Welcome back to Straight Up with Mrs. Parks!We’re kicking things off with an incredible guest: Mrs. Jenna Evarts, the powerhouse educator and classroom management expert behind @thatstrongteacher. In this episode, Nicole Parks and Jenna Evarts dive deep into the real challenges teachers are facing with classroom management—especially in elementary settings—and the mindset shifts required to move from daily survival mode to calm, confident leadership. Together, they share raw, honest stories from their own classrooms—ranging from tattling and nonstop blurting to chair-flipping, work-ripping, and full-blown crisis behaviors. Whether you’re teaching kindergarten or seniors, you’ll hear strategies and reflections that apply across all grade levels. What We Cover in This Episode: Why “just build relationships” is NOT a classroom management plan (and why that advice feels so triggering)The hidden factors shaping student apathy as early as 2nd gradeHow student mistrust develops—and how teachers unintentionally reinforce itWhy consistency, clarity, and consequences are the backbone of any successful classroomThe role of collaborative problem-solving and data-driven decision-making in supporting studentsHow logical + progressive consequences work together to create predictable, safe learning environmentsThe emotional side of teaching: managing stress, staying regulated, and protecting your peaceWhy teachers deserve coaching and support just as much as athletes, executives, and every other high-performing professionalWhat it really looks like to balance teaching, parenting, and the realities of educator burnoutThe growth, evolution, and confidence that come from learning strong classroom management foundationsThis episode is your reminder that you’re not the problem, and you’re definitely not alone. Where to Find Jenna Evarts (@thatstrongteacher): Instagram: @thatstrongteacherTikTok: @thatstrongteacherJenna offers an entire suite of classroom management support for elementary educators—from self-paced courses to hands-on coaching where she guides you every step of the way. Books Referenced in This Episode: Lost at School: Why Our Kids with Behavioral Challenges Are Falling Through the Cracks and How We Can Help Them by Dr. Ross W. Greene The Classroom Management Secret: And 45 Other Keys to a Well-Behaved Class by Michael Linsin If you loved this episode… Please like, subscribe, and leave a review—it helps us reach more educators who need this kind of support and real-talk honesty. Keywords classroom management, teacher strategies, building relationships, student behavior, education, teaching tips, classroom environment, problem solving, consequences, teacher leadership, classroom management, teacher support, MTSS, PBIS, education strategies, teacher mindset, student behavior, data-driven education, teacher wellness, professional development
