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What if STEM wasn’t about bins of stuff, but about the humans in the room? We dig into a human-centered approach that treats STEM as a daily practice of connection—where students learn to collaborate, think critically, and care for one another while they solve real problems. Instead of chasing pricey kits, we start with stories and simple materials, then layer in the engineering design process to make reflection, testing, and revision feel natural and fun.

We share why employers keep naming collaboration, creativity, and community as the missing skills, and how an off-screen STEM block gives kids a safe place to practice those habits. You’ll hear how rising academic pressure—especially in the early grades—can crowd out play, and why slowing down to build belonging actually accelerates learning. Our Five Cs framework (collaboration, creativity, critical thinking, community, and curiosity) becomes the backbone for planning, coaching teamwork, and celebrating inclusive classroom culture.

Looking for concrete ideas? We walk through picture-book pairings that light the spark—think The Amazing Bone, The Day the Crayons Quit, Rosie Revere, Engineer, Stone Soup, and The Curious Garden—then map them to challenges students can own. Use bell-ringer routines to spread the engineering cycle across the week, introduce simple constraints to focus thinking, and offer choice boards to boost voice and engagement. We also share a free, device-free digital citizenship lesson to help students practice presence, empathy, and attention before they go online.

If you want a classroom where kids arrive eager to build, listen, and try again, this conversation is your playbook. Subscribe for more human-centered teaching ideas, share this with a colleague who needs a spark, and leave a review to tell us which C your students are growing most right now.

Links Mentioned in the Show:

Free Device Free Digital Citizenship Lesson

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🌿 Teachers, you can’t pour from an empty cup — but with the Sub Survival System for teachers in the classroom, you’ll never have to panic when you need a day off from school.
Ready-to-go sub plans designed by a teacher who’s been there.
Because rest isn’t a luxury — it’s part of the job.

👉 [Explore the Sub Survival System on TpT]

Subscribe and Review:

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. Click here for iTunes.

Now, if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be really grateful if you left me a review. Click here to leave a review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review.” Thank you!

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When the world shouts at teachers to do more, faster, and perfectly, we choose a different anchor: the small humans in front of us. A seven-year-old’s quiet kindness reframed an entire classroom and reminded us why presence matters more than perfection. From there, we unpack a practical roadmap for building connection that holds steady when mandates and programs feel overwhelming.

We dig into the daily rituals that keep empathy alive—especially read alouds that invite big feelings and brave conversations. Rather than chasing checklists, we talk about selecting stories that help kids practice patience, kindness, perseverance, and perspective-taking. You’ll hear how stepping away from rigid scripts to follow a powerful moment can transform comprehension, classroom culture, and trust. Along the way, we share concrete prompts and strategies that make discussion feel safe, purposeful, and deeply human.

Because learning doesn’t stop at the classroom door, we also bring that same care online. We outline a K–3 digital citizenship approach that teaches safety, privacy, and responsibility in ways kids can actually use. Think media balance, kind communication, early awareness of meanness and footprints, and third-grade lessons on empathy, authenticity, and evaluating information—skills every child needs in an AI-shaped world. We balance screens with hands-on STEM story stations to keep collaboration and creativity at the center, and we offer a free device-free lesson to help you start tomorrow.

If you’re ready to trade noise for connection and let one meaningful moment be enough, this conversation is your reset. Subscribe, share with a colleague who needs a boost, and leave a review to help other teachers find this space. What’s one small moment that reminded you why you teach?

Links Mentioned in the Show:

Free Device Free Digital Citizenship Lesson

Support the show

🌿 Teachers, you can’t pour from an empty cup — but with the Sub Survival System for teachers in the classroom, you’ll never have to panic when you need a day off from school.
 Ready-to-go sub plans designed by a teacher who’s been there.
 Because rest isn’t a luxury — it’s part of the job.

 👉 [Explore the Sub Survival System on TpT]

Subscribe and Review:

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. Click here for iTunes.

Now, if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be really grateful if you left me a review. Click here to leave a review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review.”  Thank you!

Send us Fan Mail

The first days back after break don’t need to feel like a sprint through fog. We map out a gentle re-entry that keeps your class connected, your planning sane, and your energy intact. Instead of diving headfirst into new content, we focus on three anchors that make the day feel calm and productive: a purposeful morning meeting, a cozy read-aloud that sets tone and focus, and a respectful reset of routines and procedures.

We start by rebuilding community with short shares and simple goal setting that invite students back into voice without draining attention. A few playful “would you rather” prompts create laughter and momentum, while a shared text becomes the day’s steady heartbeat. We talk through choosing a story that highlights perseverance, empathy, or problem solving, then show how to draw out quick comprehension without turning it into a heavy lesson. When students return sleepy and dysregulated, narrative focus and light structure are your best friends.

From there, we walk through a practical routine review: modeling what lining up looks like, clarifying how to ask for help, smoothing transitions, and patching the small systems that frayed in December. We explain why review before new content is not a delay but a performance boost, and how avoiding overplanning protects both you and your students. By the end, you’ll have a simple three-step plan you can run tomorrow: morning meeting, meaningful read-aloud, and routine reset, with optional spiral review if time allows.

If this gentle start resonates, share it with a colleague who needs permission to slow the pace, then subscribe and leave a quick review so more teachers can find the show. Your work matters—and a calm January begins with a single steady day.

Links Mentioned in the Show:

Would You Rather

January Sub Plans

Support the show

🌿 Teachers, you can’t pour from an empty cup — but with the Sub Survival System for teachers in the classroom, you’ll never have to panic when you need a day off from school.
 Ready-to-go sub plans designed by a teacher who’s been there.
 Because rest isn’t a luxury — it’s part of the job.

 👉 [Explore the Sub Survival System on TpT]

Subscribe and Review:

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. Click here for iTunes.

Now, if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be really grateful if you left me a review. Click here to leave a review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review.”  Thank you!

Send us Fan Mail

Today two tired teachers sit down and discuss the five helpful things you must try this school year. We hope you stick around!

Links Mentioned in the Show:

Link to 176 and 178

Yoga in the Classroom (Inside Cool Down Corner Kit)

HeadSpace

Go Noodle

Reading Comprehension for Science

Thematic Units

Subscribe and Review: 

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don’t want you to miss an episode. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the mix and if you’re not subscribed there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on those. Click here for iTunes. 

Now if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be really grateful if you left me a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find my podcast and they’re also fun for me to go in and read. Click here to leave a review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you! 

Support the show

🌿 Teachers, you can’t pour from an empty cup — but with the Sub Survival System for teachers in the classroom, you’ll never have to panic when you need a day off from school.
 Ready-to-go sub plans designed by a teacher who’s been there.
 Because rest isn’t a luxury — it’s part of the job.

 👉 [Explore the Sub Survival System on TpT]

Subscribe and Review:

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. Click here for iTunes.

Now, if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be really grateful if you left me a review. Click here to leave a review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review.”  Thank you!

Send us Fan Mail

Today two tired teachers sit down and talk about the dreaded clip chart. Don't worry we BOTH have used them. AND we have very different ideas of what works and doesn't. So you are going to want to stick around. 

Links Mentioned in the Show:

Why I Broke Up With My Clip Chart

Back to School Packs

Whole Brain Teaching Resources

Brian Mendler Behavior Expert

Subscribe and Review: 

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don’t want you to miss an episode. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the mix and if you’re not subscribed there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on those. Click here for iTunes. 

Now if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be really grateful if you left me a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find my podcast and they’re also fun for me to go in and read. Click here to leave a review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you! 

Support the show

🌿 Teachers, you can’t pour from an empty cup — but with the Sub Survival System for teachers in the classroom, you’ll never have to panic when you need a day off from school.
 Ready-to-go sub plans designed by a teacher who’s been there.
 Because rest isn’t a luxury — it’s part of the job.

 👉 [Explore the Sub Survival System on TpT]

Subscribe and Review:

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. Click here for iTunes.

Now, if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be really grateful if you left me a review. Click here to leave a review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review.”  Thank you!

Send us Fan Mail

Today two tired teachers sit down and discuss the powerful do less and get more theory! We hope you will join us.

Links Mentioned in the Show:

176 How do Terrific Teachers Set Boundaries Over the Summer?

Subscribe and Review: 

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don’t want you to miss an episode. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the mix and if you’re not subscribed there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on those. Click here for iTunes. 

Now if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be really grateful if you left me a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find my podcast and they’re also fun for me to go in and read. Click here to leave a review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you! 

Support the show

🌿 Teachers, you can’t pour from an empty cup — but with the Sub Survival System for teachers in the classroom, you’ll never have to panic when you need a day off from school.
 Ready-to-go sub plans designed by a teacher who’s been there.
 Because rest isn’t a luxury — it’s part of the job.

 👉 [Explore the Sub Survival System on TpT]

Subscribe and Review:

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. Click here for iTunes.

Now, if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be really grateful if you left me a review. Click here to leave a review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review.”  Thank you!

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Today two tired teachers sit down and discuss setting up a classroom while on a budget. I mean let's get real. Setting up a Pinterest-worthy classroom is EXPENSIVE and takes A LOT of time. So come get some tips on making it a whole lot easier!

Links Mentioned in the Show:

Emergency Sub Plans for 2nd Grade

Subscribe and Review: 

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don’t want you to miss an episode. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the mix and if you’re not subscribed there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on those. Click here for iTunes. 

Now if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be really grateful if you left me a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find my podcast and they’re also fun for me to go in and read. Click here to leave a review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you! 

Support the show

🌿 Teachers, you can’t pour from an empty cup — but with the Sub Survival System for teachers in the classroom, you’ll never have to panic when you need a day off from school.
 Ready-to-go sub plans designed by a teacher who’s been there.
 Because rest isn’t a luxury — it’s part of the job.

 👉 [Explore the Sub Survival System on TpT]

Subscribe and Review:

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. Click here for iTunes.

Now, if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be really grateful if you left me a review. Click here to leave a review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review.”  Thank you!

Send us Fan Mail

Today two tired teachers sit down and discuss the necessity of setting boundaries this summer. Teachers work so hard. Every time you say yes, you are saying no to something else. 

Who are you saying no to?

Come sit down with Leigh and I to hear ideas for setting boundaries. We get it! We are people pleasures, too!

Links Mentioned in the Show:

One Simple Way to Avoid Teacher Burnout

Join Trina's Free Summer Workshop on Makerspace and Reading

Subscribe and Review: 

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don’t want you to miss an episode. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the mix and if you’re not subscribed there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on those. Click here for iTunes. 

Now if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be really grateful if you left me a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find my podcast and they’re also fun for me to go in and read. Click here to leave a review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you! 

Support the show

🌿 Teachers, you can’t pour from an empty cup — but with the Sub Survival System for teachers in the classroom, you’ll never have to panic when you need a day off from school.
 Ready-to-go sub plans designed by a teacher who’s been there.
 Because rest isn’t a luxury — it’s part of the job.

 👉 [Explore the Sub Survival System on TpT]

Subscribe and Review:

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. Click here for iTunes.

Now, if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be really grateful if you left me a review. Click here to leave a review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review.”  Thank you!

Send us Fan Mail

Today two tired teachers sit down and discuss the magic of reading, Makerspace, and innovation! I hope you will join us.

Links Mentioned in the Show:

Free ELA Book List By Standard for Makerspace

Join Trina's Free Summer Workshop on Makerspace and Reading

Mastering Makerspace: Easy-to-follow game plan that takes you from zero to AMAZING!

Makerspace Moments in Literature Year-Long Bundle

Subscribe and Review: 

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don’t want you to miss an episode. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the mix and if you’re not subscribed there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on those. Click here for iTunes. 

Now if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be really grateful if you left me a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find my podcast and they’re also fun for me to go in and read. Click here to leave a review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you! 

Support the show

🌿 Teachers, you can’t pour from an empty cup — but with the Sub Survival System for teachers in the classroom, you’ll never have to panic when you need a day off from school.
 Ready-to-go sub plans designed by a teacher who’s been there.
 Because rest isn’t a luxury — it’s part of the job.

 👉 [Explore the Sub Survival System on TpT]

Subscribe and Review:

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. Click here for iTunes.

Now, if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be really grateful if you left me a review. Click here to leave a review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review.”  Thank you!

Send us Fan Mail

Today I welcome a special co-host making this Two Tired Teachers! 

Leigh Langton The Applicious Teacher will be joining me on the podcast for the entire summer! I hope you will join us.

Links Mentioned in the Show:

Leigh Langton The Applicious Teacher 

The Applicious Teacher on TpT

Trina Deboree Teaching and Learning

Trina Deboree Teaching and Learning on TpT

Support the show

🌿 Teachers, you can’t pour from an empty cup — but with the Sub Survival System for teachers in the classroom, you’ll never have to panic when you need a day off from school.
 Ready-to-go sub plans designed by a teacher who’s been there.
 Because rest isn’t a luxury — it’s part of the job.

 👉 [Explore the Sub Survival System on TpT]

Subscribe and Review:

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. Click here for iTunes.

Now, if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be really grateful if you left me a review. Click here to leave a review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review.”  Thank you!

Send us Fan Mail

Today we are talking all about 4 sneaky mistakes that can steal our summer mojo.

1. Not having a plan for next year prior to leaving.

2. Treating your whole summer as a vacation.

3. Refusing to read anything.

4. Not being deliberate.

Links Mentioned in the Show: 

Free End-of-the-Year Reader's Theater Superhero Themed

Subscribe and Review: 

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don’t want you to miss an episode. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the mix and if you’re not subscribed there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on those. Click here for iTunes. 

Now if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be really grateful if you left me a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find my podcast and they’re also fun for me to go in and read. Click here to leave a review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you! 

Support the show

🌿 Teachers, you can’t pour from an empty cup — but with the Sub Survival System for teachers in the classroom, you’ll never have to panic when you need a day off from school.
 Ready-to-go sub plans designed by a teacher who’s been there.
 Because rest isn’t a luxury — it’s part of the job.

 👉 [Explore the Sub Survival System on TpT]

Subscribe and Review:

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. Click here for iTunes.

Now, if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be really grateful if you left me a review. Click here to leave a review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review.”  Thank you!

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Hey there! Happy Memorial Day! As I know many teachers are spending time with family and celebrating this National holiday, I will make this episode short and sweet. 

Today we will discuss three tweaks that made the end of the school year different.

1. Tweak number one:

I've said it before, and I'll say it again-

Theme weeks, people!

2. Tweak number two:

Work at Work- that's right. Do school work at school.

3. Which takes me to tweak three- Set Boundaries!

Links Mentioned in the Show: 

Free End-of-the-Year Reader's Theater Superhero Themed

Subscribe and Review: 

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don’t want you to miss an episode. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the mix and if you’re not subscribed there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on those. Click here for iTunes. 

Now if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be really grateful if you left me a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find my podcast and they’re also fun for me to go in and read. Click here to leave a review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you! 

Support the show

🌿 Teachers, you can’t pour from an empty cup — but with the Sub Survival System for teachers in the classroom, you’ll never have to panic when you need a day off from school.
 Ready-to-go sub plans designed by a teacher who’s been there.
 Because rest isn’t a luxury — it’s part of the job.

 👉 [Explore the Sub Survival System on TpT]

Subscribe and Review:

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. Click here for iTunes.

Now, if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be really grateful if you left me a review. Click here to leave a review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review.”  Thank you!

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So I've seen the idea of 4 day school weeks come up a lot. I started wondering what teachers think of this. So I did a little digging, and I found out the scoop. Come take a listen!

Subscribe and Review: 

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don’t want you to miss an episode. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the mix and if you’re not subscribed there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on those. Click here for iTunes. 

Now if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be really grateful if you left me a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find my podcast and they’re also fun for me to go in and read. Click here to leave a review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you! 

Support the show

🌿 Teachers, you can’t pour from an empty cup — but with the Sub Survival System for teachers in the classroom, you’ll never have to panic when you need a day off from school.
 Ready-to-go sub plans designed by a teacher who’s been there.
 Because rest isn’t a luxury — it’s part of the job.

 👉 [Explore the Sub Survival System on TpT]

Subscribe and Review:

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. Click here for iTunes.

Now, if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be really grateful if you left me a review. Click here to leave a review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review.”  Thank you!

Send us Fan Mail

The holidays are done, the calendar is rolling toward a new year, and your energy tank is somewhere between low and blinking. Let’s make winter break feel like it actually refills you. We pull back the curtain on what a real teacher reset looks like when you set aside perfect plans and choose small, human rituals that restore your mind, body, and heart.

We start with the quiet stuff that matters: not setting an alarm, finishing the book that’s been waiting on your nightstand, stepping outside for a slow walk without turning it into a task. From there, we offer five simple reflection prompts—what worked, what felt heavy, what made you smile, what you want more of, and what lights you up—plus an easy way to use voice memos if writing feels like one task too many. This is reflection for you, not your students, not your admin, and not social media.

Then we take the pressure off January. If prepping a welcome-back routine feels soothing, do it. If not, log off and rest. You’ll hear why presence beats perfection, how a light-touch back-from-break packet can ease re-entry without the Sunday Scaries, and why choosing grace over goals is the most strategic move you can make for your classroom and your own nervous system. Expect practical tips, warm encouragement, and permission to reset without guilt so you return with a clearer mind and a steadier heart.

If this resonates, follow the show, share it with a teacher who needs a gentle nudge, and leave a quick review. Your support helps more tired teachers find a softer, saner way back to school.

Links Mentioned in the Show:

Welcome Back From Winter Break Packet

Free Sub Survival Guide

Support the show

🌿 Teachers, you can’t pour from an empty cup — but with the Sub Survival System for teachers in the classroom, you’ll never have to panic when you need a day off from school.
 Ready-to-go sub plans designed by a teacher who’s been there.
 Because rest isn’t a luxury — it’s part of the job.

 👉 [Explore the Sub Survival System on TpT]

Subscribe and Review:

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. Click here for iTunes.

Now, if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be really grateful if you left me a review. Click here to leave a review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review.”  Thank you!

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In today’s episode, I have my daughter, Emily talking about what is wrong with the education system. Emily and I get deep and shed a few tears in this vulnerable discussion about education. We touch on a few things; What is wrong with education, what can be done differently in schools, and our perspectives on how education has hurt not only us but is not benefiting students today. 

I think this episode is a meaningful conversation to be had by all of us as teachers and educators. I hope you will join us in listening to what a millennial’s perspective is and join the conversation by letting us know your thoughts.

Links Mentioned in the Show: 

27: Teachers, Is College for Everyone?

How The Current Education System and I Failed My Child

Emily Renée VA

Subscribe and Review: 

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don’t want you to miss an episode. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the mix and if you’re not subscribed there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on those. Click here for iTunes. 

Now if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be really grateful if you left me a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find my podcast and they’re also fun for me to go in and read. Click here to leave a review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you! 

Support the show

🌿 Teachers, you can’t pour from an empty cup — but with the Sub Survival System for teachers in the classroom, you’ll never have to panic when you need a day off from school.
 Ready-to-go sub plans designed by a teacher who’s been there.
 Because rest isn’t a luxury — it’s part of the job.

 👉 [Explore the Sub Survival System on TpT]

Subscribe and Review:

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. Click here for iTunes.

Now, if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be really grateful if you left me a review. Click here to leave a review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review.”  Thank you!

Send us Fan Mail

The end of the year can be super stressful. There is just so much to do and get done before the year wraps up. Plus, most of us are already feeling the pressure or possibly the enthusiasm of starting to plan for next year. 

For today I want us to focus on finding ways to make more time for ourselves at the end of the school year. I hope you stick around.

Let's look at the first way to buy back time-

1. Keep the kids busy!

2. Batch end-of-the-year items.

3. Use podcasts or audiobooks to do your read-aloud for you!!

4. End of the year theme weeks.

Links Mentioned in the Show:

https://trinadeboreeteachingandlearning.com/endoftheyear

Subscribe and Review: 

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don’t want you to miss an episode. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the mix and if you’re not subscribed there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on those. Click here for iTunes. 

Now if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be really grateful if you left me a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find my podcast and they’re also fun for me to go in and read. Click here to leave a review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you! 

Support the show

🌿 Teachers, you can’t pour from an empty cup — but with the Sub Survival System for teachers in the classroom, you’ll never have to panic when you need a day off from school.
 Ready-to-go sub plans designed by a teacher who’s been there.
 Because rest isn’t a luxury — it’s part of the job.

 👉 [Explore the Sub Survival System on TpT]

Subscribe and Review:

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. Click here for iTunes.

Now, if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be really grateful if you left me a review. Click here to leave a review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review.”  Thank you!

Send us Fan Mail

Today we are taking a closer look at how teachers REALLY feel about required team planning.

First, let's better understand what teams are asked to do.

Grade level teams are asked to plan for weeks or months of lessons to help students master the standards.

I want first to clarify that a lesson plan is the instructor's road map of what students need to learn and how it will be done effectively during class time. Before you plan your lesson, you must first identify the learning objectives. Then, you can design appropriate learning activities and develop strategies for checking for understanding. In other words, how will you know if a student understands and can perform the objective? A successful lesson plan addresses and integrates these three key components:

• Objectives for student learning
• Teaching/learning activities
• Strategies to check student understanding

Now I'm not going to lie; lesson plans take a LOT of time. Especially if you are in a school or district that has mandated a specific set of LP expectations. Here are just a few from my district:

Standards/objectives/essential questions/assessment/ materials/ gradual release model evident/ high engagement strategies used/ ELL strategies/ IEP accommodations used/ higher-order thinking questions prepopulated, and the list goes on.

Teams are expected to work collaboratively on creating these plans down to outlining the objectives, determining the intro or hook, planning the specific activities, creating a common assessment for the grade level, developing a conclusion and reflection, and creating a realistic timeline.

I asked teachers, and here is what they said:

Pros:

-Take the load off

-a lot of jigsaw the plans

-I like to hear others' ideas

-New teachers get help or are new to the grade level

-Some feel it keeps them consistent 

-Gives a good big picture

-Easy to share 

Cons:

-Lose autonomy

-Strive for mediocracy 

-Another reminder that we can't be trusted

-Fear-based

-Peer pressure to conform

-When you go rouge, you have to hide

-Do differentiation

-Noisy

-Ineffective waste of time

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🌿 Teachers, you can’t pour from an empty cup — but with the Sub Survival System for teachers in the classroom, you’ll never have to panic when you need a day off from school.
 Ready-to-go sub plans designed by a teacher who’s been there.
 Because rest isn’t a luxury — it’s part of the job.

 👉 [Explore the Sub Survival System on TpT]

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A bill was proposed in Indiana - posting lesson plans a year in advance. This bill was created out of fear and scarcity. Here are my main points about this insane proposal;

1. The Bill is too Rigid: does not allow for flexibility and response to students' needs in your class.
2. It shows an outrageous expectation of our teachers: Would we ask any other professional to do this even with marketing plans and health management plans? The depth of specificity is asking too much. If they wanted a general outline, that might be different.
3. It's Repetitive: Curriculum maps created by School Districts already exist. They give a broad view and big picture idea. LP is narrowed in and focused down to the minute in a classroom.
4. This bill shows a distrust of the professionals who live out the plan- micromanaging, lack of respect,
5. Is this just busywork? Who the hell is really going to look at this?
6. Who are the intended readers of this bill? This concept is not healthy or sustainable. A basic outline of the lesson plans is sufficient. They are a tool for teachers to be organized, not for others to pick apart and decide whether or not they are worthy.

Parents who want to know what their child is learning already have this access. Google your state standards. You can already see it. Teachers use these standards to plan the lessons. Standards are what the child will learn, and there is some grace in the how [unless you live in Florida in Manatee county where you are asked to do the same thing as your entire team]. Even then, what is the goal mediocrity? I'll save that for another episode before my blood pressure goes off the rail.

Links Mentioned in the Show: 

End of the Year Activities Beach Day Theme Activities BUNDLE for 1st and 2nd

STEM Con Details and Sign Up

Subscribe and Review: 

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want t

Support the show

🌿 Teachers, you can’t pour from an empty cup — but with the Sub Survival System for teachers in the classroom, you’ll never have to panic when you need a day off from school.
 Ready-to-go sub plans designed by a teacher who’s been there.
 Because rest isn’t a luxury — it’s part of the job.

 👉 [Explore the Sub Survival System on TpT]

Subscribe and Review:

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. Click here for iTunes.

Now, if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be really grateful if you left me a review. Click here to leave a review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review.”  Thank you!

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Today’s show takes a look at the impact of school administrators on the culture of schools. Rachel, a 2nd-grade teacher from Missouri, shares her truth about being a part of a school culture that values empathy and kindness towards one another, and it all starts with the leader of the school.

2:04 Introduction to Rachel

5:23 Rachel’s Amazing

9:46 Rachel’s Teacher Tired

10:43 Principal Perks

11:43 Community Service Project Idea

14:14 Whole School Morning Meeting

15:20 Moral Building

17:53 The Power of Implementing Trauma Informed Care

18:42 Emphasis on TEACHERS!

19:00 Tap Out

19:35 Building a Family at School

19:54 How Important is the Administrator to a Teacher’s Happiness?

21:00 Evaluations

22:50 The Right Admin.

26:53 Thoughts on Changing the Current Climate

30:02 Hard Pills to Swallow

36:02 Key: CARING FOR THE TEACHERS

37:18 Emergent Engineering- Ideas for dynamic school cultures

I would love to hear from you. Leave a review on iTunes or comment below. Don’t forget to subscribe to the show.

Sweet dreams and sleep tight!

Trina

P.S. Rachel’s amazing principal can be followed on Twitter @leighmragsdale.

Support the show

🌿 Teachers, you can’t pour from an empty cup — but with the Sub Survival System for teachers in the classroom, you’ll never have to panic when you need a day off from school.
 Ready-to-go sub plans designed by a teacher who’s been there.
 Because rest isn’t a luxury — it’s part of the job.

 👉 [Explore the Sub Survival System on TpT]

Subscribe and Review:

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. Click here for iTunes.

Now, if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be really grateful if you left me a review. Click here to leave a review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review.”  Thank you!

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Mary Jo is here to discuss adjusting your STEM lesson for your classroom that isn't too hard or too easy; they are just right!

Mary Jo gives us a taste of her excellent STEM con presentation on making adjustments when it comes to all things STEM.

We talk about adding or taking away constraints, finding inspiration, making it the appropriate grade level, and adding related content. 

If you are interested in the plethora of information on STEM adjustment, it's not too late to join and get all the incredible information STEM Con has to offer!

Links Mentioned in the Show:

Stem With Ms. M. On Instagram

STEM Con 2022 Details and Sign Up

Subscribe and Review: 

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don’t want you to miss an episode. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the mix and if you’re not subscribed there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on those. Click here for iTunes. 

Now if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be really grateful if you left me a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find my podcast and they’re also fun for me to go in and read. Click here to leave a review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!  

Support the show

🌿 Teachers, you can’t pour from an empty cup — but with the Sub Survival System for teachers in the classroom, you’ll never have to panic when you need a day off from school.
 Ready-to-go sub plans designed by a teacher who’s been there.
 Because rest isn’t a luxury — it’s part of the job.

 👉 [Explore the Sub Survival System on TpT]

Subscribe and Review:

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. Click here for iTunes.

Now, if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be really grateful if you left me a review. Click here to leave a review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review.”  Thank you!

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Did you happen to catch STEM Con 2022 this past weekend?! It was AMAZING!! If you did I would love to hear about it in the feedback. 

If you missed it, my friend, you are in luck! It is STILL available on replay until the end of April. So hop on over to Trina Deboree Teaching and Learning.com/stemcon22!

Because I am so jazzed up, inspired, truly motivated, and on fire, I am going to share with you 3 essential reasons to attend STEM Con. I hope you stick around!

Reasons to Attend STEM Con 2022:

Essential Reason One: Camaraderie

Essential Reason Two: Inspiration

Essential Reason Three: Hope

Links Mentioned in the Show:

End of the Year Activities Camping Week Unit BUNDLE with STEM for Second Grade

STEM Con 2022 Details and Sign Up

160 How to Successfully Fit STEM in Small Time Frames

Subscribe and Review: 

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don’t want you to miss an episode. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the mix and if you’re not subscribed there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on those. Click here for iTunes. 

Now if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be really grateful if you left me a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find my podcast and they’re also fun for me to go in and read. Click here to leave a review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what your

Support the show

🌿 Teachers, you can’t pour from an empty cup — but with the Sub Survival System for teachers in the classroom, you’ll never have to panic when you need a day off from school.
 Ready-to-go sub plans designed by a teacher who’s been there.
 Because rest isn’t a luxury — it’s part of the job.

 👉 [Explore the Sub Survival System on TpT]

Subscribe and Review:

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. Click here for iTunes.

Now, if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be really grateful if you left me a review. Click here to leave a review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review.”  Thank you!

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Renee Heinrich & I put our heads together on this podcast to talk about project-based learning.

What is project-based learning, and what does it look like in the classroom?

Renee tells us how project-based learning differs from STEM and how to stretch the band-with of what we are teaching our students to go deeper in their projects & challenges. Renee explains an actual project that she has going on with her students currently!

Links mentioned in the show

STEM Con Details and Sign Up

Science School Yard

Subscribe and Review: 

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don’t want you to miss an episode. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the mix and if you’re not subscribed there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on those. Click here for iTunes. 

Now if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be really grateful if you left me a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find my podcast and they’re also fun for me to go in and read. Click here to leave a review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!  

Support the show

🌿 Teachers, you can’t pour from an empty cup — but with the Sub Survival System for teachers in the classroom, you’ll never have to panic when you need a day off from school.
 Ready-to-go sub plans designed by a teacher who’s been there.
 Because rest isn’t a luxury — it’s part of the job.

 👉 [Explore the Sub Survival System on TpT]

Subscribe and Review:

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. Click here for iTunes.

Now, if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be really grateful if you left me a review. Click here to leave a review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review.”  Thank you!

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What do collaboration and cooperation look like in the classroom when we incorporate STEM? Loren Thorp & I discuss "cooperation over competition" using STEM in the classroom.

Is competition ever a valuable tool, or is it just a scarcity mentality on our students?

When Loren and I talked, we discussed why it is essential for us as teachers to shift our mindset from the competition to build an environment where students learn to collaborate. We want to give them the tool to go forth in life with valuable social skills like working together.

Links Mentioned in the Show

Blue Sky Designs by Mrs. T TpT Store

Blue Sky Designs by Mrs. T Facebook Page

Loren’s website (The Musings of Mrs. T)

More on this topic with The Musings of Mrs. T here!

STEM Con Details and Sign Up

Subscribe and Review: 

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don’t want you to miss an episode. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the mix and if you’re not subscribed there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on those. Click here for iTunes. 

Now if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be really grateful if you left me a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find my podcast and they’re also fun for me to go in and read. Click here to leave a review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!  

Support the show

🌿 Teachers, you can’t pour from an empty cup — but with the Sub Survival System for teachers in the classroom, you’ll never have to panic when you need a day off from school.
 Ready-to-go sub plans designed by a teacher who’s been there.
 Because rest isn’t a luxury — it’s part of the job.

 👉 [Explore the Sub Survival System on TpT]

Subscribe and Review:

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. Click here for iTunes.

Now, if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be really grateful if you left me a review. Click here to leave a review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review.”  Thank you!

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Why is it so Important to Teach Students About Careers in STEM?

Erin Twamley is joining us today about STEM careers and allowing them to imagine what that may look like for them. Today on the podcast, we will discuss ideas and ways to motivate students to get excited about their future in the STEM workforce!

Erin tells us about "The everyday Superheros," a series Erin has written about some of the careers we do not touch on in the classroom. Erin & I talk about some of the incredible opportunities for students to learn about new careers solving current real-world problems.

Links Mentioned in the Show

Erin Twamley

Everyday Super Heroes

STEM Con Details and Sign Up

Support the show

🌿 Teachers, you can’t pour from an empty cup — but with the Sub Survival System for teachers in the classroom, you’ll never have to panic when you need a day off from school.
 Ready-to-go sub plans designed by a teacher who’s been there.
 Because rest isn’t a luxury — it’s part of the job.

 👉 [Explore the Sub Survival System on TpT]

Subscribe and Review:

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. Click here for iTunes.

Now, if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be really grateful if you left me a review. Click here to leave a review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review.”  Thank you!

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If January has ever felt like educational whiplash, this conversation is your warm landing pad. We walk through a practical plan to protect your peace after winter break, built on a few high-impact moves you can set up before you unplug: print-ready sub plans, a back-from-break packet that rebuilds community, and plug-and-play units that spark engagement without draining your energy.

We start by naming why the return feels so jarring—students arrive in holiday mode while new standards wait on the board—and then map out a calm reentry. You’ll hear how five-day sub plans focused on review can save you from sickness, delays, and surprise meetings. We share what to include in a sub binder, how to structure time-stamped blocks, and why “familiar, not new” content keeps classes on track. From there, we unpack a $3 back-from-break kit full of reflection prompts, “find someone who” social mixers, gratitude pages, and a quick snow globe craft that nudges kids back into routines while giving you space to breathe.

For content, we line up two easy wins: force and motion or severe weather for science, and fairy tales, folktales, and fables for ELA. These choices pair naturally with reading comprehension, anchor charts, and short texts that build stamina and invite rich talk about theme, structure, and evidence. Copy what you need now, label a few folders, and walk into January with a plan you can run on low battery—because calm, consistent structure beats last-minute hustle every time.

Want the resources we mention? Grab a free day of sub plans, a Sub Survival Kit, and January-aligned plan packs you can print today. If this helped you feel lighter about the return, follow the show, share it with a teacher friend, and leave a quick review so more tired teachers can find their soft start, too.

Links Mentioned in the Show: 

January Sub Plans

Monthly Sub Plans

Free Sub Plan Survival Guide

Support the show

🌿 Teachers, you can’t pour from an empty cup — but with the Sub Survival System for teachers in the classroom, you’ll never have to panic when you need a day off from school.
 Ready-to-go sub plans designed by a teacher who’s been there.
 Because rest isn’t a luxury — it’s part of the job.

 👉 [Explore the Sub Survival System on TpT]

Subscribe and Review:

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. Click here for iTunes.

Now, if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be really grateful if you left me a review. Click here to leave a review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review.”  Thank you!

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How to Successfully Use STEM to Teach Social and Emotional Learning

Have you wondered HOW you can cover EVERYTHING AND focus on social and emotional learning?

Well, guess what my friend I have a very special guest and friend (who happens to be a genius and a learning theorist), Dr. Yen Verhoeven, who is on the podcast this week sharing how to use STEM to teach social and emotional learning. You have got to hear this! It will change your teaching. It is that good. Then join Dr. Verhoeven and me at STEM Con in April! We hope to see you there.

Links Mentions In the Show:

Culturally Responsive Minds

STEM Con 2022 Details and Sign Up

Support the show

🌿 Teachers, you can’t pour from an empty cup — but with the Sub Survival System for teachers in the classroom, you’ll never have to panic when you need a day off from school.
 Ready-to-go sub plans designed by a teacher who’s been there.
 Because rest isn’t a luxury — it’s part of the job.

 👉 [Explore the Sub Survival System on TpT]

Subscribe and Review:

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. Click here for iTunes.

Now, if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be really grateful if you left me a review. Click here to leave a review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review.”  Thank you!

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OH, the agony of not having enough time! If you are a classroom teacher trying to teach STEM or you are a special area teacher with a limited schedule then you know what I am talking about!! It is brutal. How can we get to the best part of the revision and learning from failure if we have to constantly stop due to time constraints?!

Today, my brilliant guest Kerry Tracy from Feel Good Teaching and STEM Con is here to talk to us all about how to successfully fit STEM into small time frames. I hope you stick around! Then join us at STEM Con in April. It is going to be INCREDIBLE!

Links Mentioned in the Show:

Kerry Tracy at Feel Good Teaching

STEM Con 2022 Details and Sign Up

Subscribe and Review: 

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don’t want you to miss an episode. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the mix and if you’re not subscribed there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on those. Click here for iTunes. 

Now if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be really grateful if you left me a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find my podcast and they’re also fun for me to go in and read. Click here to leave a review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!   

Support the show

🌿 Teachers, you can’t pour from an empty cup — but with the Sub Survival System for teachers in the classroom, you’ll never have to panic when you need a day off from school.
 Ready-to-go sub plans designed by a teacher who’s been there.
 Because rest isn’t a luxury — it’s part of the job.

 👉 [Explore the Sub Survival System on TpT]

Subscribe and Review:

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. Click here for iTunes.

Now, if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be really grateful if you left me a review. Click here to leave a review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review.”  Thank you!

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You have hit the jackpot in teaching when a child is actually having fun while learning! When learning feels like play the world makes more sense for children. Come join Carla Gull and me for a conversation around learning and playing.

Links Included in the Episode:

Loose Parts Learning in K-3 Classrooms on Amazon

Loose Parts Nature Play Podcast

Subscribe and Review: 

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don’t want you to miss an episode. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the mix and if you’re not subscribed there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on those. Click here for iTunes. 

Now if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be really grateful if you left me a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find my podcast and they’re also fun for me to go in and read. Click here to leave a review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!   

Support the show

🌿 Teachers, you can’t pour from an empty cup — but with the Sub Survival System for teachers in the classroom, you’ll never have to panic when you need a day off from school.
 Ready-to-go sub plans designed by a teacher who’s been there.
 Because rest isn’t a luxury — it’s part of the job.

 👉 [Explore the Sub Survival System on TpT]

Subscribe and Review:

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. Click here for iTunes.

Now, if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be really grateful if you left me a review. Click here to leave a review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review.”  Thank you!

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Teachers need good friends now more than ever before. Times are difficult in the world of education. Teachers often feel alone and bogged down with pressure and judgment.  Learning to be your own best friend can offer at least some reprieve in a world that feels like it is against you.

Today we are continuing our discussion on mindset and self-care. And we are going to get a little uncomfortable.

Being a friend to others is often pretty easy. We listen. We are kind. We offer help and support. Most teachers are naturals with these kinds of behaviors. Yet, we often don’t show ourselves the same love and support. 

Today, I’ll talk about how teachers can be their own BFF. Because who doesn’t need another friend?! I’ll break it down into 5 fundamental ways to be your own best friend.

One way is to take the load off. Allow me to help you be the best version of yourself. Plus, take back some of that time to focus on other areas where you can treat yourself with a little more kindness. Join my email list and receive updates, tips, advice, deals, and more. Start with my free Makerspace Moment in Literature. This fun activity is great for Close Reading and includes a Makerspace extension. and it is yours for free as a thank you for joining my world.

Subscribe and Review: 

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don’t want you to miss an episode. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the mix and if you’re not subscribed there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on those. Click here for iTunes. 

Now if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be really grateful if you left me a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find my podcast and they’re also fun for me to go in and read. Click here to leave a review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and

Support the show

🌿 Teachers, you can’t pour from an empty cup — but with the Sub Survival System for teachers in the classroom, you’ll never have to panic when you need a day off from school.
 Ready-to-go sub plans designed by a teacher who’s been there.
 Because rest isn’t a luxury — it’s part of the job.

 👉 [Explore the Sub Survival System on TpT]

Subscribe and Review:

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. Click here for iTunes.

Now, if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be really grateful if you left me a review. Click here to leave a review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review.”  Thank you!

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Teacher burnout is something we hear a lot about these days. Burnout is real and is existing at a crisis level.  How can schools, admins, and teachers themselves prevent or reduce burnout? Come take a listen.

The most important message for teachers to hear is that burnout is not their fault. Yes, there are things we can do to help ourselves, and my guest Jennifer Rafferty talks all about this today. But there is also a great deal of pressure and stress on teachers that is a result of poor systems and expectations. 

Being a teacher in 2022 often feels demoralizing and as if we are functioning in a system of oppression. When every decision you make is constantly questioned and you are often told to do things that go against what is best for children, it begins to wear you down and burnout is inevitable. 

Jennifer Rafferty, the creator of the Empowered Educator, shares some very specific and helpful things that we can do to help teachers. Let’s dive in. 

Links Mentioned in the Show:

JenRaferty.com

The Empowered Educator Program

The Empowered Educator on Facebook

Jenraffertymusic on Instagram

Lessons for Busy Teachers

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Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don’t want you to miss an episode. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the mix and if you’re not subscribed there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on those. Click here for iTunes. 

Now if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be really grateful if you left me a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find my podcast and they’re also fun for

Support the show

🌿 Teachers, you can’t pour from an empty cup — but with the Sub Survival System for teachers in the classroom, you’ll never have to panic when you need a day off from school.
 Ready-to-go sub plans designed by a teacher who’s been there.
 Because rest isn’t a luxury — it’s part of the job.

 👉 [Explore the Sub Survival System on TpT]

Subscribe and Review:

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. Click here for iTunes.

Now, if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be really grateful if you left me a review. Click here to leave a review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review.”  Thank you!

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156: Why Mindset Matters for Teachers and Why You Should Change Yours

Today we are talking about mindset for teachers. This can be really tricky as we often think about the mindset of our students and we disregard our own. Today, I want to talk about your mindset and why you should change it. I hope you stick around.

Subscribe and Review: 

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don’t want you to miss an episode. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the mix and if you’re not subscribed there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on those. Click here for iTunes. 

Now if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be really grateful if you left me a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find my podcast and they’re also fun for me to go in and read. Click here to leave a review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!    

Support the show

🌿 Teachers, you can’t pour from an empty cup — but with the Sub Survival System for teachers in the classroom, you’ll never have to panic when you need a day off from school.
 Ready-to-go sub plans designed by a teacher who’s been there.
 Because rest isn’t a luxury — it’s part of the job.

 👉 [Explore the Sub Survival System on TpT]

Subscribe and Review:

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. Click here for iTunes.

Now, if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be really grateful if you left me a review. Click here to leave a review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review.”  Thank you!

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OTT: 155: How Can 2nd Graders Celebrate Black History Month?

Black History Month is an annual celebration of the heritage and achievements of African Americans. It is also a time where we recognize the key roles our black and brown brothers and sisters played in U.S. history.

Today we talk about ideas for the 2nd-grade classroom. I hope you will join me.

Not only does black history month promote diversity, but it also celebrates diversity.

Promoting diversity is bringing awareness to the idea that we are all diverse and we all have something to contribute. But when we celebrate diversity, we are conveying the idea that diversity is beautiful.

One idea is to study a specific person. I created a Black History Month Lap Book for several influential African Americans such as Jackie Robinson and Harriet Tubman. I have bundled this in my store. There is also an option to choose a person of color that means something to your second grader. I love this option the most. As this can be anyone. This lap book takes students through the research and writing process and allows them to have a creation to display that can be used to teach others.

Links Mentioned In This Show:

Black History Month Lap Book Bundle

Black History Month is about sharing and celebrating the stories of countless men and women who made a difference in our world. Some achievements are noted more than others. But all of their stories reveal how they changed the world...and how we can, too.

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Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don’t want you to miss an episode. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the mix and if you’re not subscribed there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on those. Click here for iTunes. 

Now if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be really grateful if you left me a review over on

Support the show

🌿 Teachers, you can’t pour from an empty cup — but with the Sub Survival System for teachers in the classroom, you’ll never have to panic when you need a day off from school.
 Ready-to-go sub plans designed by a teacher who’s been there.
 Because rest isn’t a luxury — it’s part of the job.

 👉 [Explore the Sub Survival System on TpT]

Subscribe and Review:

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. Click here for iTunes.

Now, if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be really grateful if you left me a review. Click here to leave a review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review.”  Thank you!

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154:5 Magnificent Benefits from an Elementary Makerspace

Today we take a further look at the magnificent benefits of an elementary Makerspace.

Today we are continuing our talk about Makerspace. As you may know, I just finished 4 days of live Makersapce Masterclasses. So much fun. I love talking to educators who are interested in the wonder of Makerspace.

I also want to take this moment to let you know that my Makerspace course Mastering Makerspace: From Zero to Amazing is open and accepting enrollment. In this 4-week step-by-step game plan, you will learn how to create a meaningful Makerspace with standards-based activities that foster collaboration, communication, critical thinking, and creativity without breaking the bank or (losing) your sanity! I hope to see you inside! 

To enroll go to Mastering Makerspace on Kajabi.

5 Magnificent Benefits of Makerspace:

Benefit #1 Standards-Based

Benefit #2 Develops Critical Thinking, Problem-Solving, and Decision-Making Skills

Benefit #3 Foster Imagination, Curiosity, Creativity, and Wonder

Benefit #4 Resiliency

Benefit #5 Improve Communication Skills and Social Interactions

Links Mentioned in the Show:

Mastering Makerspace: From Zero to Amazing

Subscribe and Review: 

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don’t want you to miss an episode. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the mix and if you’re not subscribed there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on those. Click here for iTunes. 

Now if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be really grateful if you left me a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find my podcast and they’re also fun for me to go in and read. Click here to le

Support the show

🌿 Teachers, you can’t pour from an empty cup — but with the Sub Survival System for teachers in the classroom, you’ll never have to panic when you need a day off from school.
 Ready-to-go sub plans designed by a teacher who’s been there.
 Because rest isn’t a luxury — it’s part of the job.

 👉 [Explore the Sub Survival System on TpT]

Subscribe and Review:

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. Click here for iTunes.

Now, if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be really grateful if you left me a review. Click here to leave a review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review.”  Thank you!

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Lately, I've been hearing a lot about ideas, or myths if you will, around Makerspace. You know the ones where teachers say that Makerspace is just for play, or where the materials or loose parts are too expensive, or even worse Makerspace takes up too much time and is too messy.

And while most educators who believe in teaching outside of the box push through these myths, there are often times that we end up believing myths about something, and it stops us right in our tracks.

Today we talk all about how to debunk those myths and how to replace them with some truths. So that you can try new and exciting things inside of your classroom. I hope you stick around. 

I totally get that now is NOT the time to try new things. Survival is the goal. I get that. Teaching is hard. We are tired.

But what if teaching could be fun again? What if kids were excited and behavior problems vanished? What if we started to LOVE our jobs again? Makerspace might just be THE thing that accomplishes these goals.

Links Mentioned in the Show:

Every Classroom Needs a Makerspace: 5 Ideas to Integrate Makerspace Into Your Classroom (Free Masterclass)

Subscribe and Review: 

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don’t want you to miss an episode. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the mix and if you’re not subscribed there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on those. Click here for iTunes. 

Now if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be really grateful if you left me a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find my podcast and they’re also fun for me to go in and read. Click here to leave a review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what you

Support the show

🌿 Teachers, you can’t pour from an empty cup — but with the Sub Survival System for teachers in the classroom, you’ll never have to panic when you need a day off from school.
 Ready-to-go sub plans designed by a teacher who’s been there.
 Because rest isn’t a luxury — it’s part of the job.

 👉 [Explore the Sub Survival System on TpT]

Subscribe and Review:

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. Click here for iTunes.

Now, if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be really grateful if you left me a review. Click here to leave a review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review.”  Thank you!

Send us Fan Mail

OTT: 152: Is Play an Essential Aspect of a Child's Learning Process in School?

Today we are talking about play. You see, most educators have a love-hate relationship with the word “play”. We are often told to add more rigor to our lessons. And to be on the same page at the exact same time as our co-workers down the hall. (Oh, how I despise that!)

We are also often told that play in school is a bad thing. Not TRUE. There is a real-world value to play. Through play, children have the opportunity to make sense of the world around them. Plus, it is developmentally appropriate. Playing has also been known to bring joy. Who doesn't need more joy in their lives? I know I do.

The idea that children learn best through play, is one of the reasons I love Makerspace so much. Makerspace feels like play. Yet, it is so much more involved. Kids are learning, thinking, creating, exploring, and yes, playing. 

Skills learned through play:

Problem-Solving

Creativity

Imagination Building

Innovation Skills

Social and Emotional Skills

Principles of Play:

1. Limit restrictions
2. Involve students
3. Blur the lines between inside and outside
4. Create the right environment
5. Solve real-life problems
6. Allow children to learn through experimentation
7. Use a variety of materials
8. Add water
9. Use what you already have
10. PLAY!

Links Mentioned in the Show:

Loose Parts by Carla Gull, Suzanne Levenson Goldstein, and Tricia Rosengarten (affiliate link)

Every Classroom Needs a Makerspace: 5 Ideas for Integrating Makerspace Into Your Instruction

Subscribe and Review: 

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don’t want you to miss an episode. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the mix and if you’re not subscribed there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on those. Click here for iTune

Support the show

🌿 Teachers, you can’t pour from an empty cup — but with the Sub Survival System for teachers in the classroom, you’ll never have to panic when you need a day off from school.
 Ready-to-go sub plans designed by a teacher who’s been there.
 Because rest isn’t a luxury — it’s part of the job.

 👉 [Explore the Sub Survival System on TpT]

Subscribe and Review:

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. Click here for iTunes.

Now, if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be really grateful if you left me a review. Click here to leave a review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review.”  Thank you!

Send us Fan Mail

December doesn’t have to be a stress test. We unpack five blissful, low-prep strategies that keep kids learning and let you breathe, so you can walk into winter break proud, present, and not wiped out. We start with Elf Diaries, a creative writing approach that turns classroom elf hype into voice, perspective, and narrative skills without the daily setup grind. From there, we pivot to Holiday Would You Rather—fast, funny prompts that spark movement, debate, and opinion writing, with easy extensions like quick writes and class graphs that take minutes to run and deliver big engagement.

When the energy spikes, we lean into Christmas STEM story stations that transform chaos into purposeful collaboration. Pair a seasonal read-aloud with design challenges—free Santa from a chimney, build a sleigh that moves without reindeer—and watch force, motion, iteration, and teamwork click with cardboard, tape, and recyclables. For the days when your bandwidth is gone, we talk sub plans as self-care: printable, standards-based packets that cover you for a mental health day, a longer staff-lunch window, or a simplified week that still moves learning forward.

The heart of the conversation is permission to pause. You’re allowed to do less. Say no to extras that drain you, lean on backup plans, and trust that rest is a teaching strategy—one that helps you show up better for your students. As a bonus, we share why Readers Theater is December’s sweet spot: group rehearsals that build fluency and expression while giving you time to finish report cards, prep January, or finally clear that closet shelf. You’ll leave with practical, joyful ideas and the confidence to protect your energy when it matters most.

If this helped you feel lighter, subscribe, share with a teacher friend, and leave a quick review. Tell us: which idea will you try first?

Links Mentioned in the Episode:

Elf Diaries 

Christmas Would You Rather

Support the show

🌿 Teachers, you can’t pour from an empty cup — but with the Sub Survival System for teachers in the classroom, you’ll never have to panic when you need a day off from school.
 Ready-to-go sub plans designed by a teacher who’s been there.
 Because rest isn’t a luxury — it’s part of the job.

 👉 [Explore the Sub Survival System on TpT]

Subscribe and Review:

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. Click here for iTunes.

Now, if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be really grateful if you left me a review. Click here to leave a review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review.”  Thank you!

Send us Fan Mail

OTT: Episode 151: What Do Loose Parts and Makerspace Have to do with the New Year?

What do Loose parts and Makerspace have to do with the new year? They are both all about having a mindset of exploration, adventure, innovation, critical thinking, and creativity. How will you bring that to your classroom? Listen to get started.

Over Christmas break, I started reading Loose Parts by Carla Gull, Suzanne Levenson Goldstein, and Tricia Rosengarten. It is amazing! It is also completely aligned to what I believe- that kids should be learning in a play type of atmosphere where innovation, exploration, critical thinking, collaboration, and creativity are at the forefront. 

Come take a listen to how loose parts and Makerspace relate to the New Year!

Links Mentioned in the Show:

Makerspace Thinking and Learning on Facebook

Trinadeboreet&l on Instagram

Loose Parts on Amazon (affiliate link) 

OTT Episode 124: The Most Memorable and Impressive Take-Aways From STEM Con 2021

Makerspace Start-Up Kit Freebie

Subscribe and Review: 

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don’t want you to miss an episode. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the mix and if you’re not subscribed there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on those. Click here for iTunes. 

Now if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be really grateful if you left me a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find my podcast and they’re also fun for me to go in and rea

Support the show

🌿 Teachers, you can’t pour from an empty cup — but with the Sub Survival System for teachers in the classroom, you’ll never have to panic when you need a day off from school.
 Ready-to-go sub plans designed by a teacher who’s been there.
 Because rest isn’t a luxury — it’s part of the job.

 👉 [Explore the Sub Survival System on TpT]

Subscribe and Review:

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. Click here for iTunes.

Now, if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be really grateful if you left me a review. Click here to leave a review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review.”  Thank you!

Send us Fan Mail

150 OTT: It's Time for a Break

It's time for a small break. One Tired Teacher is taking a snooze. I will be back in January 2022. Happy Thanksgiving, Merry Christmas, and Happy New Year!

Links Mentioned in the Show:

Standards-Based Assessment

Subscribe and Review: 

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don’t want you to miss an episode. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the mix and if you’re not subscribed there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on those. Click here for iTunes. 

Now if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be really grateful if you left me a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find my podcast and they’re also fun for me to go in and read. Click here to leave a review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!  

Support the show

🌿 Teachers, you can’t pour from an empty cup — but with the Sub Survival System for teachers in the classroom, you’ll never have to panic when you need a day off from school.
 Ready-to-go sub plans designed by a teacher who’s been there.
 Because rest isn’t a luxury — it’s part of the job.

 👉 [Explore the Sub Survival System on TpT]

Subscribe and Review:

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. Click here for iTunes.

Now, if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be really grateful if you left me a review. Click here to leave a review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review.”  Thank you!

Send us Fan Mail

Curious how to make Halloween both educational and fun in your primary classroom? Get ready to transform your teaching with our latest episode of One Tired Teacher, where we promise to share three engaging and time-efficient ideas for celebrating Halloween. First, we'll revisit some of our favorite past episodes that highlight Halloween-themed literature and science activities, setting the perfect spooky vibe. Discover our innovative Halloween Matter Lapbook unit, a creative approach to teaching matter through Halloween experiments like Halloween Ooze and Frankenstein's floating and sinking. Not only does this unit meet essential second-grade science standards, but it also integrates math exercises in a meaningful way. Plus, I’ll walk you through a standalone activity called "Trick-or-Treaters Explore Matter," where students get hands-on experience with labeled balloons and plastic cups to infer the contents of trick-or-treat bags.

But that's not all! We're also delving into Halloween-themed Makerspace and rhyming activities that blend literature standards with the engineering design process. Learn how to use Makerspace Moments in Literature to enhance comprehension and problem-solving skills, perfect for those quick sub plans. On top of that, we'll introduce you to a Halloween rhyming bundle designed for kindergarten to second grade, available in both digital and print formats. This bundle is packed with games and activities that make learning phonemic awareness super fun. To sweeten the deal, I’m offering a free Makerspace Masterclass Replay to help you create engaging content that can reclaim your valuable time. Tune in for a treasure trove of Halloween-themed educational ideas that will captivate your students and simplify your planning!

Links Mentioned in the Show:

Episode 50: 7 Sensational Halloween Books Kids Will Love.

Episode 148: More Fun Spooky Halloween Book to Use in Your Primary Classroom

Support the show

🌿 Teachers, you can’t pour from an empty cup — but with the Sub Survival System for teachers in the classroom, you’ll never have to panic when you need a day off from school.
 Ready-to-go sub plans designed by a teacher who’s been there.
 Because rest isn’t a luxury — it’s part of the job.

 👉 [Explore the Sub Survival System on TpT]

Subscribe and Review:

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. Click here for iTunes.

Now, if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be really grateful if you left me a review. Click here to leave a review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review.”  Thank you!

Send us Fan Mail

148: OTT: How to Use More Spooky Fun Halloween Books in Your Makerspace Primary Classroom

Last week's episode shared 3 secret tactics for breathing new life into your science block. This really sparked my interest in fun Halloween stories that inspire science, STEM, and Makerspace. So today I want to share some more fun books to use for the month of October.

Come take a listen as I share three more spooky fun Halloween books. 

Links Mentioned in the Show: 

Episode 147: 3 Secret Tactics to Breathing More Life Into Your Science Block

Episode 50: 7 Sensational Halloween Books Kids Will Love

The Halloween Tree by Susan Montanari

The Last Train on Halloween by Cindy Jennings

The Secret Halloween Costume by Sophie Vaillancourt

Halloween Makerspace Bundle

Subscribe and Review: 

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don’t want you to miss an episode. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the mix and if you’re not subscribed there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on those. Click here for iTunes. 

Now if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be really grateful if you left me a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find my podcast and they’re also fun for me to go in and read. Click here to leave a review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you! 

Support the show

🌿 Teachers, you can’t pour from an empty cup — but with the Sub Survival System for teachers in the classroom, you’ll never have to panic when you need a day off from school.
 Ready-to-go sub plans designed by a teacher who’s been there.
 Because rest isn’t a luxury — it’s part of the job.

 👉 [Explore the Sub Survival System on TpT]

Subscribe and Review:

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. Click here for iTunes.

Now, if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be really grateful if you left me a review. Click here to leave a review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review.”  Thank you!

Send us Fan Mail

147: OTT: 3 Secret Tactics for Breathing New Life  into Science in October

So it is that time of year again! Fall has officially begun. Even if that means you just have fall decorations in your house in Florida as I do. 

So, today we will talk about 3 secret tactics for breathing new life into science in October.

Secret Tactic #1

Incorporate Halloween or Fall Into Your Science Topics

This first tactic is one of my favorite things to do. You look at your standards according to your pacing guide. (And if you are on my email list, you got my STEM unit pacing guide for several weeks in a row. So I hope you were able to grab that.) So if you are following that you may see that at this time of year we are focusing on Matter.

Secret Tactic #2

Add Hands-On Activities with Makerspace

I actually spoke all about this on the podcast in episode 96: Halloween and Makerspace in Elementary Classroom, which I will link to in the show notes.

Makerspace and Halloween can go hand in hand with just the right literature to set the stage. Finding books that engage students and encourage students to think can be half the battle. The creation of solutions is the fun part!

Working through engineering standards and literature standards helps teachers justify Makerspace for admins who are wondering if standards-based learning is occurring. This seriously drives me crazy. But if they need evidence we can give it to them!

I talk through several really fun stories. You can hear more on episode 96: Halloween and Makerspace in Elementary Classroom.

Finally, let's look at secret tactic #3.

Introduce Fun Literature to Hook Students

This is another one of my favorites. I love to find Halloween books that can be used to hook students. I talk about several fun titles in Episode 96. So I won't get too involved here. You can find that anywhere you are listening to podcasts.

I will also talk more about Halloween books to use in your classroom next week on the podcast. So stay tuned.

I hope that gives you a jumping-off point. Be sure to take a listen to episode 96 for full details on Halloween and Makersp

Support the show

🌿 Teachers, you can’t pour from an empty cup — but with the Sub Survival System for teachers in the classroom, you’ll never have to panic when you need a day off from school.
 Ready-to-go sub plans designed by a teacher who’s been there.
 Because rest isn’t a luxury — it’s part of the job.

 👉 [Explore the Sub Survival System on TpT]

Subscribe and Review:

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. Click here for iTunes.

Now, if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be really grateful if you left me a review. Click here to leave a review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review.”  Thank you!

Send us Fan Mail

So last week we talked about strategic steps for planning STEM units across the year. Today, I'm going to give you three tips to make it an easier and faster process. I hope you stick around!

Links Mentioned in the Show:

STEM Units Pacing Guide for Second Grade

STEM Units for Second Grade

Subscribe and Review: 

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don’t want you to miss an episode. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the mix and if you’re not subscribed there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on those. Click here for iTunes. 

Now if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be really grateful if you left me a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find my podcast and they’re also fun for me to go in and read. Click here to leave a review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!    

Support the show

🌿 Teachers, you can’t pour from an empty cup — but with the Sub Survival System for teachers in the classroom, you’ll never have to panic when you need a day off from school.
 Ready-to-go sub plans designed by a teacher who’s been there.
 Because rest isn’t a luxury — it’s part of the job.

 👉 [Explore the Sub Survival System on TpT]

Subscribe and Review:

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. Click here for iTunes.

Now, if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be really grateful if you left me a review. Click here to leave a review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review.”  Thank you!

Send us Fan Mail

Today I am going to break down 5 strategic steps to help you teach STEM throughout the school year. I hope you stick around.

Links Mentioned in the Show:

STEM Pacing Guide

STEM Units of Study

Halloween Matter Unit

Christmas Matter Unit

Subscribe and Review: 

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don’t want you to miss an episode. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the mix and if you’re not subscribed there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on those. Click here for iTunes. 

Now if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be really grateful if you left me a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find my podcast and they’re also fun for me to go in and read. Click here to leave a review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!  

Support the show

🌿 Teachers, you can’t pour from an empty cup — but with the Sub Survival System for teachers in the classroom, you’ll never have to panic when you need a day off from school.
 Ready-to-go sub plans designed by a teacher who’s been there.
 Because rest isn’t a luxury — it’s part of the job.

 👉 [Explore the Sub Survival System on TpT]

Subscribe and Review:

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. Click here for iTunes.

Now, if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be really grateful if you left me a review. Click here to leave a review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review.”  Thank you!

Send us Fan Mail

Today we are talking about WHY classrooms might want to include a makerspace. Come join me.

Makerspaces are more than a dedicated space. They are a mindset. One of innovation, creativity, collaboration, community, and critical thinking. 

Makerspace should exist in every elementary classroom. Do you have a Makerspace?

Links Mentioned in the Show:

Fall STEM-stravaganza

Free Makerspace Moments in Literature

Mastering Makerspace Course: From Zero to Amazing

Subscribe and Review: 

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don’t want you to miss an episode. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the mix and if you’re not subscribed there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on those. Click here for iTunes. 

Now if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be really grateful if you left me a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find my podcast and they’re also fun for me to go in and read. Click here to leave a review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!    

Support the show

🌿 Teachers, you can’t pour from an empty cup — but with the Sub Survival System for teachers in the classroom, you’ll never have to panic when you need a day off from school.
 Ready-to-go sub plans designed by a teacher who’s been there.
 Because rest isn’t a luxury — it’s part of the job.

 👉 [Explore the Sub Survival System on TpT]

Subscribe and Review:

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. Click here for iTunes.

Now, if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be really grateful if you left me a review. Click here to leave a review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review.”  Thank you!

Send us Fan Mail

Back to school can be a hectic time for teachers. It is important for teachers to take care of themselves so that they in turn can take care of their students. Stick around.

Links Mentioned in the Show:

Back to School Resources

Subscribe and Review: 

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don’t want you to miss an episode. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the mix and if you’re not subscribed there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on those. Click here for iTunes. 

Now if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be really grateful if you left me a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find my podcast and they’re also fun for me to go in and read. Click here to leave a review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!    

Support the show

🌿 Teachers, you can’t pour from an empty cup — but with the Sub Survival System for teachers in the classroom, you’ll never have to panic when you need a day off from school.
 Ready-to-go sub plans designed by a teacher who’s been there.
 Because rest isn’t a luxury — it’s part of the job.

 👉 [Explore the Sub Survival System on TpT]

Subscribe and Review:

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. Click here for iTunes.

Now, if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be really grateful if you left me a review. Click here to leave a review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review.”  Thank you!

Send us Fan Mail

42: OTT: How to Create a Labor Day Activity With Kids

Ever wondered why we celebrate Labor Day, and how to make this holiday meaningful for your students? 

On this episode of One Tired Teacher, we promise you'll walk away with engaging and educational activities that highlight the achievements of American workers and the history behind Labor Day. We introduce an all about Labor Day informational text reader that's not only informative but also designed to spark curiosity and comprehension among kids. You'll also get tips for vocabulary exercises and text-based questions that take learning to the next level. 

One standout activity is creating a Labor Day lap book—perfect for those who love hands-on projects. Using manila folders or construction paper, this interactive and visual project will have your students excited to showcase their learning, and it makes for a fantastic classroom bulletin board display.

Caught off guard and need a last-minute activity? 

We've got you covered! 

In this episode, we discuss the flexibility and convenience of our resources, whether you’re planning or improvising for Labor Day. You’ll learn about our interactive reader and Labor Day lap book, both available on my Teachers Pay Teachers store, Trina Debery Teaching and Learning. 

These resources are versatile, available in both physical and digital formats, and perfect for keeping students engaged even with a substitute teacher. Whether you're planning a special lesson or aiming to take an extra day off for a long weekend, these tools ensure that your classroom runs smoothly and that learning about Labor Day remains fun and educational. 

Sweet dreams and sleep tight until next time!

Links Mentioned in the Show:

All About Labor Day Interactive Reader Bundle (Print and Digital)

Labor Day LabBook

Subscribe and Review: 

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encou

Support the show

🌿 Teachers, you can’t pour from an empty cup — but with the Sub Survival System for teachers in the classroom, you’ll never have to panic when you need a day off from school.
 Ready-to-go sub plans designed by a teacher who’s been there.
 Because rest isn’t a luxury — it’s part of the job.

 👉 [Explore the Sub Survival System on TpT]

Subscribe and Review:

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. Click here for iTunes.

Now, if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be really grateful if you left me a review. Click here to leave a review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review.”  Thank you!

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December doesn’t have to be glitter storms and lost learning. We share a practical, story-driven way to turn holiday energy into real science with a Christmas-themed matter unit that keeps kids focused, curious, and proud of their work. Think stockings and balloons for inferring solids, liquids, and gases. Think hot cocoa tests that make temperature, dissolving, and fair experiment design click. The result is joyful rigor: standards met, mess managed, and students begging for “one more test.”

We start with the real problem—tired teachers, sugar-fueled classes, and lessons that feel cute but shallow. Then we map a simple structure that works: characters who pose questions, low to mid prep stations, clear roles, and data sheets that guide talk and writing. Randy Reindeer anchors states of matter with hidden items in balloons. Santa explores solubility and rate of change using cocoa and controlled temperatures. A snowman station tackles floating and sinking with familiar treats, gently introducing density concepts. An elf narrator nudges property observations—texture, size, weight, volume, and temperature—so students use accurate vocabulary while they explore.

To knit it together, we fold in short nonfiction reading and claim-evidence-reasoning writing, so science time stretches into ELA without breaking your schedule. Behavior improves because each station has a purpose, a reveal, and a shared goal; setup stays sane thanks to reusable stockings, simple supplies, and a ready-to-send family letter. You can run it all in a day or spread it across a week, and the format adapts to other units like force and motion with “sleigh tests,” keeping the seasonal spark while protecting content.

Want to try it without the heavy lift? Grab the free Randy Reindeer experiment at TrinaDeboriTeachingandLearning.com/ChristmasMatter, then decide if you want the full unit with anchor charts, prompts, and more labs in our TPT shop. If this approach helps, subscribe, share the episode with a teammate who needs a December win, and leave a quick review so more teachers can find it.

Links Mentioned in the Show:

Free Randy Reindeer Explores Matter FREEBIE

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🌿 Teachers, you can’t pour from an empty cup — but with the Sub Survival System for teachers in the classroom, you’ll never have to panic when you need a day off from school.
 Ready-to-go sub plans designed by a teacher who’s been there.
 Because rest isn’t a luxury — it’s part of the job.

 👉 [Explore the Sub Survival System on TpT]

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Now, if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be really grateful if you left me a review. Click here to leave a review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review.”  Thank you!

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In today's episode, I will share three tips for helping students avoid back-to-school anxiety. I hope you will join me.

Links Mentioned in the Show:

140 OTT: 2 Tips to Rock Back-to-School

Back to School Packs on TpT

Subscribe and Review: 

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don’t want you to miss an episode. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the mix and if you’re not subscribed there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on those. Click here for iTunes. 

Now if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be really grateful if you left me a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find my podcast and they’re also fun for me to go in and read. Click here to leave a review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!  

Support the show

🌿 Teachers, you can’t pour from an empty cup — but with the Sub Survival System for teachers in the classroom, you’ll never have to panic when you need a day off from school.
 Ready-to-go sub plans designed by a teacher who’s been there.
 Because rest isn’t a luxury — it’s part of the job.

 👉 [Explore the Sub Survival System on TpT]

Subscribe and Review:

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. Click here for iTunes.

Now, if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be really grateful if you left me a review. Click here to leave a review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review.”  Thank you!

Send us Fan Mail

Today I will share two tips to get your school year started. I hope your year is excellent!

Links Mentioned in the Show:

139 OTT: How to Rock the First Week of School: Back-to-School Tips

Back to School Decor, First Week Team Builders, and More…

Subscribe and Review: 

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don’t want you to miss an episode. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the mix and if you’re not subscribed there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on those. Click here for iTunes. 

Now if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be really grateful if you left me a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find my podcast and they’re also fun for me to go in and read. Click here to leave a review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!    

Support the show

🌿 Teachers, you can’t pour from an empty cup — but with the Sub Survival System for teachers in the classroom, you’ll never have to panic when you need a day off from school.
 Ready-to-go sub plans designed by a teacher who’s been there.
 Because rest isn’t a luxury — it’s part of the job.

 👉 [Explore the Sub Survival System on TpT]

Subscribe and Review:

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. Click here for iTunes.

Now, if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be really grateful if you left me a review. Click here to leave a review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review.”  Thank you!

Send us Fan Mail

Back to school can be a struggle for sure. But not if we have just the right procedures in place AND we have the winning mindset. Join me today as I talk to you about rocking the first week of school!

Links Mentioned in the Show:

Trina Deboree Thinking and Learning on TpT Back to School

One Tired Teacher Episode 43: First Week Activities for Back to School 

Subscribe and Review: 

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don’t want you to miss an episode. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the mix and if you’re not subscribed there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on those. Click here for iTunes. 

Now if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be really grateful if you left me a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find my podcast and they’re also fun for me to go in and read. Click here to leave a review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!    

Support the show

🌿 Teachers, you can’t pour from an empty cup — but with the Sub Survival System for teachers in the classroom, you’ll never have to panic when you need a day off from school.
 Ready-to-go sub plans designed by a teacher who’s been there.
 Because rest isn’t a luxury — it’s part of the job.

 👉 [Explore the Sub Survival System on TpT]

Subscribe and Review:

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. Click here for iTunes.

Now, if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be really grateful if you left me a review. Click here to leave a review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review.”  Thank you!