Category Archives: author

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WEP 242: Teaching and Learning with the Magic of Artificial Intelligence An Interview with Jeni Long

This is Wired Educator Podcast Episode 242:

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Teaching and Learning with the Magic of Artificial Intelligence, my interview with Jeni Long who has been at the forefront of educational innovation as an EdTech speaker, consultant, and author helping educators. Jeni has a new role as Senior Community Strategist at MagicSchool AI is helping educators in fascinating new ways by leveraging artificial intelligence. Dive in. You’re going to love this episode. 

Click here to listen to my interview with Jeni Long.

Jeni is a seasoned educator with over 25 years of experience in the field. She is a respected EdTech speaker, consultant, and author dedicated to providing unwavering support for teachers both in and out of the classroom. Jeni empathizes with the daily challenges educators encounter and strives to offer guidance, resources, and encouragement to all educators. In her role as the Senior Community Strategist at MagicSchool AI, Jeni’s primary goal is to ensure that every teacher on the platform feels supported, motivated, and empowered to positively impact their students’ lives. She strongly believes in the strength of community and understands that collective collaboration among teachers can foster magic within classrooms. Jeni is actively engaged in organizing events, delivering professional development sessions, fostering community growth, and establishing partnerships with school districts in collaboration with MagicSchool. 

Mentioned in this Episode: 

StreamYard: Our sponsor for this episode. This is the app I use to record interviews with my guests. It’s the best way to record audio and video. Go to www.StreamYard.com and turn your browser into an awesome recording studio.

Magic School AI: This is where Jeni works and it is an amazing tool for using Artificial Intelligence as an educator. More to come on this, but I must say… I am so impressed by Magic School. Check it out.

Wired Wednesday Chat and Live Stream: Follow @wirededucator @kellycroy #wiredwednesday and the entire squad for a unique video live stream and Twitter chat on Wednesday at 9PM.

Here’s the link to ALL of Jeni Long’s social media, website and information: https://www.canva.com/design/DAEbRxl2tN4/AFSz0bNzL9PrPIOVJNod9Q/view

Thanks for taking time out of your busy week to listen to The Wired Educator Podcast.

You are awesome!

Kelly

I would like to speak at your event!

Order Kelly’s books, Along Came a Leader and Unthink Before Bed: A Children’s Book on Mindfulness for your personal library.

Educator, Author, Keynote Speaker
Twitter: @kellycroy
Instagram: @kcroy
Website: kellycroy.com and wirededucator.com
Podcast: The Wired Educator Podcast
and of course: Facebook.

Sign-up for Kelly’s newsletter here.

Do you like what you heard? Invite Kelly to speak at your school.
Interested in booking Kelly for your Next Event?

 

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WEP 241: Inspiring Students to Have Fun, Read and Become Financially Literate an Interview with Ty Allan Jackson

Ty Allan Jackson: Author, Speaker, Advocate and My Favorite Follow on Instagram.

Welcome to another exciting episode of the Wired Educator Podcast, where we’re dedicated to helping educators make a real difference. I’m your host, Kelly Croy, and today we have a very special episode that promises to inspire and energize.

Our guest is the dynamic Ty Allan Jackson, an author, speaker, and fierce advocate for children’s literacy and diversity in children’s books. Ty’s enthusiasm is absolutely infectious, and his commitment to teaching kids about financial literacy through his popular books like “Danny Dollar Millionaire” and “Make Your Own Money” is truly motivating.

Click here to listen to my interview with Ty.

In our conversation, Ty shares the joys and challenges of his journey as an author and speaker. He opens up about the impact his work has on young minds, emphasizing the importance of having diverse characters that kids can look up to. His positivity shines through everything he does, making him a joy to follow on Instagram and a favorite among his followers.

So, tune in, get inspired, and discover why this interview with Ty Allan Jackson is an absolute must-listen for anyone passionate about education and making a difference in the lives of young learners.

Ty is an award-winning children’s book author, literacy advocate, captivating motivational speaker, and honorary Doctorate recipient. In 2011 he founded Big Head Books, LLC (now Ty Allan Jackson, LLC,) a literacy organization that aims to introduce children to the joys of reading. Ty travels around the country (or, nowadays, does virtual visits via Zoom from the comfort of his couch) inspiring children and educating adults about the impacts of illiteracy.  A three-time TedX presenter, Ty believes that literacy is the foundation for a successful life and promotes it with humor and enthusiasm.

In 2021, Ty received an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree from Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts for his work as an author and community leader. Ty’s work as an author and literacy advocate also earned him the Massachusetts inaugural Martin Luther King Jr. Content of Character Award, as well as citations from the Massachusetts Governor, Senator, and the House of Representatives.

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Ty’s books have been featured on Good Morning America, Disney+, CNN, NBC Nightly News, The Steve Harvey Show, PBS. In 2012, Ty’s books were gifted to former First Lady Michelle Obama by his hometown mayor.

Projects
Ty is the co-founder of READ OR ELSE™, a literacy movement that was created to shine a light on the impacts of illiteracy.

In collaboration with Northern Kentucky University, Ty also co-founded Danny Dollar Academy, a revolutionary financial literacy program created for elementary school students to learn the basics of Finance, Entrepreneurship, and Economics.

Mentioned in this episode: 

www.TyAllanJackson.com

Follow Ty on • Facebook • Instagram • Twitter• LinkedIn

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Ty’s Books: 

• Danny Dollar Millionaire Extraordinaire: The Lemonade Escapade
• The Supadupa Kid
• The Supadupa Kid 2: MOVE
• When I Close My Eyes
• You Are Amazing/I Am Amazing
• Make Your Own Money: How Kids Can Earn It, Save It, Spent It, and Dream Big, with Danny Dollar, the King of Cha-Ching

Thanks for taking time out of your busy week to listen to The Wired Educator Podcast.

You are awesome!

Kelly

I would like to speak at your event!

Order Kelly’s books, Along Came a Leader and Unthink Before Bed: A Children’s Book on Mindfulness for your personal library.

Educator, Author, Keynote Speaker
Twitter: @kellycroy
Instagram: @kcroy
Website: kellycroy.com and wirededucator.com
Podcast: The Wired Educator Podcast
and of course: Facebook.

Sign-up for Kelly’s newsletter here.

Do you like what you heard? Invite Kelly to speak at your school.
Interested in booking Kelly for your Next Event?

 

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WEP 237: Teach Like a Pirate, Again! My interview with Dave Burgess

Dave Burgess is the author of the New York Times Best Seller, Teach Like a Pirate and President of Dave Burgess Consulting

This is the Wired Educator Podcast Episode 237, Teach Like a Pirate Revisited, my interview with Dave Burgess.

I had the good fortune of interviewing Dave on episode 10, 227 episodes ago! Dave is the author of Teach Like a Pirate and the president and found of DBC with over 200 EDU speakers and authors. Amazing!  I worked for Dave for 4 years doing website design, maintenance, marketing, narration of a couple books, designing author pages and more. So cool to have Dave back and talk about how relevant and important his Teach Like a Pirate book still is, the impact he has had on education and more! Beautiful episode, with a beautiful human. Love Dave’s positive influence on all things EDU and how he keeps the narrative on EDU super positive and awesome. You’re going to love our interview. 

Click here to listen to my interview with Dave or from anywhere quality podcasts are available.

I am excited to share “The” Dave Burgess‘s journey with you! We are going to talk about deeply about how some of the core components of his book, Teach Like a Pirate, are not only still relevant in classrooms today, but how they are saving teacher’s careers from exhaustion, burnout and engagement. Dave is one of the most wonderful humans and educators I have had the pleasure to meet. He came into my life at such a great time and really helped me and my family! I’m excited to reconnect with him and share his important work with you today, Teach Like a Pirate!

Thank you for all you do in education. I am so proud of you. Thank you for taking time out of your busy week, your busy day to listen to The Wired Educator Podcast. You’re awesome. 

Dave Burgess is the New York Times Best-Selling author of Teach Like a PIRATE, co-author of P is for PIRATE, and the president of Dave Burgess Consulting, Inc. which delivers powerful, inspirational, and innovative books, keynotes, and professional development.

He specializes in teaching hard-to-reach, hard-to-motivate students with techniques that incorporate showmanship and creativity.  At a recent ceremony in Washington, D.C., he was awarded the BAMMY for Secondary School Teacher of the Year by the Academy of Education Arts and Sciences.

Dave delivers the ultimate professional development experience for your teachers that is perfect for all circumstances from truly inspirational opening keynotes to full-day hands-on workshops.  It is a high-energy, interactive, and entertaining experience that will leave your staff unbelievably inspired, motivated, and with the practical skills to dramatically increase student engagement.

His presentations are a unique blend of outrageously energetic performance art and magic, mixed with an inspirational message of how and why to become more passionate in the classroom. All techniques and methods are modeled and fully explained so as to leave no doubt about how to apply the methods in the real-world. Participants will leave with a tool-box full of dynamic presentational ideas that they can immediately use to improve their lessons.

As a teacher in San Diego, California, he was a 2001 and 2012 Golden Apple winner in the Grossmont Union High School District and the 2007-2008 Teacher of the Year at West Hills High School. He was voted a faculty standout for 17 consecutive years in categories such as Most Entertaining, Most Energetic, and Most Dramatic.

Mentioned in this Episode: 

Dave’s Book, Teach Like a Pirate! Grab your copy of Dave’s book here. (This is the book I have gifted in EDU more than any other book.)

Dave’s website: www.daveburgess.com

Dave’s other website: www.daveburgessconsulting.com

Dave’s Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dave-burgess-show/id1550396352

Follow Dave on Twitter: @burgessdave

Unthink Before Bed: A Children’s Book on Mindfulness & Anxiety: Grab a copy of my children’s book, Unthink Before Bed: Click here to order!

Grow Your Own Leaders: Free Course: Join our FREE leadership class, Grow Your Own Leaders. Closing Wednesday, January 31 at noon. Small number of participant. Closing VERY soon. Click this link to join: wirededucator.com/growleaders

Grow Your Own Leaders: Free Course: Seriously, if you think at any point in your career you might want to be an educational leader at any level, director of something, principal, assistant, superintendent, whatever, hit paus on this podcast, pull over and go to wirededucator.com/growleaders and sign up. It’s 100% free. Six weeks. You have everything to gain. The door to this opportunity is closing.

Looking for someone who is expert in VR with Pico headset to help me find content for other content areas. Good in math and science. Reach out to me.

Storytelling with Purpose by Michael Hernandez. I recently interviewed Michael Hernandez and Apple Distinguished Educator and author of a brand new amazing book, titled Storytelling with Purpose. This is an amazing book that’s going to help educators in any grade level in any Contant area anywhere in the world tackle their biggest challenges in teaching. It’s a bold statement, but a big promise for me. I love this book. Stay tuned for this interview coming at you next week.

Lego Set Update! Wow! This is the Lego Set of Darth Vader’s Helmet I received as a gift from a listener. I will post progress in an upcoming newsletter. I will pay this forward. Tracy in Coppell, Texas… you are a legend. Two of my books are headed your way!  I am hoping Legos settle my active brain in a good way… and they’re fun. I am saving up for this beauty! Whoa! I never knew Lego kits like this existed. Seriously! Not sure how to explain this one to Lori when I make it. Ha! 

I shared this image on Instagram about how we talk about our year’s in education:

Thank you for taking time out of your busy day and week to listen to the Wired Educator podcast to level up and make a difference in the lives of others.

Always forward,

Kelly

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Do you like what you heard? Invite Kelly to speak at your school.
Interested in booking Kelly for your Next Event?

Order Kelly’s books, Along Came a Leader and Unthink Before Bed: A Children’s Book on Mindfulness for your personal library.

Educator, Author, Keynote Speaker
Twitter: @kellycroy
Instagram: @kcroy
Website: kellycroy.com and wirededucator.com
Podcast: The Wired Educator Podcast
and of course: Facebook.

Sign-up for Kelly’s newsletter here.

 

 

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WEP 235: My Reflection and Review of My Personal and Personal Goals for 2023

Not Bragging! Not Making Excuses! Promised I Would Keep Myself Accountable for the Goals I Set a Year Ago

Happy New Year!

This episode is not an interview with an educational leader. This episode is me reflecting on my year, the impact I made, the setbacks and success I experienced, and the lessons I learned.

One year ago I sat down with my Moleskine Journal and set a bunch of goals for 2023. One of the goals was to keep myself accountable by posting a podcast of me breaking down each goal on how I did. I set over 50 goals for 2023. Find out how I did. Perhaps you will be motivated to set some goals for yourself.

It is always difficult to hit the publish button on a blog, podcast, or post, but I always look at it from the perspective of an educator… to help others. If someone can benefit from my success or setbacks that is yet another benefit.

I do not post this podcast to brag or make excuses. I made it keep myself accountable. The process was actually quite humbling.

One of the goals of Wired Educator is to help people “level up to make a difference.” Perhaps this episode will do that for others.

I tried my best to make this episode fun.

I’m a gig goal setter. I love it. I must admit though, I learned I set way too many goals. I made a ton of progress, but the finish line escaped me for many.

I also tried to share some of the tools and systems I use to set goals. I will post on www.kellycroy.com on that in the next few days.

I do believe I am going to make this an annual event. It was hard to admit that I didn’t make the big three goals I set. That stung. Hopefully that will motivate me.

In this episode:

  • I review my major accomplishments.
  • I review each goal one by one. Setbacks.
  • Lots of unaccomplished goals.
  • Progress made.
  • I share lessons I learned.
  • Also, if you would I’m offering a Limited Coaching Opportunity: Want to start a podcast, speak on stage, publish a book, build a website, start a blog, become a better leader, complete the goal of your dreams? I have helped many educators publish books, start podcasts, and begin their service as keynote speakers and EDU consultants. I haven’t offered this in a while, and I am only going to keep this link open for a short time. I ONLY work with three people a year. If you are serious about moving forward complete the following form. Click here to learn about a paid coaching opportunity with Kelly: https://forms.gle/S3PK5194CyEGqT3o6
  • Tools I use: On my iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple Watch I use the following apps to help me stay organized, each of these are awesome and sync with one another:
    • Day One Journal App
    • Good Notes 5
    • Things (to-do list)
    • Drafts

    Moleskine Journal: If it’s worth writing down, put it in your Moleskine. Don’t use napkins, sticky notes, or scraps of paper. Put it where you can find it. This is the exact notebook I use as my day to day journal.  I love absolutely everything about it.  This is where I record my ideas and anything of importance.  If you read my posts and hear me speak, you know how important a journal is to my lifestyle and productivity. I don’t go anywhere without my Moleskine.

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Do you like what you heard? Invite Kelly to speak at your school.
Interested in booking Kelly for your Next Event?

Order Kelly’s books, Along Came a Leader and Unthink Before Bed: A Children’s Book on Mindfulness for your personal library.

Educator, Author, Keynote Speaker
Twitter: @kellycroy
Instagram: @kcroy
Website: kellycroy.com and wirededucator.com
Podcast: The Wired Educator Podcast
and of course: Facebook.

Sign-up for Kelly’s newsletter here.

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WEP 231: Seven Mindshifts for School Leaders

An Interview with Connie Hamilton, Dr. Joseph Jones, and Dr. T.J. Vari

This is the Wired Educator Podcast episode 231. My interview with the authors of the book, 7 Mindshifts for School Leaders, authors Connie Hamilton, Dr. Joseph Jones, and Dr. TJ Vari. This episode will challenge your thinking and provide you with the tools you need to look at challenges in education in new ways and find better solutions. Buckle up. You are going to love this episode. 

Click Here: To Listen to episode 231 of The Wired Educator Podcast.

Connie Hamilton has served the field of education as a teacher, instructional coach, elementary and secondary principal, and district curriculum director. She is the author of five books for teachers and school leaders. Connie is known for hands-on, practical approaches to solving instructional snafus. Educators love how she offers specific strategies that actually work and can be used immediately. Often referred to as “The Questioning Guru”, Connie has a unique ability to coach administrators and teachers and guide them through reflection and professional discovery for amazing PD experiences.

Dr. Joseph Jones is the Superintendent of Schools in the New Castle County Vocational-Technical School District. Joe is a former high school teacher, assistant principal and principal. As principal, he was named the Delaware Secondary Principal of the Year and during his tenure, Delcastle Technical High School was the first high school to receive the state’s Outstanding Academic Achievement Award. Joe received his doctorate from the University of Delaware in educational leadership. He is also an adjunct professor for various universities.

Dr. T.J. Vari is the Assistant Superintendent of Secondary Schools and District Operations in the Appoquinimink School District. T.J. is a former middle school assistant principal and principal and former high school English teacher. His master’s degree is in School Leadership and his doctorate is in Innovation and Leadership. He holds several honors and distinctions, including his past appointment as President of the Delaware Association for School Administrators and the Paul Carlson Administrator of the Year Award. He teaches educational leadership courses at the masters and doctoral level.

Together, Joe and T.J. present nationally on topics of school leadership, and they co-founded TheSchoolHouse302, which is a leadership development institute specializing in leadership coaching for new and experienced school leaders. They have written five books together, co-authoring several of those with their friends, Principal EL and Connie Hamilton.

Mentioned in this episode: 

The book by Connie, Joe, and T.J.: Seven Mindshifts for School Leaders.

I have written six blogs this year on goal setting, resolutions and designing a more dynamic life. Find them on my website here: www.kellycroy.com including my personal goals for 2023.

I have been invited to be the keynote speaker for the NJECC23 Conference on March 7 at Montclair State university in New Jersey. I so pumped. Live and in person.  Follow the hashtag #njecc23 on twitter and checkout www.njecc.org for more information.

The World Education Summit www.worldedsummit.com has accepted three of my presentations for their upcoming international conference. You really do want to check it out. There is so much for everyone at your school: www.worldEDsummit.com

Join the Wired Educator Squad each and every Thursday for our #WiredWednesday chat. A 30 minute chat on topics that change your life and the lives of others. It’s quick and fun. Tag a friend and jump in. Squad up.

Order a copy of Keven Rinamen’s Book 3DU: A Guide to 3D Printing in Every Classroom

• Order my books Along Came a Leader and Unthink Before Bed: A Children’s Book on Mindfulness as a holiday present.

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Do you like what you heard? Invite Kelly to speak at your school.
Interested in booking Kelly for your Next Event?

Join our #WiredWednesday 30-Minute Twitter chats on Wednesdays at 9PM Eastern. They are awesome and fun.

Order Kelly’s books, Along Came a Leader and Unthink Before Bed: A Children’s Book on Mindfulness for your personal library.

Educator, Author, Keynote Speaker
Twitter: @kellycroy
Instagram: @kcroy
Website: kellycroy.com and wirededucator.com
Podcast: The Wired Educator Podcast
and of course: Facebook.

Sign-up for Kelly’s newsletter here.

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WEP 230: You Are Poetry, An Interview Mike Johnston

How to See and Grow the Poet in Your Students and Yourself.

In this episode of The Wired Educator Podcast Episode, I interview Mike Johnston, educator, author, and poet. Mike is the author of You Are Poetry: How to See and Grow the Poet in Your Students and Yourself.

This is an enchanting, beautiful and helpful conversation for all educators in any grade and in any content area to take students learning and work to the highest level of understanding and expression possible. This interview is awesome and it’s just what you need.

Click here to listen to my interview with Mike.

Mike and I talk about:

  • What He believes poetry is and why he believes everyone is a poet.
  • The value of poetry as emotional literacy.
  • His book and how  it can be used.
  • Poetry in all content and grades.
  • And more!

Mike Johnston is a Metis middle school educator, champion slam poet, spoken word artist, poetry educator and and land-based learning specialist. He was named a National Geographic Grosvenor Teacher Fellow and is the author of You Are Poetry; an educational resource book that guides educators and students alike through activities and insights to help them see and grow the poet in themselves. This past year the book evolved into the first International #YouArePoetry Movement during poetry month, in which students and teachers from around the world connected through the poetry possibilities shared in its pages.

Mentioned in this episode: 

• Order a copy of Mike’s book You Are Poetry here.

• Follow Mike on Twitter.

• Follow my “Santa Every Day” drawings on Instagram here. 

• Send our Wired Educator Squad Leader @teachertheresa some get well messages.

• Order my books Along Came a Leader and Unthink Before Bed: A Children’s Book on Mindfulness as a holiday present.

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Do you like what you heard? Invite Kelly to speak at your school.
Interested in booking Kelly for your Next Event?

Join our #WiredWednesday 30-Minute Twitter chats on Wednesdays at 9PM Eastern. They are awesome and fun.

Order Kelly’s books, Along Came a Leader and Unthink Before Bed: A Children’s Book on Mindfulness for your personal library.

Educator, Author, Keynote Speaker
Twitter: @kellycroy
Instagram: @kcroy
Website: kellycroy.com and wirededucator.com
Podcast: The Wired Educator Podcast
and of course: Facebook.

Sign-up for Kelly’s newsletter here.

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WEP 229: SEEing to Lead, an Interview with Chris Jones

SEE: Support, Engage and Empower

In this 229th episode of The Wired Educator Podcast, I have the pleasure of interviewing an amazing educational leader named Chris Jones. Chris is the author of a really powerful, leadership book titled Seeing to Lead. I had so much fun talking with Christ and I learned a ton. He delivers actionable steps to help anyone improve and I love his authenticity and fun spirit. This is a great interview for anyone in education that wants a bit of refreshing inspiration, encouragement and some golden nuggets to level up and make a difference.

Click here to listen to my interview with Chris.

Dr. Chris Jones has been an educator in Massachusetts for 22 years. His experience in the classroom ranged from 8th – 11th grade working in an urban setting. A portion of this was spent opening a high school division for an expanding charter school. He has just finished his 14th year as a building administrator. Chris is also the Vice President of the Massachusetts State Administrators Association (MSAA). True to his “why” of improving the educational experience for as many people as possible, he is currently the Principal of Whitman-Hanson Regional High School in Whitman, Massachusetts. He is the author of SEEingtoLead, a book that provides strategies for how modern leaders can and must support, engage, and empower their teachers to elevate student success. Chris vlogs weekly about continuous improvement and is also the host of the podcast SEEing to Lead as a way to amplify teachers’ voices in an effort to improve education as a whole. His overarching goal is to positively model continuous improvement in all facets of life by being purposeful, acting with integrity, and building character.

Chris is passionate about continuous improvement and the idea that success is not a destination, but a process. Chris is a teacher centered principal and his beliefs around the importance of a positive work environment, continuous growth, and a healthy family work-life integration can be seen in the presentations and workshops he has given for the Massachusetts School Administrators Association (MSAA), Massachusetts Computer Using Educators (MassCUE), Massachusetts Association of Supervision and Curriculum Development (MASCD), the Association of Supervision and Curriculum Development (ASCD), the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP); and his participation in the Better Leaders Better Schools Mastermind group.

A finalist for the Massachusetts School Administrators Association’s Principal of the Year award and named the 2022 Massachusetts School Counselors Associaltion’s (MASCA) Administrator of the Year, Chris is described by his past Superintendent as being “…wholly invested in the success of the school…a creative problem-solver who is able to deliberate yet be decisive, be creative yet accountable…calm and clear-headed even under the most trying of times…has built a strong collaborative and collegial school culture…he is a positive influence on teachers, teaching, and learning.”

Chris’ education includes a BA from Bridgewater State University, an MA from Salem State University, and a Doctorate from Northeastern University. He currently resides in Southeastern Massachusetts with his wife, Mary (Bella) and two boys, Tommy and Scotty.

Mentioned in this podcast:

The World Education Summit: https://www.worldedsummit.com/
Chris’s Podcast: SEEing to Lead
Chris’s Book: SEEing to Lead
Follow Christ onTwitter: @DrCSJones
(We’re proud affiliates for some of these tools, meaning if you click a link for a tool and make a purchase, we earn a commission at no extra cost to you.)

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Do you like what you heard? Invite Kelly to speak at your school.
Interested in booking Kelly for your Next Event?

Join our #WiredWednesday 30-Minute Twitter chats on Wednesdays at 9PM Eastern. They are awesome and fun.

Order Kelly’s books, Along Came a Leader and Unthink Before Bed: A Children’s Book on Mindfulness for your personal library.

Educator, Author, Keynote Speaker
Twitter: @kellycroy
Instagram: @kcroy
Website: kellycroy.com and wirededucator.com
Podcast: The Wired Educator Podcast
and of course: Facebook.

Sign-up for Kelly’s newsletter here.

 



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WEP 228: Leading with a Humble Heart, an interview with Zac Bauermaster

Educational Leadership by Putting People First

This is Episode 228 of The Wired Educator Podcast. I interview Zac Bauermaster about leadership, serving in every level of education, and his new book, Leading with a Humble Heart. This is a great interview for all. Enjoy

Click here to listen to Episode 228 of The Wired Educator Podcast.

Zac Bauermaster is an educational leader and author passionate about people. Zac’s mission field is public education. One of his main tag lines is, “It’s all about people.” His leadership style exemplifies a people-first approach as he seeks to glorify God in all he does. Zac has gained humble confidence through his daily pattern of prayer and reading scripture that he aims to share with others to advance God’s kingdom. Zac released a devotional leadership book in July of 2022 titled, Leading with a Humble Heart: A 40 Day Devotional for Leaders. 

Zac currently serves as principal at Kissel Hill Elementary School, located in the Warwick School District in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. Zac has the tremendous opportunity to lead teachers, support staff, families, and most importantly, the next generation daily. His greatest joy in education is seeing adults leverage their God-given talents and abilities through inspiring kids to find and use their gifts. Before becoming a principal, Zac served public education in various K-12 roles such as assistant principal, administrator of online learning, teacher, and coach. These experiences have grown Zac’s sphere of influence and allowed him the opportunity to develop and maintain lifelong relationships.

Zac received his undergraduate degree from Millersville University in secondary education and completed his Master’s Degree in Educational Technology from Pennsylvania State University. Zac returned to Penn State, where he earned his Principal Certification. Most recently, Zac earned his Doctorate in Educational Leadership and Superintendent Letter of Eligibility from Drexel University. He is a lifelong learner, always looking to learn and grow. His family jokes that he went to school in Kindergarten and hasn’t ever stopped.

Zac continues to grow his leadership influence and share encouragement and positivity, along with the good news of Christ through various social media platforms, magazine publications, and speaking events.

Most importantly, Zac is a husband to his wife Carly, and father to three young kids, Olivia, Eliot, and Isaac. Zac is a firm believer in leading his family first. The family resides in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania.

Connect with Zac at www.zacbauermaster.com or  on Twitter and Instagram @ZBauermaster

Mentioned in this episode:

Order a copy of Zac’s book: Leading With a Humble Heart

Connect with Zac at www.zacbauermaster.com or  on Twitter and Instagram @ZBauermaster

One of Zac’s favorite’s is a Five Year Journal

Kelly’s favorite journal.

Thanks for listening.

Kelly

Two things to share: I just finished reading this book by one of my favorite authors; don’t let the title shock you, and I just added this to about everything of value to me, including my dog. Add to cart!

(We’re proud affiliates for some of these tools, meaning if you click a link for a tool and make a purchase, we earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Our recommendations are based on deep experience with and knowledge of these companies and their products, and we recommend them because they are genuinely helpful and useful, not because of the small commissions we may receive. Please don’t spend any money on
these products unless you believe they will help you achieve your goals.) Have a great week.

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Do you like what you heard? Invite Kelly to speak at your school.
Interested in booking Kelly for your Next Event?

Join our #WiredWednesday 30-Minute Twitter chats on Wednesdays at 9PM Eastern. They are awesome and fun.

Order Kelly’s books, Along Came a Leader and Unthink Before Bed: A Children’s Book on Mindfulness for your personal library.

Educator, Author, Keynote Speaker
Twitter: @kellycroy
Instagram: @kcroy
Website: kellycroy.com and wirededucator.com
Podcast: The Wired Educator Podcast
and of course: Facebook.

Sign-up for Kelly’s newsletter here.

 

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WEP 224 Ruthless Equity an Interview with Ken Williams

An Interview with Ken Williams

In this episode of The Wired Educator Podcast I talk with the legend Ken Williams about Equity, What makes a successful PLC, the misconceptions and dangers of ability groupings, reaching the disengaged, and his new book Ruthless Equity. I love this interview and you will too.

Click here to listen to my interview with Ken Williams.

Kenneth C. Williams shares his experience and expertise as a nationally recognized trainer, speaker, coach and consultant in leadership and school culture. A practitioner for nearly three decades, Ken led the improvement efforts at two schools by leveraging the Professional Learning Communities at Work process. Skilled in joining the why of the work to the how of the work, Ken is known for his powerful and engaging combinations of “heart, humor, and hammer.” He is an expert at helping schools build capacity in the collective commitments required of learning for all cultures.

Ken is the former principal of The Learning Academy at E. J. Swint in Jonesboro, Georgia, and Damascus Elementary School in Damascus, Maryland. His firsthand experience with transforming challenged schools translates into action-oriented presentations that inspire hope, create a clear vision, and offer practical strategies to those overwhelmed by challenges.

Ken earned a Bachelor of Arts from Morehouse College, and a Master of Science from the University of Bridgeport. He is the co-author of the bestseller, Starting A Movement: Building Culture from the Inside-Out in Professional Learning Communities, Creating Physical and Emotional Safety In Schools, and a contributing author of Beyond Conversations About Race.

Mentioned in this podcast: 

Ken’s new book: Ruthless Equity <Coming soon to Amazon in May>

 visit Ken’s website: Unfold The Soul online at www.unfoldthesoul.com

@unfoldthesoul on Twitter

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Educator, Author, Keynote Speaker
Twitter: @kellycroy
Instagram: @kcroy
Website: kellycroy.com and wirededucator.com
Podcast: The Wired Educator Podcast
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Posted on

WEP 223: Plan Like a Pirate an Interview with Dawn Harris

An Interview with Dawn Harris

In this 223rd episode of The Wired Educator Podcast I interview Dawn Harris about her new book, Plan Like a Pirate.

Click here to listen to my interview with Dawn. 

I absolutely love our conversation on designing meaningful experience for students, curriculum, fitting everything needed into education, what CRT is and isn’t, and most importantly how to impact the lives of students. Dawn is brilliant and this episode will inspire and enchant you to become your personal best and deliver to students. I love it and you will too. Order a copy of her book: Dawn’s Book: Plan Like a Pirate: Designing Extraordinary Learning Journeys for Every Student

Dawn Harris is a passionate and energetic educator who lives by the motto, “Relationships First.” Her enthusiasm for creating connections is infectious and she thrives on the opportunity to learn about the things that motivate and inspire teachers and students alike.

In her roles as a secondary English Language Arts Educator, Gifted and Talented Teacher, and Associate Professor of Teacher Education, Dawn continually strives to bring authentic and engaging learning experiences to students of all ages.

Throughout her career as an educator, Dawn has taught in urban, rural, and suburban districts meeting the needs of children from a wide range of backgrounds and cultures. In addition to general ELA coursework, Dawn’s classroom teaching experience also includes teaching English as a second language, creative writing, film studies, and response to intervention instruction. Dawn’s professional teaching experiences have been showcased in scholarly journals and at local, regional, national, and international conferences.

Prior to becoming an educator, Dawn spent more than 10 years in marketing and publishing in the private sector. This experience has given Dawn insight into the skills and knowledge students need in order to be prepared to enter into a competitive, global workforce or into college once they leave high school. This insight helps to support Dawn’s work in developing veteran, novice, and pre-service teachers as they seek to educate students for tomorrow’s work today.

As a licensed Curriculum, Instruction, and Professional Development Specialist, Dawn’s primary goal in all things is to support educators with planning learning that ignites curiosity and that engages and inspires students in a way that impacts their growth and achievement every single day.

About Dawn’s Book:

How do good teachers become great? How do you create magical learning experiences your students will never forget? In Plan Like a PIRATE, you’ll learn that sailing on to greatness starts with vision, intention, and design—planning—inside and outside of the classroom, far beyond any single lesson.

This practical, comprehensive guide is packed with proven strategies for captivating students’ imaginations and interest, leading readers through what it takes to engage and nurture learners with rigorous, equitable differentiated lessons. Designed to launch readers on a journey from “seeing it” to “being it”—and all points in between—Plan Like a PIRATE shows teachers how to harness their passion to create and implement innovative, relevant, student-centered learning opportunities and to  build a detailed, intentional, future-focused plan to attain their dream career. This book will help educators deepen the impact of their teaching practice and power up their professionalism, allowing them to chart a course for themselves and their students to a better, more equitable world.

Endorsements

“Get ready to set sail for an incredible adventure with Dawn Harris!” —Tisha Richmond, student engagement specialist, PD specialist, and author of Make Learning Magical 

“A master teacher herself, Dawn Harris shares stories from the trenches and weaves in practical strategies and frameworks to help make learning accessible and meaningful for students. This is a must-read for all educators!” —Jill Siler, EdD, deputy executive director, Texas Association of School Administrators, and author of Thrive Through the Five: Practical Truths to Powerfully Lead Through Challenging Times

Topics
Antiracism Education
Cultivating Belonging at School
Essential 8 Framework
Gifted Education
Teacher Evaluation Process

Professional Learning Networks

Links

Website: www.educationundone.com

Twitter: @DHarrisEdS

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dharriseds/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dawnmharris/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dawnmharrris/

Other: Education Undone Educator Network (Facebook Group)

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If you like what you’ve heard, please share-out with our friends on social media and tag me. Don’t forget the #LeadEveryDay  #WiredEducator and #wiredwednesday hashtag. Can’t wait to hear your thoughts.

Join our #WiredWednesday 30-Minute Twitter chats on Wednesdays at 9PM Eastern. They are awesome and fun.

Invite Kelly to be your keynote speaker at your school.

Order Kelly’s books, Along Came a Leaderand Unthink Before Bed: A Children’s Book on Mindfulness for your personal library.

If you liked what you heard or read, please share-out with our friends on social media!
Do you like what you heard? Invite Kelly to speak at your school.
Interested in booking Kelly for your Next Event?

Educator, Author, Keynote Speaker
Twitter: @kellycroy
Instagram: @kcroy
Website: kellycroy.com and wirededucator.com
Podcast: The Wired Educator Podcast
and of course: Facebook.

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