# data[].attributes.headline
EPF Resources!!! (Thanks Tracee and Alice!)

# data[].attributes.subject
EPF Resources!!! (Thanks Tracee and Alice!)

# data[].attributes.body
https://platform.everfi.net/

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
This is an adult education platform delivered to organizations and institutions by EVERFI.

# data[].attributes.headline
EPF Resources!!! (Thanks Tracee and Alice!)

# data[].attributes.subject
EPF Resources!!! (Thanks Tracee and Alice!)

# data[].attributes.body
https://www.foolproofme.org/

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
This month we highlight videos about dealing with robocalls, improving your home office, and making your appliances last from Consumer Reports.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
7 Characteristics of Great Professional Development
by Drew Perkins, Director of TeachThought PD

As the end of the school year starts to draw to a close, administrators start pulling together their PD plans in preparation for the next year. Meanwhile, teachers sit anxiously by with the dread that can only come with the anticipation of the PD days that their contract says they must attend.

It's not that teachers don't want to grow and improve their craft. They do, and they find it refreshingly professionalizing when they get to. It's just that this 'ain't their first rodeo'. They've been made to sit through pointless professional development in the past and they lament that they're thinking "how long will this last and what will I have to turn in...and when is lunch?" as they trudge toward the library down the hallway that so obviously lacks the normal student energy they've used as fuel for the past 9 months.

But it doesn't have to be like that. In fact, if we do things well, teachers are likely to come away from their professional development energized and excited.
1. Teachers prefer PD that is relevant to their context.
Seems like a no-brainer right? But how often have we sat in meetings listening to someone talking about something that isn't directly relevant to what we teach? To be fair, that's an overly simplistic way to look at this. But for the cynical teacher (and really all teachers) who's been to this rodeo before it's important to be intentional in including and growing PD from your teacher's voices.

So ask them what they want and what they need, but place it in the context of the school's Mission and Vision (you've clarified those right?) and their own personal purpose and growth. Are they aligned? Are their short term and stretch goals that they're working on? Are they beginning teachers or experienced? How do they see themselves in the ecosystem of the school and district? What do they need to know and be able to do better in order to achieve their ideal selves?

2. Teachers prefer PD that helps them plan and improve their instruction.

This doesn't mean that everything in your PD should be lesson planning time. It does mean that teachers should have ample work time to plan and meaningful processes to reflect and refine their instruction. Sometimes this means challenging each other and themselves by discussing new approaches. Or perhaps teachers are critiquing each other's planning and teaching through the lens of a quality rubric.

What about significant work time with thought partners from both inside and outside of the school to collaborate and ask questions? What it can't be is large chunks of time spent on things that teachers don't see as helpful in improving teaching and learning.
3. Teachers prefer PD that is teacher-driven.
Teacher-driven doesn't necessarily mean that teachers are the ones "leading" the work. While "unconference" types of PD where teachers are presenters like EdCamp and TeachMeet can be a great part of a balanced PD approach, having an outside partner that grows the professional learning from the questions of teachers can be powerful.

This relates back to point #1 and the issue of context and in a truly inquiry-based approach teachers are identifying what they need to know and understand in order to reach their goals. Leadership is supporting them with PD that is driven by those teacher voices.
4. Teachers prefer PD that includes hands-on strategies applicable to their classroom.
Nobody likes sit-n-get. Students don't and teachers certainly don't. If your professional development is stuck at the bottom of Bloom's taxonomy only delivering basic facts, ideas, and concepts for consumption it's going to be a dud. Better to ask teachers to move up Bloom's by applying that learning to their work which can help them make meaning.

Best is to ask them to move from consumption to creation at the start so they can contextualize the thinking and strategies they may apply in their classroom. Doing this also helps grow the powerful shift from push to pull teaching and learning. Does your PD include deliverables from your teachers (and leaders!) that require deep thinking and collaboration? Will they walk away with something they can use in the short term but also fits into a wider context of growth?
5. Teachers prefer PD that is highly interactive.
I'll say it again. Nobody likes sit-n-get. That doesn't mean that your PD should be full of silly games and stuff that "gets you on your feet" for no real purpose. Start your PD off with what I jokingly call "reindeer games" and you'll lose your cynical teachers instantly.

Engaging teachers in active thinking, processing, and dialogue while at their seats can be rewardingly interactive. Mixing that with things that do get them moving like a Gallery Walk or "The Scissors Game" (pictured on the right) where teachers practice the 4 C's of Communication, Collaboration, Creativity and Critical Thinking and more outside of the heavy content of the workshop can be great brain breaks to keep the work moving forward. The adage of hands on and minds on works here, just be purposeful in your efforts to not let things get stale.
6. Teachers prefer PD that is sustained over time.
Education is like most other industries in that we have our fads and cycles. Today's buzzword can be tomorrow's memory and the fatigue that builds up over time can make the prospect of upcoming PD days feel tortuous. Aligning your PD with your overall Mission and Vision is a first step in helping break this cycle of "latest, greatest thing!" because it requires an intentional analysis of long-term goals.

It's also important to recognize that significant shifts in practice take substantial time and work. So while your teachers engaging in something like a project-based learning workshop can be a great start it's not likely to make the impact you're seeking without sustained followup. Teachers need to know that the work they are doing in any given PD will be relevant down the line and the cynical ones will opt-out until they feel comfortable that this will indeed be the case.
7. Teachers prefer PD that recognizes they are professionals with valuable insights.
This seems like it might be a statement from Captain Obvious but unfortunately it needs to be said...and repeated. In my 15 years as a teacher I had several administrators run PD/meetings where they made an attempt to recognize teacher voice by saying things like "the answers are in this room." What they really meant was they were going to let the teachers talk until they said what the administration wanted to hear. Not only does this not honor teacher voice, it leaves a sour taste of condescension.

In my experience leading professional development I have come across very few teachers who weren't passionate about their craft and elated when given the opportunity for professional dialogue. When we engage teachers in peer critique of their units and lessons in our workshops they light up with the joy of collaborating in meaningful ways. Administration doesn't have to relinquish control to do this. In fact, just like in the classroom, that control is illusory and the real gold is in flattening the hierarchy and engaging alongside teachers asking beautiful questions to help guide the work toward your collective vision.

Looking to grow your school?

Contact TeachThought Professional Development

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
7 Characteristics of Great Professional Development -

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
7 Characteristics of Great Professional Development by Drew Perkins, Director of TeachThought PD As the end of the school year starts to draw to a close, administrators start pulling together their PD plans in preparation for the next year. Meanwhile, teachers sit anxiously by with the dread that can only come with the anticipation of the PD ...

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Are you on Twitter? If not, it's a great place for you to connect with other educators who are in the same place as you and who want to focus on specific topics. It's instant access to a community of lifelong learners! And, if you haven't joined Twitter because you don't want to post things yourself, please know that posting is not required. You can just follow and enjoy what others are posting.

Accessing Twitter Chats

One of the powers of Twitter is the Twitter chat, an online conversation around a set topic at a specific time. How do you access these repositories of shared knowledge? You download a free tool. At TCEA we like the following tools:

(Lori Gracey's personal favorite). They also offer a Chrome extension.

Tchat.io - Authenticate with your Twitter log in and then sit back and watch the chat happen in your browser. Can't read the Tweets fast enough? Simply hit the pause button. Too many retweets clogging up your Twitter chat stream? Hide them. The potential is enormous with this tool.

Twitterfall - Probably the simplest Twitter chat tool to use, but it does include some nice optional features.

Here are some of the best educational Twitter chats around.

Mondays

#LearnLAP: Mondays, 7 p.m. CST
This chat was created from the book Learn Like a Pirate and is for educators who want to empower their students to collaborate, lead, and succeed.

Tuesday Twitter Chats

Wednesdays

#wiredwednesday: Wednesdays, 8 p.m. CST
Join this squad of educators to help you level up in making a difference in the lives of your students.

Thursdays

#games4Ed: Thursdays, 7 p.m. CST and Sundays 2 p.m. CST
Are you interested in game-based learning or gamification? Start here.

#appleEDUleaderchat: Thursdays, 8 p.m. CST
Jump on into this chat for sharing insights, ideas, and solutions. This discussion is geared towards leaders in education.

Saturdays

Sundays

#PeopleSkillsChat: Sundays, 9 a.m. CST
Gather with people who are wanting to explore diverse topics of human interaction, behavior, need, and impact.

#TeachPos: Sundays, 6:30 p.m. CST
Join other educators in this chat to focus on all things positive in the field of education.

Know a great chat that I missed? Email me or reach out on Twitter, and I'll be happy to add to the list. See you in the Twitterverse!

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
The Big List of Educational Twitter Chats

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Are you on Twitter? If not, it's a great place for you to connect with other educators who are in the same place as you and who want to focus on specific topics. It's instant access to a community of lifelong learners!

# data[].attributes.headline
EPF Resources!!! (Thanks Tracee and Alice!)

# data[].attributes.subject
EPF Resources!!! (Thanks Tracee and Alice!)

# data[].attributes.body
https://www.ngpf.org/

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.keywords[]
financial literacy terms and definitions

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.keywords[]
financial literacy tools for college students

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.keywords[]
curriculum open access resources in economics core

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.keywords[]
home economics curriculum for middle school

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.keywords[]
curriculum open access resources in economics

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.keywords[]
high school economics curriculum homeschool

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.keywords[]
financial literacy curriculum consumer math

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.keywords[]
middle school personal finance curriculum

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.keywords[]
personal finance curriculum for middle school

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.keywords[]
free homeschool personal finance curriculum

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.keywords[]
personal finance curriculum middle school

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.keywords[]
personal finance curriculum for high school students

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.keywords[]
free personal finance curriculum high school

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.keywords[]
financial literacy middle school curriculum

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.keywords[]
free financial literacy curriculum high school

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.keywords[]
free financial literacy curriculum for youth

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.keywords[]
financial literacy curriculum middle school

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.keywords[]
financial literacy curriculum high school

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.keywords[]
financial literacy curriculum for middle school students

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.keywords[]
financial literacy curriculum for college students

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.keywords[]
financial literacy curriculum for high school students

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.keywords[]
financial literacy curriculum for young adults

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Empower your students with financial skills with NGPF's free, teacher-vetted curriculum for Grades 6-12 Personal Finance, Financial Math, and Economics Classes.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
I started my Truth For Teachers podcast in January 2015, and since then, I've heard from countless educators who are now hooked on the format and are anxious to find other great education podcasts to follow.

That makes me so happy! Podcasts have been instrumental in my growth as an educator (and as a human), and I love to see other people fall in love with podcasts, too.

I frequently listen to podcasts when going for walks, driving, running errands, preparing meals, cleaning, making art, exercising, stretching, and doing stuff around the house. That's a pretty big proportion of my day, so I consume a LOT of audio content and have found some incredible shows.

I'll admit that I've been hesitant to release a list like this, because there's no way I could name all the great education podcasts in existence and I'm leaving some great folks out for sure. This is not a definitive list of the "best" podcasts, but rather, a curated collection of shows that I find simpatico with my own and help push my thinking.

My top education podcast recommendations for Truth for Teachers listeners
If you like my Truth for Teachers podcast, I think you'll enjoy these, too.
Hosted by the incredible Dr. Sheldon L. Eakins, The Leading Equity Podcast is all about empowering educators with the tools and resources they need to create equitable schools. Each episode is jam-packed with inspiring interviews and stories from the most influential voices in equity in education today. As a listener, you'll come away with a wealth of practical tips and strategies that you can put into action right away to make a real difference in your school.

A must-listen for any educator looking to stay ahead of the curve in their teaching practice! Hosted by seasoned educator Jennifer Gonzalez, this podcast explores the latest trends, strategies, and technologies in education ( she comes up with an annual Ed Tech Guide). From classroom management to assessment techniques, Cult of Pedagogy covers a wide range of topics designed to help educators improve their craft and meet the needs of their students. With engaging interviews, real-world examples, and actionable advice, this podcast is the ultimate resource for teachers looking to stay inspired, informed, and connected with the education community.

Hosted by Elena Aguilar, a coaching expert and author, the Bright Morning podcast presents weekly guidance to educators aimed at fostering their success. The majority of the episodes focus on coaching but she also talks about equity and combatting racism in the education space. If you like the tone and mindset/resilience/communication topics covered on Truth for Teachers, I think you'll really enjoy Elena's work.

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic is a podcast hosted by the only black and brown teachers in their school: Kevin Adams and Gerardo Munoz. Together, they deliver a refreshing take on important topics like equity, social justice, teacher wellness, and more. A lot of their episodes feature various educators and thought leaders who are making a difference in the world of education. This podcast pushes me to be a better, more empathetic educator (and person) by highlighting perspectives often missing in K-12 conversations. It's light-hearted and very informal, but also incredibly insightful.

If you want to be inspired or challenged about what education can and should be, you'll love TED Talks Education. This podcast features a diverse range of voices, all of whom are dedicated to exploring the latest trends and ideas in the field. The episodes are available either as a podcast or as a video. They're quite short but very meaty-perfect if you don't have a lot of time.

The Burned-In Teacher Podcast is a weekly show for educators who are looking for ways to rekindle their love for teaching. Hosted by veteran teacher, Amber Harper, this podcast explores the challenges and triumphs of the teaching profession, offering practical tips and strategies for staying motivated and engaged in the classroom. If you're feeling teacher tired, you can get started with her episode on how to combat teacher fatigue and keep yourself energized. Whether you're a new teacher just starting out, or a seasoned veteran looking for fresh inspiration, Amber and her guests are the perfect resource for anyone who wants to keep their teaching fire burning bright.

Dr. Catlin Tucker is a veteran educator and authority on technology, blended learning, and balance. In this podcast, she uses her expertise to help teachers find more sustainable approaches to teaching (I interviewed her on my Truth for Teachers podcast to talk about that exact topic). The Balance with Catlin Tucker is packed with solid strategies and inspiring advice. This mini episode on self-management is only 10 minutes long but is super helpful for teachers who want to incorporate their SEL skills when working with students. Catlin frequently talks with thought leaders to explore the question, "How do we empower ourselves to create and implement boundaries both inside and outside of the classroom?"

The Creative Classroom with John Spencer is a podcast for educators looking to infuse creativity and innovation into their teaching practices. It's hosted by John Spencer, a former middle school teacher and now a professor and best-selling author. From discussions on project-based learning and design thinking to tips on how to foster a culture of innovation in the classroom, this show focuses on making learning more impactful for students. John also offers insights into how teachers can tap into their own creativity and bring new energy to their classrooms.

This is the podcast I recommend most for people who are looking for a podcast similar to Truth for Teachers in topic, format, and tone, because its host and I think so much alike. The Always a Lesson podcast has a single goal: to empower educators to reach their full potential. Hosted by Gretchen Bridgers (formerly Schultek), a seasoned teacher, teacher coach, and trainer, the show focuses on supporting teacher leaders such as peer mentors, cooperating teachers for student teachers, and instructional coaches. Through expert guidance, Gretchen helps these educators develop and implement effective, empowering support models that drive student success and teacher satisfaction. Whether you're looking for support and guidance as you grow in your career, or seeking inspiration and new ideas, the Always a Lesson podcast is the perfect resource for any educator who is committed to always finding the lesson.

The Transformed Teacher is an uplifting weekly podcast that centers on finding balance and happiness in both teachers' professional and personal lives. Hosted by Meredith Newlin, the episodes focus on topics like reducing stress, increasing organization, and making a comeback from burnout. From discussions on self-care, to insights on how to get through to students more effectively, The Transformed Teacher is a supportive and empowering resource for anyone looking to find more joy in their teaching.

The Resilient Teacher podcast with Brittany Blackwell, M.Ed., provides educators with the resources and mindset needed to combat burnout and maintain a sustainable teaching career. With a new episode every Tuesday, this podcast can help personalize your self-care, prioritize your well-being, and have a greater impact on your classroom and community.

Teachers Need Teachers is a podcast that's focused on providing support to new and beginning teachers as they navigate their initial years in the profession, helping them thrive instead of just surviving. It is hosted by Kim Lepre, a 40 Hour Teacher Workweek alumni, experienced educator, and instructional coach. In the episodes, she shared her insights and best practices on a variety of topics relevant to the teaching profession.

Betsy Potash shares so many practical, relatable teaching ideas in this show. Though topics are geared toward middle and high school English teachers, there are tons of episodes that will help any K-12 educator stay creative. Betsy is thoughtful, intentional, and embodies thinking outside of the box, and I especially appreciate her equity-focused lens.

Want more? Check out the dozens of excellent K-12 podcasts available on the BAM radio network for educators. You'll find high-quality, professionally produced shows on every education topic imaginable. Seriously-if you love podcasts, don't miss this site!

Also, I personally don't listen to ed tech podcasts very often, but if that's an area of interest for you, check out Dr. Monica Burns' Easy EdTech podcast and The Shake Up Learning Show with Kasey Bell. Both are extremely informative and share lots of great practical classroom tips. They're great resources for folks who want to stay current with trends in education and make new ed tech innovations work for them.

Limited series education podcasts
Although no longer producing new episodes, these limited series podcasts are still definitely worth your time and will push you to think more deeply about how K-12 education functions.
"Nice White Parents" is a podcast produced by Serial and The New York Times that examines the ways in which well-intentioned white parents can perpetuate systemic racism in the American education system. The show dives into the 60-year history of a New York City public school, PS 45, and follows the experiences of Black and Latino students, families, and educators as they navigate the challenges posed by well-intentioned white parents and a history of school segregation. The podcast provides a unique and thought-provoking look at the ways in which race and class intersect to shape the American education system.

Southlake is a must-listen for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of race and class in America and how that impacts education. In Southlake, Texas, on the surface, everything appears to be perfect - beautiful homes, strong community spirit, and top-notch schools. But when a video emerged showing high school students using a racial slur, the town was rocked to its core. Black residents came forward to share stories of racist bullying and harassment, leading the school board to take action. Yet, the unveiling of the Cultural Competence Action Plan sparked a heated debate that divided the community. Hosted by NBC News national reporter Mike Hixenbaugh and correspondent Antonia Hylton as they delve into the depths of Southlake to uncover the truth behind this seemingly idyllic town.

In Sold a Story, the investigative journalist Emily Hanford delves into the reading crisis affecting millions of children. Despite decades of research on how children learn to read, many schools are disregarding the findings and instead investing in training and materials based on a discredited theory. This six-part podcast exposes the authors and a publishing company profiting from this flawed approach. Anyone who's taught reading will find this relatable, and it's a good listen for any educator who wonders how certain understandings in education become canon.

This limited series podcast has 50 episodes that cover the full spectrum of Black American History. Hosted by Clint Smith, he talks about key events and personalities - from the first enslaved Black people to touch American soil at Jamestown to the current Black Lives Matter movement. More than a history lesson, the podcast is an opportunity to deepen our understanding and appreciation for the vital role Black Americans have played in shaping our country and its culture.

Teaching Hard History is a podcast that explores difficult and often neglected aspects of American history. Though it's technically not a limited series and IS producing new episodes, they are organized by topic/season in a way that makes it easier to consume the content like a limited series. It's produced by Learning for Justice (formerly Teaching Tolerance) which has tons of great educator resources. Through discussions with experts and educators, the podcast delves into topics around systemic injustice, with the aim of promoting a deeper understanding of the past and its ongoing impact on society today.

Non-education podcasts I enjoy
In addition to the list above, here are some of the podcasts not specifically related to K-12 teaching that I often listen to. I don't necessarily agree with or endorse everything on these shows, but folks ask me a lot what non-education-related shows I enjoy. Here's a partial list of the ones I listen to most frequently:
What K-12 education podcasts do you listen to?

There's no way that I could name all the great education podcasts that are out there, but I hope this list is enough to get you started! Please share your favorites in the comments, and if you're an educator who recently started a podcast, let us know that, too, so we can follow you!

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
My favorite podcasts for teachers and K-12 educators

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Here are some of the best K-12 education podcasts that I've found. If you like my Truth for Teachers podcast, I think you'll enjoy these, too.