Transformative Principal

Welcome to our National Literacy Month series of podcasts, presented in partnership between the Be Podcast Network and Reading Is Fundamental (RIF).In this interview, Tanya Sheckley and Brittany Botta from Up Academy discussed their Rebel Project Literacy Curriculum. They explained that project-based learning often didn't align well with literacy, so they developed this curriculum that focuses on a particular aspect of writing ineach module. They have seen positive results, with students not showing resistance to reading and writing. The curriculum divides the literacy block into community, agency, SELf-check, empowerment, and wrap-up. They emphasized the importance of creating timefor learning what really matters and providing space and time for students to read to increase literacy in schools.Up Academy - love of learning, inclusive educational space. Project based learning didn’t always align well to literacy. Rebel Project Literacy CurriculumEach module is focused on a particular aspect of writing. Don’t

This episode is a special episode from UDL-Con, powered by CAST. CAST just released the Guidelines for (Universal Design for Learning) UDL 3.0, which you can find here. If you don't know what UDL is, it's a way to make learning accessible for everyone! You can check out more about the webinars here.Enjoy this special episode.Jethro Jones interviews Missy Emler and Mia Chmiel, who host the UDLForward Community. Missy shares her experiences and insights as a statewide systems coach for UDL in Wisconsin, diving deep into the implementation science framework and the trials process. Mia Chmiel also joins the conversation to discuss practical examples of UDL trials and their impact on student engagement and learning outcomes.00:00 Introduction00:50 Meet Missy Emler01:18 Reasons for Attending UDL Con01:52 Implementation Science and UDL in Wisconsin04:15 Plan, Study, Do, Act Cycles05:57 Practical Outcomes of UDL Trials14:50 Mia Chmiel's Role and Insights26:46 Joining the Wisconsin UDL Community For more information a

The podcast will discuss RIF's approach to partnerships, emphasizing the importance of both national reach and localized collaboration. It will explore strategies for promoting literacy, such as creating reading spaces in everyday locations like laundromats and parks. The conversation will likely touch on the children's literacy crisis and RIF's core philosophy of fostering the joy of reading. Jennifer Moone, drawing from her extensive experience at RIF, will share insights on how principals can integrate literacy initiatives throughout the school year.How RIF sees partnershipsNational scope and scale vs. localized partnerships. Look at your community and who is already doing those things, and call on those partners to Read-aloud at a street festivalDriving reading motivation through supplemental materials (like providing Literacy Central resourcesLiteracy Network Meeting families and communities where they are. Literacy spaces within laundromats, playgrounds, parks, starbucks. Anyplace where kids are, there

This episode is a special episode from UDL-Con, powered by CAST. CAST just released the Guidelines for (Universal Design for Learning) UDL 3.0, which you can find here. If you don't know what UDL is, it's a way to make learning accessible for everyone! You can check out more about the webinars here.Enjoy this special episode.Jethro Jones is joined by Alex Dang-Lozano from WestEd. They discuss the concept of Universal Design for Learning (UDL), the UDL Jam session and Joy Room, and the importance of unstructured interaction spaces at conferences. Alex shares insights into creating adaptable conference spaces and highlights the broad applications of UDL beyond the classroom. The episode concludes with information about WestEd and ways to connect with Alex and his team.Get in touch with Alex: Alozano@wested.org00:00 Introduction03:08 The Importance of Unstructured Spaces05:48 Designing an Adaptable Conference Room10:00 About WestEd11:45 Closing Remarks and Contact Information For more information about UDL, visi

This episode is a special episode from UDL-Con, powered by CAST. CAST just released the Guidelines for (Universal Design for Learning) UDL 3.0, which you can find here. If you don't know what UDL is, it's a way to make learning accessible for everyone! You can check out more about the webinars here.Enjoy this special episode.Jethro Jones speaks with Adam Lalor, Vice President at Landmark College. They discuss Universal Design for Learning (UDL), Landmark College's unique approach to educating neurodivergent students, and broader inclusivity in higher education. Get in touch with Adam: adamlalor@landmark.edu00:58 Welcome and Guest Introduction01:12 Landmark College's Unique Approach02:02 Exploring Neurodiversity03:27 Challenges of Focusing on Identity04:24 Integrating Identities and Advocacy06:50 Advice for Other Institutions09:35 Value of Universal Design for Learning For more information about UDL, visit cast.org

In this episode of the Transformative Principal podcast, Gina Davenport, a seasoned educator with over 30 years of experience, shares her insights on creating a student-centered learning environment. Davenport emphasizes the importance of building strong relationships between teachers and students, highlighting the often-overlooked need for social-emotional learning (SEL) in secondary education.Davenport discusses the success of the AVID program at her school, describing it as "SEL on steroids." She also introduces the "Arundel Attributes," a framework designed to foster ownership and responsibility among students. The implementation of Restorative Practices led to a significant decrease in disciplinary issues, demonstrating the effectiveness of a caring and supportive school culture.The conversation also touches on the challenges faced by educators, including the misconception that students' frontal lobes are fully developed and the lack of support for secondary students. Davenport shares her experience of n

This episode is a special episode from UDL-Con, powered by CAST. CAST just released the Guidelines for (Universal Design for Learning) UDL 3.0, which you can find here. If you don't know what UDL is, it's a way to make learning accessible for everyone! You can check out more about the webinars here.Enjoy this special episode.Jethro Jones interviews Mirko Chardin, the keynote speaker at the UDL Conference. Together, they discuss Universal Design for Learning (UDL), transformative educational moments, and the importance of ensuring that education is accessible and relevant for all students. They discuss Chardin's personal experiences, innovative teaching methods, and the necessity of preparing the next generation for leadership and decision-making.Get in touch with Mirko: Mirko@novakeducation.com00:00 Introduction to the Special Episode and UDL Conference00:49 Welcoming Guest Speaker Mirko Chardin01:31 Mirko Chardin Shares His Transformative Educational Moment02:41 The Concept of Being a Ruckus Maker in Educati

This episode is a special episode from UDL-Con, powered by CAST. CAST just released the Guidelines for (Universal Design for Learning) UDL 3.0, which you can find here. If you don't know what UDL is, it's a way to make learning accessible for everyone! You can check out more about the webinars here.Enjoy this special episode.Jethro Jones interviews Kelli Suding and Michelle Soriano, technical assistant specialists at CAST. They discuss their roles in supporting educators with accessibility and universal design for learning (UDL), the significance of storytelling in education, the importance of UDL-Con, and the value of both engagement and entertainment in learning environments.Get in touch with Michelle: Msoriano@cast.orgGet in touch with Kelli: Ksuding@cast.org00:00 Introduction to UDL Con and Guests01:06 Michelle Soriano on Technical Assistance01:32 Kelli Suding on Her Role and Background02:02 Explaining Technical Assistance04:01 Importance of Storytelling in Education07:51 The Joy Lab and Its Impact05:43 W

Learn how to get the guaranteed highest pension payout. Jethro Jones discusses the "Pension Maximization" strategy for school principals with John "Hutch" Hutchinson. Rather than protecting your spouse by choosing a reduced monthly benefit payment from your pension, you can instead calibrate a life insurance policy to guarantee you the highest monthly pension payout possible. Plus, you can also take extra tax-free income from the cash value as you go. Resources & Timestamps:Comprehensive article on how Pension Maximization works:https://bankingtruths.com/pension-maximization/Video example of Pension Maximization:https://youtu.be/dReUsxKJTFcBook a free consult about customizing Pension Max for you:https://bankingtruths.com/pension-max-schedule/Podcast Timestamps 0:00 - Risk off money and how Big Banks invest their safe reserves. 4:00 - Intro to the Pension Maximization strategy7:00 - How a Life Insurance policy can help you take a bigger pension payment11:20 - Pension reductions for survivor benefits are j

This episode is a special episode from UDL-Con, powered by CAST. CAST just released the Guidelines for (Universal Design for Learning) UDL 3.0, which you can find here. If you don't know what UDL is, it's a way to make learning accessible for everyone! You can check out more about the webinars here.Enjoy this special episode.Jethro Jones interviews David Gordon, Chief Content Officer of cast. They discuss the 20th and 40th anniversaries of CAST, the evolution of Universal Design for Learning (UDL), the impacts of technology, the development of UDL guidelines, and the importance of engagement and collaboration in education.00:00 Introduction and Recent Updates00:48 Aspirations and Achievements Over 20 Years02:36 Technological Advancements and Their Impact11:02 Publishing and Sharing Knowledge13:30 Collaborative Efforts and Future Vision For more information about UDL, visit cast.org

This episode is a special episode from UDL-Con, powered by CAST. CAST just released the Guidelines for (Universal Design for Learning) UDL 3.0, which you can find here. If you don't know what UDL is, it's a way to make learning accessible for everyone! You can check out more about the webinars here.Enjoy this special episode.In this episode of Transformative Principal, host Jethro D. Jones interviews Corinne Quintana and Mrs. G. from Bishop, California. They discuss their roles in the high school, their experiences with UDL (Universal Design for Learning), and the insights they've gained from attending the UDL conference. They touch on the challenges and strategies for implementing UDL in their school, particularly within the math department, and the benefits of understanding diverse student learning styles.00:00 Introduction00:36 Roles and Background01:24 Reasons for Attending UDL Conference02:44 Takeaways from the UDL Conference04:01 Applying UDL in the Classroom05:49 Personal Insights and Reflections For m

Everyone should have a coachThere are people who are viewed as the real prosThe difference between having a coach and “just getting better”The biggest mistake coaches make.How to mix the coach’s agenda with what the teacher is doingPersonal relationship vs. professional relationshipFocus is powerful. Teacher behavior during a training vs. teacher behavior in classroom.Teachers don’t have to be an entertainer. Coaches as a model lesson. Power Phrases and Phrases to Never Say.Teacher behavior matches the behavior of the grade they teach.Techniques that work regardless of your personality. Coaching cycles are important. Meet, observe, debrief, Check-inThis is your lesson, do it your way. Coaches need to be smiling during the observation. Debrief - how they evaluated their own lesson. Calibrate with a local coach or administrator. How to be a Transformative Principal? Know that your role is not that of a coach. Coach helps teachers get better. Principal - don’t get in the way! Part of a system of improvement.Abou

This episode is a special episode from UDL-Con, powered by CAST. CAST just released the Guidelines for (Universal Design for Learning) UDL 3.0, which you can find here. If you don't know what UDL is, it's a way to make learning accessible for everyone! You can check out more about the webinars here.Enjoy this special episode.Jethro Jones speaks with Donald Walker, National Career Technical Education Trainer at CAST. They discuss the importance of Universal Design for Learning (UDL) in Career Technical Education (CTE), the use of drones to introduce young girls to STEM, addressing barriers in education, and the empowering aspects of UDL. The conversation also addresses the importance of safety in CTE programs and how UDL helps in engaging diverse student populations.Get in touch with Donald: dwalker@cast.org00:00 Introduction to Donald Walker and the Role at CAST01:29 Importance of UDL in CTE03:08 Using Drones to Introduce Girls to STEM04:07 Developing UDL-based Curriculum06:32 Engagement, Representation, and

This episode is a special episode from UDL-Con, powered by CAST. CAST just released the Guidelines for (Universal Design for Learning) UDL 3.0, which you can find here. If you don't know what UDL is, it's a way to make learning accessible for everyone! You can check out more about the webinars here.Enjoy this special episode.In this special episode recorded live at the  UDL-Con: International Conference, host Jethro Jones interviews Shelley Berman, Chair of the Board at CAST, about the transformative nature of Universal Design for Learning (UDL). They explore how UDL shifts the educational focus from fixing students to fixing the educational system itself, emphasizing the importance of creating responsive and empowering learning environments.00:00 Introduction to UDL Con and Shelley Berman01:36 The Life-Changing Impact of UDL13:30 Shifting Perspectives from Students to Systems08:15 The Importance of Knowing the Students12:47 Creating Empowering Learning Environments16:48 Making Meaning in Education For more i

Teaching distance before COVIDEnglish as a foreign language virtually and in person. How COVID remote learning laid the groundwork for virtual wellnessStudent Wellness for the internetDeveloping a personal relationship with AI that is based on curiosity and skepticism. Mindful adoption of technologyAI as a spectrumWhere AI brings out YOU!It’s not about how you USE this tech, it’s about how it augments you personally. What are the things AI can help you with and what are you already doing? How to be a transformative principal? Bring intention to your digital environments and interactions.  About Seth FleischauerSeth is the president of Banyan Global Learning, which he founded in 2008 after teaching elementary school via NYC Teaching Fellows. With Banyan, Seth helps schools leverage technology for teacher and student wellness, including with AI Literacy PD for teachers and live virtual programs for students. Seth's programs have reached more than 10,000 students on three continents and touched the lives of teac

This episode is a special episode from UDL-Con, powered by CAST. CAST just released the Guidelines for (Universal Design for Learning) UDL 3.0, which you can find here. If you don't know what UDL is, it's a way to make learning accessible for everyone! You can check out more about the webinars here.Enjoy this special episode.In this episode Jethro Jones interviews Lindsay Jones, CEO of CAST, during the UDL-Con: International Conference. They discuss the importance of Universal Design for Learning (UDL), the significance of in-person collaboration, and CAST's mission for the future.00:00 Introduction to the UDL Conference01:11 The Impact of UDL and the Conference Experience02:16 Future Directions for CAST and UDL Guidelines 3.003:49 The Three Main Focuses: Lead, Inspire, Convene07:23 Real-World Applications and Stories of UDL09:51 The Importance of In-Person Attendance at the Conference We’re thrilled to be sponsored by IXL. IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, a

This episode is a special episode from UDL-Con, powered by CAST. CAST just released the Guidelines for (Universal Design for Learning) UDL 3.0, which you can find here. If you don't know what UDL is, it's a way to make learning accessible for everyone! You can check out more about the webinars here.Enjoy this special episode.In this episode of Transformative Principal, host Jethro Jones interviews Andratesha Fritzgerald live at the UDL-Con: International Conference. They discuss the concept of Universal Design for Learning (UDL) and its significance in making learning accessible to all students. Fritzgerald discusses the Instructional Practice Interrogation protocol, explaining how it helps educators identify and address barriers in teaching strategies. The conversation also touches on the importance of community in UDL and how traditional practices can be interrogated and adapted for better learning outcomes.00:00 Introduction to UDL and CAST UDL Con01:08 Interview with Andratesha Fritzgerald01:45 Instructio

Vital in an education setting to experience what life is like without a phoneHow you develop character through whether you’re using a phone or not. How to help teachers not be phone police.Support throughout the whole processCommon complaints about schoolsResetting expectations about structuresSchool taking a constructive approach to support student growth and developmentHow to do a rollout. Classroom vs. School phone free spaces. Tier 1 support worked better, but needs more communication.Accompanied by a strong and clear policy and then following through. More and more students are open to the idea of being phone free. Kids are aware that being connected all the time may not be beneficial.Yes, you can teach, but they need to actually do. Clarity and community buy-in. Graham Dugoni is the founder and CEO of Yondr. Since starting the company in 2014,he has been a leading voice in the emerging conversation about the effects of phoneson society and mental health. Graham coined the terms “phone-free spaces” and“p

Giving UDL away for freeBuilding products through grantsPeople think UDL is static, but it isn’t. Identity is important. UDL is human centric, not student centric.How UDL invites students to take ownership of their learning experiences. Do you feel behind? “What if I could have gone through school feeling unencumbered?” Expert Learners vs. executive functioningBounded autonomy. Assumptions about student learning. Joy Zabala - You can’t boil the oceanUDL Con is an ExperienceAI, Accessibility, UDL Guidelines 3.0UDL Con - where the guidelines will be released. CAST.org - check out the projects and resources. How to be a transformative principal? Ghostwalks - walk with nobody there in your school. What is being said by what is on the walls and in the classroom. About Bryan DeanBryan Dean is CAST's Innovation Specialist. Bryan has been working with hard-to-reach students with emotional impairments, conduct disorder, behavioral difficulties, and low interest for more than 20 years. Bryan has experience designing pr

ShouldStorm - Culture of perfectionism and criticismWe as parents want to do what is best for our kids, but we are bombarded by everyone telling us what we should and should not do. Finding the “right” answer.Defining “expert”How the ShouldStorm impacts our kidsWe like to blame social media, but it really comes from what we talk about in our communities. What matters is not the college but the student.If you play someone else’s game, you will always lose, if you’re playing your own game, you can’t lose. Sigh, See, Start: transitions you from the anxiety of the ShouldStorm, to connection with your kids. The sigh is a built-in mechanism in our bodies, breathe out long and slow - sends a message to our body that we are OK. Vagus nerve turns on prefrontal cortex. See - moment of mindfulness - see your child. Noticing, not doing. Start - run an experiment about how to help the situation. Built on a faith that is scientifically grounded, you (and your kids) are more capable than you think (and than the world will t