Curious about the secrets behind teacher resilience in a rapidly changing educational landscape? Join us for an enlightening conversation with Lindsay Prendergast and Piper Lee, seasoned educators with over 40 years of combined experience, as they share their invaluable insights from their book, "Habits of Resilient Educators: Strategies for Thriving During Times of Anxiety, Doubt, and Constant Change." Discover the nine essential habits that can help educators navigate burnout and fatigue, and learn practical strategies to clarify and adapt your purpose throughout your teaching career. Lindsay and Piper's observations from hundreds of instructional rounds offer a fresh perspective on maintaining well-being and effectiveness in the classroom.In another compelling segment, we explore the transformative power of collaboration and prioritization in education. By leveraging positive psychology and data, we discuss how educators can cultivate resilience and hope, despite the overwhelming demands of the profession. Christine and I delve into the shift from a deficit mindset to one of support, and share actionable strategies to minimize cognitive load and stress. Wrapping up, we reflect on the profound rewards of teaching and the essential role of community and collaboration in overcoming educational challenges. This episode is a heartfelt tribute to the joys and struggles of being an educator, complete with practical advice for thriving amidst constant change.Lindsay Prendergast and Piper Lee have collectively been working in education for over four decades. Today, when not immersed in coaching district and school educators around powerful practices to elevate student learning, they can be found spending evening hours brainstorming and ideating ways to help teachers and leaders do their best work for students. Over the past nearly-three years, Piper and Lindsay conducted hundreds of hours of instructional rounds with educators of all levels and the book they will share today is not only the synthesis of these observations, but a message of hope for those remaining in the classroom. As veteran educators themselves who now have the privilege to support districts and schools around the country through their work with NWEA and The Danielson Group, Piper and Lindsay are excited to share Habits of Resilient Educators: Strategies for Thriving During Times of Anxiety, Doubt, and Constant Change with educators everywhere and offer practical, proven, simple habits that may fuel educators' well-being and impact for many years to come.Order the book:https://us.corwin.com/books/habits-of-resilient-educators-285205Discount code: CORWIN25Book study sign up form:  https://forms.gle/Mdf9MnuTZ1nCShYh7This episode is sponsored by Plan Z Professional Learning Services. Send us a textSupport the show Buy The Minimalist Teacher book on Amazon.Follow on Instagram @PlanZEducation and @minimalist_ed_podcast.The Minimalist Educator Podcast is a Plan Z Education Services adventure.

Unlock the secrets of fostering engaging classroom conversations that can transform your teaching experience. Join us as we chat with Jennifer Orr, a seasoned elementary school teacher and author, whose insights are a game-changer for educators, especially those working with English language learners. Jennifer shares her incredible journey of spearheading an initiative that revolutionized student engagement in her school, offering practical tips on leveraging students' existing conversation skills and integrating spontaneous discussions. Her enthusiasm and tried-and-true methods will inspire you to bring more active listening and participation into your classroom.We also tackle the pivotal role of inclusivity in classroom conversations. Learn how to build a trusting community where students feel safe to express themselves and engage in respectful dialogue about complex topics. Jennifer discusses daily morning meetings and low-risk discussions as gateways to deeper conversations, emphasizing the importance of curiosity and active listening. Additionally, discover how thoughtful leadership and technology can enhance academic conversations, empowering both teachers and students. If you're looking to create a more engaging and inclusive classroom environment, this episode is packed with actionable advice and real-life stories that you won't want to miss.Jen's books:Demystifying Discussion: How to Teach and Assess Academic Conversation Skills, K-5We're Gonna Keep On Talking: How to Lead Meaningful Race Conversations in the Elementary ClassroomThis episode is sponsored by Plan Z Professional Learning Services: forward-thinking educator support.Send us a textSupport the show Buy The Minimalist Teacher book on Amazon.Follow on Instagram @PlanZEducation and @minimalist_ed_podcast.The Minimalist Educator Podcast is a Plan Z Education Services adventure.

Chris Fenning, a seasoned business author and communication trainer for giants like Google and NATO, shares his expertise on effective messaging. He discusses turning frustrations with meetings into impactful communication strategies. Chris emphasizes the importance of repetition and empathy in learning and navigating tough conversations. He advocates for a 'build it once, use many times' approach to repurpose educational content efficiently. Tune in for actionable insights to transform your communication skills in both corporate and educational settings!

Ready to transform your approach to educational leadership? Join us on the Minimalist Educator Podcast, where we welcome Mihoko Chida, a seasoned educational leader with over two decades of experience in Tokyo and Bangkok. Mihoko opens up about her journey, the relentless pressures of the role, and the critical decision to take a career break for her own well-being. Her candid discussion on the impacts of COVID-19 and the concept of being a "functional burnt-out leader" serves as a vital lesson for all passionate educators: self-care and intentional choices are non-negotiable.Balancing professional responsibilities with personal well-being isn't just a solo endeavor. In our second chapter, we explore the taxing demands faced by school leaders and teachers, highlighting the necessity of setting boundaries and cultivating hobbies outside of work. We discuss the importance of systemic support in fostering teacher well-being, offering personal anecdotes and practical strategies to help educators achieve a healthy work-life balance. These insights are not just theoretical but actionable steps that can make a real difference in daily routines.In the final segments, we delve into the importance of fostering positive team relationships and effective task management. Mihoko shares strategies like using filter questions to prioritize tasks, making them more meaningful and collaborative. As she embarks on new pathways in her professional journey, Mihoko reflects on the significance of continuous learning and growth. We extend our heartfelt thanks to her for sharing her story and remind our listeners to stay connected and share their own experiences with minimalism in education. Tune in for a thoughtful and necessary conversation on navigating stress, fostering well-being, and creating meaningful work in education.Send us a textSupport the show Buy The Minimalist Teacher book on Amazon.Follow on Instagram @PlanZEducation and @minimalist_ed_podcast.The Minimalist Educator Podcast is a Plan Z Education Services adventure.

Unlock the secrets to intentional leadership in education with our special guests, Peter DeWitt and Mike Nelson. This episode promises to transform your approach to educational leadership, as we dive into their book "Leading with Intention: How School Leaders Can Unlock Deeper Collaboration and Drive Results." Learn from Mike's game-changing experience in professional learning during the pandemic, which led to his fruitful collaboration with Peter and the creation of the Instructional Leadership Network. Together, they reveal how to foster deeper connections, enhance self-awareness, and achieve impactful outcomes in your educational setting.Discover how to build systems that support intentional leadership, starting with the innovative practice of setting the next meeting's agenda at the end of the current one. We explore the powerful concept of de-implementation, encouraging educators to reflect on their actions and abandon low-value practices. Peter and Mike discuss the importance of partnerships, visual aids, and self-evaluation as tools for educational leaders to maximize their effectiveness and support continuous improvement among staff.Finally, get inspired by effective habits and inquiry cycles, drawing from James Clear's teachings. Peter and Mike provide practical examples of habit tracking, both personally and professionally, and stress the importance of nonjudgmental, evidence-based coaching conversations. Learn how the Instructional Leadership Collective fosters collective efficacy through continuous professional development, and discover how you can connect with our guests and join the minimalist education movement. Don't miss this enlightening episode that promises to elevate your leadership skills and transform your educational environment.Episode Sponsor: Instructional Leadership Collective - The mission of the Instructional Leadership Collective is to help educators develop their internal and external self-awareness as leaders, foster human interconnectedness, and develop collective efficacy through ongoing professional learning so they are inspired to be their best selves. Website:  https://instructionalleadershipcollective.com/Book:  https://us.corwin.com/books/leading-with-intention-287548Send us a textSupport the show Buy The Minimalist Teacher book on Amazon.Follow on Instagram @PlanZEducation and @minimalist_ed_podcast.The Minimalist Educator Podcast is a Plan Z Education Services adventure.

Ever wondered why maintaining a tidy workspace seems impossible despite your best efforts? Join us as Christine and I unpack our personal struggles with clutter—from Christine's double-duty roles at school creating chaos in her office and classroom, to my ongoing battle with post-it notes overtaking my desk. We get candid about how life's interruptions often derail our organizational goals and share the practical strategies that help us reclaim order in our environments.Discover the profound impact clutter has on mental well-being and the culture of shared spaces, especially in educational settings. We discuss actionable tips like creating routines, scheduling decluttering sessions, and leveraging accountability partners. Plus, don’t miss our game-changing five-minute rule to beat procrastination and our 30-day decluttering challenge tailored for teachers. Tune in for thoughtful gift-giving ideas and creative solutions to manage daily clutter, ensuring a more organized and stress-free work environment.Send us a textSupport the show Buy The Minimalist Teacher book on Amazon.Follow on Instagram @PlanZEducation and @minimalist_ed_podcast.The Minimalist Educator Podcast is a Plan Z Education Services adventure.

Ever wondered why your meticulously planned day goes awry the moment an unexpected event occurs? Join us on the Minimalist Educator Podcast as we delve into the art of creating buffers in educational settings. In this episode, Tammy Musialski-Bornemann and Christine Arnold, co-authors of the Minimalist Teacher Book, share how building extra time into your schedule can transform your teaching experience. Drawing inspiration from Angela Watson's Truth for Teachers podcast, we discuss practical strategies to avoid the pitfalls of rigid planning and manage inevitable interruptions. From allowing extra time at the end of a unit to handling commuting delays, discover how realistic scheduling can alleviate frustration and enhance productivity.But that's not all—buffer time isn't just about handling unexpected events; it's about preserving your mental well-being. Reflecting on personal experiences, we emphasize the importance of rest and reset moments to stave off burnout. Listen as we explore techniques like blocking more time than estimated for tasks and distinguishing between "must-haves" and "amazings" in lesson planning. Learn how focusing on key learning points can help meet essential objectives while leaving room for exceeding targets. Tune in to uncover how a structured yet flexible approach can lead to positive educational outcomes and a more balanced life.Send us a textSupport the show Buy The Minimalist Teacher book on Amazon.Follow on Instagram @PlanZEducation and @minimalist_ed_podcast.The Minimalist Educator Podcast is a Plan Z Education Services adventure.

Curious about how to align your time with your true educational priorities? In this bonus episode, Tammy Musiowsky-Borneman and Christine Arnold give you an exciting preview of what's coming in season three of the Minimalist Educator Podcast. From innovative thinking maps to slow schools, and from classroom dynamics to resilience, we’ve got an array of thought-provoking topics lined up. Our first episode features a must-listen conversation with Peter DeWitt and Michael Nelson about their new book, "Intentional Leadership." This season promises to equip you with invaluable insights and actionable strategies to declutter your educational approach and enhance your professional life.We'll also bring you compelling discussions with teacher practitioners and experts on issues like equity and diversity, online programs, and high school science. Expect engaging conversations that dig into communication, burnout, and the power of arts in education. Tammy and Christine will share their own perspectives on how to incorporate buffers into schedules and simplify curricula. With 18 episodes packed with expertise and practical advice, this season is all about helping educators like you streamline your work to focus on what truly matters. Join us and connect on social media to share your journey toward a minimalist approach in education!Send us a textSupport the show Buy The Minimalist Teacher book on Amazon.Follow on Instagram @PlanZEducation and @minimalist_ed_podcast.The Minimalist Educator Podcast is a Plan Z Education Services adventure.

Ever wondered how a dash of joy and a sprinkle of simplicity can transform your educational practice? Prepare to be charmed by Sheila Kennedy's infectious mantra for reveling in every moment, and Nicole Dissinger's celebration of uncomplicated yet effective teaching. Our season finale is a treasure trove of wisdom from visionaries like Michelle Jasinska and Dr. Emily Davis, who illuminate the path to purposeful initiatives and unbiased data analysis in education. We dissect the essential role of trust in learning, as shared by Julia Skolnick, and Craig Ahrens-Martin's insights on mindfulness for maintaining equilibrium in the whirlwind of daily teaching.Hold on to your lesson plans as we navigate the art of concise coaching with Kenny McKee's 'rule of two', ensuring that empowerment is just a couple of pointers away. Communication is key, and Alina Davis is here to guide us through crafting clear messages for family engagement. If you've ever been trapped in a meeting maze, let Megan Kemp and Gemma Cass be your compass to efficiency, while Laurie Stoller offers her strategic map for steering professional learning communities with precision focus. Each chapter of this episode is meticulously designed to serve as your beacon, leading you toward a more intentional and refined educational practice.Send us a textSupport the show Buy The Minimalist Teacher book on Amazon.Follow on Instagram @PlanZEducation and @minimalist_ed_podcast.The Minimalist Educator Podcast is a Plan Z Education Services adventure.

Dive headfirst into the enlightening world of educational data with our special guest, Dr. Emily Davis! She's here to shatter the myth that data is just a series of intimidating numbers, revealing how it can become a teaching superpower. Together, we navigate through the nuances of quantitative and qualitative data, unlocking the stories and patterns that can transform your teaching methods and boost student outcomes.Our journey with Emily takes us through the intricacies of educational data, examining how it can be a supportive ally rather than an overwhelming foe. We discuss the magic of self-reflection through video, the clarity that comes with goal setting, and the beauty of data in tailoring teaching strategies. These revelations pave the way for you to embrace data with confidence, ensuring that every student's learning experience is as effective and engaging as possible.As the curtain falls on our captivating chat, we celebrate the joy of connecting with fellow data enthusiasts. Emily also spotlights the fantastic work of Teacher Development Network LLC in nurturing early career teachers. We wrap up, inviting you to continue your journey toward educational minimalism with us, Tammy and Christine, while the melodious tunes of Gaia Moretti play us out. Don't miss the chance to be part of this empowering narrative in our next episodes of the Minimalist Educator Podcast.Dr. Davis is the founder of Teacher Development Network LLC, whose mission is to support educational organizations in developing and enhancing induction and mentoring programs for early career teachers. Dr. Davis is a sought-after consultant and professional developer on topics including mentoring, facilitation, and professional learning and is the author of numerous articles and blogs on those topics. She was also named an emerging leader in the field of education by Phi Delta Kappan and ASCD and was recently selected to be a Fulbright Specialist.Website: www.teacherdevelopmentnetwork.comLinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/dremilyldavisThis episode is sponsored by Teacher Development Network. Collaborating to Create Customized Systems of Support ​for Early Career Teachers Send us a textSupport the show Buy The Minimalist Teacher book on Amazon.Follow on Instagram @PlanZEducation and @minimalist_ed_podcast.The Minimalist Educator Podcast is a Plan Z Education Services adventure.