In this episode, the Puma Pawd delves into the topic of Pinebrook's school data, examining the testing environment, what our data is, and what it means. The conversation features insights from various educators, including teachers and an executive principal, who discuss the classroom environment, the impact of testing on students, and the importance of collaboration among staff. They highlight success stories, particularly in the EL program, while also addressing challenges such as attendance and the need for parental involvement. The episode emphasizes the collective responsibility of educators and the community in fostering a supportive learning environment for students.

Guests:

• Ms. Shontel Simon, Executive Principal
• Ms. Elizabeth Kuleski, Grade 3 teacher
• Ms. Tina Feeser, EL Teacher
• Ms. Laura Smith, Reading Specialist

Hosted by:

• Ms. Turner McAllister, Assistant Principal
• Ms. Paul Thiessen, Principal

Takeaways

• School data is crucial for understanding student growth.

• Creating a calm classroom environment reduces testing anxiety.
• Teachers play a vital role in student success and well-being.
• The EL program has shown significant success at Pinebrook.
• Attendance is a major factor affecting student performance.
• Collaboration among teachers enhances student learning outcomes.
• School culture impacts the overall educational experience.
• Balancing technology and hands-on learning is essential.
• Parental involvement is key to student success.
• Continuous improvement is necessary for educational growth.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to School Data Conversations

03:01 Classroom Environment and Testing Anxiety

05:54 The Role of Teachers in Student Success

08:57 Understanding School Data and Its Impact

11:54 Success Stories: EL Program and Growth

14:58 Challenges and Barriers in Education

17:56 The Importance of Teacher Collaboration

21:06 School Culture and Collective Efficacy

23:59 Addressing Roadblocks in Learning

26:55 Support Systems for Teachers

29:48 Parental Involvement and Community Engagement

32:43 Final Thoughts and Recommendations

In this episode, Dr. Varona, Educational Diagnostician Marie Burkholder, and Paul discuss the themes presented in the book 'The Anxious Generation' by Jonathan Haidt, focusing on the impact of technology on childhood development, the role of educational diagnosticians, and the influence of social media on self-esteem. They explore the transition from a play-based childhood to a phone-based one, the effects of over-supervision, and the importance of fostering independence in children. The conversation emphasizes the need for community support, healthy relationships, and the role of parents in managing technology use.

• 00:00-Introduction to the Anxious Generation
• 03:00-The Role of Educational Diagnosticians
• 05:47-Impact of Technology on Childhood
• 08:59-Transition from Play-Based to Phone-Based Childhood
• 11:46-Social Media's Influence on Self-Esteem
• 14:56-Continuous Partial Attention and Multitasking
• 18:10-Over-Supervision and Its Effects on Development
• 20:53-Building Community and Support Networks
• 24:11-Encouraging Independence in Children
• 27:02-The Importance of Boredom and Free Play
• 29:49-Navigating Boundaries in a Digital Age
• 32:52-The Role of Parents in Managing Technology
• 35:57-Fostering Healthy Relationships and Self-Image
• 38:55-Conclusion and Key Takeaways

Paul, Turner, and Dana Varona talk Avani, Usman, Shania, and Aeydh about their experiences with the 7 Habits of Happy kids. They share what they thought, insights as to how the program helped them, and what the future should be for the 7 Habits at Pinebrook.

Principals Mr. Shawn Lyons and Dr. Tim Sparbanie offer insight, wisdom, and perspective on interviewing. They share stories, experiences, and tips on how to be successful in the hot seat.

Paul and Turner host.

Turner, Dr. Kurtz, and Paul had a great conversation with Special Education Supervisor Thomas Chelgren. He shared insight about the special education process and what parents should do if they are new to it or are long-time veterans. He has a wealth of knowledge with a legacy of helping parents in this process as part of multiple education roles in three different divisions.

On the podcast: Thomas Chelgren, Special Education Supervisor and Mrs. Turner McAllister, AP, Dr. Courtney Kurtz, SPED Dean, and Paul Thiessen, Principal.

We talked with LCPS Fine Arts Supervisor Michael Pierson about his experiences, insights about education, what he's learned, and what matters most.

Featured in this episode are Mr. Michael Pierson, Dr. Dana Varona, Mr. Andrew Foote, Mrs. Turner McAllister, and Mr. Paul Thiessen

Paul and Turner talk with the Instructional Facilitator in Reading for Pinebrook, Beth Rhodes. Beth shares what she's learned and how implementation is going and has messages for teachers and parents about the work.

Paul, Turner, and 5th Grade Counselor Lisa Morales talk about the overview, essential things to think about, and guidance to helping parents with moving students on to 6th grade.

See Puma Paw, the Pinebrook website for Rising 6th Grade Info, or an email with a newsletter about current information for parents!