Tag Archives: kelly Croy

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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 240: Building a Community for Educational Technology Integration, an Interview with Chris Nesi

My Interview with Chris Nesi, the Host of The House of EdTech Podcast and All-Around Good Human and Educator

Welcome to the Wired Educator Podcast, Episode 240 my interview with the exceptional Chris Nesi.

Chris is not only an outstanding educator but also the brilliant host of the House of EdTech podcast. Chris is someone I respect and admire.  I’m absolutely delighted to share our enlightening conversation about education podcasting and a plethora of other fascinating topics. You’re going to love this episode.

Click here to listen to my interview with Chris.

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/2KTX20EYnDJcL2eZG28DDu?si=DqFIoIayQ-SroQRGmBTWsw

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-wired-educator-podcast/id974270220?i=1000651251961

Christopher J. Nesi, is a passionate educator, podcast host, and influential thought leader. With over 15 years of classroom experience, Chris has dedicated his professional journey to assisting educators in effectively and meaningfully integrating technology into their teaching practices. His engaging presentations at both local and national conferences are widely acclaimed for their practical strategies in technology implementation and their emphasis on creating student-centered learning experiences.

As the host and producer of the immensely popular “House of #EdTech” podcast, Chris explores emerging trends and conducts insightful interviews with influential figures in education and technology from around the world. His authenticity and genuine leadership shine through in every episode, making him an invaluable resource for educators seeking inspiration and guidance.

Throughout our conversation, I was reminded of why Chris has earned my admiration. His unwavering dedication to empowering educators and utilizing technology to shape the future of education is truly inspiring. I strongly encourage listeners to tune in to his podcast and engage with him on social media, as his insights are truly invaluable. It’s a true honor and privilege to introduce you to the remarkable Chris Nesi.

Chris’s Links:

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 239: Publishing Students Through Creative Collaborations an Interview with Donnie Sorah

This is the Wired Educator podcast Episode 239, my interview with Donnie, Sorah titled “Publishing Students Through Creative Collaborations.”

Donnie is a  musician, educator, composer, and an associate professor of music at The University of Virginia’s College at Wise. He’s amazing and he’s going to share his story as well as inspire us all to publish students’ work in powerful and unique ways to enhance their voice, build connection and provide the best learning experience possible. This episode is perfect for teachers in any content are, teaching any age, educational leaders and YOU!

Click here to listen to Kelly’s interview with Donnie.

Dr. Donald Sorah, Associate Professor of Music at The University of Virginia’s College at Wise, boasts a diverse teaching portfolio encompassing applied high brass, conducting, music technology, composition, orchestration, and various other courses. As an Apple Distinguished Educator and recipient of the Outstanding Use of Technology in the Classroom Award (May 2022), Dr. Sorah actively supports students and colleagues as an Apple Learning Coach at UVA Wise, an Apple Distinguished School.

Under his guidance, the college achieved initial accreditation by the National Association of Schools of Music in 2019. Beyond UVA Wise, Dr. Sorah has served as Associate Adjunct Instructor at Mountain Empire Community College since 1999 and previously taught at J.J. Kelly High School and L.F. Addington Middle School in Wise, Virginia.

As the Associate Director of the Spirit of America National Honor Band, he conducted and performed as a trumpet soloist across Europe. He co-founded the Guayaquil Summer Music Academy in Ecuador, where he engaged in performances, lectures, and trumpet instruction. Recent teaching and research ventures have taken him to Chile and Spain.

Sorah is a member of the Symphony of the Mountains and the Johnson City Symphony. In 2006, he founded the Winds of the Mountain Empire, a regional wind ensemble comprised mainly of music educators and is a champion for new works, presenting numerous premieres and commissions.

As a prolific composer, Dr. Sorah has crafted works for various ensembles, including piano, organ, chamber groups, wind ensemble, and orchestra. His compositions have been performed by The University of Louisville Symphonic Band, University of Florida Symphonic Band, Nicholls State University Symphonic Band, and Madison Concert Band. Most recently, his orchestral work Rhapsody on In the Bleak Midwinter was featured at the 2023 Midwest Clinic in Chicago, Illinois.

As an advocate for proving free high-quality educational resources for his students he has published four books on Apple Books including Composing with Found Sounds in GarageBand, Everyone Can Create Music With iPad Curriculum Guide, Book of Rhythms and Melodies Vol. 1, and Book of Rhythms and Melodies Vol. 2. Under his leadership, students in his music appreciation course published five introductory books covering eras of classical music.

Dr. Sorah earned his Doctor of Philosophy Degree in Music Education from The Florida State University and holds master’s and bachelor’s degrees from Morehead State University (KY). He resides in Wise, Virginia, with his wife Kelly, son Brennan, and dog Roamer.

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Mentioned in this Episode: 

Book Kelly to Speak at Your School!

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?

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

 

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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 236: Legacy of Learning, an Interview with Meghan Lawson

Learn About Meghan's New Book and Hear Joe Miller, Ohio TOY Finalist, Joins Me as Co-Host

The Wired Educator Podcast kicks off 2024 with an interview with Meghan Lawson, author of the new EDU best seller, Legacy of Learning: Teaching for Lasting Impact.

My colleague at Port Clinton City Schools, Joe Miller, an amazing high school English teacher and Ohio
Teacher of the Year Finalist, joins me on this episode as cohost.

We talk with Megan about her book, social, emotional learning, strategies for making a lasting impact, and creating awesome spaces to teach and learn. You’re going to love this episode.

Click here to listen to my interview with Meghan.

Meghan is a thought leader who studies and implements the conditions and systems needed for transformational change. She is the author of Legacy of Learning: Teaching for Lasting Impact. A lover of learning who believes in the goodness of people, Meghan works to cultivate spaces that honor the humanity of all people. She promotes storytelling, the exchange of ideas, and risk-taking. She is passionate about disrupting the status quo and creating kinder, forward-thinking communities of action. Meghan is also intensely curious about how to enhance the customer experience in schools. Meghan began her career in the English Language Arts classroom. So, inevitably, her mantra is “Words matter”. She has worked in all levels of K–12 education as a teacher, school administrator, district administrator, and educational consultant.

Mentioned in this episode: 

Meghan Lawson’s website: https://meghanlawson.com/

Order a copy of Meghan’s book: Legacy of Learning: Teaching for Lasting Impact.

Joe Miller, finalist for Ohio Teacher of the Year. Read about Joe’s accomplishment here: https://hs.pccsd.net/apps/news/show_news.jsp?REC_ID=860338&id=0

Check out last week’s Wired Educator Episode 235: My Reflection and Review of My Personal and Professional Goals for 2023. This was my last episode where I hold myself accountable on how I did in 2023. Now, I will soon be publishing an episode on the goals I am setting for 2023. I hope you will check it out and set some goals of your own.

I was on George Couros’s Podcast: Watch it on YouTube. • Listen to it on Apple Podcasts. • Listen to it on Spotify. I made it on his highlights of 2023 episode too! Very cool. Thank you, George.

Find Your Joy! Thinking of asking my youngest, Jillyan to assemble a BIG Lego set like this one or a big car or something like it in 2024. Anyone know anything about Lego kits like this? Give me your expert opinion. Having some stick shock to be honest. I am trying to find a project with her that we can get lost in and have some fun.

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 234: Teaching Love, Respect & Preservation of Students’ Culture Using Technology, an Interview with Brian Casto

This is the Wired Educator Podcast Episode 234, an  interview with West Virginia Educator of the Year and Apple Distinguished Educator, Brian Casto.

Click here to listen to Kelly interview Brian.  

We focus on making class time and content engaging as well as the opportunities and challenges that arise in being recognized for our work in education. Brian Casto is an amazing educator whom I had the pleasure to meet. He is so humble and kind, but his inspiration and passion for all things education will inspire all of us. you are going to love this episode. 

Brian has impacted lives for more than fifteen years in education. His dedication to preserving West Virginia’s history and culture has earned him accolades, including the Honorary Golden Horseshoe Award. Recently accepted into the Apple Distinguished Educator program, Brian’s story is one of passion and impact. I love the animated videos he created to help his students learn about and have respect for their state. Amazing work.

Brian Casto has been in the education field for fifteen years and holds a bachelor’s degree in social studies, grades 5-12, from Marshall University.  After teaching in both middle and high school for 14 years, he now serves as a New Teacher Specialist in his district.  Mr. Casto received an Honorary Golden Horseshoe Award June 25, 2021, for his two-minute animated videos that preserve the history and culture of West Virginia.  He created these videos for educators across the state in his spare time because there are only a few videos available for West Virginia Studies. He also works with the West Virginia Department of Tourism through his Where in West Virginia is Mr. Casto video series that explores the history, culture, and sites of the state. He is the 2022 West Virginia Teacher of the Year and presently serves on a council of teachers of the year with his state department of education. In 2023, he was accepted into the Apple Distinguished Educator program for his innovative use of technology in and out of the classroom.

From Brian: 

“I love thinking of creative ways students and teachers can utilize technology to engage in learning. I especially love using Clips, Keynote, and iMovie in the learning process. I’ve really enjoyed taking what I have learned from working with these programs on my own and incorporating them into the classroom. As with most things, I was a novice when I first began making animated videos and have worked hard in the past 3 years to learn graphic design, video editing, video producing, animation storyboarding, and script writing to tell the story of West Virginia. I believe it was my use of these videos in and out of class that resonated with Apple’s Distinguished Educator Program. When I first started making them, there were very few good media resources available for West Virginia Studies. As an educator, I felt that it was my job to get students excited about topics in class. As I started making and sharing these with my students, covid happened. All of the sudden these engaging videos became a source of engagement for teachers to use across the state. The West Virginia Department of Education began using them in their virtual school program and countless teachers , parents who homeschool, and even students began reaching out to me to express how much they enjoy them. Since then I have worked with the Department of Tourism, Civil War Trails Inc., the Jewish American Military Historical Society, and many others on projects that highlight the importance of preserving history, culture, and sites around my home state.”

West Virginia History in 2 Minutes or Less

Where in West Virginia is Mr. Casto? 

Mentioned in this podcast:

• Grow Leaders Course with Pat Adkins and Kelly Croy. We are taking applications for this free course to anyone interested in becoming a school leader in school administration. Pat is an expert who wants to help the shortage of teachers going into administration. I will be assisting Pat, but he is leading this course. This is a free course. You can apply here: https://forms.gle/WX2Comwk285aLgBc8 Learn more at: www.WiredEducator.com/growleaders  This course is limited in both number of acceptance of applicants and duration we will be accepting applicants. Apply now!

• Next Podcast is with Meghan Lawson about her book, Legacy of Learning: Teaching for Lasting Impact. Grab a copy of her book here. Joe Miller, a colleague of mine and high school ELA teacher extraordinaire cohosts my interview with Meghan. She is coming to our school in March to speak. We are excited.

• 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

• Love this Review of The Podcast by a listener: 

 

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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 233: Rocking an iPad in Any Classroom, an Interview with Kristen Brooks

How to Bring Creation over Consumption with Devices to All Grades and Content Areas

This is the Wired Educator Podcast episode 233, my interview with Kristen Brooks. Kristin is an Apple Distinguished Educator and an education leader that’s making a difference in the lives of others. She helps me and my district with adding creation to our learning, especially with iPads. I’m excited to share her story and message with you and the impact that she’s making around the world. You’re going to love this interview. It is all about rocking iPads in any classroom and putting creation over consumption with devices.

Kristen is so, very, very kind. She is the type of educator, leader and friend. She is the type of person who checks in on others and she did that with me recently and it really helped. What a genuine, compassionate educator and difference maker!

(Click here to play from your email.)

Kristen Brooks is an amazing force for all things good in education. She is an innovator. She is a leader. She is an inspiration to all. Kristen is an Apple Distingued educator of whom I have traveled the world with at global ADE Institutes, and I follow her on social media making an impact everywhere with her amazing knowledge and resources. (She sent me some amazing resources of hers to include in the show notes, so check the out. )

She has held numerous positions in the Cherokee County School District from Elementary Tech Lab & iPad Lab Creator to Instructional Technology Specialist & Tech Coach. She is a veteran teacher of 28 years with the last 18 years exclusively in Educational Technology. She keeps herself busy as a Technology Teacher encouraging students to regularly create more than they consume with their devices and as an Educational Technology Consultant supporting learners of all ages by helping them effectively use technology for learning and creating. This can include training teachers on how to integrate technology into their curriculum, designing and implementing technology-based learning programs, and providing support and resources for students and educators.

Mentioned in this episode: 

• Edu X-Chats (Twitter Chats): #WiredWednesday chats are every other Wednesday and #EDULeaderChat every other Thursdays. Both are only 30 minutes long, starting at 9PM EST.

• Follow Kelly’s  30 Day Challenge on X app (Twitter): #AppleEducationCommunity30DayChallenge.

• Congratulations on retiring to my best friend, Richard Baird, superintendent of North Union Schools in Richwood, Ohio. He made such a tremendous difference there and in all of education. Can’t wait to see what is next for him. Here’s our interview together: https://wirededucator.com/wep99/

• Check out the Apple Education Community and all they have to offer you at: http://education.apple.com

• Grow Leaders Opportunity to learn about becoming an Edu Administrator: Here is the chance for your golden ticket: Grow Leaders Course. We will select five (5) winners from these applications by end of September: www.wirededucator.com/growleaders Pat Adkins was a guest on my 166th episode. You can listen here: https://wirededucator.com/wep166/

• Follow Kristen on X or Twitter and LinkedIn at @KristenBrooks77

From Kristen: New friends- Thank you for listening today. I would love to continue this conversation so please reach out to me with questions or to invite me to consult with your school or district. 

Kristen Brooks link tree -link

Twitter: @KristenBrooks77

Kristen on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kristenbrooks77

Clips Tutorial for all learners created in clips app by Kristen Brooks. Feel free to use and share. https://youtu.be/PU6lsiXcFsE

What’s next for Kristen Brooks? 

I will be retiring from my district in 1 year with 30 years in education; but I am not retiring from Education or Edtech! I am excited to announce I have started my own LLC which is called 

Kristen Brooks #forEDU and I will be available to consult and present around the globe at schools and districts. I am excited to help encourage more students and educators the importance & value of creating more than they consume.

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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 232: Recalibrate Your Culture, An Interview with Jimmy Casas


Focus: Building a Positive School Culture: Insights from Jimmy Casas’ New Book

As the Wired Educator podcast reaches its 232nd episode, host Kelly Croy welcomes a special guest, Jimmy Casas, a renowned educator, speaker, and author of the newly-released book, Recalibrate the Culture. In their conversation, Jimmy discusses the importance of school culture in shaping the success of both students and staff and shares practical strategies for building a positive culture in any school setting.

If you’re a school leader or educator who wants to create a positive school culture and improve your leadership skills, be sure to listen to Kelly Croy’s interview of Jimmy Casas on The Wired Educator Podcast. You’ll be inspired by Casas’s passion and wisdom, and you’ll come away with practical strategies that you can use to make a difference in your school.

Creating a positive school culture is more important than ever in today’s educational climate, and Jimmy’s book is a valuable resource for educators looking to cultivate a welcoming and inclusive environment for their students. He emphasizes the critical role of leadership in establishing and nurturing a positive culture, as well as the impact of technology on shaping school culture.

In addition to the insightful conversation with Jimmy, Kelly also announces that the Wired Educator Squad is looking for new members to join their team. If you’re an educator passionate about technology in education, this is a great opportunity to get involved and contribute to the community. The squad is looking for individuals who can help host the #WiredWednesday chat on Twitter, write blog posts for the website, and assist with producing the podcast using GarageBand.

Speaking of speaking, Kelly shares his recent experiences as a keynote speaker at the NJECC conference and the World Education Summit, and his upcoming speaking engagement at the COSSBA Educational Conference. If you’re interested in having Kelly speak at your school district, you can reach out to him directly.

Before wrapping up, Kelly reminds listeners about the #WiredWednesday Twitter chats, which take place every Wednesday night at 9PM Eastern. It’s an excellent opportunity for educators to connect and share ideas about technology in education.

In conclusion, the Wired Educator podcast continues to provide valuable insights and resources for educators looking to improve their teaching practice. Jimmy Casas’ new book, Recalibrate the Culture, is a must-read for anyone looking to build a positive school culture, and the Wired Educator Squad is an excellent way to get involved and contribute to the community. Thanks for tuning in, and let’s get wired!

Keywords: education, school culture, positive culture, leadership, technology, #WiredWednesday, podcast, Jimmy Casas, Recalibrate the Culture, NJECC conference, World Education Summit, COSSBA Educational Conference.

Mentioned in this podcast:

Casas has authored several books on school leadership and culture, including:

Connect with Jimmy: 

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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 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.