10 Minute Teacher Podcast with Cool Cat Teacher

Dr. Catlin Tucker, bestselling author and blended learning expert, joins Vicki Davis to talk about how teachers can design better lessons with AI—without losing their essential human touch. From universal design for learning (UDL) to creating meaningful student choice, Dr. Tucker explains how AI can elevate lesson planning when used with intentionality and creativity. They discuss the limits of "AI lesson generators," what true differentiation looks like, and why great teaching still depends on relationships, empathy, and design thinking. Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by Clixo, an award-winning magnetic play system that inspires creativity in classrooms and makerspaces. These flexible magnetic pieces let students design, build, and explore endless 3D creations—perfect for STEAM labs, centers, or travel. Learn more at https://www.clixo.com/pages/target Listen and explore: How to use AI for meaningful lesson planning What teachers should not automate Building lessons that honor every learner's strengths The enduring value of teachers in an AI-driven world Show notes: https://www.coolcatteacher.com/e918

Join Nancy McCabe, an experienced writing instructor and director of the creative writing program at the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford, as she shares innovative strategies for teaching writing. Discover how 10-minute free writing sessions can spark creativity and why taking writing outdoors enhances student engagement. Nancy discusses the benefits of embracing mistakes as part of the learning process and emphasizes that writing is a form of thinking. Her insights on using imitation and sensory details will inspire teachers at all levels to rekindle their students' love for writing.

Learning a new language can be stressful, but it doesn't have to be! In this inspiring conversation, Spanish teacher Dawne Beck joins host Vicki Davis (Cool Cat Teacher) to share practical ways to create a low-anxiety, high-engagement classroom where students actually enjoy speaking another language. From using game-based learning and storytelling to integrating AI pronunciation tools like Speakable, Dawne explains how to build students' confidence while keeping the focus on communication over perfection. She also discusses strategies for helping third-language learners and students who feel self-conscious about speaking in class. Sponsored by Speakable. All opinions are those of Dawne Beck and Vicki Davis. 🎙️ Listen now to discover: How to lower anxiety in your language classroom Simple ways to use laughter and games for learning What "CAPT" (Computer Assisted Pronunciation Training) means for teachers How AI feedback tools like Speakable can save time and build confidence Learn more and find show notes at www.coolcatteacher.com/e916

My students asked me about the Adam Raine wrongful death suit. Parents have asked me. So, I had to spend some time digging into the issues there and how I will be part of the solution. Part of protecting kids from their favorite 'homework helper.' We should all be concerned, and I look forward to continuing to learn and converse about the issue of our times as it relates to children. Show notes and resources: https://www.coolcatteacher.com/chatgpt-wrongful-death-suit

Teachers often feel pressured to say "yes" to everything. Dr. Brad Johnson shares why assertiveness is the secret to avoiding burnout and thriving in your teaching career and how you can do it in a way that you're not considered negative. 3 Takeaways: • Assertiveness is about healthy boundaries, not aggression. • Saying "no" is essential to teacher self-care. • Administrators and teachers both benefit from assertive communication. Growth Reflection: How do you set healthy boundaries as an educator? Show Notes Link: https://www.coolcatteacher.com/e914

Too many kids see math as boring or irrelevant. Tinashe Blanchet shares how creative, real-world projects like scale models can help students engage deeply with math while still hitting standards. Read more: https://www.coolcatteacher.com/e913 3 Takeaways: • Scale models and PBL connect math to real life. • Measurement is often the weakest test area—but projects can fix that. • Teachers can start small with PBL, even in tight schedules. Growth Reflection: How have you used projects to make math more engaging? Show notes link: https://www.coolcatteacher.com/e913

AI didn't break assessments—it revealed just how flawed they already were. Richard Culatta, CEO of ISTE+ASCD, shares how schools can prepare AI-ready graduates, address bias, and rethink what learning really looks like. Show notes: https://www.coolcatteacher.com/e912 3 Takeaways: • Assessments weren't broken by AI—they were broken already. • An AI-ready graduate needs strong human skills like storytelling and problem-solving. • Addressing bias requires both human awareness and AI tools for cross-checking. Growth Reflection: How should schools redefine assessments in the age of AI?

Cyber attacks on schools are growing. Auburn University's Jay James shows how student-led cybersecurity operations prepare learners and protect campuses. 3 Takeaways: • Student SOCs give real-world, hands-on cybersecurity training. • AI tools like Microsoft Security Co-Pilot mentor students in real time. • K-12 schools can start small with focused projects and grow from there. Growth Prompt: How do you prepare students—or staff—for real cybersecurity threats? Show notes link: https://www.coolcatteacher.com/e911

Staff morale slipping or culture feeling off? In minutes, Stand Tall Steve Bollar shares quick, no-cost moves to lift school climate, empower staff, and unite your campus. Full links + guest bio: https://www.coolcatteacher.com/e910. Follow the 10 Minute Teacher for weekly classroom-ready tips. 3 Takeaways • Run a 7-week student-to-staff micro-challenge to build relationships fast. • Use five levels of decision-making to boost empowerment and morale. • Choose shared "anchors" to align subcultures and reduce toxicity. Growth Prompt Which micro-move will you try first—learn names, compliment shoes, thumbs-up signal, or eye contact + smile?

This segment dives into crucial warnings about AI social companion apps, revealing that 70% of students are using them. It addresses a significant Apple security update and critiques OpenAI's new Study Mode. A Cambridge expert gives it a C+ for effectiveness. There's a concerning exploration of bias in social AI, emphasizing its emotional pitfalls. The discussion also highlights the need for parents and educators to engage in conversations about AI's impact on personal development and education. It's a must-listen for anyone involved with students!