Just Schools

From Irrelevant to Valuable: Jami Courson

I had the honor and privilege to talk with Jami Courson, a dedicated high school teacher in Texas, whose journey in education has been nothing short of transformative. Despite initially aiming for a career in medicine, Jami found her calling in teaching and coaching, and over her 22 years in the profession, she has faced burnout and challenges but discovered renewed purpose through community and faith.Tune in as Jami candidly shares her experiences, highlighting the struggles educators face, from emotional exhaustion to financial strain. We delve into the complexities of teaching in the current landscape, where students often perceive school as irrelevant.Jami’s story is truly one of resilience, faith, and the power of community. Join us as we explore the value of education, the importance of authentic relationships with students, and the ways in which teachers can find fulfillment and purpose amidst the challenges of our profession. Together, let's rediscover the true significance of education and inspire a generation to see school not just as a necessity, but as something profoundly valuable!To learn more, order Jon's book, Just Teaching: Feedback, Engagement, and Well-Being for Each Student.The Just Schools Podcast is brought to you by the Baylor Center for School Leadership. Each week, we'll talk to catalytic educators who are doing amazing work.Be encouraged.Timestamps:[0:40] - Today’s interview is with Texas teacher Jami Courson.[2:22] - Jami shares her path from being an aspiring doctor to a dedicated educator.[3:52] - Jami has been teaching for 22 years.[4:41] - Jami was worn out but found renewed purpose after a pivotal meeting.[7:26] - Jami feels that educators are missing and crave a sense of community.[10:24] - Inadequate compensation strains educators.[12:45] - Jami argues that teachers must advocate for policy change.[14:58] - Teachers are embracing leadership, seeking ways to improve schools while backed by supportive administrators.[16:48] - Hear a personal example from Jami of teachers providing critical support for students.[19:45] - What is the worst advice and the best advice that Jami has received as an educator?[20:55] - By authentically living her faith, Jami answers students' questions and fosters connections.[23:33] - Jami feels that many students see school as irrelevant.[24:12] - Jami wants her students to see education as not only relevant but also valuable.Connect on Social Media:Baylor MA in School LeadershipBaylor Doctorate in EducationJon Eckert: @eckertjonCenter for School Leadership at Baylor University: @baylorcsl

Transforming Communities: Gaby Garcia and Kim Poe

Tune into this episode of the show because I am thrilled to introduce you to two extraordinary educators, Gaby Garcia and Kim Poe, from Augustine Prep in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. These incredible individuals are transforming communities on the South Side of Milwaukee, where their school is located. What's truly inspiring is how their efforts have significantly impacted the neighborhood; crime rates dropped by a staggering 42% after OG Prep's presence. Now, they're expanding to a new campus on the North Side, aiming to create integrated campuses that empower students and families alike.Together, Gaby and Kim share their unique journeys into education, highlighting the school's core values centered around faith, family, and community. You'll hear about their innovative approach, fostering a culture of trust, growth, and belonging among students, all while witnessing profound life-giving moments.Join us as we explore the challenges, hopes, and transformative power of education, and discover how these dedicated educators are making a real difference in the lives of their students!To learn more, order Jon's book, Just Teaching: Feedback, Engagement, and Well-Being for Each Student.The Just Schools Podcast is brought to you by the Baylor Center for School Leadership. Each week, we'll talk to catalytic educators who are doing amazing work.Be encouraged.Timestamps:[0:37] - Today’s guests are Gaby Garcia and Kim Poe of Augustine Prep![1:59] - Gaby gives us some background information.[3:17] - Hear a little bit about Kim and her background.[5:27] - Kim emphasizes a family-oriented, safe, and supportive environment for students and the community.[8:11] - Kim prioritizes feedback, student engagement, and well-being.[10:27] - Gaby empowers high school students as leaders, fostering confidence, professionalism, and community involvement.[13:35] - Kim highlights powerful moments of faith and unity among students, inspiring her daily.[15:02] - Gaby highlights a story of a freshman's unwavering faith and leadership influence.[17:29] - Kim discusses plans for a new Offsite Prep School in Milwaukee, focusing on equal opportunities and innovative education.[19:42] - I emphasize the importance of excellence in education at Prep, praising leadership.[21:36] - What's the best advice Gaby and Kim have received as educators?[23:51] - Gaby finds hope in addressing educational disparities.[25:10] - Kim acknowledges Milwaukee's racial segregation, focusing on bridging gaps especially on new campuses.Connect on Social Media:Baylor MA in School LeadershipBaylor Doctorate in EducationJon Eckert: @eckertjonCenter for School Leadership at Baylor University: @baylorcsl

From Fatigue to Joy: Bryan Goodwin

Listen in today as I sit down with Bryan Goodwin, President and CEO of McREL International, and an experienced educator, to explore the intersection of science, art, and the joy found in teaching. We dive into the phases of learning, discussing how curiosity is the key to engaging students, followed by commitment, focus, consolidation, practice, reflection, and finally, extension and application.We also emphasize the importance of planning for learning rather than just teaching and how understanding the science of learning can bring true joy to the classroom, and we touch upon the challenges educators face, such as burnout, and how elevating the teaching profession and fostering a culture of curiosity can lead to more joyful and fulfilling learning experiences.Join us as we share insights and inspiration for creating joyful, curious, and engaging learning environments!To learn more, order Jon's book, Just Teaching: Feedback, Engagement, and Well-Being for Each Student.The Just Schools Podcast is brought to you by the Baylor Center for School Leadership. Each week, we'll talk to catalytic educators who are doing amazing work.Be encouraged.Timestamps:[0:37] - Today’s guest is Bryan Goodwin of McREL International.[2:15] - What drew Bryan to education?[2:52] - Bryan’s first job was in Saint Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands.[4:53] - Bryan argues that understanding the 'why' behind teaching fosters engagement.[6:36] - Engagement and commitment are fundamental; teaching must inspire curiosity and active involvement.[8:30] - Bryan points out how short-term memory is limited; effective teaching utilizes visuals and keeps content concise.[10:28] - Bryan explains how repetition enhances memory and retention.[12:33] - It's important not just to remember knowledge but to have done something meaningful with it.[13:16] - Bryan adds that designing learning around how kids' brains work makes teaching easier and more joyful.[16:05] - Experienced teachers, similar to veteran quarterbacks, adapt strategies based on students' needs and engagement.[17:45] - Teacher burnout and fatigue is what worries Bryan the most.[19:41] - Bryan finds hope in the power of curiosity, making education engaging and impactful.[21:19] - Positive classroom environments and meaningful work in Australia effectively retain engaged teachers.[23:51] - Bryan describes current United States education as fatigued.[24:01] - Bryan hopes to see schools become more joyful and curious.[24:14] - Hear some helpful advice for educators.[25:03] - We are encouraged to write, blog, and refine because sharing ideas builds expertise.[26:02] - In conclusion, we want schools to move from fatigue to joy and curiosity.Connect on Social Media:Baylor MA in School LeadershipBaylor Doctorate in EducationJon Eckert: @eckertjonCenter for School Leadership at Baylor University: @baylorcsl

Gritty Optimism with Wonder and Magic: Eli Spector and Sierra Downs

In this episode of the Just Schools Podcast, join me (your host Jon Eckert) as I sit down with Sierra Downs and Eli Spector, two remarkable educators from Front Range Christian School in Colorado!We explore the wonder and magic that defines their school environment, fostering academic excellence and student well-being. Through their authentic experiences, we discover the power of relational leadership and the impact of teachers like Phil Schultz and Kelly Stidham, who inspire through quirkiness and honesty.Their story encapsulates the essence of collective leadership, offering a glimpse into the transformative potential of education, so tune in for a brief yet heartfelt discussion on the joy found in genuine connections within the teaching profession!To learn more, order Jon's book, Just Teaching: Feedback, Engagement, and Well-Being for Each Student.The Just Schools Podcast is brought to you by the Baylor Center for School Leadership. Each week, we'll talk to catalytic educators who are doing amazing work.Be encouraged.Timestamps:[1:47] - Sierra introduces herself.[3:13] - Eli shares some information about himself with us.[4:46] - Sierra feels that educators create magic, fostering wonder, holistic growth, and academic excellence.[7:02] - Eli credits Phil Schultz for embracing quirkiness in the classroom.[9:00] - Sierra mentions Kelly Stidham, the head English teacher, who embodies honesty, mastery, and genuine love in the classroom.[12:30] - Sierra emphasizes celebrating teachers' professional successes.[14:15] - Eli and Sierra work collectively which promotes emotional fulfillment.[17:05] - Sierra adds that with collective leadership, relational modeling fosters genuine change and influence.[19:00] - Experiencing laughter, learning, and affirmation in education's network effect was impactful for Sierra.[20:41] - Eli feels reinvigorated by the shared optimism and determination in education.[22:36] - Sierra and Eli wrap up with some advice for educators.Connect on Social Media:Baylor MA in School LeadershipBaylor Doctorate in EducationJon Eckert: @eckertjonCenter for School Leadership at Baylor University: @baylorcsl

Developing Beginning Teachers as Leaders: Meredith Frey and Brittany Griffith

It's time to start looking at younger teachers as a place where we can develop leadership.Two young educators, Brittany Griffith and Meredith Frey, join host Jon Eckert. Brittany is a teacher in Frisco and Meredith is a teacher in San Antonio. Today, they discuss what has made them passionate about their education careers and what has pushed them to gain their master's degrees in Educational Leadership.To learn more, order Jon's book, Just Teaching: Feedback, Engagement, and Well-Being for Each Student.The Just Schools Podcast is brought to you by the Baylor Center for School Leadership. Each week, we'll talk to catalytic educators who are doing amazing work.Be encouraged.Timestamps:[1:45] - Meredith and Brittany introduce themselves.[5:50] - The two women discuss what made them decide to get a master's in School Leadership.[9:30] - Meredith discusses finding her why. [12:00] - Brittany appreciates Baylor's program being rooted in God.[15:40] - Everyone in the cohort celebrates each other, not competes with each other.[18:20] - Everyone has a novice advantage.[20:20] - Starting every day with humility is key.[21:20] - The women share their most embarrassing teaching moments.[23:00] - Jon puts the two women through a lightning round of questions.Connect on Social Media:Baylor MA in School LeadershipBaylor Doctorate in EducationJon Eckert: @eckertjonCenter for School Leadership at Baylor University: @baylorcsl

Truth, Beauty, and Wisdom: Nikki Bell

Traditional schools don't work for every student. Nikki Bell is both a parent and an educator from Oklahoma. When she noticed her son didn't fit into traditional public school, she decided to homeschool. She is now a board member at a classical school. Classical schools focus on truth, beauty and wisdom and how we pursue those things. Today she joins host Jon Eckert to discuss her journey to becoming an educator.To learn more, order Jon's book, Just Teaching: Feedback, Engagement, and Well-Being for Each Student.The Just Schools Podcast is brought to you by the Baylor Center for School Leadership. Each week, we'll talk to catalytic educators who are doing amazing work.Be encouraged.Timestamps:[2:06] - Nikki introduces herself.[5:30] - Putting her kids in classical school changed the way Nikki parented.[10:00] - There are plenty of advantages to the classical movement.[12:10] - Nikki's kids have learned how to articulate their opinion and beliefs.[14:05] - A difference of opinion is not challenging the person.[18:00] - Nikki has high hopes for her children's future.[20:03] - Jon puts Nikki through a lightning round of questions.Connect on Social Media:Baylor MA in School LeadershipBaylor Doctorate in EducationJon Eckert: @eckertjonCenter for School Leadership at Baylor University: @baylorcslBooks:Atomic Habits by James Clear

"I Don’t Want to See My Students Here Again": Bing Parks

Education within the prison system is a challenge. From access to technology to access to books.Bing Parks is an educator who loves her students but never wants to see her students in her classroom again. That's because she works in the Texas Juvenile Department. Her students range in age from 11 to 18 years old. Today she joins host Jon Eckert to discuss how she uses engagement to drive her students' well-being. To learn more, order Jon's book, Just Teaching: Feedback, Engagement, and Well-Being for Each Student.The Just Schools Podcast is brought to you by the Baylor Center for School Leadership. Each week, we'll talk to catalytic educators who are doing amazing work.Be encouraged.Timestamps:[1:50] - Bing introduces herself.[3:35] - Providing supplies to students in the prison system is a challenge.[6:40] - There are some advantages in Bing's work setting.[9:00] - Building relationships with students is the most important thing.[11:40] - Bing shares a recent success story.[17:00] - Jon puts Bing through a lightning round of questions.Connect on Social Media:Baylor MA in School LeadershipBaylor Doctorate in EducationJon Eckert: @eckertjonCenter for School Leadership at Baylor University: @baylorcsl

Engagement over Entertainment: Aaron Bond

Truly engaging students goes beyond entertainment. Having meaningful two-way discussions is one way to create authentic engagement.Aaron Bond has over two decades of education experience. Over his career, he's employed the Harkness Method to engage his students. Today, he joins host Jon Eckert to candidly discuss what he's learned throughout the year. Their conversation focuses on how throughout his career, Aaron encourages his students to love well and truly engage his students. To learn more, order Jon's book, Just Teaching: Feedback, Engagement, and Well-Being for Each Student.The Just Schools Podcast is brought to you by the Baylor Center for School Leadership. Each week, we'll talk to catalytic educators who are doing amazing work.Be encouraged.Timestamps:[2:35] - Aaron shares an embarrassing story from his early days working.[9:00] - Learning from your life experience to become more wise.[12:30] - Building a network of understanding helps students put what they've learned into practice.[16:30] - You have to be comfortable with watching students struggle.[18:00] - Allow dead space in your classroom.[23:40] - Aaron shares a story about two unengaged students.[26:11] - Jon puts Aaron through a lightning round of questions.Connect on Social Media:Baylor MA in School LeadershipBaylor Doctorate in EducationJon Eckert: @eckertjonCenter for School Leadership at Baylor University: @baylorcsl