the importance of community support in navigating the complexities of teaching. Takeaways Happiness is essential for effective teaching. The start of the school year felt more normal post-pandemic. Supporting new teachers is crucial for retention. Teacher energy significantly impacts student engagement. Year one is often about survival for new teachers. Building relationships is key to classroom success. Teachers need to give themselves grace during transitions. Optimism can help navigate challenges in education. Instructional practices should evolve over time. Professional growth is a continuous journey in teaching. Rational optimism involves recognizing challenges while maintaining a positive outlook. Practicing gratitude daily can enhance emotional resilience. Agency in our actions can significantly impact our well-being. It's essential to focus on strengths in conversations with colleagues. Self-reflection is crucial for personal and professional growth. Finding a grounding word each day can help maintain focus. Physical reminders can aid in staying present and mindful. Work-life balance is vital for sustaining a teaching career. Year two teachers should focus on specific areas for improvement. Community support is invaluable in navigating teaching challenges. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Backgrounds 03:11 Navigating the New School Year 06:00 Returning to the Classroom: Rob's Experience 08:51 The Importance of Teacher Energy 11:56 Instructional Practices and Teacher Development 14:52 Expectations for Teacher Growth 18:03 The Role of Happiness in Teaching 28:20 Navigating Challenges with Rational Optimism 31:59 The Power of Agency in Education 34:38 Understanding Rational Optimism vs. Toxic Positivity 38:55 Strengths-Based Conversations for Support 41:46 Finding Internal Rational Optimism 43:13 Work-Life Balance in Teaching 48:45 Grounding Practices for Challenging Seasons 52:58 Advice for Year Two Teachers Suzanne Dailey Website: www.suzannedailey.com  Social Media: @DaileySuzanne  Robert Dunlop Website: www.motivatedu.com  Social Media: RobDunlopEDU Help us out! Help us reach new listeners on iTunes by leaving us a rating and review! It takes just 30 seconds, and instructions can be found here. Thanks! We appreciate it! Apple Podcast Review

    1h2min
  8. 174: Empowering High School Students for a Life After Education

    10/10/2024

    174: Empowering High School Students for a Life After Education

    Alhassan Susso, an educator, shares his experience of teaching a personal development course to high school students in the South Bronx. The course aims to prepare students for life after high school, focusing on mindset, vision, communication, leadership, and financial management. Alhassan emphasizes the importance of community-building, trust, and relationship-building activities in the classroom. He shares success stories and data to support the impact of the course on student outcomes. The conversation covers the importance of building a community in the classroom, the challenges of implementing new teaching strategies, and the impact of personal development on students and teachers. It also delves into the principles of mindset and emotional mastery, vision and goals for the future, interpersonal communications, leadership, and financial management. The discussion emphasizes the need for teachers to make students feel seen, heard, and valued, as well as the importance of lifelong learning and personal mission statements for educators. Takeaways • The importance of community building and trust in the classroom for student success • The impact of a personal development course on student outcomes and future success • The value of building a positive and supportive learning environment for students Building a community in the classroom is essential for creating a safe and supportive learning environment. • Implementing new teaching strategies can be challenging, especially when faced with curriculum demands and administrative expectations. • Personal development and self-awareness have a significant impact on both students and teachers, influencing the classroom dynamic and learning outcomes. • The principles of mindset, emotional mastery, vision, goals, leadership, and financial management play a crucial role in shaping the educational experience for students. • Teachers should prioritize making students feel seen, heard, and valued, as it contributes to a positive and empowering classroom environment. • Lifelong learning and the development of personal mission statements are key factors in the continuous growth and improvement of educators. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background of Al Hassan Suso 07:16 The Personal Development Course: Purpose and Creation 15:05 Student Outcomes and Impact of the Course 33:57 Building a Community in the Classroom 36:10 Challenges of Implementing New Teaching Strategies 44:24 The Impact of Personal Development on Students and Teachers 51:12 Principles of Mindset, Emotional Mastery, and Vision 56:35 Empowering Students through Leadership and Financial Management 01:00:10 Prioritizing Student Well-Being and Classroom Dynamics 01:03:33 The Role of Lifelong Learning and Personal Mission Statements Website: http://www.alhassansusso.com    Twitter: @alhassan_susso

    1h11min
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We are powering education up by empowering you! Join us to talk about everything education with the hosts and weekly interviews. We will interview teachers to find out what makes great teachers and how we can all grow together.

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