Aspire: The Leadership Development Podcast

This week’s guest, Rae Hughart, shares how she used mastery learning in her classroom, the creation of Dailey Drop In, and how she is providing teacher support as a member of the teach better team.   In this episode, we also discuss: Building Community in the classroom and in schools TED Talk on Mastery Learning The Upcoming Teach Better Conference And Teachers Deserve It! About Rae Hughart: Rae Hughart is the Director of Training & Development for the Teach Better Team and author of https://www.amazon.com/Teachers-Deserve-What-Deserve-Dont/dp/1951600401/ref=sr_1_2?crid=CMAXD9KHQRJQ&dchild=1&keywords=teachers+deserve+it+book&qid=1596403052&sprefix=teachers+deser%2Caps%2C178&sr=8-2 (Teachers Deserve It) & https://www.amazon.com/Teach-Better-Chad-Ostrowski/dp/1949595668/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr= (Teach Better) books. After being inducted into The Illinois State University Hall of Fame in 2017, Rae was awarded the 2018 First Place Henry For

What strategies do you use in the classroom to instill and enhance exploration on new subjects and real world connections? This week’s guest, Evin Schwartz, shares how his experience overseas led him to creating a business focused on enhancing the learning process for all students, while also trying to solve the world's greatest problems.  In this episode, we also discuss: Connecting learning to real-world solutions The teacher and staff shortages Solutions to Mental health and attendance issues  And Belouga! About Evan Schwartz: Evin is the CEO and Founder of Belouga. He has 15+ years of overseeing businesses focused on education, social impact and innovation within the Gen-Y and Gen-Z demographic. He has created and implemented educational programs and cross-cultural initiatives in all 50 states at the K–12 and university levels, along with consultancy work on six continents. In 2019, Mr. Schwartz was recognized as one of the Meaningful Business 100, an award honoring global leaders who are

How will we prepare young people to thrive in this uncertain future? This week’s guest, Natalie Vardabasso, shares how educators can use assessment, equity practices and social emotional strategies to enhance student experiences, innovation, and creativity.  In this episode, we also discuss: Equity work beyond books The relationship between Standards Based Grading and SEL practices And her podcast, #EduCrush! About Natalie Vardabasso: Previously a middle-school teacher and instructional coach, Natalie is currently the Assessment Lead at a K-12 special education school and host of the #EduCrush podcast. In her many roles, she has lived into the belief that learning is driven by our passions, aligned with our strengths, and at the heart of our humanity. Whether working with kids or adults, Natalie strives to create an inclusive culture that embraces learning as the vehicle through which we find out who we are and how we might make a positive impact on the world. Follow Natalie Vardabasso: Websi

How are you using technology tools to empower students and give them ownership of their learning? This week’s guest, Debbie Tannenbaum, shares how educators can use technology tools to not only grow student achievement, but to TRANSFORM their own professional practices. In this episode, we also discuss: Creating Engaging Professional Development Fighting Fear of Technology And her new book, “TRANSFORM: Techy Notes to Make Learning Sticky”! About Debbie Tannenbaum: Debbie Tannenbaum works as an Elementary School Technology Specialist in Fairfax County, VA. An educator with over twenty years of experience, Debbie is an author, speaker, blogger, coach and technology consultant. In all of her roles, Debbie supports both staff and students to integrate technology tools into instruction through both co teaching sessions and weekly technology classes. Debbie’s passions include working collaboratively with other educators to use technology tools that amplify student learning and empowering student voice.

School communities are full of people who have both the ability and desire to lead. Some lead without knowing it. Most lead without the recognition they deserve. Whether you lead in a classroom, department, building, or district, chances are you know how challenging it can be to identify and develop other strong leaders, and to grow the leadership capacity of your organization as a whole. This week’s guest, Dr. Joe Sanfelippo, shares how he made sure leaders around him knew their worth, helped them cultivate connections, and grew their confidence to help the whole team move forward together to thrive. In this episode, we also discuss: Amplifying the great things teachers are doing in the classroom Being so good at your job, everyone will notice And his upcoming book, “Lead From Where You Are”! About Dr. Joe Sanfelippo: Dr. Joe Sanfelippo is the Superintendent of the Fall Creek School District in Fall Creek, WI. The Fall Creek School District was named an Innovative District in 2016 and 2017 by th

This week’s guest, Britney Wolf, shares her experience with Tourette Syndrome and how she is helping break the stigma of the disorder, providing awareness to educators, and motivating others to provide validation to those who have the disorder.  In this episode, we also discuss: Strategies for teachers to use in the classroom The difference between complex and simple tics And her upcoming book One, “Ticcing My Way Through Life”! About Britney Wolf: Britney Wolf has one mission – to create an environment in which every person in the room feels validated and cared about. After being diagnosed with Tourette Syndrome at 7 years old, she made a promise to herself and to the entire Tourette Community that she would educate, spread awareness, and fight for the stigma of this disorder to one day be erased. Along the way, she discovered how to empower and motivate those around her because of Tourette Syndrome, rather than in spite of it. Follow Britney Wolf : Website: http://www.britneywolfspeaks.com (

What is the narrative of each student group represented on your campus?  This week’s guest, Charles Williams, shares his experiences as a student and how it inspired him to change the negative portrayals of the disenfranchised populations.  In this episode, we also discuss: Assessing Equity in Schools Inside the Principal’s Office And the Counter Narrative Podcast  About Charles Williams: Charles Williams has been an educator for more than 15 years serving as a teacher, a mentor/lead teacher, an assistant principal, and a principal for urban students in grades K-12.  He also serves as an equity advocate through his work with Great Expectations Mentoring, Chicago Public School's Office of Equity, and The City of Chicago's Equity Office.  Charles is the host of The Counter Narrative Podcast, a show designed to challenge the dominant narrative that often negatively portrays our disenfranchised populations. He is also the co-host of Inside the Principal's Office, a bi-monthly show featuring educati

In this 24th Aspire Mailbag episode, Jeff Gargas, Brad Hughes, and I answer questions on different leadership topics provided by the listeners. Please join us for this episode as we answer questions on giving too much grace, finding our creative outlets, when are you ready to be promoted, and the latest news with the Teach Better Team! Featuring Brad Hughes, Jeff Gargas, and Joshua Stamper Brad Hughes is the host of http://anchor.fm/brad-hughes (The Good News, Brad News Podcast). Brad is an elementary school principal in Ontario, Canada, with 25 years’ experience in education. Prior to becoming a school leader, Brad taught for 16 years from Kindergarten to eighth grade, most recently teaching middle school Visual Arts, French and Special Education. Brad has an ongoing commitment to reframing the joys and challenges of school life through a https://self-reg.ca/ (Self-Reg) lens. Brad is an optimist and recovering perfectionist, passionate about improving kids' lives by loving and supporting the adults that serv

Do you see every interaction with students, staff, and parents as a gift?  This week’s guest, Livia Chan, shares how every interaction is an opportunity to uplift, inspire, encourage, and support others.  In this episode, we also discuss: Belief in Other People Maximizing Opportunities to Inspire Learning  And “Impact: The Power of Connected Leadership”  About Livia Chan: Livia Chan is Head Teacher and author passionate about community, leading with heart, and daily lifelong learning. She truly believes in the power of connections and positivity, and thoroughly enjoys building relationships by reaching out with kindness and gratitude. Livia lives by the belief that it is through every interaction that we have the opportunity to intentionally uplift and appreciate others in order to brighten their day, make an imprint on their heart, and impact their lives. Her other passions include family, friends, and ringette. For over 20 years, Livia has continued to experience the joy of teaching in the Grea

Education is a difficult field and many teachers don’t continue after three years in the classroom.  This week’s guest, Dr. Frank Rudnesky and Michelle Rispo Hill, share how to help new teachers, support veteran educators, and stay passionate in a long career.  In this episode, we also discuss: Creating a Positive School Culture How to Help the Teacher Shortage And Fired Up Teachership About Michelle Rispo Hill: Michele Rispo Hill is a passionate educator who has dedicated a lifetime to the education profession as a teacher, author, and presenter of professional development. During her tenure in the classroom, Michele was honored as the teacher of the Year in 2014. She served on numerous committees, mentored new staff and was an advisor for the classes of 2009 and 2018 and the Jostens Renaissance program.  Today, she serves as the Coordinator of Admissions and Strategic Marketing and  Equity Specialist for a career and technical school in New Jersey. Michele also serves on the advisory board for S

In reflecting about 2021, my favorite day was when Aspire to Lead launched. I had the wonderful opportunity to speak with the Teach Better Team about the different aspects of this educational leadership resource and where the idea came from.  In this Episode, we also discuss: The A.S.P.I.R.E. Model  Why I wrote this book and how it will help current and aspiring leaders Funny stories about the writing process https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1953852386/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1953852386&linkCode=as2&tag=aspirewebsite-20&linkId=37fc099b08ff439ddab453d9a993a9e7 Follow The Teach Better Team: Twitter:https://twitter.com/teachbetterteam ( https://twitter.com/teachbetterteam) Website:https://www.teachbetter.com/ ( https://www.teachbetter.com/) Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/teachbetterteam ( https://www.facebook.com/teachbetterteam) Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/teachbetterteam ( https://www.instagram.com/teachbetterteam)

Most often, when restorative practices are discussed, it is described as a reactive measure to help students fix the harm that was caused. This week’s guest, Dr. Neil Gupta, shares how the most important steps in restorative practices are proactive practices to create a foundation of love and care.  In this episode, we also discuss: Creating Healthy Collaborative teams Mental Health for Staff and Students And Coaching as an Associate with Creative Leadership Solutions  Dr. Neil Gupta: Dr. Neil Gupta serves as the Director of Secondary Education for Worthington Schools in Columbus, Ohio.  With over 15 years of experience as a district administrator in rural and suburban settings, he has a passion for leadership, building culture, and coaching leaders. Neil presents at the state and national level, and consults building and district leaders in building collaborative teams for student learning.  Dr. Gupta also serves as President on the Board of Directors for ASCD and is an Associate with Creative Le

With the launch of The EduCulture Cookbook and Aspire to Lead, The Punk Rock podcasters joins me to share about leadership qualities and school culture. In this Episode, we also discuss: The Reflections Process as a Leader Finding our Identity And the “EduCulture Cookbook” and “Aspire to Lead” EduMatch Holiday Bundle: http://www.bit.ly/edumatchholiday (www.bit.ly/edumatchholiday) About Michael Earnshaw: Michael Earnshaw, The Punk Rock Principal, is helping to change the game of education. By implementing a mobile office, Mr. Earnshaw has been able to be “all in” working with students and staff. Mike builds relationships with all and pushes staff to get out of their comfort zones and bring meaningful learning experiences to their students. This has helped to keep staff retention at a high, a collaborative productive culture, and student success climbing. Follow Michael Earnshaw: Twitter: https://twitter.com/EduChefEarnshaw (https://twitter.com/EduChefEarnshaw) Instagram: https://www.instagram.

How can an instructional technology coach be utilized on a campus to enhance student achievement and staff development?  This week’s guest, Jeff Bradbury, shares his instructional technology instructional roadmap to determine the effectiveness of an instructional coach department and to help with instructional practices.   In this episode, we also discuss: Lessons Learned as an Instructional Coach How to Build a Department of Coaches And Ask the Tech Coach Podcast Jeff Bradbury: Jeff Bradbury is an ISTE Award Winning and globally-recognized educator, educational broadcaster, public speaker, and entrepreneur whose powerful message has inspired thousands of educators through the TeacherCast Educational Network. Follow Jeff Bradbury: Website: https://www.teachercast.net (https://www.teachercast.net)  Twitter:  https://www.teachercast.net/twitter (https://www.teachercast.net/twitter) Linkedin: https://www.teachercast.net/linkedin (https://www.teachercast.net/linkedin) Facebook: https://www.teacherc

In your school or classroom, do your students have an opportunity to solve real life problems in their community?  This week’s guest, Chelsea Nicolino, shares how she made a shift in her teaching to allow students to work at their own pace, partner with city leaders, and utilize the Grid Method.  In this episode, we also discuss: Assessing student mastery  Daily student check-ins And the Teach Better Ambassador Program About Chelsea Nicolino: Chelsea Nicolino is an eighth grade integrated science teacher in Akron, Ohio. She has a passion for embedding mastery learning and STEM education into her classroom. Chelsea also enjoys creating engaging inquiry-based lessons for her students to foster their love of science. In her free time, Chelsea loves connecting with other educators on social media, listening to podcasts, reading a good book, and spending time with her husband and two young children. Follow Chelsea Nicolino: Twitter:  https://twitter.com/ChelseaNicolino (https://twitter.com/ChelseaNicol

Have you ever asked yourself, have I unlocked the potential that lies within myself?  This week’s guest, Maurice F Martin, shares how he overcame the hurdles that had been holding him back from healing, succeeding, and thriving in daily life. In this episode, we also discuss: Reflection and Learning Practices Self Help Strategies And his new book, Save the Day: Learning to Embrace Your Inner Hero About Maurice F Martin: Maurice F. Martin is an American entrepreneur and author. He is a premier inspirational speaker, chemical dependency counselor, and a certified life coach. In 2020 Maurice released his Color Blind video to national acclaim. It was featured on the YouTube Original production Bear Witness Take Action and has been seen by over 4 million people. Maurice is a man of many talents. He is an award-winning vocalist and songwriter who has had his work licensed to VH-1, MTV, the Discovery Network, E!, and ABC. He is currently focusing attention on his second novel, Your But Is Too Big. Mauric

Low teacher retention rates in schools negatively impact student achievement for all the students in a school, not just those in a new teacher’s classroom. This week’s guest, Dr. Joseph Jones and Dr. T.J. Vari, give precise strategies for motivating, inspiring, and energizing a staff.  In this episode, we also discuss: Leadership Qualities Needed in an Evolving Education Model Teacher Retention Strategies And their book, Candid and Compassionate Feedback: Transforming Everyday Practice in Schools About Dr. Joseph Jones: Dr. Joseph Jones is the Superintendent of Schools in the New Castle County Vocational-Technical School District. He is the co-author of Candid and Compassionate Feedback: Transforming Everyday Practice in Schools. Joe is a former high school teacher, assistant principal and principal. As principal, he was named the Delaware Secondary Principal of the Year and during his tenure, Delcastle Technical High School was the first high school to receive the state’s Outstanding Academic Ach

This week’s guest, Trevor Timmerberg, shares how his experience in the military shaped his self discipline and changed his perspective on leadership. As a student who had labels placed on him, Trevor is determined to teach his students that mistakes don’t define who you are as a person.  In this episode, we also discuss: Cafeteria as a Temperature Check  Restorative Practices built on Relationships And Constructing a Leadership Mission Statement About Trevor Timmerberg: Trevor is a High School Administrator, Commissioned Officer, YMCA Downtown Board of Directors and Ed.D Leadership Student.  Follow Trevor Timmerberg: Twitter: https://twitter.com/Trevor_Tberg (https://twitter.com/Trevor_Tberg) @Trevor_Tberg Linkedin: Trevor Timmerberg   Are you a superfan of the Aspire podcast? Well, now you can show off your support with the new Aspire swag, featuring tee shirts, hoodies and a variety of drinkware. You can find all your Aspire Swag athttp://www.teachbetter.com/swag ( www.teachbetter.com/sw

It’s time to leave behind practices that don’t best serve all learners and educators, and to prioritize what matters most: relationships, connection, purpose, flexibility, agency, and authentic learning. Education must evolve. Looking to learners will help us see what’s working, what’s challenging, and, ultimately, what’s possible. To ensure that all of those learners thrive, we’ll need to use insight from our own experiences, research from the field, and new tools and approaches to adapt our practices. This week’s guest, Dr. Katie Martin, advocates for a much-needed shift to a learner-centered teaching model. Learner-centered education creates purposeful, personalized, authentic, and competency-based experiences that help students develop skills that empower them to learn, grow, and solve problems that matter to them and others.  In this episode, we also discuss: Instructional Practices that Enhance Essential Skills  Changing Grading Practices And Katie’s New Book, Evolving Education About Dr. K

After two years of new educational practices, are we trying to get back to normal or a way to get better? This week’s guest, Tom Burton, shares how going back to the way things were is not the best mindset. In his district, during the pandemic, they uncovered many inequitable practices that needed to be addressed and they are determined to find better practices moving forward.  In this episode, we also discuss: Creating diverse leadership teams Leading regardless of your title And partnering with businesses to serve the community  About Tom Burton: Mr. Tom Burton is the Superintendent of Princeton City Schools, located just outside of Cincinnati, Ohio. Tom has been in administration since 1995 and has been in the Princeton district since 2015.  He is the author of “Mark of Leadership: Strategies for Leading with Purpose, Plans, and Passion.” Additionally, Tom has written articles for publications both in Ohio and nationally and a columnist for Middle Ground Magazine. As superintendent, Tom lives