In this special edition of the Innovative Schools Podcast, we're bringing you a dynamic session from the Innovative Schools Summit in New York! This episode features the 50 in 50 Panel, where top educational leaders share 50 powerful strategies to foster a positive learning environment in your classroom. From engagement techniques to culture-building ideas, you'll walk away with practical insights you can use immediately.
Key Takeaways:
✔️ Strategies to Build a Positive Classroom Culture
✔️ Engagement Techniques that Go Beyond Entertainment
✔️ Ways to Empower Students and Teachers for Growth
✔️ Practical Tips for Encouraging Student Collaboration & Ownership
Featured Speakers:
🎤 Joseph Diaz – Founder of Mr. Math Education, focusing on improving math outcomes
🎤 Blake Clark – Superintendent & Executive Director, St. George, Utah
🎤 Katie Trowbridge – Retired Teacher, CEO & President of Curiosity to Create
🎤 Dr. Marquita Blades – Chief Empowerment Strategist at Powerful Teaching Strategies
🎤 Edward DeShazier – Executive Director of a K-8 School in Milwaukee
Memorable Quotes from the Episode:
🗣️ “Culture changes when we invite everyone’s voice to be heard.” – Blake Clark
🗣️ “Model high expectations for yourself before you set them for students.” – Joseph Diaz
🗣️ “Teach to the top, not the bottom. We can scaffold, but don’t hold back your highest achievers.” – Dr. Marquita Blades
🗣️ “If your teachers are happy, your students will be happy. Positive culture starts at the top.” – Edward DeShazier
🗣️ “Reward and praise heavily—kids work for you just like you work for your paycheck.” – Joseph Diaz
Strategies You’ll Learn in This Episode:
✅ The "I Wonder" Wall – A place for students to anonymously ask questions
✅ Help Wanted Board – Encouraging peer-to-peer learning and collaboration
✅ Rainy Day Notes – A system for staff to uplift and encourage each other
✅ Vertical Learning with Non-Permanent Surfaces – Fostering a growth mindset in math
✅ Defend or Destroy – Teaching students to analyze both sides of an argument
✅ Student Masterclass – Let students take the lead in teaching concepts
✅ Secret Leader of the Week – Encouraging students to quietly uplift peers
✅ 3 Before Me Strategy – Teaching students to struggle productively before seeking help
…and 40+ more ideas to make your classroom a thriving learning environment! 🎉
Resources & Links:
🔗 Learn more about the Innovative Schools Summit: www.innovativeschoolssummit.com
🔗 Connect with our featured guests on social media (details in the show)
🔗 Subscribe to the podcast for more educator insights!
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💡 Got feedback or an idea for a future episode? Let us know in the comments!
📢 Join us next time for more expert insights on transforming your classroom and empowering students! 🎙️