The Cult of Pedagogy Podcast

Redirecting student questions with guiding inquiries can transform the classroom experience. This approach fosters critical thinking and independence, empowering students to discover answers on their own. By prioritizing self-reliance over immediate responses, teachers can enhance learning and maintain effective classroom management. The discussion also emphasizes the importance of a positive tone in these interactions, creating a supportive environment for student exploration.

Marcus Luther, a seasoned high school English teacher and co-founder of The Broken Copier, shares insights on the transformative power of using student work as teaching tools. He highlights four innovative strategies that foster student confidence, engagement, and community. By showcasing real student exemplars, he counters the impact of AI on writing and emphasizes the importance of a supportive classroom environment. Luther discusses the creation of interactive displays like the 'Beautiful Language Wall' to celebrate achievements and energize peer collaboration in writing.

Dr. Gholdy Muhammad, an Endowed Professor of Literacy and author of 'Cultivating Genius' and 'Unearthing Joy', emphasizes the vital role of joy in education. She discusses practical strategies for infusing joy into classrooms, especially in challenging times. Gholdy connects joy to justice and argues it’s essential for both students and teachers’ survival. The conversation delves into culturally responsive literacy and a curriculum designed to foster creativity and community, promoting a transformative educational experience.

The practice of collecting supplies and distributing them to all students over the school year has become a common practice in elementary schools. Unfortunately, not all parents are happy with it, and much of the trouble stems from a few key misunderstandings. In this episode, my guest Julie Lause explains why schools use these systems and how they ensure that time in class is used effectively and every student gets the best education possible. Thanks to Alpaca and the EVERFI for sponsoring this episode. To read Julie's guest post, visit cultofpedagogy.com/community-supplies. You can find Julie on TikTok at @thebossyhouse 

Join Tom Rademacher, a former middle school English teacher and 2014 Minnesota Teacher of the Year, as he redefines classroom decor. He shares the innovative 'One Word Wall' and 'What You Bring' projects that empower students to showcase their identities through creativity. Discover how these activities foster a sense of ownership and belonging, transforming classroom walls into vibrant displays of student expression. Plus, Tom provides insights on the emotional challenges students face today and the importance of embracing their voices.

Dan Tricarico, an English teacher and author of 'The Zen Teacher,' discusses how he revitalized a love for reading among his students by reintroducing daily silent reading. He shares insights on the challenges posed by digital distractions and the mental well-being benefits of traditional reading practices. Tricarico emphasizes the importance of creating supportive environments to engage reluctant readers and reflects on his long teaching journey, advocating for mindfulness and simplicity in education.

Teachers might unwittingly put students in uncomfortable situations when asking them to share personal stories. The podcast draws parallels to Charlie Bucket's struggles in Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory, highlighting the need for educators to be sensitive to socioeconomic differences. It offers insights on fostering a respectful environment, reminding listeners to avoid potential humiliation and to seek alternative ways to engage all students inclusively.

In this engaging discussion, Amy Tondreau, an assistant professor specializing in literacy, and Laurie Rabinowitz, an education studies professor with a background in special education, share their insights on disability-sustaining pedagogy. They argue that disability should be viewed as a cultural identity rather than a deficit, offering practical strategies to create inclusive and empowering classrooms. The conversation delves into the importance of representation, effective communication between educators, and approaches to embrace diverse learning needs.

In this enlightening discussion, the focus is on how teachers can unleash their inner 'dork' to create a more engaging classroom. By embracing vulnerability, educators can model risk-taking behaviors, making it easier for shy students to participate. The use of interactive activities invites fun and connection, transforming the traditional learning environment. A clever nod to using tools like Studio for better organization also highlights practical strategies for fostering student success. Get ready to encourage a culture of bravery in your classroom!

bink jones, a restorative justice educator, and Alex Shevrin Venet, a trauma-informed consultant, dive into the complexities of school discipline reform. They address the frustrating breakdown of discipline systems that leave teachers feeling unsupported. Both guests emphasize the misinterpretations of restorative practices and advocate for community-building strategies over punitive measures. They also highlight the need for effective training to create safe, respectful classrooms, offering hopeful paths for educators striving for positive change.