Path to Certification: The Teacher's Guide

In this episode, I break down the math section of your exam, covering the main content areas and how much each is weighted, plus why you should practice with an onscreen calculator and get familiar with the formula sheet. I also walk through a proportion problem using my “matchy matchy” method and share a quick strategy for tackling inequalities by checking the answer choices first and thinking li...

In this episode, I break down the three big science areas you’ll see on the Praxis 5005 and 7005 exams: earth and space, life science, and physical science. I walk through key concepts like Earth’s spheres, why seasons happen, how food webs respond to change, and the difference between physical and chemical changes. Plus, I share my biggest test-taking tip for science questions and a fun story abo...

In this episode, I break down the science of teaching reading, both as the Texas certification exam and as the explicit, systematic, and recursive approach to instruction that every certification exam now tests. I walk you through the Fab Five foundational skills and explain what it means to be a “reading scientist” who uses ongoing assessment to target each student’s needs. I also share test-taki...

In this episode, I break down the Praxis Core 5723 writing test, which gives you 100 minutes for grammar questions and two essays, and I explain why you should think like a test maker instead of trusting your ear. I share quick tricks for common grammar traps, like “me” versus “I” and who versus whom, plus a reminder that “no error” is a real answer. I also walk you through strategies for the argu...

In this episode, I break down the social studies section of the Praxis Elementary Education 5004 and 7004 exams, with a focus on US history, government, and citizenship, where you’ll want to spend most of your study time. I also cover the five themes of geography, how to tell map types apart, and the world history and economics basics you need to know, like supply and demand and opportunity cost....

In this episode, I share my best strategies for cracking the SLLA 6990 and Praxis 5412 leadership exams, including why "choose all that apply" questions offer no partial credit and how to tackle long scenario questions by thinking like a test maker. I walk you through the "good words" that signal correct answers, like data-driven decisions and shared leadership, plus the "...

In this episode, I share my best strategies for tackling the reading section of the Praxis Core exam (5713), from reading the questions first to spotting answer choices that are too narrow to be the main idea. I also explain why reading bottom-up can help and how to work through double passages more efficiently, plus why a daily reading habit is the real key to improving your skills. Whether you&a...

In this episode, I dive into strategies for tackling the math subtest on the Praxis Elementary Education exams, the 5003 and 7003, showing you how to use answer choices to catch mistakes and avoid common trap questions. I also share my "matchy matchy" trick for solving proportion problems with ease. Tune in for tips that make elementary math way less intimidating. 🎥 Want to see these ma...

In this episode, I share four key talking points that will genuinely impress principals during your teacher interview: classroom management, using academic standards to plan instruction, differentiated instruction, and data-driven decision making. I break down exactly what to say for each topic and explain why authenticity matters more than a memorized script. Whether you're a seasoned educat...

In this episode, I share how a tough observation from my principal transformed my teaching: moving away from unison responses toward a raise-your-hand model so every student gets a chance to think. I break down how to raise rigor with follow-up questions like "say more about that," and why embracing uncomfortable silence through real wait time is where genuine learning happens. 🎥 Want t...

In this episode, I break down how to tackle the constructed response section of reading certification exams, sharing why your study guide content still matters even here. I walk through a simple strategy: read the task first, cite specific evidence, name a concrete instructional strategy, and connect it back to the standards.  ▶️ Want to watch instead? Check out the full video here: How to Ace the...

In this episode, I break down how to crack reading certification exams like the Foundations of Reading 190/890, STR 293, and Praxis 5205 by mastering three core concepts: explicit, systematic, and recursive instruction. I share test-taking strategies like the 3:1 pattern and key vocabulary to watch for, plus walk through the four types of assessment and the three tiers of vocabulary instruction. W...

In this episode, I share my top three tips for nailing your teacher or leadership interview: researching the school beyond the basics, connecting your content area to reading and writing goals, and asking one powerful question when it's your turn to ask. I break down exactly how to use each strategy to show principals you're prepared and the right fit for the job. 🎧 Want more tips to he...

In this episode, I dive into why routines and procedures are the secret to a smoother classroom, from walking in the door to what to do when work finishes early. I share how to map out your top few key moments, model and practice them until they stick, and reteach when things slip. Tune in for practical steps you can start using tomorrow. 🎥 Want more support with classroom management? Explore my...

In this episode, I break down the Praxis Core exam's three subtests, reading, writing, and math, covering what each section tests, how many questions to expect, and how much time you'll have. I also share why "I'm just not a math person" is a myth, drawing from my own journey as an English major who learned to teach biology, and I explain how to find ETS's free offici...

In this episode, I break down the key differences between the Praxis 5001 and 7001 exams, focusing on how the first section shifts from a broad Reading and Language Arts approach to a deeper focus on Teaching Reading and the science of reading. I walk through the staircase of foundational literacy skills, including phonological awareness, phonics, and fluency, and explain how test-takers can suppl...

In this episode, I break down how to master the constructed response section of reading exams like the STR, Foundations of Reading, and Teaching Reading 5205. I walk through a simple formula—identify the need, recommend a strategy, and explain the rationale—while showing how to use evidence, modeling, and research-based practices to strengthen your answers. I also share tips on tackling foundation...

In this episode, I share three tips to help you crush your teacher interview: having a clear classroom management plan, showing how you differentiate instruction for struggling students, and staying positive when discussing why you're leaving your current school. I break down exactly what principals want to hear on each of these points, straight from real interview experience. ⭐ Want even mo...

In this episode, I break down three concepts that frequently appear on reading exams: supporting English learners through their first language and cognates, building oral language through modeling and expansion, and teaching vocabulary using the three-tier framework. I share practical strategies—like leveraging cognates and prioritizing Tier 2 words—to help you ace your Teaching Reading exam and g...

In this episode, I walk you through how to answer one of the trickiest moments in a teacher interview — when the principal asks, "Do you have any questions for us?" I share my top question strategies for veteran teachers, new teachers, and everyone in between, explaining why asking just one, well-chosen question can leave a lasting impression. Whether you're a first-year teacher sho...

In this episode, I share one of the most powerful strategies for passing reading exams like the Foundations of Reading, Praxis 5205, and STR: learning to think like a test maker. I break down the research-based practices — such as explicit instruction, formative assessment, scaffolding, and strengths-based approaches for English learners — that consistently appear in correct answer choices. I also...

In this episode, I break down what principals are really looking for in a teacher interview — and it's not just content knowledge. I cover the three key areas you need to nail: classroom management, flexibility, and standards literacy, along with the specific phrases that will set you apart. I also share tips on how to stay positive and professional throughout the process so you can walk out...

In this episode, I walk you through the key concepts you need to know for common reading certification exams, including the Praxis 5205, Foundations of Reading Test (FORT), and the STR 293. I break down the three pillars of effective reading instruction — explicit, systematic, and recursive teaching — along with the Big Five of Reading: phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and compreh...

In this episode, I break down Content Category Six: Community Engagement Leadership for the SLLA 6990 and Praxis 5412, focusing on how effective school leaders build trust through proactive community involvement, transparent communication, and meaningful partnerships. I share key exam concepts like equity, access, representation, and culturally responsive leadership, along with practical strategie...

In this episode, I break down Content Category 4 of the Praxis Early Childhood Education Exams 5534 and 5533, focusing on professionalism, ethical practices, and building strong partnerships with families and communities. I explain how reflection, feedback, collaboration, and effective communication play a major role in both real-world teaching and choosing the best answers on the exam. 🎥 Watch t...