The Balance, by Dr. Catlin Tucker

Feedback and rubrics are powerful tools. In this episode, I explore how shifting from deficit-based to asset-based language can transform both your feedback and your rubrics. Drawing from my recent blog, I share why this shift matters, how it aligns with UDL, and how small changes in language can have a big impact on student motivation and self-efficacy. Plus, I offer practical strategies and AI tips to help you start revising your rubrics today. Related Blog: From Deficit to Growth: A Guide to Asset-Based Feedback and Rubric Design

We revisit an earlier episode when Dr. Catlin Tucker spoke with Kareem Farah about maximizing teacher time, boosting student engagement, and reimagining workflows through his Modern Classrooms Project. About Modern Classrooms Project Modern Classrooms Project Free Course

What do we mean when we say Universal Design for Learning (UDL)? How can UDL support an antiracist learning environment? In this episode of Dr. Catlin Tucker’s podcast, The Balance, she invites Andratesha Fritzgerald, an inclusive practices implementation consultant and life-long educator, to offer clarity around these themes and questions.  Learn More about Andratesha Fritzgerald Antiracism and Universal Design for Learning: Building Expressways to Success Building Blocks of Brilliance  

Catlin talks with Dr. Shaun Woodly about his personal experience teaching in urban schools with culturally diverse students. Catlin and Shaun discuss the need to consider, “What learning really looks like?” and whether teachers are creating spaces to foster authentic learning experiences for kids.  Listen to Shaun and Catlin as they discuss the four elements of urban education-–awareness, achievement, alliance, and artistry–and encourage teachers to consider which areas they can develop in their work with students to achieve balance. Learn more about Dr. Shaun Woodly Teach Hustle Inspire Instagram @teachhustleinspire

In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Tony Frontier, author of AI with Intention: Principles and Action Steps for School Leaders and Teachers, to explore how educators and school leaders can navigate the rapidly evolving landscape of AI with purpose. We discuss intentional leadership, the risks and opportunities of AI in education, the role of academic integrity, and how to design learning experiences that prioritize deep understanding over compliance. Dr. Frontier shares actionable strategies for leveraging AI as a tool for teaching and learning—without sacrificing the human side of education. Whether you're an administrator, instructional coach, or classroom teacher, this conversation offers insights into using AI to enhance, rather than replace, meaningful learning. Related Articles: Taking a Transformative Approach to AI Deeper Learning, Not Passive Compliance Get in Touch with Dr. Frontier X handle: @‌tonyfrontier Bluesky handle: @‌tonyfrontier.bsky.social Instagram handle: @‌presenttothemusic

In this episode, I explore how teachers can use what they learn about students during Tier 1 instruction to make informed decisions about what comes next. I discuss how to identify who needs targeted support and who’s ready for enrichment or extension. You'll hear practical strategies for collecting and using informal data to guide these decisions. If you're committed to creating a more responsive, inclusive, and dynamic classroom—but struggling to bridge the gap between Tier 1 instruction and Tier 2 intervention—this episode is for you! Related Blog: MTSS: Using Tier 1 Insights to Guide Intervention and Enrichment

Despite massive investments in educational technology, many classrooms still look and feel the same. Why? Because technology alone doesn’t drive transformation—how we use it does. In this episode, I break down why EdTech often falls short and share practical strategies, like blended learning models and reciprocal teaching, to ensure technology enhances—not replaces—meaningful learning experiences. It’s time to shift from passive technology use to intentional, student-centered learning that leverages technology strategically.

Delivering strong Tier 1 instruction is essential for ensuring all students have access to high-quality learning experiences. In this episode, I share three high-impact strategies—video instruction, whole-group instruction paired with a cooperative learning strategy, and small-group differentiated instruction—that can make lessons more engaging and effective. I explain when and why each approach is effective and how you can use them to remove barriers and meet diverse student needs. MTSS: Three Paths to Strong Tier 1 Instruction

In this episode, I chat with Caleb Hicks, CEO of Schoolai, to explore how AI can be a powerful tool for personalizing learning pathways and fostering meaningful connections in the classroom. We discuss how Schoolai spaces can help teachers see and hear students in real time, making it easier to be responsive to their needs. Caleb shares his vision for making school a place of true social connection—where every student feels valued, understood, and supported. Tune in to learn how AI can enhance both student learning and teacher effectiveness, transforming the classroom experience for all. Related Blogs: SchoolAI Spaces: Creating Self-Paced and Personalized Learning Pathways How Teachers Can Use SchoolAI Spaces to Design Dynamic, Student-led Learning

Great instruction starts before the lesson begins. In this episode, I review three critical steps teachers can take to prepare for effective Tier 1 instruction, ensuring all students have access to meaningful, engaging learning experiences. By designing with intentionality—and leveraging AI as a thought partner—we can create more inclusive and equitable classrooms. Visit my blog for more reading on MTSS strategies for your classroom.