Stefan Joly, a preschool to eighth-grade principal, shares his passion for creating a loving educational environment and his belief that smartphones do not belong in the classroom. He emphasizes the dangers of kids with smartphones and social media, highlighting the addictive nature of these devices and the negative impact they can have on students' concentration and well-being. Stefan discusses the importance of building a positive school culture, fostering personal skills such as public speaking and communication, and teaching students about citizenship and kindness. He also shares his advice for new teachers and principals, encouraging them to stay positive, pivot quickly, and focus on the best interests of their students.

Chapters

00:27 - Introduction and Background

06:35 - Getting into Education and Becoming a Principal

12:56 - The Role of a Principal and the Importance of Being a Role Model

30:19 - Programs and Initiatives to Foster School Community

37:24 - Advice for New Teachers

🔗 Connect with Stefan Joly:

Instagram: @oakridgeprincipal

🔗 Connect with Dave Walker:

TikTok & Instagram: @thepedalingprincipal

E-Mail: thepedalingprincipal@gmail.com

Website: http://dmwalker.com

In this episode, Dr. Donald Sorah, an Apple Learning Coach, Apple Distinguished Educator, and Associate Professor of Music at the University of Virginia's College at Wise, shares his journey in music education and the impact of technology on the field. He discusses the evolution of technology in music education, from CDs to YouTube and mobile apps. Dr. Sorah also highlights the importance of making music education accessible to all students and shares his passion for creating free educational resources. Donald Sorah discusses innovations in music education, including combining courses, utilizing international music guest lecturers via Zoom, and using technology tools like Padlet and GarageBand. He shares the challenges and rewards of guiding students in publishing introductory books on classical music eras. He also highlights the importance of recognizing the value of arts in education and the need for reevaluating and expanding music education opportunities.

Dr. Josue Falaise is the CEO of GOMO Educational Services, a keynote speaker, former partner at Education Elements, Director of the Rutgers University Institute for Improving Student Achievement and EduMatch author. In this episode, he discusses the importance of social and emotional learning (SEL), restorative practices, and culturally responsive leadership in education. He emphasizes the need for policy changes to address equity issues and the role of technology in advancing these practices. Dr. Falaise shares insights on measuring the effectiveness of restorative practices and discusses the future of education with emerging technologies. He also provides an overview of GOMO Educational Services and how they support schools and districts in implementing these practices.

AJ Bianco, an assistant principal with a passion for innovative teaching practices, shares his journey into education and his leadership style. He emphasizes the importance of building relationships with middle school students and meeting their diverse needs. AJ discusses his approach to discipline and conflict resolution, focusing on restorative practices and conversations. He also highlights the significance of social-emotional learning and supporting teachers' well-being. AJ explores the future of education with advancements in AI and technology. He concludes by sharing his various podcasts and how to connect with him.

🔗 Connect with Assistant Principal, AJ Bianco:

Instagram: @ajbianco

🔗 AJ's Podcasts:

PodcastPD - https://www.podcastpd.com

PodcastPD YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@podcastpdshow

ReflectED - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...

The Chase for 28 - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...

🔗 Connect with Dave Walker:

TikTok & Instagram: @thepedalingprincipal

E-Mail: thepedalingprincipal@gmail.com

Website: http://dmwalker.com

Articles on the Medium: https://medium.com/@thepedalingprincipal

Leigh M. Ragsdale, also known as the Unorthodox Principal, shares her journey and insights on education. She emphasizes the importance of empowering teachers and creating a sense of belonging in schools. Leigh discusses the challenges facing the education profession, including teacher pay and the need for high-quality teacher training. She also highlights the key components of a great school, such as a strong sense of community and project-based learning. Leigh emphasizes the importance of engaging the community and building partnerships. She provides advice for principals on creating better working environments for staff. Leigh emphasizes the importance of treating kids and teachers with respect, leading to amazing results.

🔗 Connect with the Unorthodox Principal, Leigh M. Ragsdale:

Website: https://www.theunorthodoxprincipal.com/

🔗 Connect with Dave Walker:

TikTok & Instagram: @thepedalingprincipal

E-Mail: thepedalingprincipal@gmail.com

Website: http://dmwalker.com

Articles on the Medium: https://medium.com/@thepedalingprincipal

This week's show features Cordarius Williams, a middle school math teacher, sharing his mission to transform the lives of teenagers by changing the way they think. He emphasizes the importance of building relationships with students and helping them develop a positive mindset. Cordarius discusses the challenges in the education system, the evolution of teaching and technology, and the need for more male Black educators. He also introduces his mentorship program, Coach Williams University, which aims to inspire and empower students. Cordarius highlights the significance of emotional support and the role of educators in shaping students' lives.

📚 What You'll Learn:

- Building relationships with students is crucial for their success and well-being.

- Math can be taught as a metaphor for life, teaching students problem-solving and critical thinking skills.

- Transforming teenagers' thinking requires tapping into their subconscious and addressing emotional needs.

- Parents and teachers play a vital role in changing students' thinking and boosting their self-esteem.

- The education system needs to evolve and adapt to incorporate technology and innovative teaching methods.

- Attracting more male Black educators requires creating pathways and opportunities for them in the profession.

🔗 Connect with Cordarius Williams:

TikTok & Instagram: @coachwilliamsuniversity

E-Mail: coachwilliamsllc@gmail.com

Learn more about Coach Williams University: http://coachwilliamsuniv.com

🔗 Connect with Dave Walker:

TikTok & Instagram: @thepedalingprincipal

E-Mail: thepedalingprincipal@gmail.com

Website: http://dmwalker.com

Articles on the Medium: https://medium.com/@thepedalingprincipal

In this episode of the Teach, Lead, Innovate Podcast, host Dave Walker interviews Clare Welsh, a cognitive behavioral hypnotherapist and mindset coach who specializes in helping educators with anxiety, burnout, and imposter syndrome. Clare shares her journey from being a primary school teacher to becoming a therapist and explains the importance of supporting the mental health and well-being of educators. She provides practical tips for educators who are feeling overwhelmed and emphasizes the need for teachers to support each other within their communities. Clare also offers advice for school leaders on creating a supportive environment for their staff.

Follow Dave Walker on Instagram & TikTok: @thepedalingprincipal

Follow Clare Welsh on Instagram @selfingwithclare

Dr. Scott Rocco, superintendent of the Hamilton Township School District, discusses his journey in education and the many initiatives he has led. He shares the story of how #satchat, a weekly educational Twitter chat, was started and the impact it has had on educators. Dr. Rocco also talks about the challenges he faces as a superintendent and the importance of technological innovation in education. He highlights the RISE committee, which focuses on reviewing, identifying, simplifying, and acting on practices in the district. Additionally, he discusses successful community partnerships and offers advice for aspiring superintendents. Dr. Rocco also introduces Evolving Educators, an organization for professional development by educators, for educators.

Chapters

Introduction and Background - 00:30

Starting #Satchat - 01:25

Inspiration to Pursue Educational Leadership - 04:30

Challenges Faced as a Superintendent - 08:10

Encouraging Technological Innovation - 15:15

Review, Identify, Simplify, and Act (RISE) Committee - 16:26

Successful Community Partnerships - 21:10

Lesson Learned as a Superintendent - 24:00

Advice for Aspiring Superintendents - 27:20

Evolving Educators - 30:35

Conclusion - 35:05

Dr. Rocco's Books:

Hacking Google for Education: 99 Ways to Leverage Google Tools in Classrooms, Schools, and Districts (Hack Learning Series)

https://a.co/d/6tAEVSe

140 Twitter Tips for Educators: Get Connected, Grow Your Professional Learning Network, and Reinvigorate Your Career

https://a.co/d/7iQ7LwH