Episodes

In this episode, we explore whether vision-driven collaboration in Professional Learning Communities (PLCs) is a myth or reality. Hear from current classroom teacher, Brandy Hawthorne, about how PLCs can foster genuine collaboration and drive meaningful change in education. Brandy Hawthorne is a 30 + year veteran in education. With a varied background, she considers herself a “Jack of all trades, master of none”. She has served as an early childhood interventionist, a director of child find, a p...

Join me for this episode with Peter DeWitt and Mike Nelson of the Instructional Leadership Collective as they share insights from their newest book, Leading with Intention: How School Leaders Can Unlock Deeper Collaboration and Drive Results. You won’t want to miss this insightful conversation, actionable tips, and a sneak peek into their groundbreaking book. Whether you're a seasoned leader or just starting out, this episode will be packed with gems to inform how you build cohesive, vision-driv...

Beware, there are audio glitches! But I've got ya covered! Read the transcript on the blog here! In this episode, join us as we explore the power and importance of centering conversations around timely, detailed, and aligned assessment results with ⁠David Woodward, Founder of Forefront Education⁠. David will explore transforming assessment practices, and gaining practical strategies for integrating assessments into cohesive, vision-driven teams within schools. Tune in for insights on leveraging ...

In this episode, I'm sharing the logistics of and my experiences during "Teach Week" – a dedicated period where instructional leaders or specialists step into the shoes of classroom teachers! Join us as we explore how this practice fosters deeper connections between leadership and classroom realities, enriching the educational ecosystem with firsthand experiences and insights. Learn how "Teach Week" not only empowers leaders to stay attuned to instructional needs but also cultivates a culture of...

In the latest episode, we are diving into the fascinating world of the Enneagram with special guest Carrie Rosebrock. Join us as Carrie sheds light on how understanding the nine Enneagram types can positively impact professional learning communities within educational settings. Discover practical insights and strategies for building cohesive, vision-driven school teams using the wisdom of the Enneagram. This episode will be personal and well worth your time! You can find more about Carrie by vis...

Feeling the pressure of a new curriculum adoption? Concerned about buy-in and effective implementation of a new program? Join this live webinar and discover how to empower your teachers and "cakewalk" your way through curriculum changes without the overwhelm. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/catchingupwithcasey/support

Get ready for an authentic conversation with Superintendent Jim DiDonato in our very first "From the Field" episode! Together, we'll navigate the terrain of effective team-building in education, from setting ambitious goals to rallying stakeholders around a shared vision. Gain valuable perspectives and practical advice from Superintendent DiDonato's experience in unifying a School District and striving for meaningful goals! Jim DiDonato has officially reached the milestone of all 20s! 23 Years ...

Tune in to this week’s show for an energizing and authentic conversation with Dr. Peter Dry about the dire need for transformation in our educational environments. Driven by a passion for creating future-ready organizations, Dr. Peter Dry will discuss the challenges of traditional schooling and offer innovative approaches for fostering cohesive, vision-driven teams in schools that make transformation possible. Join us as we explore the transformative potential of embracing strengths and redesign...

Hey, team leaders! In this podcast episode we're joined AGAIN by the incredible Steve Ventura, author of Achievement Teams. This time, Steve isn't just talking about his book; he's spilling the beans on his real-life adventures implementing Achievement Teams in districts around the world! Get ready for some juicy insights as we chat about cracking the code to student achievement and hear Steve's firsthand experiences. You’ll leave this episode thinking about how to approach PLCs in a different a...

When the ground beneath us shifts, leadership must rise to the occasion. In this episode, we'll talk about the nuanced art of guiding teams through difficult situations in education. Whether it's navigating budget cuts, reorganizing teams, or grappling with disappointing outcomes, the language used by educational leaders can profoundly impact team morale and productivity. Join us as we unpack real-world scenarios, share lessons learned, and offer actionable insights for educational leaders seeki...

PLCs and DATA- two HOT topics, am I right? This week, my special guest, Jana Lee, is going to be bridging the two topics and exploring the practical applications of data-driven inquiry within professional learning communities (PLCs). From navigating the complexities of data interpretation to leveraging insights from PLC Insight Surveys, Jana shares invaluable perspectives and strategies for educators seeking to enhance their collaborative efforts and optimize student learning outcomes. It’s time...

Explore a fresh perspective on teacher empowerment with Dr. Jo Lein as she discusses the role of accountability in driving growth and fostering a culture of trust within schools. Learn practical strategies for implementing accountability measures that support rather than stifle teacher creativity and autonomy. Join us as we uncover the untapped potential of expectations in empowering educators to fulfill their professional aspirations. Dr. Jo Lein is a renowned substack writer for school leaders...

Ever wondered how to ignite a fire within your team and build collective capacity? Join me in this conversation with Courtney Morgan, Founder of The All-Access Classroom, as she shares exactly what this looks like and sounds like. In our upcoming episode, "How to Nurture Teacher Agency and Collaboration to Combat 'Fidelity Freeze'," she’ll unveil the secrets to fostering a culture where every member feels valued and empowered. If you're ready to improve your team dynamics and combat stagnation, ...

Before instructional coaches jump into planning support for our schools, it's important to figure out what kinds of support we need and how we can differentiate that for our school, teams, and individual teachers. In this episode, you'll learn from Chrissy Beltran a three step process to make a tiered plan for school-wide support. We'll talk about how to gather teacher and administration input and combine this with your own experience in classrooms to identify needs at different levels. Chrissy...

In this episode, Linda Rhyne will share about the art of translating ambitious long-term goals into tangible, actionable steps. Join us as she shares insightful strategies for breaking down goals into bite-sized increments into a 30-60-90 day timeline. These focused actions not only drive progress but also foster team alignment and motivation. Get ready to turn around these practical ideas tomorrow! Linda Rhyne is the owner of Linda Rhyne Consulting and founding president of The Reading League ...

Let's chat with Dr. Michelle D. Grewe about curriculum and assessment! Each element—like resources, standards, assessments, alignment, and strategies—can be overwhelming on its own. But when you piece them together in the right way, a clear plan forms, bringing relief to leaders and teachers. Gathering the right pieces, organizing them, and making connections is crucial for navigating this ever-changing landscape. Join this episode to see what Dr. Grewe says about connecting the dots! Michelle ...

Not sure how PLCs and coaching cycles can go hand in hand? Come join us for this cozy coffee shop conversation! Grab a seat, order your favorite cup of joe, and get ready to dive into the idea of using PLCs to brew up coaching cycles. Think of us as your friendly neighborhood baristas, serving up piping hot tips on how to create the perfect blend! Connect with Casey on⁠ Facebook⁠,⁠ Instagram⁠,⁠ LinkedIn⁠, or⁠ YouTube⁠! Want to shrink learning gaps, increase teacher capacity, and make your schoo...

In this episode, I’m joined by Bethany Rees, the visionary mind behind Leadership on the Rocks, as she unravels the essence of transforming managers into essential leaders of impact. Bethany will explore the critical role of vision in leadership and share insights into the importance of buy-in when it comes to casting a vision. Offering practical strategies, she will guide us through crafting a compelling vision and gaining buy-in, emphasizing why these elements are pivotal for team success. Joi...

Join Mike Desparrois and me in this podcast as he explores adult behavior and its influence on student behavior. We’ll dive into discussions on how adults shape educational cultures, picking up tips for positive interactions. Celebrate successes with Mike, as he shares stories showcasing the power of understanding and fostering a supportive environment in schools. Get ready for an insightful journey towards a brighter future for students and educators! For the past twenty-three years, Mike has ...

As instructional leaders, we're positioned to have crucial conversations. This isn't a bad thing. It actually can be a really great thing! But having a crucial conversation with a single individual or a whole team- one that has the potential to make great things happen- can be daunting and uncomfortable! In this episode, I'm aiming to help you remove the discomfort and replace it with confidence! You'll walk away with a strategy to implement IMMEDIATELY in your coaching and leadership conversati...

Want to hear about the core essentials that lead teachers to success? Come join me for this episode with Gretchen Bridgers, author, speaker, and leadership coach! If you are interested in improving teacher retention and making your school a place teachers WANT to be, you'll thank your lucky stars for this episode. I can't wait to hear what Gretchen has to share, including a sneak peek into her newest book! https://amzn.to/409AUCt Connect with Gretchen at Always a Lesson Listen to Gretchen's Emp...

You've got questions, I've got answers! During this episode, I'll be answering YOUR questions about PLCs and Teams. I'll address questions like, "What does an ideal agenda look like for a PLC?" and, "How do you get PLCs started?" and, "What if a certain group of teachers are resistant?" These questions, plus the ones dropped in the comments will get answered! Bonus: See who the winners are of the giveaway mentioned last week! If you notice PLCs and Teams lacking a focus, the Aligned PLCs & Tea...

Do you ever find yourself or others asking, "What is our focus for PLCs this week?" When questions like this are asked, it's a sure sign that PLCs have lost their purpose! Join this episode to learn about strategies and tools that you can turnaround and implement with PLCs immediately so they can begin the year with a solid focus and feel revitalized to do purposeful work that matters for the remainder of the year! Never again should you have to wonder what PLCs will focus on! Increase Buy-In a...

In this episode, Eric Bransteter, expert educator and leader, will be sharing some of the learning he has gained from interviewing experts on his own podcast show, The Employee Experience in Education. He claims that educators stay in organizations when they feel heard, supported, and valued- and I couldn’t agree more!! Do you want to know what this actually looks like for leaders? Join us for this episode and be prepared to turn around and implement the things Eric shares! Eric Bransteter is a...