295. Assessment through the Lens of Story: Featuring Natalie Vardabasso

In this brilliant conversation on assessment and standards based grading, we explore the vital connection between student wellness and assessment with special guest Natalie Vardabasso. We delve into planting a seed of change regarding shifting perspectives on assessment, exploring practical starting points for standards-based grading, and examining the intricate relationship between student emotional wellness and assessment. Additionally, Natalie shares exciting details about her new book and latest podcast with the wonderful Tom Schimmer. Don't miss this enriching conversation packed with valuable insights for educators and administrators! About Natalie Vardabasso:  Natalie is an educator, coach, speaker, and passionate learner. Driven to make education empowering for all, she has developed expertise in equitable assessment and grading practices and can break down complex topics into practical strategies to drive school improvement. Follow Natalie Vardabasso: Twitter: https://twitter.com/natabasso  Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nvardabasso/?originalSubdomain=ca  Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/unleash-yes-your-entrepreneurial-spirit-with-tom/id1751582284?uo=4  — Are you a superfan of the Aspire podcast? Well, now you can show off your support with the new Aspire swag, featuring tee shirts, hoodies and a variety of drinkware. You can find all your Aspire Swag at www.teachbetter.com/swag Use Discount Code: ASPIRE for 25% OFF Tee-Shirts, Hoodies, and Drinkware: ASPIRE: The Leadership Development Podcast — Supporting the Podcast! Have you ever thought about supporting the Aspire to Lead podcast? For just $5 a month, you can help me continue to create and produce valuable content for aspiring leaders in education. I understand that everyone has their own preferences and budgets, so if $5 a month isn't feasible for you, no worries! The podcast will always be available to listen to for free. However, if you do find value in the podcast and can afford to contribute, your support would mean the world to me. By becoming a patron, you're enabling me to continue doing what I love and providing you with quality content. Thank you for considering supporting the Aspire to Lead podcast on Patreon. Your contribution, no matter how small, is greatly appreciated https://aspiretoleadpodcast.captivate.fm/support  Need a Presenter for a conference or school PD? Contact Joshua Stamper...

Join us for another insightful conversation with our monthly guest, Mitch Weathers, the founder of Organized Binder. In this episode, we dive deep into the critical aspects of executive functioning and explore the 3 keys that are essential for student success. Mitch shares his expertise on the importance of Tier 1 interventions and teacher efficacy in fostering executive functioning skills in all classrooms, not just special education. Discover why it’s vital to shift our focus and ensure that every student benefits from strategies that enhance their executive functioning abilities. Don’t miss this compelling discussion that challenges the status quo and advocates for inclusive and effective teaching practices. About Mitch Weathers: Mitch became a gifted teacher because he was a mediocre student.  Mitch rarely felt comfortable in the classroom. In fact, it took him 7 years for him to graduate from college. Choosing to become a teacher, Mitch was fortunate enough to experience school as if it was happening all around him. He was unsure how to jump into his learning with confidence. There is a loneliness to experiencing your education as a passive object as opposed to an active subject.  From the moment he entered the classroom Mitch relied on his personal experiences as a learner. He recognized that what we teach, the content or curriculum, is secondary. We must first lay the foundation for learning before we can get to teaching.  Mitch designed Organized Binder to empower teachers with a simple but research-backed strategy to teach students executive functioning skills while protecting the time needed for content instruction. The secret is found in establishing a predictable learning routine that serves to foster safer learning spaces. When students get practice with executive functions by virtue we set them up for success.   Follow Mitch Weathers: Website: www.organizedbinder.com  Twitter: https://twitter.com/organizedbinder  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/organizedbinder/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/organizedbinder  Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mitchweathers/  Vimeo OB showcase: https://vimeo.com/showcase/8775721  ...

This week, I am thrilled to welcome my old college roommate turned principal, Richard Larson. Together, we delve into the crucial process of incorporating all voices in decision-making within a school setting. Richard shares his expertise on creating a staff leadership team that ensures comprehensive input, using real-life examples like grading policy adoption, the MTSS process, and the PLC framework. We delve into the workings of the Principal’s Advisory Leadership Council, a student leadership group, and discuss how to effectively capture and assess feedback from both staff and students. Additionally, Richard provides strategies for managing circumstances beyond our control, such as major building construction. Tune in to learn practical methods for fostering a collaborative and inclusive environment in your school! About Richard Larson:  Richard Larson currently serves as the Principal in New Central Schools.  Mr. Larson is a strong instructional leader and values relationships with students, staff, and parents.  Prior to his five years as the associate principal in Eden Prairie, Larson was a Dean of Students, a middle school science teacher and a tennis coach all with Bloomington Public Schools. Follow Richard Larson: Email: [email protected]  — Are you a superfan of the Aspire podcast? Well, now you can show off your support with the new Aspire swag, featuring tee shirts, hoodies and a variety of drinkware. You can find all your Aspire Swag at www.teachbetter.com/swag Use Discount Code: ASPIRE for 25% OFF Tee-Shirts, Hoodies, and Drinkware: ASPIRE: The Leadership Development Podcast — Supporting the Podcast! Have you ever thought about supporting the Aspire to Lead podcast? For just $5 a month, you can help me continue to create and produce valuable content for aspiring leaders in education. I understand that everyone has their own preferences and budgets, so if $5 a month isn't feasible for you, no worries! The podcast will always be available to listen to for free. However, if you do find value in the podcast and can afford to contribute, your support would mean the world to me. By becoming a patron, you're enabling me to continue doing what I love and providing you with quality content. Thank you for considering supporting the Aspire to Lead podcast on Patreon. Your contribution, no matter how small, is greatly appreciated https://aspiretoleadpodcast.captivate.fm/support  Need a Presenter for a conference or school PD? Contact Joshua Stamper  for presentations on Restorative Practices, Leadership Development, and Innovative campus systems. Watch my session on Trauma Informed, restorative and social emotional practices at www.teachsummit.com/stamper   Follow the Host, Joshua Stamper:...

In this episode, special guest Alyssa Gallagher, co-author of Embracing MESSY Leadership, shares the intricacies of effective school leadership. Alyssa shares insights from coaching over 20,000 school leaders, discussing common challenges and the strategies that help navigate them. We explore practical approaches for leaders to become more adaptive and future-focused amidst the evolving landscape of education. Alyssa emphasizes the importance of embracing the human side of leadership, offering examples of how to manage emotional and relational aspects effectively. Lastly, we discuss the keys to MESSY, a helpful acronym from the book, to guide us during tough times. Tune in for a rich conversation filled with actionable advice and thoughtful reflections on leading in today's educational world! About Alyssa Gallagher:   Alyssa Gallagher is the Head of BTS Spark, America, an education author, leader, and speaker.  She has twenty years of experience in the public education sector serving as a teacher, principal, and most recently an assistant superintendent. In addition to co-authoring MESSY Leadership for School Leaders, Alyssa has co-authored two books on Design Thinking for leaders. Alyssa enjoys working with leaders to design strategies that leverage the capability, creativity and intelligence of everyone on their team.  Follow Alyssa Gallagher: Website: www.btsspark.org  Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alyssa-gallagher-4103b54b/  Book: https://btsspark.org/en-us/messyleadership https://www.amazon.com/Embracing-MESSY-Leadership-Experience-Transform/dp/1416632816?&linkCode=ll1&tag=aspirewebsite-20&linkId=436e7d83072a0eb9020f6065ec3d4bda&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl – Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/nAXJikSnkxE — Are you a superfan of the Aspire podcast? Well, now you can show off your support with the new Aspire swag, featuring tee shirts, hoodies and a variety of drinkware. You can find all your Aspire Swag at www.teachbetter.com/swag Use Discount Code: ASPIRE for 25% OFF Tee-Shirts, Hoodies, and Drinkware: ASPIRE: The Leadership Development Podcast — Supporting the Podcast! Have you ever thought about supporting the Aspire to Lead podcast? For just $5 a month, you can help me continue to create and produce valuable content for aspiring leaders in education. I understand that everyone has their own preferences and budgets, so if $5 a month isn't feasible for you, no worries! The podcast will always be available to listen to for free. However, if you do find value in the podcast and can afford to contribute, your support would mean the world to me. By becoming a patron, you're...

In this enlightening episode of Aspire to Lead, we're joined by Christine Zuppa, host of the Making the Grade Podcast, to discuss pivotal topics in education today. Christine shares her insights on enhancing executive functioning skills for both teachers and students, emphasizing the importance of these skills in fostering academic success and personal growth. We also delve into the concept of neurodiversity in education, exploring how embracing diverse learning needs can create a more inclusive and effective educational environment. Christine offers her thoughts on the efficacy and limitations of standardized testing as a metric for student achievement. Additionally, Christine introduces her new consulting business, Making the Grade Project, which aims to provide comprehensive support and resources for educators. Learn more about the Making the Grade Podcast and how it continues to inspire and inform educators around the world. Don't miss this episode filled with valuable insights and practical strategies for enhancing educational outcomes. Subscribe now and hit the notification bell to stay updated on all future episodes of Aspire to Lead! About Making the Grade:  Georgia and Christine are co-founders of Making the Grade Project, an organization with a mission to empower educators starting with the very beginning of their careers. While they specialize in helping teachers in their home state of Massachusetts to pass the MTEL, they support teachers everywhere in setting up their classrooms and careers for success.  Christine and Georgia each spent over a decade in the K-12 classroom setting before deciding it was time to make a change and support education in a different way.  They have worked with hundreds of teachers over the years through thousands of workshops, classes, and 1:1 sessions, and currently provide both individual educators and educational organizations with their support.  You may know them from their podcast, Making the Grade, where they share educator stories from all over the world, each at different points of their teaching journeys. Follow Making the Grade: Website: www.Makingthegradeproject.com  Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/makingthegrade  Instagram: instagram.com/makingthegradeproject  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555549747235  Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/making-the-grade-project/  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@makingthegradeproject...

Welcome to this special Aspire Mailbag episode where Joshua Stamper and Jeff Gargas dive into your most pressing leadership questions! Join us as we address insightful queries from our Aspire to Lead listeners: What is the most important quality of an effective leader? - Andrea Bitner Can you talk about some key strategies for accountability with people who have a fixed mindset (so they don’t feel attacked)? - Dr. Amy Perez How do you address rejection after making complicated decisions? - Dr. Efrain Martinez In this episode, we explore the essential traits of effective leadership, share practical strategies for fostering accountability without causing defensiveness, and discuss how to navigate and overcome rejection after making tough decisions. Don't miss this episode packed with valuable insights and actionable advice to help you lead with confidence and resilience! Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/l09pTOWkESo Featuring Jeff Gargas and Joshua Stamper Follow Jeff Gargas: Twitter: https://twitter.com/jeffgargas Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_jeffgargas/ Follow The Teach Better Team: Twitter: https://twitter.com/teachbetterteam Website: https://www.teachbetter.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/teachbetterteam Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/teachbetterteam The Teach Better Podcast: https://www.teachbetter.com/podcast/ https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1949595668/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=9325&amp;creativeASIN=1949595668&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;tag=aspirewebsite-20&amp;linkId=76f63506c1e5b2f907d05fb13ab6f8e4 – Join me at MELC 2024 in Breckenridge Colorado on June 17-19 at bit.ly/MELC2024 — This episode is sponsored by Magic Mind [caption id="attachment_5091" align="alignnone" width="709"] Magic Mind, Aspire to Lead, Energy, Focus, Productivity, 20%off[/caption] Our listeners now get 20% off their order of this amazing drink to boost their focus and productivity. Head over to <a class="x1i10hfl xjbqb8w x1ejq31n xd10rxx x1sy0etr x17r0tee x972fbf xcfux6l x1qhh985 xm0m39n x9f619 x1ypdohk xt0psk2 xe8uvvx xdj266r x11i5rnm xat24cr x1mh8g0r xexx8yu x4uap5 x18d9i69 xkhd6sd x16tdsg8 x1hl2dhg xggy1nq x1a2a7pz x1sur9pj xkrqix3 x1fey0fg" role="link"...

In this annual Aspire to Lead conversation, we sit down with the amazing CJ Reynolds, an accomplished author, YouTuber, and speaker, to discuss a range of critical topics for educators and leaders. CJ shares his wisdom on pushing past fear to try new things, emphasizing the importance of taking risks and embracing innovation in the classroom and beyond. As the school year winds down, he offers practical strategies for keeping students engaged and motivated, ensuring that learning remains dynamic and exciting until the very last day. Additionally, CJ delves into the significance of mental health as a cornerstone of self-development, providing valuable tips for educators to maintain their well-being. Join us for a conversation filled with actionable advice and inspiration from a true leader in the field of education. About CJ Reynolds:  Mr. Reynolds is an author, YouTuber, &amp; public speaker. In his book, Teach Your Class Off, on his YouTube Channel, Real Rap With Reynolds, and on his Podcast, Sunday Night Teacher Talk, Reynolds offers an authentic glimpse into what it looks like to teach high school in the inner city. Using “Real Rap” to share teaching tips and strategies, Reynolds helps new and veteran teachers alike become the teacher they always dreamed of being. Follow CJ Reynolds: Twitter: https://twitter.com/realrapreynolds Website: https://www.realrapwithreynolds.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/realrapwithreynolds/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRGA_FqyigEPmh5U37Yn7fA https://www.amazon.com/Teach-Your-Class-Off-Teaching/dp/195160010X?crid=3BROTRPFRQR7O&amp;keywords=real+rap+with+reynolds&amp;qid=1650747175&amp;sprefix=real+rap+with+reynolds%2Caps%2C127&amp;sr=8-3&amp;linkCode=ll1&amp;tag=aspirewebsite-20&amp;linkId=aab1975b82a180d6741cfe0700afe56f&amp;language=en_US&amp;ref_=as_li_ss_tl – Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Ra_Iz972tfU — Are you a superfan of the Aspire podcast? Well, now you can show off your support with the new Aspire swag, featuring tee shirts, hoodies and a variety of drinkware. You can find all your Aspire Swag at www.teachbetter.com/swag Use Discount Code: ASPIRE for 25% OFF Tee-Shirts, Hoodies, and Drinkware: ASPIRE: The Leadership Development Podcast — Supporting the Podcast! Have you ever thought about supporting the Aspire to Lead podcast? For just $5 a month, you can help me continue to create and produce valuable content for aspiring leaders in education. I understand that everyone has their own preferences and budgets, so if $5 a month isn't feasible for you, no worries! The podcast will always be available...

In this insightful episode of "The Failure Files," we sit down with Tisha Richmond to delve into the complexities of implementing large-scale initiatives on a school campus. Tisha shares her firsthand experiences and valuable lessons learned from navigating the barriers and challenges that often arise during major implementation plans. From resistance to change and logistical hurdles to gaining buy-in from staff and fostering a supportive culture, we cover the key strategies and practical tips for overcoming obstacles and achieving success. Tune in to discover how to turn setbacks into opportunities for growth and how to lead with resilience and determination. Don't miss this episode packed with actionable insights and inspiration for educators and leaders embarking on their own implementation journeys. About Tisha Richmond: Tisha is a district Student Engagement and Professional Development Specialist,  international speaker, and author from Southern Oregon. She taught Family and Consumer Science for 25 years and has served in various leadership roles at the regional and national level. She recently co-founded Southern Oregon CUE, the first CUE affiliate in Oregon. Tisha is the author of the book Make Learning MAGICAL, which unlocks seven keys to transform teaching and create unforgettable experiences in the classroom. She speaks nationally on a variety of topics related to teaching and learning in all content and grade levels. ​In 2018, she was a recipient of Medford School District's Golden Pear Educator Secondary Teacher Award and a first place winner of the Henry Ford Innovation Nation Educator Award.  Tisha is passionate about infusing joy, passion, play, and gamified strategies to immerse and empower our 21st century learners and make learning a MAGICAL experience for all! She connects globally with educators around the world continuously reaching beyond her comfort zone to grow and help transform the educational landscape so all learners can thrive. Follow Tisha Richmond: Website: www.tisharichmond.com   Twitter: https://twitter.com/tishrich (@tishrich) Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/makelearningmagical/ (@tishrichmond) Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tisha-richmond-4a0333190/  Join me at MELC 2024 in Breckenridge Colorado on June 17-19 at bit.ly/MELC2024 — Are you a superfan of the Aspire podcast? Well, now you can show off your support with the new Aspire swag, featuring tee shirts, hoodies and a variety of drinkware. You can find all your Aspire Swag at www.teachbetter.com/swag Use Discount Code: ASPIRE for 25% OFF Tee-Shirts, Hoodies, and Drinkware:<a...

In this insightful episode, we sit down with Allyson Apsey to discuss her new book, "What Makes A Great Principal?" Dive into the key elements and pillars that define outstanding school leadership! Topics Covered: New Book: What Makes A Great Principal? 3 Key Elements: A clear emphasis on what truly matters Strategies from teachers and students What makes an impactful school leader? 5 Pillars Essential to Great Principals: What are the 5 pillars or which pillar would you like to highlight today? Providing a framework that enables school leaders to prioritize daily tasks and establish long-term objectives. Tools and strategies to implement these pillars effectively. Join us as we explore these critical components of effective school leadership with Allyson Apsey, gaining practical insights and actionable advice for principals striving to make a difference in their schools. About Allyson Apsey:  Allyson Apsey has been an educator for more than twenty years; a school leader for sixteen of those years. She is passionate about having a serendipity mindset, looking for the beautiful lessons that every experience holds. She tries to be transparent, vulnerable and supportive, and she doesn't ask questions unless she wants the answers. Despite the fact that she never wanted to set foot in a school again after high school graduation, there is nowhere else she'd rather spend her days than in classrooms. In fact, she doesn’t even have a chair at her desk because she is moving around the school all day long. The challenges and delights of being a principal fill her days with joy. She enjoys nothing more than helping others be the very best they can be. Allyson is so proud of her school district and the Zeeland, MI community, and she loves being the principal of Quincy Elementary. She cannot imagine a more dedicated, passionate and skilled group of teachers. They elicit wonder, excitement and a love for learning in their students. Recognizing the significant impact trauma has had on many of our students, staff and families, Allyson is a Certified Trauma Practitioner in Education. The support that students affected by trauma need are beneficial to all students because they are grounded in a foundational core of strong, positive relationships based on trust. She is honored to serve on the Board of Directors for MEMSPA (Michigan Elementary and Middle School Principals Association). Additionally, she is on the Steering Committee for MACUL (Michigan Association for Computer Users in Learning) SIG-ADMIN. She recognizes the value of working with and learning from amazing educational leaders in both of these organizations. Allyson is the author of a blog called Serendipity in Education (allysonapsey.com) has written four books: a middle grades chapter book called The Serendipity Journal, a picture book called The Princes of Serendip, and two professional learning books for...

In this Aspire to Lead episode, we dive into the world of physical education with Dr. Aaron Beighle, author of "Dynamic Physical Education for Elementary School Children (20e)." Discover the latest insights on school-based physical activity programs and how to prepare future physical educators for their upcoming roles. We explore the importance of connecting with students first, teaching with wonder, and continuously improving our methods “to do things better and do better things”. Join us for an enlightening conversation that will inspire all leaders and educators to create opportunities of movement, elevate their physical education programs, and make a lasting impact on students' lives. About Dr. Aaron Beighle Dr. Aaron Beighle is an internationally recognized expert on physical education and school-based physical activity promotion at the University of Kentucky. Aaron regularly collaborates with schools interested in physical education and youth physical activity promotion.  He has written more than 100 research-based and practical articles as well as six books, most notably Dynamic Physical Education for Elementary School Children, now in its 20th edition.  Follow Dr. Aaron Beighle Twitter (X): @AaronBeighle Linkedin: Aaron Beighle, Ph.D. Additional Resource: www.dynamicpeasap.com  https://www.amazon.com/Dynamic-Physical-Education-Elementary-Children/dp/1492590266?dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.Gdr2rGllaHi_oLgkgcAFczUjHQq0g-FBBkUmUiXq9yflyUR1MxnPGqf1lvz6Mysk702knst4maiGeek99Xq5sKHZf7VlZIXDIYM2wCcZC4sropAGKiEcGZ9IZVgFsYPgfvopiaedklSgWutzSiS-eeY7FtcbijqWh3gG8MaJwbgLp0zJwnSfkzfo76w1t-50hPswhfLwjf9gMfLaminTmAlQdE-UQhNWZG_VNAacOm8.ysTqzxEjP3V1fwLiNyyBHJ4FDEhCNoWCxiBzlZE4m-8&amp;dib_tag=se&amp;keywords=Dynamic+Physical+Education+for+Elementary+School+Children&amp;qid=1716133835&amp;sr=8-1&amp;linkCode=ll1&amp;tag=aspirewebsite-20&amp;linkId=6fbb0f62cec6ae7c69886864c2a749ff&amp;language=en_US&amp;ref_=as_li_ss_tl – Join me at MELC 2024 in Breckenridge Colorado on June 17-19 at bit.ly/MELC2024 Are you a superfan of the Aspire podcast? Well, now you can show off your support with the new Aspire swag, featuring tee shirts, hoodies and a variety of drinkware. You can find all your Aspire Swag at www.teachbetter.com/swag --- Use Discount Code: ASPIRE for 25% OFF Tee-Shirts, Hoodies, and Drinkware: ASPIRE: The Leadership Development Podcast --- Supporting the Podcast! Have you ever thought about supporting the Aspire to Lead podcast? For just $5 a month, you can help me continue to create and produce valuable content for aspiring leaders in education. I understand that everyone has their own preferences and budgets, so if $5 a month isn't feasible for you, no worries! The podcast will always be available to listen to for free. However, if you do find value in the podcast and can afford to contribute, your support would mean the world to me. By becoming a...