How We Teach This

 What’s the secret sauce for reigniting passion in teaching? It starts with amplifying teacher voice, fostering autonomy, and creating space for innovation. In this episode of How We Teach This, we welcome back Jessica Asbury, Real World Learning Coordinator for Piper USD 203, who is leading transformative initiatives that empower educators to drive meaningful change.  From passion-based clubbing...

Are virtual schools really easier? Do students lose out on social interaction? Can students with IEPs succeed in online learning? In this episode of How We Teach This, we tackle the biggest myths about virtual education with Amanda Young, Principal, Education Imagine Academy, Courtney Compton, and Tim OBryhim, both teachers at Education Imagine Academy. We break down common misconceptions, share i...

Generative AI is transforming education, but how can schools use it effectively? In this episode, we talk with Jake Potter, APR, about the role of generative AI in schools from a leadership perspective. We explore how administrators can support educators with varying interest levels and confidence in using AI, providing tools and resources to ensure all teachers can leverage its potential. Additio...

In this episode, we take a deeper dive into the world of school counseling with returning guests Dr. Sarah Lendt and Dr. Susan Dodd , along with new guest Matthew Fischer . From the moments that make the job rewarding to the unseen challenges they navigate daily, our guests share what it truly means to support teachers and students' academic, social, and emotional well-being. Tune in for an insigh...

In this episode of How We Teach This, we dive into the transformative role of technology in education with a dynamic teacher panel from the AECT Mini Teacher Conference. Facilitated by Dr. Cecil Short, this conversation features Jessica Asbury (Piper USD 203), Sara Hoffman (Olathe USD 233), Shawn Harrel (Lee’s Summit Schools), and Jacob Hall (Associate Professor of Educational Technology at SUNY C...

In this episode, we’re thrilled to feature a dynamic panel of innovative administrators from the AECT Mini Teacher Conference. Special thanks to Dr. Cecil Short for facilitating this enlightening conversation and inviting us to participate. Together, Jake Potter (Leavenworth USD 453) , Amanda Young (Wichita Public Schools) , Jacob Hall (Past-President, AECT Teacher Education Division), and Dr. Cec...

How We Teach This wishes you a relaxing and fun winter break. We will return on January 15, 2025. Cheers to a Happy New Year. www.emporia.edu/hwtt

What do school counselors really do? Join Dr. Sarah Lendt and Dr. Susan Dodd , faculty in the school counseling program at Emporia State University, as they clarify the role of school counselors in K-12 education. This episode dives into the preparation counselors receive, the real-world experience they gain, and the differences between school counselors, social workers, and psychologists.  Discov...

Join Carrie Boettcher, PhD. , Assistant Professor, and Damara Paris, PhD. , Professor, from Emporia State University as they explore the vital field of vocational rehabilitation counseling. Vocational rehabilitation counseling focuses on helping individuals with disabilities overcome barriers to employment and achieve independence. These counselors wear many hats, providing advocacy, job training,...

This episode highlights the remarkable work of middle and high school students who went beyond traditional lectures to "do" history. Guided by their teacher, Terry Kaldhusdal , inductee into the National Teachers Hall of Fame, these young historians developed award-winning projects for National History Day. The students share their experiences conducting in-depth research, uncovering hidden storie...

In this follow-up episode with Joel Truesdell , we continue our exploration of effective teaching by diving into the creation of student-centered classrooms. Truesdell shares practical strategies for fostering inclusivity, engagement, and confidence in students. We discuss specific classroom techniques, such as using inquiry-based activities and positive reinforcement, and the importance of cultiv...

In this episode, we speak with Joel Truesdell , a 2024 inductee into the National Teachers Hall of Fame and a retired Hawaiian culture-based chemistry teacher from Kamehameha Schools. Joel shares his unique approach to education, rooted in the teaching methods of his elders. We discuss the importance of culturally centered classrooms, understanding barriers to student success, and the key to creat...

In this episode, we dive into the world of Project-Based Learning (PBL) and how it can transform student engagement and learning outcomes. Sara Hoffman , 2024 Kansas Master Teacher, shares her expertise in designing impactful PBL experiences, from crafting driving questions to aligning projects with standards using backward design. We discuss the importance of involving outside experts and creatin...

🎉 Enter to Win an Exclusive SWAG Bag Full of Surprises! 🎉 As we celebrate the 10th season of the How We Teach This podcast, we're offering a special SWAG Bag to one lucky listener! To participate, complete the form on our website and share your feedback on our podcast. Your insights help us continue providing meaningful and valuable content to educators and leaders in the field. For full giv...

In this episode, Sara Hoffman , a 2024 Kansas Master Teacher, shares insights into the fundamentals of Project-Based Learning (PBL), a dynamic teaching approach that promotes collaboration, critical thinking, and real-world problem-solving. Hoffman explains how PBL differs from traditional projects and highlights research demonstrating its impact on student achievement and engagement. She also con...

Join us for a special episode of How We Teach This as we sit down with the Class of 2024, Inductees of the National Teachers Hall of Fame. In this episode, they share stories of inspiration, their most effective classroom strategies, and insights on building strong relationships with students. We also explore the challenges educators face today and what keeps these Hall of Famers passionate about...

In this episode, we talk with Emmie Johnston , a high school student, advocate for students with disabilities, and founder of The S.H.I.E.L.D. Foundation of Kansas. Emmie is dedicated to increasing awareness about the importance of teaching students effective reading strategies and stopping the stigma associated with having a learning disability. During our conversation, Emmie shared her personal...

We delve into the pivotal role of school nurses in supporting teaching and learning with our special guests, Dr. Kate King, President, and Lynn Nelson , President-Elect of the National Association of School Nurses (NASN). The NASN is dedicated to optimizing student health and learning by advancing the practice of school nursing. Dr. King and Ms. Nelson share their journeys in school nursing, the p...

Dr. Damara Paris and Dr. Carrie Boettcher are esteemed experts in accessibility and Universal Design for Learning (UDL). Dr. Paris, as a Deaf individual, highlights her lifelong advocacy for accessible education. With her extensive experience as a Rehabilitation Counselor, Dr. Boettcher delves into the importance of accessibility in education and how UDL supports diverse learning styles. Together,...

Diane Kimsey ,  2025 Kansas Teacher of the Year nominee and Robin Dixon , 2007 Kansas Master Teacher discuss a concurrent enrollment program designed for high school students aspiring to become future teachers. The interview includes information about the daily classroom experience, the curriculum, and the competitions these students participate in. We explore the impact on students' lives and...

Hailey Couch ,  2018 Milken Educator Award Recipient, delves into the transformative power of play in early childhood education. Hailey, an experienced teacher and current Instructional Coach at Norman Public Schools, shares her journey and passion for developmentally appropriate practices and play-based learning. Listen as Hailey recounts her role in advocating for the "Oklahoma Play to Lear...

Dr. Russell Swanson ,  Assistant Professor, and Todd Roberts, Instructor, at Emporia State University share options for teaching licensure.  Roberts is also the Director of the Kansas Future Teacher Academy (KFTA). Learn about the latest developments in traditional licensure paths, including community college to university programs and fully online options. Learn about programs for special educati...

Join us as we celebrate the outstanding educators recognized by Emporia State University's Kansas Master Teachers Award! 🌟 In this episode, hear from exceptional teachers who share: ✨ Inspiring stories of students who have shaped their careers ✨ Effective strategies they've used in the classroom ✨ Innovative ideas that have made a difference in their teaching journey Tune in for a dose...

Dr. Cecil Short , Associate Professor at Emporia State University,  In this episode, we delve into the transformative world of Blended Learning. We explore the 3Ms framework—modality, media, and methods—emphasizing the pivotal role of methods in shaping effective teaching practices. Highlighting Blended Learning as the dynamic fusion of in-person and online learning modalities, we investigate the...

Dr. Teddy Roop , Associate Professor at Emporia State University, gives advice that classroom teachers can utilize to improve their reading instruction with research-based strategies. In this insightful episode, we dive deep into the crucial topic of teaching reading effectively. Join us as we unpack strategies, approaches, and considerations for educators at all levels, from elementary to seconda...