Preschool Made Easy is the podcast for busy preschool teachers and parents. It’s a show that will help you get success and confidence in teaching your children by keeping it simple! Each week, Chantal Macias and her guests will share easy tips and actionable steps that you need to start preschool and be successful all year long. You’ll learn how to set up your classroom and the best resources to use while saving time, getting organized and ditching the overwhelm. Let’s make your preschool ex ...
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Welcome to The Stories of How! Where we will discuss real-life examples of HOW to do student-centered learning, projects, project-based learning, and how to empower your students. Cover art photo provided by bharath g s on Unsplash: https://unsplash.com/@xen0m0rph
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38. [Parent Corner] Let's Celebrate Our Milestones and Wins!
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It’s my birthday and to celebrate my 35 years of living this amazing life, I thought maybe we should do something fun on today’s episode. So, we’re going to do a deep dive and celebrate some of our 35 milestones and wins together! In Episode 38, we’re shaking things up today by talking about motherhood, teaching, and business. These Parent Corner e…
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37. [Preschool Themes Series] Summer learning themes and ideas done for you
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I’ve decided to create an episode for you each month all about preschool themes. We’re all about keeping it simple here, so let’s name this the Preschool Themes Series. I’ll give you theme examples for that month and ideas for activities that are already done for you. It’ll help get your planning, set-up, and prep done in record time. In Episode 37…
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36. [Parent Corner] How To Create an Intentional Schedule (And Actually Stick to It!) with Kelsey Sorenson
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In this Parent Corner episode, I’m joined by my incredible friend, Kelsey Sorenson, and we are talking all about how to create an intentional schedule and actually stick to it. We’re getting into how to manage urgent vs important tasks and the urgency matrix, creating an ideal week and planning out your weekly schedule. Episode Highlights: What an …
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35. [Parent Corner] What To Do This Summer To Prep for Kindergarten Success
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The kids are out of school, we get to make memories with them doing things we usually don’t have time to do throughout the school year, and we get to stay up late! So, what can we do this summer to help get our kiddos ready for school? In Episode 35, we’re talking about the exact areas you should focus on when getting your child ready for Kindergar…
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34. [Parent Corner] How To Get Your Toddler or Preschooler To Actually Get Things Done
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Let me paint a scene for you: it looks like Christmas threw up all over your house with toys everywhere, mismatched and loose socks in the drawers, half-eaten snacks in an open lunchbox, and why is that light always turned on!? Sound familiar? Yeah, this was my reality too! That is, of course, until my daughter (and my client’s son) learned some se…
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33. [Parent Corner] Easy Tips for Building Independence When Transitioning to Kindergarten
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What if I told you we could create the perfect routine for your family right now and you would still have time to get all your household responsibilities done, have time for yourself, and you would be setting your child up for success WAY before they start Kindergarten? How awesome would that be? In Episode 31, we’re talking about creating your ide…
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32. [Parent Corner] Why Independence Matters When Getting Ready for Kindergarten
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We all know our kiddos do so much more on their own than we expect at school, so why don’t they do the same at home? What if you could get your kids ready for Kindergarten but focus on building their independence, more specifically, before they start Kinder? In Episode 32, we’re talking about what Kindergarten Readiness actually means, why independ…
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31. [Parent Corner] Create Your Ideal Simple Homeschool Routine for Toddlers and Preschoolers
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What if I told you we could create the perfect routine for your family right now and you would still have time to get all your household responsibilities done, have time for yourself, and you would be setting your child up for success WAY before they start Kindergarten? How awesome would that be? In Episode 31, we’re talking about creating your ide…
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30. Want to Organize Yourself, Your Preschool Classroom, and Your Life in 15 Minutes?
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Is organization your jam or do you have all the right intentions every year with getting organized and somewhere along the road, it just doesn’t go as planned? I’m here to show you a few quick and easy steps to get organized and stay organized all year long. In Episode 30, we’re getting our spring cleaning on by organizing ourselves, our classrooms…
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29. How to Support Preschool Parents and Help Them Teach Their Child Math at Home
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This preschool journey is truly all about turning everyday moments into math adventures. So, let's embark on this math adventure together and find out how we can make math an exciting part of our preschoolers' day! In Episode 29, we’re talking about some real concerns parents have about teaching their children, how to use manipulatives and everyday…
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28. [Parent Corner] Let's Make Math Fun with Simple Activities for Preschoolers at Home
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So you wanna teach your child some math at home? As parents, we’re always on a mission to help our kiddos grow and we want them to learn as much as possible. So why not help them build a love of math, too? In Episode 28, we’re talking about setting preschool math goals and some simple activities you can do, what a typical kindergarten math curricul…
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27. [PARENT CORNER] Light-Up Audio Toys VS Open-Ended Creativity For Preschool Playtime
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So you wanna build a reading space at home? As parents, we’re always on a mission to help our kiddos grow and we want them to learn as much as possible. So why not help them build a love of reading, too? In Episode 20, we’re talking about creating the BEST and simple reading space at home. I’ll give you 3 easy tips for building this space in no tim…
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26. How to Teach Your Preschoolers with Everyday Materials You Already Have
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If the activities you’re trying to do with your students have a never-ending supply list, then you might not want to do it BUT if it’s short and sweet like the ideal faculty meeting, then it’s a winner! In Episode 26, we’re talking about what we can really teach our students with simple, everyday items, my favorite supplies I use to teach preschool…
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25. [Parent Corner] The Power of Simplifying Toys and Organizing Your Preschooler’s Play Space
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Want instant relief, parents? Let’s simplify your little one’s toys and organize their play space. In Episode 25, we’re talking about what toys you really need and which ones you don’t, the research is backing it up: how many is too many, and 3 steps to simplify the toys in your home. These Parent Corner episodes are where I share my experiences an…
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24. 5 Simple Open Ended Materials You Need for Preschool
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Do you know which lessons are the best? The ones that AREN’T planned. I’m talking about the ones where you let your preschoolers play with some materials and let their creativity and imagination run wild and free. I promise you, they learn SO much more than whatever we can possibly teach them in a detailed, planned activity. In Episode 24, we’re ta…
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23. [Parent Corner] Parenting Tips for Surviving Winter Break Chaos
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Winter break is in full swing and if you’re like us, you might be experiencing a mix of excitement and… well, chaos. In Episode 24, we’re diving headfirst into the whirlwind of emotions and adventures that come with having your preschooler at home during the winter break. We’ve got your back with some real talk about your preschooler’s emotions thi…
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22. How Preschool Teachers Manage Holiday Chaos and Restore Routines that Spread Joy
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Have you been feeling the seasonal inner screaming and stress that can come with teaching in general this time of year? How exactly can we manage holiday chaos and restore routines that spread joy? In Episode 22, we’re talking about what happens when preschool children's routines unravel, real talk about teacher life during the holiday months, and …
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21. Navigating Difficult Preschool Emotions with Simple Teacher Strategies
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Every holiday season, the preschool routines unravel. There’s a never ending list of events and people to see, added stress with classroom happenings. It can definitely feel like way too much, especially for our preschoolers and teachers. In Episode 21, we’re breaking down why preschool children have trouble regulating their emotions, 3 tips for he…
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20. [PARENT CORNER] Create the Best Reading Corner at Home for Your Preschooler
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So you wanna build a reading space at home? As parents, we’re always on a mission to help our kiddos grow and we want them to learn as much as possible. So why not help them build a love of reading, too? In Episode 20, we’re talking about creating the BEST and simple reading space at home. I’ll give you 3 easy tips for building this space in no tim…
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19. [PARENT CORNER] Fun and Simple Literacy-Building Activities for Preschool Parents with Kristina Harrill
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In this Parent Corner episode, I’m joined by my amazing friend, Kristina, and we are talking all about building a foundation of literacy and reading with your kiddos. Kristina is a former kindergarten teacher turned stay at home mom to 3 little ones. As a mom with an early childhood development and literacy background, she is very passionate about …
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18. Using Technology to Build Preschool Literacy Skills
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Tech or no tech in the classroom? There are many teachers who love using technology with their preschoolers and many who say “absolutely not!” After having used technology for years with my preschoolers and Kinder babies, I say, why not? In Episode 18, we’re diving into how technology can benefit your students’ learning experience, how it can save …
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17. Creating Toddler and Preschool Reading Routines to Build Early Literacy
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Creating toddler and preschool reading routines can seem overwhelming but I promise, it’s not. With just a handful of simple and easy routines, our littles will be reading in no time, and loving it! This month, we’re talking about all things literacy and how you can help your littles thrive in the classroom or at home! In Episode 17, we’re getting …
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16. [PARENT CORNER] Growing Pains and Gains: Preschool Independence Check-In
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One of the things I get asked about the most is independence. “How do I get my kid to be more independent?” Today, let's take a breather and have a real check-in about how our kiddos' independence journey is actually going. In Episode 16, we’re talking about maintaining your little ones’ independence in their morning routines, tackling small tasks,…
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15. Building Responsibility and Initiative in the Preschool Classroom
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If you've ever been curious about how to build responsibility and initiative in your littles, you're in for a treat. This month, we’re exploring different classroom management topics to help make your (and your kiddos’) preschool experience the best one ever! In Episode 15, we’re diving into some practical strategies that can turn your preschool cl…
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14. Let’s Manage Your Supplies with Preschool Classroom Organization
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If you've ever felt like you're drowning in a sea of colorful crayons, glue sticks, and construction paper, you're not alone! This month, we’re exploring different classroom management topics to help make your (and your kiddos’) preschool experience the best one ever! In Episode 14, managing materials and supplies in a preschool classroom won’t be …
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13. 5 Preschool Behavior Management Tips that Build a Class Family
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Does the thought of managing a group of 12-18 little ones make you wanna pull your hair out or does it make you feel like a champ who’s just taken on an olympic challenge? I know you’re the champ because you’re listening to this episode right now! This month, we’re exploring different classroom management topics to help make your (and your kiddos’)…
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12. Mastering Your Preschool Clean Up Routines
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When you think of classroom management, what comes to mind? Is it those magical tricks that turn chaos into organized cuteness? Preschool classroom management is a combination of methods and strategies that allow you to create a safe space that promotes learning and your students’ development. In Episode 12, we’re talking about how to create a clea…
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11. [Parent Corner] Creating a Balanced After-School Schedule for Preschoolers
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Do you ever feel like rush-hour traffic is not only on the streets, but in your home, too? Like your routine when you get home is just nuts and could maybe use a little work? Yeah, me too. Welcome to another episode of our Parent Corner segment. In these episodes, I share my experiences and expertise as a teacher and parent to help you learn what t…
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10. Create Your Preschool Visual Schedule
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Have you ever realized the amount of signs we see everyday in our own daily routine? There must be hundreds of them everywhere and we don’t really pay much attention to them because they have always been so consistent so we already know what they mean. What if I told you that you could give your littles the same feeling of consistency and security,…
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9. How to Design Your Class and Helpful Transition Strategies
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As educators, we’re constantly told that it is our responsibility to create a positive learning environment that is conducive to learning, right? But does your admin ever give you actionable steps for how to manage those tricky transitions or what happens if your layout is not working? If you're a teacher looking to create that dream learning envir…
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8. Let’s Build Simple Routines and Your Preschool Schedule
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Does the thought of starting new routines with your preschoolers make you nervous? Are you feeling a bit overwhelmed with what you need to include in your schedule? If you think a sample schedule would be helpful and you could use some tips on how to use simple routines with your kiddos, I got you. Episode Highlights: 1. Benefits of routines 2. Des…
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7. [Parent Corner] First Time in School? I Got Your Back
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Welcome to the first episode of our new segment called Parent Corner where I share my experience and expertise as a teacher and parent. Today, we’re getting into the real truth about separation anxiety, how you can begin working on independence and life skills at home, and the right way to communicate with your child’s teachers. Episode Highlights:…
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Does the thought of a new school year give you mixed feelings? Parents and kiddos feel it too. As preschool teachers, it’s our job to establish a positive and supportive environment. Today, we’re talking about how to set the tone with your new parents by maintaining open and transparent communication, establishing a welcoming environment for them, …
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Are you thinking, “Just got a new class list. Now what? What do I do first?” Don’t stress that to-do list, it’ll still be there when you get back but I got some tips for preschool teachers I think will really help you get your back-to-school tasks prioritized. Episode Highlights: What to do with your new class list How to get your curriculum and le…
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Why do I love preschool as a PARENT? Today, we’re talking about how preschool has made a difference in my child’s life, and my advice to other parents considering enrolling their child in preschool. Every parent wants their child to thrive, so here’s how preschool can help! Episode Highlights: Why I love preschool as a parent How it’s made a differ…
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Why is teaching preschool the best? We’re exploring why I love preschool as a TEACHER, what makes it so rewarding (and challenging), and my advice to fellow educators considering becoming preschool teachers. Preschool is truly a magical time in a child’s life, but it can also be magical and fun for teachers. Let’s do this! Episode Highlights: Why I…
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2. PREschool: Let’s Get Ready For Kindergarten
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Let’s talk about what parents, children and educators can expect when starting preschool, how the transition into Kindergarten works, and what specific skills and milestones parents should be working on to prepare their littles for Kinder. I’m here to help you get your kiddos ready for Kinder with these tips! Episode Highlights: What to expect when…
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1. The Magic of Preschool: Your Kiddos Need YOU
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You’re listening to Episode 1 of Preschool Made Easy and we’re diving into who I am, why I’m so passionate about helping you, what to expect from this show and what this IS and is NOT about. My mission is to help your preschoolers thrive and empower you to get your kiddos ready for Kindergarten, so let’s get started! Episode Highlights: Who I am, w…
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Welcome to Preschool Made Easy, a podcast for busy preschool teachers and parents, too. I’m Chantal, a Kinder teacher turned curriculum designer and preschool consultant. After teaching preschool and Kindergarten for several years, I became a stay-at-home mom and homeschooled my daughter. The lessons I learned both as an educator and a mama have al…
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S2 E13: Dr. Erica Buchanan-Rivera, Chief Equity and Inclusion Officer, and a fierce advocate and educator
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Within this episode, you will learn more about Dr. Erica Buchanan-Rivera. Her story is powerful. Her knowledge, poise, passion, and drive are contagious. You will hear about her time in the classroom, her role as a principal, her research and the 5 strands to keep in mind. She discusses how all students deserve to be in a school that values their a…
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S2 E11: Cora Neyhart- All Things Preschool and What's Most Important
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Cora Neyhart is a Curriculum Director and Lead Teacher at Littler Explorer's, a preschool here in Fishers, IN. She will talk all things preschool, what to look for when searching for a preschool, the important questions to ask, why play is best for kids and how you can tie in academics into play. She will inspire you with ideas, her favorite memori…
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S2 E10- Kelli Collins- 6-8th grade Engineering, Video Productions, and Technology Teacher
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Kelli Collins has such an amazing and unique role at HIJH. She will explain the classes she teaches, discuss when students are being active and engaged in their learning, they really take ownership, and in turn there are less behavior issues and more engagement. She is an expert at getting to know her students, and building a foundation to grow on.…
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S2 E9: Torres, an English and Mass Media HS Teacher. Teaching is an art form.
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Torres is an experienced and enthusiastic educator who has taught theatre, english, mass media, was in administration for a few years, and took the jump back to the classroom where his heart belongs. Torres speaks to what mass media is, how he personally connects with his students, his educational journey, and the CATS and SIA programs his students…
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Season 2 Episode 8: Mary Auger, an accomplished Math teacher who wants to promote and change how we think about Math.
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Mary Auger is a 7th and 8th Math teacher with over 30 years of teaching experience. She believes success breads success and how important it is to be a guide on the side. She is an expert at helping those student's who struggle with math and changing their math self-talk. She can connect with them, correct misunderstandings, and push them to where …
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Season 2 Episode 7: Amy Murch the Teacher in Residence at Conner Prairie- Kids can learn anywhere.
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Amy Murch has 15 years of teaching experience that has led her to her current role where she truly shines. She is the teacher in residence at Conner Prairie here in Fishers, IN. She has the amazing role of working with 4th grade students and teachers, and bringing their standards to life in 1000+ acres. Listen in to hear more about how she creates …
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Season 2 Episode 6: Amber Harling- an outdoor learning and PBL expert.
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Amber has been teaching for 18 years and has a passion for taking her teaching outdoors. You will gain some great ideas and insights into Amber’s classroom, and how she truly values her student's voices. Books to read: Shift This by Joy Kirr There’s No Such Thing as Bad Weather by Linda Akeson McGurk Vitamin N by Richard Louv Follow Amber on Instag…
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Season 2 Episode 5: Leslie Hopper- an amazing teacher librarian who loves to be uncomfortable, show that KIDS CAN, and collaborate with others.
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Leslie Hopper is in her 20th year of teaching and has taught first grade and is currently a teacher librarian in Hamilton Southeastern Schools at Thorpe Creek Elementary. Her heart is to serve teachers and students in her role. She believes all KIDS CAN and that reading is reading! She uses her role to be an advocate, to collaborate, facilitate, an…
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Season 2 Episode 4: Shannon Edwards, a 2nd grade teacher who is digging deeper, investing in her own learning, and igniting passion in her students.
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Shannon Edwards has 15 years of teaching experience and currently teaches 2nd grade. She is passionate about the trust and relationships she builds during community circle, and the learning and growth she sees during Writer's Workshop time. She has grown from scripted lessons to really listening to her students, and integrating standards into their…
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Season 2 Episode 4: Jackie Renick- how to just be, she shares her knowledge, is reflective and intentional.
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Jackie Renick is a fourth grade teacher in the HSE school district. You can tell she is a cheerleader for others and has learned how important this is for all educators. You need people in your corner. She shares about her favorite project her students lead. What motivates and excites her. She shares about our districts partnership with Conner Prai…
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Season 2 Episode 3: Laura Hiett on moving from rigid to a growth mindset and building deep relationships.
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Laura Hiett has 19 years of teaching experience and currently teachers first-grade. She is passionate about building deep relationships with her students and spending time with them to build trust. She has moved from being rigid to having more of a growth mindset. Laura will share with us about how her students have started their own podcast and ho…
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