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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To Protect Democracy Keep Controversies, Current Events, and Politics in the Classroom
Should teachers tackle controversial issues in class? Civic education expert Diana Hess makes the case for balanced, democratic dialogue.
History Education, Civics, and Student Advocacy - Seeking Common Ground
What should civics education look like in a democracy? Guests from diverse perspectives tackle controversial laws, teaching, and real-world civics.
Schools and Democracy - Education for Character
How can character education save democracy? Experts share why building moral, democratic children is key to our nation's future.
Honest History and "Civic Mindedness" for Younger Learners
In the era of fake news and political pressure, experts discuss how history and civics education can protect democracy and teach the whole story.
Teaching in the Era of Fake News and "Hoaxes"
How can educators help students navigate fake news and motivated reasoning? Experts share strategies to foster evidence-based thinking.
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.
Teacher Restrictions in Texas - A Threat to Education and Democracy?
How do laws like Texas's HB 3979 impact student learning and democracy? Experts discuss the effects of restricting classroom discussions.
Schools and Democracy - The Power of Civic Engagement
Can real-world civic engagement in schools save democracy? Experts share strategies to prepare students for meaningful participation.
"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.
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.
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.
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.
Chris Hasegawa on the "Art" of Teaching Science
Chris Hasegawa shares what makes great science teaching impactful and reflects on the powerful lessons from students who changed his life.
Fred Shoemaker's Wisdom about Teaching, Learning, and Life
Fred Shoemaker, one of America’s top golf instructors, reveals how empowering self-discovery over fixing flaws transforms teaching, parenting, and coaching. Hear insights on curiosity, contribution, and the power of feedback to inspire growth.
Rob McClurg Reflects on his Teaching Career and the Teachers Who Shaped his Life
Rob McClurg, a seasoned educator, reflects on his classroom stories, teaching at the Monterey Bay Aquarium, and volunteering at Soledad State Prison.
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.
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.
Never Again Will Kathryn Isaacs use the Phrase 'Merely a Teacher'
In 8th grade, Kathryn Isaacs learned a powerful lesson about how we view teachers. Decades later, her career reveals the story's irony and her reflections on teaching amid a pandemic and the Black Lives Matter movement.
An Inspired English Teacher Confronts Two Crises: COVID-19 and an Act of Hate
Denver teacher Jason DiGioia shares how inspiring educators shaped his love of literature, his approach to teaching life lessons, and how he’s navigating the challenges of the pandemic and a shocking act of hate at his school.
What is good teaching? A Conversation with Alfie Kohn
Author and educator Alfie Kohn challenges us to define our shared, long-term goals for children before identifying what makes a good teacher. In this thought-provoking podcast, he argues that to cultivate thoughtful, life-long learners, teachers must empower students to question, challenge, and take control of their own learning.