Creating Impactful Learning Environments with Liz Smith

05/12/24 • 27 min

20 Minutes of Teaching Brilliance (On the Road with Trust-Based Observations)

This episode features Liz Smith, a fifth-grade teacher at Robertson Elementary School, and focuses on trust-based observations and strategies for effective teaching.

Liz, with a decade of experience, emphasizes the importance of caring for students, understanding their individual needs, and the critical nature of work-life balance in teaching.

The conversation covers the significance of formative assessments, progress tracking, and relationship-building in the classroom.
Liz shares insights into making learning interactive, leveraging self and peer assessments, and integrating social and emotional learning (SEL) into daily activities.

Special attention is given to the implementation of grading systems, the creation of a supportive learning environment, and the role of reflective practices in both teacher and student growth.

00:37 Meet Liz Smith: A Fifth Grade Teacher's Journey

01:10 The Impact of Growing Up in a Teaching Family

01:19 The Essence of Caring in Teaching

02:29 Balancing Work and Life as a Teacher

09:25 Formative Assessment and Student Engagement

17:11 Building Relationships and Classroom Management

20:18 Self-Assessment and Tracking Student Progress

This episode features Liz Smith, a fifth-grade teacher at Robertson Elementary School, and focuses on trust-based observations and strategies for effective teaching.

Liz, with a decade of experience, emphasizes the importance of caring for students, understanding their individual needs, and the critical nature of work-life balance in teaching.

Special attention is given to the implementation of grading systems, the creation of a supportive learning environment, and the role of reflective practices in both teacher and student growth.

00:37 Meet Liz Smith: A Fifth Grade Teacher's Journey

01:10 The Impact of Growing Up in a Teaching Family

01:19 The Essence of Caring in Teaching

02:29 Balancing Work and Life as a Teacher

09:25 Formative Assessment and Student Engagement

17:11 Building Relationships and Classroom Management

20:18 Self-Assessment and Tracking Student Progress

Previous Episode

Creating Connections for Academic Achievement with Malik Bryant

In this episode, Craig Randall interviews Malik Bryant, a dedicated educator at Martin Luther School, Plymouth Meeting, Pennsylvania.

Malik shares his personal journey from pursuing a business degree to finding his calling in teaching, driven by his innate desire to help others.

His story unfolds from his initial job roles to his impactful position at Martin Luther School, thanks to his brother's encouragement. Martin Luther School, specializing in social and emotional behavior support, has a unique approach to education, focusing on behavioral management alongside academic excellence to reintegrate students into their districts.

Malik's transformative teaching methods, which emphasize understanding each student's needs, differentiation, and encouragement, are discussed. His approach, based on building strong relationships and fostering confidence through continuous encouragement and a rewards system, has had a profound effect on his students.

The conversation delves into Malik's first-hand experiences and successful strategies in the classroom, emphasizing the importance of asking questions to promote self-learning among students, rather than providing answers. This approach ensures students grow academically and personally, fostering a positive learning environment. Malik's exemplary dedication to teaching and personal philosophy of making learning accessible and enjoyable sets a remarkable example for educators everywhere.

00:00 Introduction to Trust Based Observations with Malik Bryant

00:29 Malik Bryant's Journey into Teaching

02:59 The Unique Approach of Martin Luther School

05:36 Building Confidence and Relationships in the Classroom

07:01 Understanding and Adapting to Each Student's Needs

16:06 The Art of Questioning to Enhance Learning

18:45 Personal Teaching Philosophy and Building Student Confidence

Next Episode

Math Talks and Whiteboards with Summer Miller

This podcast features a deep dive into the innovative teaching methods implemented by second-grade teacher Summer Miller in Yakima, Washington.

Summer shares her journey into teaching, her transition from kindergarten to second grade, and how trust and student engagement are at the core of her teaching philosophy.

The conversation highlights the use of whiteboards for math problems, allowing every student to actively participate and solve equations.

Through a method called 'number talks,' Summer emphasizes the importance of giving students time to think and process information, fostering a classroom environment where mistakes are seen as learning opportunities. She also discusses strategies for scaffolding, formative assessment, and the crucial role of questioning in developing student understanding.

Summer's approach showcases the importance of creating a safe, respectful space for learning, where students can gain confidence and thrive academically.

00:24 Meet Summer Miller: A Second Grade Teacher's Journey

01:45 Innovative Teaching with Whiteboards in Math Class

04:18 The Power of Number Talks in Math Education

08:59 Creating a Safe Space for Learning and Mistakes

14:10 Scaffolding and Engagement: Teaching as an Act

18:11 Formative Assessment and Individualized Learning

20:55 The Evolution of Questioning Techniques