Mr. Bryan's Classroom - TopPodcast.com

(EP15) Successful Student-Led Meetings Oct 20, 2024

Parent-teacher conferences often feel like a routine obligation that neither parents nor teachers look forward to. These meetings can become repetitive, with teachers listing off a student's challenges or, in the case of high achievers, simply praising their performance. Unfortunately, this traditional format often fails to spark meaningful change or inspire student growth and it frequently sidelines the most important voice in the conversation—the students.

What if, instead of the typical conferences, we reimagine these meetings as student-led goal-setting sessions? These meetings could shift the focus toward proactive, positive collaboration aimed at improving student achievement. By empowering students to take the lead, they can articulate their own goals and take ownership of their learning. This approach also fosters a growth mindset, turning what was once a one-sided conversation into a dynamic opportunity for reflection and future planning.

As educators, we know that learning thrives when expectations are clear and students are motivated with a positive mindset. A student-led goal-setting conference encourages both of these, while also engaging parents as active members of the instructional team. This collaboration strengthens the support system around the student, making success more attainable. By giving students the platform to advocate for themselves and aligning efforts between teachers and parents, we can transform these meetings from something we dread into an exciting opportunity for growth and progress.

(EP16) The Power Of Listening--with Dr. James Hughey Oct 20, 2024

While teachers naturally expect their students to be attentive and engaged, how often do we prioritize being active listeners ourselves? Listening is a crucial skill for educators, yet many of us find it challenging to fully engage with our students' thoughts and feelings. Join Dr. James Hughey and Bryan as they explore the transformative impact of teachers who truly listen.

For Dr. Hughey's “Power For Positive Living” podcast & blog posts visit PFPL.US

(EP14) A Simple Reminder For School-with Taylor Chapman Oct 13, 2024

Remind (@RemindHQ) is a free tool that has helped me to be more effective with classroom communication by sending quick, simple messages to any device that parents and students may use. All phone numbers stay private. I talk with Taylor Chapman about the many benefits of using the Remind platform and how it can make us more effective in communicating with students and parents. Visit Remind at https://www.remind.com/

(EP13) Ways To Jump Start Your Creativity As A Teacher-with Miss G Oct 06, 2024

In this episode, we dive into the reality many teachers face: the struggle to keep creativity alive in a classroom setting that often feels like it’s moving away from innovative teaching methods. Just like a car battery can lose its charge, educators can sometimes find themselves in a rut, losing the inspiration that fuels their passion.

Fortunately, these ruts don't have to be permanent. Bryan shares insights from a blog post by "Write On With Mrs. G" that offers practical tips to help teachers recharge their creativity and reignite their passion for teaching. Whether you're feeling burnt out or simply looking for new ways to keep your classroom engaging, this episode will give you the boost you need to stay creative and energized. Check out Mrs. G's post at https://writeonwithmissg.com/2020/03/04/15-ways-to-jump-start-your-creativity-as-a-teacher/ Shout out to the creative Math Teacher/Jedi at https://youtu.be/Z9NQatne0xg?si=ijHpFHPE5xl-1jOy

(EP12) Asking For Help-with Emily Jennette Sep 29, 2024

Discover invaluable insights from Emily Jennette, the 2008 Georgia Teacher of the Year, as she shares her passion for transforming the lives of students and inspiring fellow educators. In this enlightening program, Emily opens up about her journey into teaching, revealing the key moments that fueled her dedication. She also dives into practical strategies that brought success in her classroom—approaches that you can apply to inspire your own students.

Whether you're a seasoned teacher or just starting your journey, Emily offers heartfelt encouragement and actionable tips to help you make a lasting impact in education. #teachers #classroom #school #teaching #teachermotivation #education

(EP11) Involving Our Invisible Students Sep 22, 2024

We as educators give attention to those who excel in our classrooms and to the ones who disrupt the learning environment.

However, what about our invisible students? They are disappearing and we may not even know it. You know the type. They don't misbehave and we can go through a whole period/subject without engaging them at all. We can't ignore them. Bryan shares some strategies to help us include the invisible students in our classroom.

(EP10) Understanding Shy Students in the Classroom-with Leah Davies Sep 15, 2024

In this episode, we dive deep into the complexities of shyness and how it impacts students in the classroom. Often misunderstood, shyness isn’t just one emotion—it’s a combination of fear, tension, apprehension, and embarrassment. Many shy students may appear to lack confidence or seem self-conscious, especially in new situations or when they're the center of attention. Environmental changes and school pressures can further amplify these feelings.

Shyness isn’t always a negative trait. In fact, many shy students have a unique ability to think for themselves, observe quietly, and please others. Being reserved can even be a valuable personality characteristic. However, when shyness becomes severe, it can hinder a student’s development, and that's when educators need to take notice.

Join Bryan and education expert Leah Davies (@Kellybearbooks) as they explore the quiet thinkers/observers in the classroom and discuss how teachers can support them. Whether you're a parent, teacher, or anyone interested in child development, this episode offers insights on helping shy students thrive.

(EP9) Taking Control Of The Classroom Sep 08, 2024

"Shut up and sit down!" No, that's not Samuel Jackson acting out a role as a teacher. It's Mr. Ruffen. Several years ago, this teacher went viral in how he handled a conflict between two students in his classroom. Of course, not all classroom conflicts are the same. However, I believe Mr. Ruffen did an excellent job of breaking up these two students and showing his class that he cares. All in record time!

(EP8) A Conversation With My Mom-with Evelyn Sellers Sep 01, 2024

On this episode, Bryan interviews his mom. Not only did she have an incredible impact on her family, she also made a difference in the lives of many students. Evelyn taught a vast amount of students during three decades. This episode highlights some of what she learned in her teaching journey.

(EP7) Simple Things Teachers Can Do In Their Classrooms Aug 25, 2024

As many of us start another year of teaching, Bryan shares an article from Mike Roberts (@BaldRoberts) on 20 simple-yet-meaningful things teachers can do every day to improve the classroom atmosphere for themselves and their students. This article can be found on the National Association of Independent Schools website at https://www.nais.org/learn/independent-ideas/august-2018/20-simple-yet-meaningful-things-educators-can-do-every-day/

(EP6) The Firm But Fair Teacher-with special guest Robert Ward Aug 18, 2024

No smiling till Christmas? Do we need to act like a drill instructor the first few weeks of school? There are many misunderstandings when it comes to being a firm and fair teacher. Fortunately, we have an experienced educator, mentor, and author Robert Ward to help us identify what that looks like in an effective classroom. We also discuss what makes teachers fascinating facilitators to their students. Robert's book "The Firm, Fair, Fascinating Facilitator: Inspire your Students, Engage your Class, Transform your Teaching" can be found on Amazon and his blog is at https://rewardingeducation.wordpress.com

(EP5) Reducing Discipline Problems Aug 11, 2024

Welcome back to school! It's been awhile since we've had a normal classroom environment. It can be helpful to explain your class procedures. Procedures tell a student what to do. This form of prevention can be an important key to solving discipline problems and make your classroom run more smoothly.

For the full article, visit http://www.teachers.net/wong/SEP13/

(EP4) A Back To School Mindset-with Dr. James Hughey Aug 04, 2024

It's that time of year again! Summer vacation is coming to an end and we're getting ready to start a brand new school year! The start of the year is critical, and so much depends on your attitude. Bryan and Dr. James offer some helpful suggestions about the mindset/attitude you convey the first few weeks. For more of Dr. James content visit ⁠PFPL.US

(EP3) Six Tips To Better Manage Your Classroom Jul 28, 2024

On this podcast series, Bryan will not only share his own views and experiences but feature the voice of other educators as well. Some are featured in a conversational episode and others are highlighted by having their written words read aloud. This episode features an article from edutopia.org titled ⁠"How Novice and Expert Teachers Approach Classroom Management Differently"⁠ by Youki Terada—plus 6 takeaways for managing your classroom effectively this year."

(EP2) Benefits Of Practicing Gratitude-with Owen Griffith Jul 22, 2024

For many teachers, it is a struggle to transition from summer to teaching. The beginning of the school year is so full of things to do and can be overwhelming. Educators often make the mistake of complaining about the start of school and focus on all the negative aspects of the job. Guest Owen Griffith (@owenmgriffith) is here to help us have a more grateful mindset about our jobs and life. Owen is not only a classroom teacher but also a public speaker, blog writer, and published author. His book Gratitude: A Way of Teaching will help many discouraged teachers and how they conduct their classrooms. This valuable book will give educators solution-based methods and research-based resources to improve classroom culture, as well as enabling schools to elevate students’ engagement and academic achievement. This highly praised book is currently available at Amazon https://www.amazon.com/Gratitude-Teaching-Owen-M-Griffith-ebook/dp/B01CRJ4FNE/ref=mt_kindle?_encoding=UTF8&me=#nav-subnav

(EP1) The Debt Free Teacher Jul 14, 2024

Many teachers are doing a variety of side hustles like tutoring, food delivery, or pet sitting. Why? Because many are trying to better their financial situation, especially with current high cost of living. Others are working to pay off debt.

Is it worth it to be debt free? For many people the answer is yes.

For many, getting out of debt is one of the best things you can do for your financial well-being. The teaching profession is difficult enough to manage with all the various stresses we encounter everyday. Financial stress can add to that.

The Calm Before The Storm Jul 07, 2024

This brief episode is a prequel to the upcoming season. Bryan checks in and share his thoughts about this podcast series which aims to encourage educators and provide them a voice. This series will also provide teachers helpful tools and strategies. So stay subscribed and be ready for a great season of episodes that will help us become better educators!

2.24 Leaving The Classroom Jun 18, 2023

While we get ready to start our summer break in the States my time away from the classroom will be extended. Since the field of education doesn't seem to be making positive changes for teachers it's time for me to make a change.

2.23 When Is It Time to Quit Teaching? Jun 11, 2023

Recently, many teachers are making decisions about leaving the classroom. Bryan reads "When Is It Time to Quit Teaching" by former guest Vicki Davis. The full article can be found at http://www.coolcatteacher.com/when-is-it-time-to-quit-teaching/

Ending something we enjoy is a decision we face several times in our lifetime. This episode will help you to determine if you just need a break or really need to let go.

Original NBC news clip https://youtu.be/c6i2U6dRhgs

2.22 Let It Go Jun 04, 2023

Clutter kills creativity and serves no real value to you and your students. The minimalism movement is growing and teachers can use its core principals to have an improved classroom environment. It's simply getting rid of things you do not use or need, leaving an uncluttered, simple environment to where you can focus on things that really matter in your class.

Our days are tough enough as it is. Why not use the end of the year to get rid of things that are serving no real value to you or your students?

Mentioned on the program: Tiny Houses & the Quest to De-Clutter

As most of us conclude a challenging school year, this will be the final show for this season.

2.20 Classroom Connections May 21, 2023

Joining us for this episode is Erin Gruwell. Her teaching story was made into a book "The Freedom Writers Diary" and a movie "Freedom Writers"!

By fostering an educational philosophy that valued and promoted diversity, she transformed her students’ lives, most of whom were seen as "unteachable". She encouraged them to rethink rigid beliefs about themselves and others, to reconsider daily decisions, and to re-chart their futures. With Erin's steadfast support, her students shattered stereotypes to become critical thinkers, aspiring college students, and citizens for change.

Also, Erin shares how the publication of her student's world "The Freedom Writers Diary" became a best seller.

For more about the Freedom Writers foundation visit http://www.freedomwritersfoundation.org

2.19 The Final Weeks Of School May 14, 2023

As the school year is coming to an end, many teachers shut down and give the students unstructured free time. While this may work with some groups, for many teachers it can lead to more stress and classroom management problems. In this episode, Bryan shares some ideas on how you can end the school year on a fun note, yet stay true to the learning environment. After all, students have all summer to rest and goof around. It shouldn't happen in your classroom.

2.18 Blackboard: A Personal History of the Classroom May 07, 2023

Teacher and author Lewis Buzbee join us on the program to discuss his book "Blackboard-A Personal History of the Classroom". We discuss classrooms of the past, evaluate schools in the present, and offer possibilities for how education will be in the future. For more of Lewis Buzbee check out https://www.lewisbuzbee.com

2.16 Students Who Don't Care Apr 16, 2023

Almost every teacher has a classroom where there is one unmotivated student, regardless of what you try. The parents have lost hope. Is this failure your fault? Could a better teacher have done better? Not likely.

2.15 Tales From The Teachers Lounge Apr 09, 2023

Joining us in the Lounge today is Robert Wilder, author of 'Tales From The Teachers Lounge' a series of irreverent, wickedly observant essays about what it really means to be a teacher today.

Leaving a lucrative advertising career in New York, he got a job as a teacher at a Santa Fe alternative school—and never looked back. Now he brings his unique perspective—as a teacher, parent, and former student—to a series of laugh-out-loud essays that show teaching at its most absurd...and most rewarding.

http://robertwilder.com/

2.14 Stop Comparing Your Life Apr 02, 2023

We as teachers often compare ourselves to other teachers. This is especially true in the days of social media and the results are nothing good. Comparing ourselves to others isn't always healthy, yet we do it anyway.

Bryan reads the blog post "Stop Comparing Your Life. Start Living It" by Joshua Becker of Becoming Minimalist. The original post is located here: http://www.becomingminimalist.com/stop-comparing-your-life-start-living-it

2.13 What Great Teachers and Principals Do Differently Mar 26, 2023

Joining me on the show is Dr. Todd Whitaker (@ToddWhitaker). He's recognized as a leading motivational speaker in the field of education. On the program we discuss what great teachers and principals do differently.

2.12 The Best of Times and The Worst of Times Mar 19, 2023

It's my birthday month and that has put me in a reflective mood. I'm reminded that I'm getting older. I have more years behind me than in front of me. This reflection has led me to look back over my long teaching career and offer some of what I have found to be effective for my classroom experience.

2.11 A+ Interview Skills For Teachers Mar 12, 2023

This is the time of year when some of us are exploring other opportunities to work at other schools. One of the disadvantages of our profession is that teachers have a very small window of time to interview and be hired. Returning guests Evelyn and James help us to identify what school administrators are looking for.

2.9 Should I Stay Or Should I Go? Feb 26, 2023

Many teachers are now making the decision to stay in education or leave it for something else. Some teachers remain indecisive. Others are scared in not making the perfect decision. Special guest Dr. James Hughey will offer some insight for teachers about making the choice to leave/stay and some ways to take care of their mental health as we finish the school year.

For blog posts, podcasts, and videos from Dr. Hughey visit pfpl.us.

2.8 Passion is Important for Effective Teaching Feb 19, 2023

If you watched the Superbowl, you couldn't help but notice the atmosphere was filled with excitement and passion. The announcers, players, fans, and halftime performers acted like they really wanted to be there and enjoyed what they were doing. Can the same be said about you in your classroom?

2.7 Ten Reasons To Love Teaching Feb 12, 2023

In honor of Valentine's Day, I share my thoughts on what I love about my job. Very often we are more focused on all of the negativity found in the teaching profession. So, let's flip the script. What do you love about being in the classroom?

2.1 It's About Progress Not Perfection Jan 01, 2023

Happy New Year! Joining us on this season premiere of my podcast for teachers is Vicki Davis (@coolcatteacher). She too is a teacher and podcaster. On this episode, Vicki offers some motivation, teaching strategies, and some of what she's learned over her very successful journey as an educator. Check out her podcast "The 10 Minute Teacher" at https://www.coolcatteacher.com/podcast/ .

1.23 Traits of Successful Teachers Dec 11, 2022

What truly can bring value to classrooms? To help coach us Bryan talks with National Hall of Fame educator Alan Haskvitz. Alan shares with us certain traits that many excellent teachers have in common.

1.22 Benefits of Classroom Animals Dec 04, 2022

The right dog can be a very positive influence on your students. Both my dogs, Max and Nikki, were able to make a difference at my current school. This also allowed me to spend more time with them in their senior years. All three of us would all go home tired.

Sadly, we lost Nikki on November 29th 2017 and Max on December 10, 2020. Shortly, after Max’s passing I had made a tribute video that highlighted his time at my school. Max had been at the school for 5 and a half years. He was a rock star too many. The school posted it on their social media pages. There was a tremendous amount of support from current families and families who were no longer attending the school. This podcast episode shows that the right dog can make a positive influence in a school environment.

Janelle's Cox article lists those benefits at http://www.teachhub.com/teacher%E2%80%99s-guide-classroom-pets

1.18 Stand Up For Yourself Nov 06, 2022

Teachers, no less than anyone, deserve safe workplaces. These days we show a lot of concern about the topic of bullying in regards to our students. Unfortunately, very little is being done about teachers being bullied by their students, parents, and leadership at a place that is supposed to be a bully free zone.

School officials must send an unmistakable message to students that striking or threatening physical violence against a teacher will bring the swiftest and most severe consequences.

Cyber bullying is real not just with student victims but educators as well. If teachers are not safe, disrespected, and have no place to turn for support, our educational system is in serious trouble.

1.17 Common Frustrations In Teaching Oct 29, 2022

Joining me on the program is returning guests Dr. James Hughey and Evelyn Sellers. Together they bring a lot of experience and insight about the teaching profession. For this episode, we respond to our listeners and discuss some common problems that teachers experience.

1.16 Teaching In South Korea Oct 16, 2022

With the current cost of living, and the struggles of the teaching profession here in the States, many teachers are wanting change. Some teachers realize that little will change in their favor. So they make a change by teaching overseas like South Korea where the profession is better respected and the stress is less. In this episode, we talk with a young teacher in South Korea who gives us some insight into the pros/cons of teaching overseas.

1.13 Smart Kids in Bad Schools Sep 25, 2022

In Smart Kids, Bad Schools, award-winning author and educator Brian Crosby (brian-crosby.com)draws on his many years as a high school English teacher to offer a candid appraisal of why our schools are failing and what we must do to save them.

1.12 What Motivates You? Sep 18, 2022

We often hear from others a lot of complaining about how schools are failing. Too often, it's the teachers themselves who are negative about their profession. What keeps you motivated when you enter your classroom?

1.10 Students And Their Excuses Sep 04, 2022

Our culture is one who likes to whine and complain. Many people see themselves as victims, and today's students are no exception. Regardless of what grade you teach, educators are bombared by a variety of excuses. Bryan encourages listeners to not accept your average student excuse. Don't get angry, get creative.

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