Hosts Will and Jordan talk with Ernesto Mejia (CoolSpeak) about moving from family involvement to true engagement. Ernesto shares why relationships—not just meetings—unlock student success, how to remove barriers for busy or multilingual families, and practical, low-cost ways schools can make engagement fun, inclusive and sustainable across all grade levels.🔑 Key Takeaways✔️ Involvement ≠ Engagement: Attendance is not the goal—relationship-building is.✔️ Lead with positives: Routine positive phone calls build trust for tougher conversations later.✔️ Meet families where they are: Consider work schedules, language, tech comfort, and transportation.✔️ If it could be an email, it’s not engagement: Use meetings for interaction, not one-way info dumps.✔️ The “Golden Triangle”: Students + caregivers + school staff working together multiplies impact.✔️ Hybrid wins: Pair short videos/virtual touchpoints with purposeful in-person experiences.✔️ Talk like humans: Replace acronyms with needs-based titles (e.g., “How to Pay for College” vs. “FAFSA Night”).✔️ Iterate boldly: Try, learn, and improve—stop doing the same meeting and expecting new results.💬 Memorable Quotes🗣️“If it could have been an email, it’s not family engagement.”🗣️“Don’t ask of families without giving first.”🗣️“Once we become professionals at failing, we’ll become excellent at succeeding.”🗣️“The Golden Triangle—students, families, and schools—raises the odds of success.”🧠 Strategies You’ll LearnDesign for engagement: Turn info into activities (e.g., app sign-up stations, bingo cards that require conversations, quick wins families complete on-site).Make it positive & predictable: Schedule “good news” calls/texts every 4–8 weeks per student.Reframe events: Rename with outcomes families actually want (“Paying for College,” “Launch Your Trade Career,” “Math Night: Parent–Student Challenges”).Use hybrid formats: 2–3 minute explainer videos or student-made TikToks/podcasts for info; in-person for relationship building.Activate internal talent: Students as media teams; staff who excel at MC’ing, Canva, or social lead segments.Culturally responsive touches: Bilingual messaging, name pronunciation, student/family voice at the mic.👁️‍🗨️ Additional PracticesFamily History Quiz: Send home 5–7 prompts (e.g., “What were you like at my age?”) to deepen connection and surface college/career insights.Golden Triangle Nights: Plan events that include students, caregivers, and multiple school roles (e.g., bonfire/info night, club fair + mini-workshops).Earned Incentives (no extra budget): Priority access to giveaways (backpacks, supplies) for families who volunteer or attend 2–3 events.Two-Solutions Rule: When a barrier arises (“Families aren’t coming”), require two tested solutions before the next meeting.Show Up First: Short personalized video/text to caregivers (or quick sideline/church/park hello) before asking them to come to you.Rename & Clarify: Ban unexplained acronyms on flyers; add “What you’ll get” bullets to every invite.Short, Shareable Media: Weekly 60–120 sec student-hosted update or 10-minute podcast for caregivers’ commutes.Positive Mail Drop: Occasional postcard home celebrating a specific behavior or contribution.On-Ramp Stations: At events, set up guided stations (log into the app, send a test message, complete one career/FAFSA step).Feedback that Works: Replace broad surveys with 3-question, QR-based pulse checks at the door and exit.📚 Resources and Links🔗 CoolSpeak: https://coolspeak.com/youth-motivational-speakers/ernesto-mejia/🔗 Ernesto Mejia’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ernmejia/?hl=en🔗 Check out Ernesto at the next Innovative Schools Summit: https://innovativeschoolssummit.com/san-antonio❤️ Love This Episode?✅ Share it with a fellow educator!⭐ Rate & Review to help more teachers find this show💬 Join the Conversation on social media or in your next staff meeting!💡 Innovative Schools Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/innovativeschoolspodcast/💡 Listen on Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/innovative-schools-podcast/id1502414943💡 Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2Lbw553jnDXuG08IZ43Kb5💡 Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@innovativeschoolspodcast

In this episode of the Innovative Schools Podcast, Jordan and Liz sit down with Dr. Tracey Severns to explore the power of joy, humor, and high expectations in education. Broadcasting from Las Vegas at the Innovative Schools Summit, the conversation blends heartfelt storytelling with practical strategies—unpacking how laughter, connection, and the Warm Demander approach can transform classrooms and leadership spaces alike.🔑 Key Takeaways✔️ Joy is Essential, Not Optional: Joy and humor help create memorable learning moments and build stronger relationships.✔️ Warm Demander Pedagogy: High expectations combined with genuine care help students rise to their full potential.✔️ The Power of Perspective: Shifting from a witch hunt to a treasure hunt mentality fosters positivity and resilience.✔️ Productive Struggle Matters: Students need room to fail, persevere, and celebrate real accomplishments.✔️ Use Humor Wisely: Humor should build up, never tear down—keep it inclusive and appropriate for the audience.💬 Memorable Quotes🗣️ “Every day you leave a mark. Is it a scar or a smile?”🗣️ “Joy is essential, not optional.”🗣️ “We can do serious work without taking ourselves so seriously.”🗣️ “High expectations are the greatest compliment you can give anyone.” 🗣️ “Every day, you decide whether to go on a witch hunt or a treasure hunt.”🧠 Strategies You’ll LearnWarm Demander in Action: How to combine caring relationships with academic rigor.Bringing Humor Into Lessons: From student greeters to fun assessments, discover simple ways to add joy.Handling Struggling Students: Using inquiry and encouragement to keep expectations high while offering support.Shaping School Narratives: Encouraging staff to share success stories to cultivate a positive culture.Balancing Humor & Sensitivity: Understanding humor boundaries to keep classrooms safe and welcoming.👁️‍🗨️ Additional PracticesStart with a Smile: Research shows smiling boosts mood for both teachers and students.Assign a “Greeter” Role: Let students start class with positivity and warmth.Celebrate Breakthroughs: Recognize progress, not just outcomes, to build confidence and perseverance.Lead with Laughter in Meetings: Encourage faculty to share positive or funny moments before diving into business.Model Resilience: Show students that productive struggle leads to growth and pride.📚 Resources and Links🔗 Check out Dr. Tracey Severns’ Book: https://www.amazon.com/Mistakes-Missteps-Missed-Opportunities-Severns/dp/1598502808🔗 Audio Version: https://www.audible.com/pd/Mistakes-Missteps-Missed-Opportunities-Audiobook/B0FHBK7WVD?qid=1756478962&sr=1-1&ref_pageloadid=not_applicable&pf_rd_p=83218cca-c308-412f-bfcf-90198b687a2f&pf_rd_r=M0PH8XC9NTE53575YJA8&plink=ZGZ0TrM2AwlmHlAy&pageLoadId=gYe3sGWNAVGuxQoP&creativeId=0d6f6720-f41c-457e-a42b-8c8dceb62f2c&ref=a_search_c3_lProduct_1_1❤️ Love This Episode?✅ Share it with a fellow educator!⭐ Rate & Review to help more teachers find this show💬 Join the Conversation on social media or in your next staff meeting!💡 Innovative Schools Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/innovativeschoolspodcast/💡Listen on Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/innovative-schools-podcast/id1502414943💡Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2Lbw553jnDXuG08IZ43Kb5💡Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@innovativeschoolspodcast

In this powerful and candid conversation recorded live at the Innovative Schools Summit in Nashville, Kevin sits down with principal-turned-speaker Gerry Brooks. Known for his viral humor and heartfelt wisdom, Gerry shares the turning points that shaped his 27-year journey from classroom teacher to national education influencer. He unpacks the core principles that drive great leadership, school culture, and staff retention—while offering practical advice for both teachers and administrators. Whether you’re leading a district or navigating the classroom, this episode will both challenge and inspire.🔑 Key Takeaways✔️ Leadership Begins with Influence: Gerry’s journey shows how one voice—starting with a class of 25—can scale to impact thousands. ✔️ Positive Culture is Intentional: Low staff turnover stems from a supportive, respectful environment—built with purpose. ✔️ Say “Yes” When You Can: A culture of support starts with a willingness to say yes when it matters most. ✔️ You’re Not the Expert at Everything: Great leaders hire to their weaknesses and embrace learning. ✔️ Teachers & Leaders Must Step Outside the Bubble: School-wide decisions can’t just serve one classroom—they must serve the big picture.💬 Memorable Quotes🗣️ “We don’t live in a box or a bubble—we live in a big picture.”🗣️ “You hire to your weaknesses. That’s how great leadership works.”🗣️ “When the day is done, turn the light switch off and go home.”🗣️ “What’s best for students is always what’s best for teachers.”🗣️ “Change your school, your grade level, or your mindset—just don’t stay stuck.”🧠 Strategies You’ll LearnHow to scale your leadership without losing your core valuesSimple ways to retain staff through positive climate and cultureLeading without ego: leveraging others’ strengths and owning your weaknessesHow to communicate with your team—even when you disagreeCreating school-wide policies that actually work for teachers👁️‍🗨️ Additional PracticesMentorship Matching: Pair staff based on complementary strengths and weaknesses.5–7 Year Refresh Rule: Encourage educators to switch grade levels or schools periodically to avoid burnout.Build “Yes” Culture: Empower school leaders to say yes when possible—especially when supporting staff wellness.Principal Visibility: Understand and support every department—reading, SPED, science—through active listening and training.Big Picture Decision-Making: Train staff to think beyond their classroom or department and see the school as a whole system.🎟️ Want More Gerry?Catch him live at the Innovative Schools Summit – San Antonio (December 3–6, 2025), alongside other powerhouse educators like Ron Clark, Michael Bonner, and John Almarode.📍 https://innovativeschoolssummit.com/registration/📚 Resources and Links🔗 Gerry Brooks Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gerrybrooksprin/?hl=en❤️ Love This Episode?✅ Share it with a fellow educator!⭐ Rate & Review to help more teachers find this show💬 Join the Conversation on social media or in your next staff meeting!💡 Innovative Schools Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/innovativeschoolspodcast/💡 Listen on Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/innovative-schools-podcast/id1502414943💡 Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2Lbw553jnDXuG08IZ43Kb5💡 Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@innovativeschoolspodcast

Season 2 of the Innovative Schools Podcast kicks off with a dynamic and encouraging conversation featuring educator and speaker Michael Bonner. With over a decade of classroom experience and a passion for building student relationships, Michael shares how educators can prepare both mentally and practically for the first day of school. From the energy of the first morning to the importance of expectations, systems, and rest, this episode offers inspiration and actionable tools to help teachers of all experience levels start strong and stay grounded.🔑 Key Takeaways✔️First Day is Foundational: Set the tone early—students will rise to the energy and expectations you bring. ✔️Balance Fun & Firmness: Joyful classrooms and clear boundaries can—and should—coexist. ✔️Rest is Productive: Stepping away before the school year helps you show up refreshed and fully present. ✔️Systems Create Consistency: Plan responses for both good and challenging behaviors before day one. ✔️Veteran Teachers Lead Culture: Experienced educators should model joy, support, and mentorship.💬 Memorable Quotes🗣️ “Progression over perfection. There are going to be lessons that go wrong—but it’s how you respond that matters.” 🗣️ “Students are brilliant. If they can make 14 TikToks a day, they can rise to the expectations you set.” 🗣️ “The first day should feel like magic—it’s not about the syllabus, it’s about setting the tone.” 🗣️ “Rest is productive. Your nervous system needs to learn how to slow down before you ramp up again.” 🗣️ “Life is short. If you’re alive, live—and make the most of this school year.”🧠 Strategies You'll LearnHow to build an unforgettable first day with music, themes, and interactive ritualsWays to foster classroom community using creative team-building activitiesHow to establish behavioral systems that support clarity and consistencyWhat it looks like to lead with vulnerability and build emotional safetyWhy personal care and mental clarity matter just as much as lesson prep👁️‍🗨️ Additional PracticesLet students co-create a classroom playlist—clean and connection-centeredBegin the year by modeling mental check-ins and healthy emotional expressionUse activities like the “cup tower challenge” to reinforce teamwork and normsDraft a clear behavior plan: one for rewards, one for consequencesIf you’re a veteran, mentor a first-year teacher—they need you more than you know📚 Resources and Links🔗 Michael Bonner Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michaelbonner_/🔗 Connect with Michael Bonner: https://www.michael-bonner.com/🔗 Michael Bonner's first Day Song:           Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/album/blow-your-mind-single/1137267220           Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/track/20oycBYdnNpNr38eSR7Neu?si=4f2b865c0395417d🔗 See Michael Bonner at the Innovative Schools Summit: https://innovativeschoolssummit.com/❤️ Love This Episode?✅ Share it with a fellow educator!⭐ Rate & Review to help more teachers find this show💬 Join the Conversation on social media or in your next staff meeting!💡 Innovative Schools Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/innovativeschoolspodcast/💡Listen on Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/innovative-schools-podcast/id1502414943💡Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2Lbw553jnDXuG08IZ43Kb5💡Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@innovativeschoolspodcast

In this high-energy, heartfelt season finale, science educator, TV personality, and keynote speaker Steve Spangler joins us live at the Innovative Schools Summit in Orlando to talk about the power of creating experiences in education. From his upbringing in a family of magicians to leading explosive science demonstrations across the country, Steve shares the moments, mentors, and mindset that shaped his approach to teaching. He unpacks how to truly connect with students, inspire curiosity, and bring learning to life—while reminding educators of the vital impact they make every day.🔑 Key Takeaways:✔️ Connection is Foundational: Learning doesn’t happen without trust and connection.✔️ Every Experience Counts: Students remember how you made them feel, not just what you taught.✔️ Failure is Part of the Journey: Embrace and model failure—it’s essential for innovation.✔️ Supportive Leadership Matters: Environments that encourage creativity fuel better teaching.✔️ Rediscovering Joy: Even veteran teachers need to “re-spark” their passion from time to time.💬 Memorable Quotes🗣️ “Teaching is about connection first and foremost. If you don’t have that, nothing else matters.”🗣️ “You don’t connect to students—you connect with them.”🗣️ “If what you did in the classroom made it to the dinner table, you win.”🗣️ “Sometimes you’re performing at people. What they need is for you to connect with them.”🗣️ “Every kid needs three things: a spark, a champion, and someone who supports their cause.”🧠 Strategies You'll LearnHow to build “experiences” instead of just delivering contentUsing curiosity, surprise, and storytelling to enhance lessonsThe power of “feigned ignorance” to increase student engagementTips for navigating unsupportive administrative environmentsHow to humanize virtual learning spaces (“humanizing the square”)👁️‍🗨️ Additional PracticesMake space for student voice—listen for their passions and spark pointsUse classroom failures as shared problem-solving opportunitiesInvolve students in design—“What would you change if we did it again?”Prioritize relational connection over performanceReflect often: Are you teaching with students, or at them?📚 Resources and Links🔗 Steve Spangler Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stevespangler/?hl=en🔗 Steve Spangler Science Website: Steve Spangler Science🔗 The Self-Regulation Skill Set for Educators by Brad Chapin – YouthLight.com❤️ Love This Episode?✅ Share it with a fellow educator!⭐ Rate & Review to help more teachers find this show💬 Join the Conversation on social media or in your next staff meeting!💡 Innovative Schools Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/innovativeschoolspodcast/💡Listen on Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/innovative-schools-podcast/id1502414943💡Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2Lbw553jnDXuG08IZ43Kb5💡Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@innovativeschoolspodcast