Schoolin' Around

This episode explores how meaningful, timely, and growth-oriented feedback drives continuous improvement within schools and MTSS frameworks. Drawing from classroom experiences and leadership examples, the host demonstrates how feedback—when specific, collaborative, and actionable—empowers educators, strengthens instructional practice, and fosters a culture of trust. The discussion moves from why feedback matters to practical strategies for giving and receiving it effectively, highlighting its essential role in creating thriving, reflective school communities. Resources:Article: Building Trust and MTSS Buy-In Through Teacher FeedbackStudent Feedback Article MTSS Coaching Toolkit 2025 Branching Minds MTSS Summit Request a consultation Takeaways:Feedback is a Growth Engine, Not a Task: When feedback focuses on learning and trust rather than evaluation, it becomes a catalyst for lasting improvement.Be Specific and Actionable: Effective feedback targets behaviors, not personality, and offers concrete examples that lead to real classroom changes.Create Dialogue, Not Monologue: Feedback should be a two-way conversation where reflection and collaboration drive ownership of professional growth.Build a Culture of Psychological Safety: Schools thrive when teachers feel safe to both give and receive feedback without fear—encouraging vulnerability, reflection, and continuous learning.Model and Embed Feedback in Daily Practice: Leaders should model openness by inviting feedback on their own work and weave feedback into existing systems for ongoing improvement.Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our Branching Minds Website, or sign up for our weekly Newsletter on all things MTSS. Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds.  Send feedback or inquiries to podcast@branchingminds.com!

Larissa and her guest, Ashley Pennell, former Assistant Director of Special Education, explore the misconceptions surrounding accommodations in special education, emphasizing the importance of understanding their purpose and the need for individualized support. The discussion highlights the necessity of involving students in their learning process and creating a supportive classroom environment that removes stigmas around asking for help.Resources:https://www.ncld.org/ https://www.understood.org/ https://www.ed.gov/laws-and-policy/individuals-disabilities/section-504 Special Ed Article Cracking the Code: Bridging MTSS and Special Education for Student Success Request a consultation 2025 Branching Minds MTSS Summit Takeaways:Accommodations provide access, not unfair advantages.Misunderstandings about accommodations stem from lack of education.It's essential to regularly evaluate the need for accommodations.Involving students in discussions about their accommodations is crucial.Creating a supportive classroom environment helps reduce stigma.Accommodations can be temporary and should be re-evaluated.Personalized accommodations are necessary for student success.Leveling the playing field is vital for students with disabilities.Educators must understand the difference between accommodations and modifications.It's okay for students to ask for help and use tools to succeed.Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our Branching Minds Website, or sign up for our weekly Newsletter on all things MTSS. Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds.  Send feedback or inquiries to podcast@branchingminds.com!

This conversation explores the transformative potential of AI in education, focusing on its role in enhancing teaching and learning, the importance of AI literacy for both students and educators, and the challenges and opportunities presented by AI in addressing educational equity. Chris Agnew, Director of Generative AI for Education Hub at Stanford, shares insights on how AI can support underserved communities, the barriers to implementing innovative educational practices, and practical advice for education leaders navigating this evolving landscape.Resources:https://acceleratelearning.stanford.edu/initiative/digital-learning/https://acceleratelearning.stanford.edu/initiative/scale/ https://scale.stanford.edu/ai/repository https://acceleratelearning.stanford.edu/story/what-does-ai-mean-for-learners-with-disabilities/ https://www.teachai.org/toolkit https://www.teachai.org/ https://www.cosn.org/  Blog: AI for Educators: Game Changing Tools That Make Your Life EasierBranchings MTSS Assistant Dottie: https://www.branchingminds.com/dottie-ai-mtss Request a consultation Takeaways:AI is reshaping education by enhancing teaching and learning.AI literacy is essential for both students and educators.The potential of AI in education is still being explored.AI can help close achievement gaps for underserved communities.Reimagining education with AI requires innovative thinking.Education leaders face challenges in implementing AI effectively.AI tools can streamline administrative tasks for teachers.Building a culture of AI literacy is crucial for future success.AI can support personalized learning experiences for students.Collaboration between educators and AI developers is key.Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our Branching Minds Website, or sign up for our weekly Newsletter on all things MTSS. Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds.  Send feedback or inquiries to podcast@branchingminds.com!

This conversation focuses on the structure and effectiveness of Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) teams in educational settings. The speakers discuss the importance of accountability, data-driven decision-making, and the roles and responsibilities within MTSS teams. They emphasize the need for effective meeting structures and the integration of qualitative and quantitative data to improve student outcomes. The conversation also highlights the significance of leadership and collaboration in implementing MTSS successfully.Resources:MTSS Meetings Guide Article: Ensure Efficiency with MTSS Teams & MTSS Meetings 2025 Branching Minds MTSS Summit Request a consultation Takeaways:MTSS is essential for improving student outcomes.Effective teaming structures are crucial for collaboration.Data-driven decision-making enhances the MTSS process.Qualitative data provides insights that quantitative data may miss.Clear roles and responsibilities improve team efficiency.Regular meetings are necessary for effective MTSS implementation.Agendas help keep meetings focused and productive.Building a supportive schedule is key to MTSS success.Leadership plays a vital role in MTSS effectiveness.Starting small can lead to significant improvements.Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our Branching Minds Website, or sign up for our weekly Newsletter on all things MTSS. Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds.  Send feedback or inquiries to podcast@branchingminds.com!

In this episode, Larissa discusses the Multi-Tier System of Supports (MTSS) and the importance of analyzing screening data to identify patterns that indicate the effectiveness of core instruction and interventions. She emphasizes the need to address issues such as flipped triangles, upward tier movement, and demographic disparities to create a more equitable educational system. The conversation highlights the significance of strengthening core instruction, ensuring targeted interventions, and fostering collaboration among educators to meet the diverse needs of students.Resources:Article: Understanding MTSS Tier Levels: Common Problems and SolutionsArticle: Flipped MTSS Triangle? Effective Strategies for School Administrators.2025 Branching Minds MTSS Summit Request a consultation Takeaways:About 80% of students should thrive with Tier 1 core instruction.A flipped triangle indicates a system problem, not a student problem.Strengthening Tier 1 is essential before supporting Tiers 2 and 3.Dynamic MTSS allows students to move between tiers based on response to instruction.Quality and quantity of interventions are crucial for success.Demographic disparities require an equity check in support systems.Implicit bias can influence student identification for support.Core instruction must be rigorous and evidence-based.Collaboration among educators is key to effective MTSS implementation.Data analysis should drive strategic decisions in education.Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our Branching Minds Website, or sign up for our weekly Newsletter on all things MTSS. Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds.  Send feedback or inquiries to podcast@branchingminds.com!

In this conversation, Dr. Whitley Dozier and Larissa discuss the complexities of change management in education, addressing common misconceptions, the role of leadership, and the importance of communication. They emphasize that change is a continuous process that requires ongoing support and understanding of the people involved. The discussion highlights the need for a shared vision, the significance of recognizing resistance as a signal for support, and the necessity of embedding change into the culture of educational institutions.Resources:Article: MTSS From Buy-in to Implementation: 8 Steps for ChangeAdministrators Guide to Supporting Teachers Capacity Building for MTSS Article Guide for Sustainable MTSS Implementation Request a consultation 2025 Branching Minds MTSS Summit Takeaways:Change management has three components: people-focused, process-driven, and outcome-oriented.Misconceptions about change often lead to ineffective communication strategies.Strong leadership is important, but change must be a collective effort.Ongoing communication and feedback are essential for successful change implementation.Resistance to change can stem from overload and lack of clarity.Change is a continuous process, not a one-time event.Celebrating small wins can help maintain momentum in change initiatives.Understanding the context and experiences of educators is crucial for effective change management.Change management should involve co-creation and shared vision among stakeholders.Effective change management requires a focus on both quantitative and qualitative outcomes.Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our Branching Minds Website, or sign up for our weekly Newsletter on all things MTSS. Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds.  Send feedback or inquiries to podcast@branchingminds.com!

In this conversation, Dr. Andrew Shanock discusses the challenges and misconceptions surrounding the implementation of Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) in schools. He emphasizes the importance of data-driven instruction, the need for effective teacher training, and the distinction between best practices and good practices in education. Dr. Shanock also highlights the significance of sustaining MTSS over time and building a supportive educational environment to ensure student success.Resources:Guide for Sustainable MTSS Implementation Progress Monitoring Guide and Toolkit Principal Leadership Article Article: 5 Factors for District Leaders to Align Vision and Action with MTSSDr. Shanock LinkedInTakeaways:MTSS implementation can be challenging due to misconceptions.Data quality is crucial for effective MTSS.Teachers often lack training in effective instructional practices.Best practices should be viewed as good practices.Sustaining MTSS requires consistent leadership and support.Professional development is essential for teacher effectiveness.Collaboration among educators is key to MTSS success.Understanding student growth is more important than benchmarks.Schools must adapt practices to their unique contexts.Building a supportive environment is vital for student success.Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our Branching Minds Website, or sign up for our weekly Newsletter on all things MTSS. Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds.  Send feedback or inquiries to podcast@branchingminds.com!

In this conversation, Dr. Ramiro Rubalcaba shares his journey from a teacher's assistant to the superintendent of the Los Nietos School District. He emphasizes the importance of building a legacy in education, creating sustainable systems, and fostering a culture of trust and wellness within the school community. Dr. Rubalcaba discusses strategies for shifting mindsets among educators and the significance of work-life balance for leaders and staff.Resources:The Superintendent’s Guide to MTSS and District Strategic Planning Superintendents and MTSS Webinar Administrators Guide to Supporting Teachers TakeawaysThe greatest legacy is building leaders who can sustain the work.Effective leadership is about service, not power.Creating a positive culture is essential for organizational success.Trust is either present or absent; there's no in-between.High expectations are necessary for excellence in education.Wellness initiatives are crucial for staff and student success.Systems and processes must align with desired outcomes.Engaging families in decision-making strengthens the community.Leaders must delegate and trust their teams to innovate.Balancing long-term vision with day-to-day operations is key.Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our Branching Minds Website, or sign up for our weekly Newsletter on all things MTSS. Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds.  Send feedback or inquiries to podcast@branchingminds.com!

​​In this conversation, Larissa and Ashlie Cox discuss the myth that more homework leads to more learning. They explore the purpose of homework, the impact of excessive assignments on students, and the equity challenges faced by those without resources. The discussion emphasizes the importance of meaningful homework that has a clear purpose and relates to real-world applications, while also providing alternatives to traditional homework. The conversation concludes with advice for educators and parents on how to approach homework in a way that supports student learning without causing stress.Resources:Article: Student Engagement: Why it’s Important and How to Promote itArticle: 6 Daily Engagement Practices for Every MTSS TierCore Instruction Guide Takeaways:More homework doesn't necessarily lead to more learning.Homework should have a clear purpose and be minimal.Excessive homework can lead to student burnout and stress.Equity issues arise when homework requires resources not all students have.Meaningful homework should relate to real-world applications.Busy work does not teach discipline or reinforce learning.Parents often expect homework as a sign of learning.Teachers should consider the time students have for homework.Alternatives to traditional homework can enhance engagement.Rethinking homework can improve student outcomes.Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our Branching Minds Website, or sign up for our weekly Newsletter on all things MTSS. Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds.  Send feedback or inquiries to podcast@branchingminds.com!

In this episode, Larissa discusses the transformative potential of the MTSS framework in schools. She emphasizes the importance of building a shared vision among staff, engaging them in the process, and leading with purpose. The conversation covers practical strategies for implementing MTSS, including gradual rollouts, celebrating progress, and empowering teachers to take leadership roles. Larissa shares real-life examples and actionable insights to help leaders foster a collaborative culture that supports every student's success.Resources:Slide Template: Introducing MTSS to Your TeamLeader Protocol Guide for Buy-In Request a consultation Takeaways:MTSS is a framework designed to meet the needs of all students.Leadership is crucial for the successful implementation of MTSS.Buy-in from the team starts with understanding the 'why'.Connecting MTSS to shared values can enhance engagement.A phased rollout of MTSS helps reduce resistance.Modeling vulnerability as a leader builds trust.Celebrating small wins keeps morale high.Empowering teachers fosters ownership and investment.Creating leadership teams can bridge gaps between staff and administration.MTSS is an opportunity to strengthen the school community.Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our Branching Minds Website, or sign up for our weekly Newsletter on all things MTSS. Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds.  Send feedback or inquiries to podcast@branchingminds.com!

This conversation with author Mitch Weathers, delves into the concept of executive functioning in education, emphasizing its importance for student success. The speakers discuss the challenges students face in managing their time and tasks, the significance of establishing routines, and the need for educators to explicitly teach executive functioning skills. They highlight the role of working memory in learning and the impact of a supportive and predictable learning environment. The discussion also touches on the importance of collective efficacy among educators to create a cohesive approach to teaching and learning.Resources:Executive Function Toolkit Executive Function in MTSS Organized BinderWebinar: Ask the Author: Executive Functioning in Every ClassroomTakeaways:Executive functioning is crucial for goal-oriented behavior.Students need explicit instruction on executive functioning skills.The hidden curriculum can significantly impact student success.Predictability in routines helps students feel safe and engaged.Working memory is the engine for learning and retention.Collective efficacy among educators enhances student outcomes.Teaching skills should be a universal approach, not just for struggling students.Repetition and practice are key to mastering executive functioning skills.Creating a supportive learning environment reduces cognitive load.Students can transfer executive functioning skills to real-world situations.Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our Branching Minds Website, or sign up for our weekly Newsletter on all things MTSS. Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds.  Send feedback or inquiries to podcast@branchingminds.com!

In this conversation, Larissa and Joyce Abbott discuss the impact of the TV show Abbott Elementary on the perception of educators, Joyce's personal experiences as a teacher, and the importance of community, teamwork, and effective communication in education. They explore the challenges teachers face, including student behavior and burnout, while emphasizing the rewarding nature of teaching and the need for support within the profession.Resources:Teaching the Ms. Abbott WayMs. Abbott's WebsiteClassroom Management Is Much More Than Discipline Administrators Guide to Supporting Teachers Takeaways:Joyce Abbott's experiences as a teacher inspired the show Abbott Elementary.Writing a book allowed Joyce to reflect deeply on her teaching career.Teaching involves understanding students' backgrounds and building relationships.Effective teaching goes beyond instruction; it requires holistically addressing students' needs.Teamwork among educators is crucial for student success.Communication with students should be conversational, allowing their voices to be heard.Building community partnerships enhances the educational experience for students.Teacher burnout is a significant issue that requires support and understanding.Teaching is a calling that can change lives, one student at a time.Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our Branching Minds Website, or sign up for our weekly Newsletter on all things MTSS. Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds.  Send feedback or inquiries to podcast@branchingminds.com!

In this conversation, Larissa and Sandra discuss essential back-to-school strategies for educators and school leaders. They emphasize the excitement of a new school year, the importance of setting a positive tone, and the need for clear communication and visibility in leadership. They also highlight the significance of building relationships and support systems among staff, the necessity of meaningful professional development, and the role of feedback in fostering a culture of continuous improvement. The discussion provides practical tips and insights for creating a successful school year.Resources:Administrators Guide to Supporting Teachers Leader Protocol Guide for Buy-In Beginning of Year MTSS Gameplan Ebook Takeaways:The excitement of a new school year brings fresh opportunities.Showing value to staff and students is crucial for success.Clear expectations help prioritize important goals.Effective communication reduces stress and fosters collaboration.Visibility and approachability of leaders enhance school culture.Building relationships among staff supports a positive environment.Professional development should be meaningful and relevant.Feedback should be constructive and promote growth.Creating a culture of continuous improvement benefits everyone.Leaders should focus on one goal at a time to avoid overwhelm.Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our Branching Minds Website, or sign up for our weekly Newsletter on all things MTSS. Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds.  Send feedback or inquiries to podcast@branchingminds.com!

This conversation delves into the importance of foundational reading skills and the Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) framework in education. It highlights the critical components of reading, the challenges faced by students, and innovative strategies educators can employ to enhance reading proficiency. The discussion emphasizes the need for tailored support and the role of technology in transforming reading instruction.Resources:Addressing Foundational Reading Skills with MTSS3 Tips for an Effective Secondary School Literacy PlanA Guide to Finding and Using Evidence-Based MTSS Interventions Supporting Early Literacy and Dyslexia Within an MTSS PracticeRequest a consultation Takeaways:Foundational reading skills are essential for future learning.MTSS provides a structured framework for supporting students.Phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension are key components.Real-life examples, like Anna's story, illustrate the impact of targeted interventions.Engaging core instruction is crucial for all students.Small group interventions can effectively address specific gaps.AI tools can enhance reading comprehension and engagement.Collaboration and resource sharing among educators are vital.Celebrating literacy within schools fosters a positive reading culture.Addressing foundational skills is necessary at all educational levels.Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our Branching Minds Website, or sign up for our weekly Newsletter on all things MTSS. Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds.  Send feedback or inquiries to podcast@branchingminds.com!

In this conversation, Larissa and Trudy Bender explore the Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) framework, addressing common misconceptions and emphasizing the importance of consequences in behavior management. They discuss the balance between accountability and empathy in educational settings, the role of natural consequences, and the significance of restorative practices. The conversation highlights the need for clear expectations, data collection, and meaningful interventions to effectively support student behavior.Resources:Tier 1 Behavior Guide PBIS: More than Points and PartiesRequest a consultation Takeaways:PBIS stands for Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports, applying MTSS to behavior.A common myth is that PBIS means no consequences, which is misleading.Consequences are essential for teaching students about their actions.Natural consequences help students understand the impact of their behavior.Restorative practices should include meaningful consequences for wrongdoings.Accountability and empathy can coexist in educational settings.Teachers must balance discipline with understanding of student backgrounds.Data collection is a vital intervention strategy for behavior management.Positive reinforcement is the strongest tool in shaping behavior.PBIS should be part of a larger system of interventions, not a standalone solution.Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our Branching Minds Website, or sign up for our weekly Newsletter on all things MTSS. Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds.  Send feedback or inquiries to podcast@branchingminds.com!

In this episode, Taren Hendricks and Dr. Kelsey Walker share their experiences and insights on implementing Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) and literacy initiatives in Goshen County Schools. They discuss the unique challenges and successes of working in a rural educational setting, and highlight the importance of data-driven decision-making and professional development.Resources:Reading in the Brain: The New Science of How We Read (Dehaene, 2010)The Reading League’s summer book studyEffective Universal Instruction (Gibbons et al., 2018)MTSS for Reading Improvement (Brown & Stollar, 2025)MTSS Coach PLCUntangling Data-Based Decision Making (Harlacher et al., 2024)Intervention Central: Response to Intervention resourcesWDE’s Wyoming MTSS CenterResources & professional developmentAIR’s MTSS Center resourcesMTSS and Science of Reading Article MTSS Coaching Toolkit Request a consultation Takeaways:MTSS Implementation: The importance of a structured, system-wide approach to implementing MTSS to ensure consistent support across diverse educational settings.Data Utilization: How centralized data systems can enhance decision-making processes and improve student outcomes by providing clear insights into student progress and needs.Professional Development: The effectiveness of phased training and the application of adult learning theory in fostering teacher growth and improving instructional practices.Shared Leadership: The role of collaborative leadership in driving educational change and ensuring the sustainability of new initiatives.Teacher Support: The need for ongoing support and resources for teachers to effectively implement MTSS and adapt to new educational strategies.Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our Branching Minds Website, or sign up for our weekly Newsletter on all things MTSS. Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds.  Send feedback or inquiries to podcast@branchingminds.com!

This episode of School and Around dives into the critical topic of threat assessments in schools, particularly in relation to Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS). The conversation features experts Dr. Dewey Coronel and Dr. Ellina Xiong, who discuss the importance of a systematic approach to threat assessments, the need for multidisciplinary teams, and the role of community engagement in ensuring school safety. They emphasize the significance of psychological safety for students and the necessity of ongoing training for staff involved in threat assessments.Resources:Threat Assessment Guide Webinar on Threat AssessmentTakeaways:Threat assessments are essential for preventing school violence.A unified team-based approach is crucial for effective threat assessment.Most threats reported in schools are not serious and require careful evaluation.Community education is vital to differentiate between seeking help and snitching.Psychological safety is foundational for a positive learning environment.Threat assessment processes should avoid overreaction and underreaction.Multidisciplinary teams enhance the effectiveness of threat assessments.Regular training and practice for threat assessment teams are necessary.Schools should focus on building relationships with students to prevent violence.Statistical data shows that school shootings are rare compared to other forms of violence.Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our Branching Minds Website, or sign up for our weekly Newsletter on all things MTSS. Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds.  Send feedback or inquiries to podcast@branchingminds.com!

This conversation explores the importance of the Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) in preparing students for college and career readiness. It emphasizes the need for a comprehensive approach that includes academic skills, soft skills, career exploration, and civic engagement. The discussion highlights practical steps for implementing MTSS in high schools, focusing on data-driven decision-making, collaboration among educators and families, and the importance of ongoing professional development for teachers.Resources:MTSS Meetings Guide Article: How MTSS Supports College and Career Readiness for All StudentsRequest a consultation Takeaways:MTSS provides a proactive and data-driven way to support students.College and career readiness is about equipping students with skills and knowledge.Readiness varies for each student, requiring multiple pathways.Academic skills are foundational but must include transferable skills.Soft skills are essential for workplace success and should be integrated into learning.Career readiness involves exploration and clear pathways from middle school.Civic engagement should be part of the curriculum from the start.Data tracking is crucial for identifying student needs early.Collaboration among teachers, counselors, and families enhances MTSS effectiveness.Ongoing professional development is necessary for teachers to implement MTSS strategies.Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our Branching Minds Website, or sign up for our weekly Newsletter on all things MTSS. Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds.  Send feedback or inquiries to podcast@branchingminds.com!

In this conversation, Larissa and her guest, Christina Solinger, Branching Minds Professional Services Manager, discuss the persistent myth that some students are not academic. They explore the implications of this belief on students' self-perception and learning experiences. Christina emphasizes the importance of a growth mindset, the process of learning, and the need for educators to empower students to see themselves as capable learners. The discussion also touches on the pressures faced by teachers and the importance of creating a supportive learning environment that fosters academic identity.Resources:Article: The Power of Strength Based Instruction Article: Supporting Students’ Social, Emotional, & Behavioral Needs: Moving From Referrals to an Interconnected Systems Framework Request a consultation Takeaways:The belief that some students aren't academic is a harmful myth.Students internalize negative messages about their academic abilities from various sources.Growth mindset is crucial for students to understand that learning is a skill that can be developed.Learning requires practice and effort, just like any other skill.Educators should focus on the process of learning rather than just the outcomes.Implicit messages in education can shape students' beliefs about their abilities.Creating a supportive environment is essential for students to thrive academically.Teachers need to feel empowered to seek help with academic needs, not just behavioral issues.Celebrating small wins in learning helps build students' confidence.The goal should be to help students develop an identity as learners, not just to keep them calm.Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our Branching Minds Website, or sign up for our weekly Newsletter on all things MTSS. Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds.  Send feedback or inquiries to podcast@branchingminds.com!

In this conversation, educators Ashley Robertson and Emily Jordan discuss the critical role of classroom management in fostering a productive learning environment. They explore the challenges faced by teachers, particularly in the post-COVID landscape, where emotional dysregulation among students has increased. The discussion emphasizes the importance of building relationships, focusing on positive behaviors, and the need for ongoing professional development. They also highlight the role of school leaders in supporting teachers and the evolving nature of classroom management strategies, advocating for a shift from punitive measures to restorative practices that prioritize student well-being.Resources:SEL and Behavior Article Tier 1 Behavior Guide Article: How to Foster A Sense of Belonging Takeaways:Classroom management is crucial for student success.Post-COVID, students are struggling with emotional regulation.Building relationships with students enhances classroom management.Focusing on positive behaviors can improve classroom dynamics.Behavior change requires time and consistent support.School leaders play a vital role in setting expectations.Professional development is essential for teacher growth.Restorative practices are more effective than punitive measures.Technology can distract students from learning.Classroom management strategies must evolve with changing student needs.Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our Branching Minds Website, or sign up for our weekly Newsletter on all things MTSS. Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds.  Send feedback or inquiries to podcast@branchingminds.com!