Teach Wonder

In this episode of our series, Form Theory to Practice, we delve into the invaluable role of community in the teaching profession, featuring Sarah Lapp, a passionate math teacher and alumna of CMU. Whether you're a new teacher navigating the early stages of your career or a seasoned veteran seeking fresh inspiration, Sarah shares insightful perspectives on how community support shapes the tea...

In this episode of "From Theory to Practice," we talk with Maddie Birgin. As a former STEM Education scholar and current math teacher, Maddie brings a unique perspective to teaching and getting involved with the school community.  Throughout our conversation, Maddie shared insights into the challenges of managing large groups of students with varying expectations. She discussed strategie...

In our series, "From Theory to Practice," we're thrilled to reconnect with some of our  CMU Alumni, who we got to know through out STEM Education Scholar Program. Today, we shine the spotlight on Sara Fitzpatrick, a former math teacher and current school counselor. Links: From Theory to Practice: Bailey Birman (STEM Education Scholars Series 1) From Theory to Practice: Ryan Stevens...

In our series, "From Theory to Practice," we're thrilled to reconnect with some of our  CMU Alumni, who we got to know through out STEM Education Scholar Program. Today, we shine the spotlight on Ryan Stevens a middle school math and STEM teacher.  Join us as we delve into Ryan's journey from student to teacher, exploring the invaluable lessons learned and the profound impact o...

We caught up with some of our CMU Alumni, the students who we got to know well as STEM Education Scholars. Bailey Birman is teaches math at an alternative high school in Michigan. She shares the ways in which she felt prepared to teach and what has been a learning curve. Her thoughts on keeping a healthy boundary between her classroom and her life as well why she is excited to stay in such a chall...

We wrap up our assessment series by talking with Nicole Hagle. Nicole shares her strategies for looking at proficiencies instead of points. We talk about what happens when students do not understand the grading system and what we can do to help.  Other Episodes on Assessment: Healthy Grading Practices: Perspectives from a Secondary Teacher Assessment in Elementary Assessing Multiple Grades and Ski...

We're continuing our conversation on assessment with multi-age teacher, Tammy Clingenpeel. We talk about making "just in time" accommodations, how to differentiate assessment within a fixed curriciulum, and how Tammy's teaching has changed over time. This episode is a thoughtful reflection from a thoughtful teacher. We know you'll love it.  Intro Music: David Biedenbender...

We're back and talking assessment with elementary teacher Bryant Greiner. We talk assessment strategies for math and reading and the skills we build in elementary. Bryant's warm and enthusiasm for learning about his students skills and personalities is a great reminder of how building relationships with students must be factored into every aspect of teaching and learning. Tune in to hear...

We hope you enjoy our interview with June Teisan. She's a long-time educator and a life-long learner. We discuss the 3Ps of project, place, and problem based learning. Links NCWIT InnovatED 313 Music: Intro Music: David Biedenbender Other Music: Oleksandr Savochka,    Sergii Pavkin from Pixabay Find us on social media:  Instagram: cmichcese Facebook: cmich_cese

How do we communicate student growth? Is that the same as work ethic? The same as effort? Our conversation with teacher Aric Foster gets us thinking about what makes a healthy grading practice.  Our Email: cese@cmich.edu  Intro Music:  David Biedenbender Other Music:  Pixabay  Find us on social media:  Instagram: cmichcese Facebook: cmich_cese

We spoke with Lizzie Dilg, director of the Discovery Museum in Mt. Pleasant Michigan. We discussed how museums are designed to foster learning and how we can learn from the way informal educators approach children. Museum Links: Discovery Museum on Facebook Discovery Museum Website Discovery Museum on Instagram STEM Passport Music Intro:  David Biedenbender Other sounds: Pixabay  Find us on social...

Julie and Ashley are back for another season of Teach Wonder. Listen as we talk about what teaching lessons we've learned this summer and some fun takes on our adventures in reading. Links: Unearthing Joy The Wager Ascendant Intro Music:  David Biedenbender Other Music:  Pixabay  Find us on social media:  Instagram: cmichcese Facebook: cmich_cese

In this seasons finale, we took a different approach. You're going to hear an episode that's part reflection, part conversation and part remix. We took clips from two influential interviews to our staff and listened to them in a new light.  There is no bad time to reflect on what teaching means to you, but the end of the year feels like a particularly relevant time for us. You can listen...

 We are absolutely thrilled to have with us this week Laura Trombley and Becky Rousseau, two incredible teachers who have been trying some new things in their classroom. We'll be chatting about how partnerships and collaboration can nurture a more dynamic learning environment, the power of project-based learning, what kind of data can actually tell us how our students are learning, and so muc...

In a slight deviation from our regular content, we're sharing the final products from two student clubs in Alma and Ithaca. Students created a set of audio dramas for their peers and for us. This project was made possible with the support of the Gratiot Community Foundation .  Join us as we celebrate the creativity and collaboration of these two groups of students.  Music and Effects: Pixabay...

Our second episode with Tracy Donohue. In this episode, we further our discussion on play and it's integral role in development and it's place in schools. This is a continuation of our discussion from a previous episode- we recommend you start your listening journey there. Listen to Episode 1 now Introduction Music: David Biedenbender Find us on social media:  Instagram: cmichcese Facebo...

Today we're talking with Dr. Tracy Donohue. Join our guest as they reflect on their professional experiences and how they have prepared them to work with teacher education students who are learning to teach through play. As you listen, we invite you to also reflect on the background you bring to education, how you value play and what you would be willing to investigate to challenge yourself i...

Role playing games and story? Yes. Role playing games and fantasy? Obviously. But role playing games and STEM?  Find out why we say- absolutely! Our interview with Mike Reuter focuses role playing games and their possibilities with students. Owner of Raconteurs of the High Road, Mike draws on his experience leading middle & high school and adult groups in popular role playing campaigns. We tal...

We talked with Instructrional Coach Megan Nix. This conversation includes insights into project-based learning, how we think about students and their voice and choice, and the experiences that change us as teachers. Megan's answers are full of reflection and insight; they are an expression of how much she values students and giving them meaningful and authentic learning experiences. Links: Jo...

We interviewed 906 Adventure Team's Todd Poquette. This conversation began with a discussion about the goals and structure of this youth biking team. Mountain bikers will appreciate Todd's focus and love of this activity. Educators and parents, you will want to hear how this growing nonprofit is rethinking the way we think about grit and resilience. Links: 906 Adventure Team Sound Effect...

This week on Teach  Wonder, we are bringing you an interview with Dawn Kahler. A middle school teacher from Kalamazoo, Michigan, Dawn brings a level head and thoughtful presence to teaching in 2022. This conversation spans student relationships, administration, and how to take care of yourself. Links: Kagan: It's All About Engagement For White Folks Who Teach in the Hood... and the Rest of Y&...

This episode revisits a familiar topic in a new way. We're taking a look at the new program at Central Michigan University that is allowing students to integrate their learning in a collaborative environment. This episode shares the perspectives of faculty and students. We talk about the tips and ideas that were part of the instrumental workshop series that preceding work with students. As we...

Christie Folsom works at the Chippewa River District Library. Whether you are a regular in the library or are not sure what street you'd drive down to find yours, this episode is for you.  Our conversation spans early literacy and the role of libraries in the community. We end our interview with our favorite reads of 2022. We guarantee this interview will is one you'll enjoy. Links: Chip...

In its simplest form, today's interview focuses on the program Connections that Count. It partners Central Michigan University undergrads with people with disabilities. More realistically, this podcast episode is about building a community that is based on respect and care; one that brings out the best in others and holds members accountable. Building communities like that take time and work....

Our interview with Pete O’Neil focuses on building relationships with students as a launching point for learning. He shares how he his thinking about teaching has changed overtime and what ideas and experiences he has learned from in his 23 years as a teacher. Pete’s honest approach to difficult questions makes this interview one that we can all learn from.  Intro Music by David Biedenbender Other...