(EP51) Smart Kids in Bad Schools with guest Brian Crosby

In Smart Kids, Bad Schools, award-winning author and educator Brian Crosby (brian-crosby.com)draws on his many years as a high school English teacher to offer a candid appraisal of why our schools are failing and what we must do to save them.       

If you watched the Super Bowl, you couldn't help but notice the atmosphere was filled with excitement and passion. The announcers, players, fans, and halftime performers acted like they really wanted to be there and enjoyed what they were doing.  Can the same be said about you in your classroom?

Teaching is supposed to be about shaping lives—not surviving the workplace. We talk a lot about bullying in schools, and rightly so. But there’s a hard truth we rarely acknowledge: teachers are being bullied too—by students, parents, and even the very leadership meant to support them. In spaces that claim to be “safe zones,” many educators are walking on eggshells, burned out, and leaving. 

Congratulations to the teachers in the States! You have made it to Thanksgiving break. Kriscia Cabral took some time to write down what she is thankful for when she goes to work as a teacher. In the spirit of the Thanksgiving holiday, Bryan shares her top five reasons on why she is a thankful teacher. For the full article go to http://www.scholastic.com/teachers/top-teaching/2013/11/top-5-reasons-im-thankful-teacher

In this episode, Bryan is joined by returning guests Dr. James Hughey and Evelyn Sellers, who bring years of experience and valuable perspective on the teaching profession. Together, they respond to listener questions and tackle some of the most common challenges teachers face in the classroom and beyond.  

In this episode, Bryan sits down with National Teachers Hall of Fame educator Alan Haskvitz to explore what truly defines a successful teacher. Too often, we equate success with test scores or picture-perfect classrooms seen on Pinterest. But as Alan explains, the real value in education comes from deeper, less flashy qualities.

In this episode, Bryan shares how his dogs, Max and Nikki, brought joy, comfort, and connection to his students—proving that the right dog can make a lasting impact in a school community. From classroom visits to becoming beloved companions, their presence not only supported student well-being but also gave him precious time with them during their senior years. Janelle's Cox article lists those benefits at http://www.teachhub.com/teacher%E2%80%99s-guide-classroom-pets

With over 3.5 million educators in public school classrooms, teaching is the largest professional workforce in the U.S.—yet nearly half leave the profession within five years. Why is burnout so common, and what can be done about it? In this episode, Bryan sits down with a former classroom teacher who was on the verge of walking away from education but instead made a pivotal change that reignited her passion to stay in education. She became a librarian/media specialist. Together, they explore the realities of modern teaching, the evolving landscape of education, and how finding the right fit can make all the difference.

In a world where classroom demands are higher than ever, clutter—both physical and mental—can silently drain creativity and focus. This episode explores how embracing minimalism can lead to a more intentional, efficient, and inspiring learning environment. By removing what no longer serves you or your students, you make space for what truly matters. Our days are tough enough as it is. Why not use the end of the year to get rid of things that are serving no real value to you or your students?Mentioned on the program: Tiny Houses & the Quest to De-Clutter As most of us conclude a challenging school year, this will be the final show for this season.

In this inspiring episode, I'm joined by Erin Gruwell whose powerful teaching journey became the foundation for "The Freedom Writers Diary" and the major motion picture "Freedom Writers". Erin shares how she transformed a classroom of students once labeled "unteachable" by embracing diversity, challenging stereotypes, and fostering a culture of empathy and critical thinking. With her unwavering belief in her students, they not only wrote their own stories but also became published authors. Erin reflects on the impact of their bestselling book and the lasting legacy of the Freedom Writers. For more about the Freedom Writers foundation visit http://www.freedomwritersfoundation.org