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. 179: Fostering Interdependence: A New Learning Paradigm

    6 DAYS AGO

    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

    1h 9m
  2. 178: Strategies to Support Students Speaking English as a Second Language

    JAN 16

    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.

    1h 4m
  3. 177: Strategies for Successful Co-Teaching

    11/21/2024

    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

    1h 3m
  4. 176: Insights from a School-Based OT to Help Support Students Needs

    11/07/2024

    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

    56 min
  5. 175: STRIVE to Teach Happier

    10/24/2024

    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

    1h 2m
  6. 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

    1h 11m
  7. 173: Rebooting and Reinvigorating the powerEDUp Podcast

    10/03/2024

    173: Rebooting and Reinvigorating the powerEDUp Podcast

    In this episode, Ken Ehrmann reintroduces the Powered Up Podcast after a brief hiatus, sharing personal reflections on balancing family life with professional commitments. He emphasizes the importance of relationships in education and how they impact both students and teachers. Ken discusses the significance of finding joy in work and the need for educators to engage in tasks that feel fulfilling. He also outlines exciting changes for the podcast, including a new guest lineup and a shift to bi-weekly episodes to enhance audience connection. Takeaways Ken shares his excitement about returning to the podcast after a break. He emphasizes the importance of balancing family and professional life. Ken reflects on the significance of relationships in education. He encourages educators to find joy in their work. The podcast will feature a new guest lineup and bi-weekly episodes. Ken acknowledges the support of his family and co-hosts. He highlights the need for educators to prioritize self-care. Ken believes in the power of genuine connections with students and teachers. He discusses the importance of being organized while maintaining authenticity. Ken expresses gratitude for the podcast's audience and their engagement. Chapters 00:00 Reintroducing the Powered Up Podcast 07:41 Balancing Family and Professional Life 10:09 The Importance of Relationships in Education 16:01 Finding Light in Your Work 18:24 Looking Ahead: Exciting Changes and Guest Lineup Website: www.powereduup@gmail.com  Twitter: @PowerEDUup  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

    23 min
  8. 172: Stop Planning Lessons and Start Planning Experiences

    06/06/2024

    172: Stop Planning Lessons and Start Planning Experiences

    Shelley Jeoffroy, a 5th-grade teacher from Irving, Texas, shares her experiences in education and the importance of embracing diversity in the classroom. She discusses how her travels and teaching overseas have opened her perspective and inspired her to bring innovation and creativity into her teaching. Shelley emphasizes the need to have authentic relationships with students and create a welcoming and respectful classroom environment. She also highlights the value of making connections between students and finding common ground. Ken Ehrmann and Dr. Ramon Benavides discuss the challenges of building relationships with adults and the importance of being genuine and caring in all interactions. The conversation explores the importance of authenticity and building relationships in education. It emphasizes the value of allowing authentic moments and recovering from mistakes. The guests discuss the significance of being intentional about building value and relationships based on value, as well as the power of owning mistakes and apologizing. They highlight the impact of modeling authenticity and humanity for students, and the importance of creating memorable experiences in the classroom. The conversation also touches on the balance between providing meaningful experiences and meeting professional responsibilities, and the role of assessments in gauging growth. Takeaways Embrace diversity in the classroom and recognize the value that different experiences and backgrounds bring to education. Teaching overseas can provide valuable insights and inspiration for bringing innovation and creativity into the classroom. Authentic relationships with students are key to creating a welcoming and respectful classroom environment. Finding common ground and making connections between students can help foster a sense of community and acceptance. Building relationships with adults, such as colleagues and parents, requires genuine care and effort. Apologizing and taking responsibility for mistakes is important in maintaining trust and repairing relationships. Allowing authentic moments and recovering from mistakes is important in education. Building relationships based on value and owning mistakes can have a powerful impact on students. Creating memorable experiences in the classroom helps students learn and retain information. Balancing meaningful experiences with professional responsibilities is crucial. Assessments play a role in gauging growth and demonstrating knowledge. Twitter: @ShellJeoffroy 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

    1h 6m
5
out of 5
23 Ratings

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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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