Teacher Stories
Our podcast celebrates teachers and the important role they play in our lives and communities.
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- All Episodes 72
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- Video 19
A Teacher Story For the Ages - “Elaine’s Circle”
Author Bob Katz shares the extraordinary story of a gifted 4th-grade teacher named Elaine Moore, the central character of his book Elaine’s Circle: A Teacher, a Student, a Classroom, and One Unforgettable Year. One reviewer writes, “There are books that you read that stay with you all your life—Elaine’s Circle will be one of them.”
Acclaimed Journalist Clarence Page Might Not Be Writing Were It Not For This Teacher (actually two teachers)
Clarence Page reflects on 50+ years in journalism, inspired by his high school teacher and life lessons from his grandmother.
High School Teacher of the Year Willie Carver Quits - Another Casualty of the Culture Wars
Amid America’s culture wars, award-winning teacher Willie Carver shares why he left the classroom and the impact on his students.
Preserving American Democracy - Adequate and Equitable School Funding
How does inequitable school funding threaten democracy? Experts explore the impact on civic participation and solutions for change.
"A Mutual Admiration Society" - Jennifer Futernick's Tribute to Bruce Stewart
Bruce Stewart, a champion for social justice and education, hears a heartfelt tribute from a former student on his transformative legacy.
Peter Boykin was inspired to teach by his great-great grandfather - a slave, a cadet, and a teacher
Detroit teacher Peter Boykin shares his ancestor's journey from slavery to education, inspiring a legacy that lives on through teaching.
Three Teachers of the Year Share Stories about the Power of Teacher Leadership
Three Teachers of the Year share how teacher leadership shapes policy, strengthens schools, and ensures equitable education for all.
Psychology Professor Malik Boykin Teaches About Prejudice and Invites Us to Dance for Freedom
Musician and psychologist Malik Boykin shares how two transformational teachers shaped his path and inspired his unique teaching style.
Three Educators Reflect on How to Teach about the Insurrection
How should teachers address events like the January 6th insurrection? Three educators share their approaches to navigating controversy in the classroom.
Don Dumas Makes History Relevant to All of His Students
Once a struggling student, Don Dumas found purpose through a teacher who believed in him. Now a celebrated educator, he pays it forward by inspiring his own students to rise above their circumstances.
6th Grader Launches Podcast- About Politics!
Eleven-year-old Kaia Bali, host of Through a Gen-Z's Eyes, shares her passion for politics, podcasting, and the teacher who inspired her.
Teachers Tom Courtney and Rachel Petrivelli Connect with Families
After 22 years, "Minister of Fun" Tom Courtney finds his stride by building authentic family connections. Hear how he and his student teacher creatively overcame the pandemic’s challenges to keep the magic alive.
Four College Students Reflect On Being Black in School
Four Black college students share their school experiences, confronting racism and advocating for equity through diverse, culturally responsive teaching.
Black Teacher Project Director Micia Mosely Reunites with Former Student, Belinda Bellinger
Dr. Micia Mosely and her former student, now teacher Belinda Bellinger, reunite decades later to reflect on their journeys, collaborate as colleagues, and discuss the impact of the Black Lives Matter movement in education.
An Education Marked by Opportunity and Inspiration and by Roadblocks and Racism
Dr. Sharon Tettegah reflects on her journey through education, from segregated schools to confronting racism, and calls on educators to challenge systemic biases in the era of Black Lives Matter.
Teaching Abroad, Josh Gaston Learns to Navigate Cultural Divides
Josh Gaston shares his journey teaching English abroad, navigating cultural norms, and empowering students while adapting to diverse practices.
Teaching History Through Troubled Times
History teacher Tracy Barnett focuses on ideas over dates, inspiring students to connect the past to today's issues, including Black Lives Matter.
Teaching and Learning During the Pandemic - No Silver Linings for Some
Amid pandemic challenges, Ken Futernick shares stories of hope and hardship, urging action to help those facing unbearable obstacles.
The highs and lows of teaching amid the pandemic with Rachell Auld
High school biology teacher Rachell Auld shares her journey of teaching and connecting with students during the COVID-19 pandemic. Her story reveals the challenges, rewards, and resilience that define this unprecedented time in education.
Bilingual Students Band Together to Help School Stay Virtually Connected
When Crawford High School closed due to COVID-19, many families lacked internet access and technology for online learning. Led by student body president Tina Tran, a group of students worked together with a teacher to help bridge the gap and support their community.