As the upcoming Presidential Election draws near, the importance of media literacy in education has never been more evident. In today’s digital age, where information is readily accessible and often overwhelming, teaching students how to critically analyze and navigate media sources is essential for fostering informed citizenship and safeguarding democratic processes. Media literacy encompasses a range of skills, including the ability to evaluate the credibility of sources, recognize bias, understand different forms of media, and interpret messages accurately. In the election context, these sk ..read more

In the fast-paced world we inhabit today, intelligence is no longer confined to the realm of IQ scores and academic prowess. An equally important aspect of personal development is emotional intelligence (EI). This term, now ubiquitous in discussions about personal growth and success, was traced back to a seminal 1990 article by Salovey and Mayer, which argued that emotions could be harnessed to enrich one’s life. However, Daniel Goleman truly popularized the concept in his groundbreaking book, “Emotional Intelligence: Why It Can Matter More Than IQ,” published in 1995. Contrary to traditional ..read more

In an intriguing twist of technological irony, the Peninsula School District in Washington State has embarked on a pioneering journey by utilizing Generative AI (Gen AI) to develop comprehensive guidelines for integrating artificial intelligence (AI) in educational settings. This innovative approach underscores the district’s commitment to harnessing cutting-edge technologies to shape the future of teaching and learning. In an interview with Education Week, Kris Hagel, the executive director for digital learning for the Peninsula district, said he highlighted the US Department of Educatio ..read more

On April 8, 2024, a total solar eclipse is anticipated to be visible from parts of North America, including Mexico, the United States, and Canada. The path of totality, where the Sun is completely obscured by the Moon, will pass through several states, including Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, New York, Vermont, and Maine. Few occurrences in the vast canvas of celestial phenomena captivate human imagination as profoundly as a total solar eclipse. It’s not merely a play of shadows across the sky; it’s a cosmic ballet that unites millions under a single ce ..read more

Transform Your Science Class In the ever-evolving education landscape, we must reconsider what we prioritize in our science classrooms. Melanie Trecek-King, an advocate for progressive teaching methods and the founder of thinkingispower.com, offers invaluable insights into reshaping science education for the betterment of students and society. At the heart of Trecek-King’s philosophy is the belief that critical thinking is paramount in science education. Science isn’t just about memorizing facts and formulas; it’s about cultivating a mindset that questions, explores, and seeks understandi ..read more

Over two decades, Elena Aguilar, distinguished as the founder and President of Bright Morning, has ardently devoted herself to education, assuming roles as both a teacher and instructional coach. Throughout this extensive period, she has witnessed a prevalent and pervasive sentiment that resonates deeply within the teaching community—the overwhelming burden accompanying the noble pursuit of shaping young minds. In an earnest endeavor to address this shared challenge, Aguilar has contributed to an ongoing series with the publication titled “How to Coach the Overwhelmed Teacher.” Drawing on her ..read more

In the ever-evolving landscape of education, technology plays a pivotal role in shaping how we learn and teach. One groundbreaking development that significantly impacted education in 2022 – 2023 was generative AI applications like ChatGPT. Developed by OpenAI, ChatGPT is a language model that has revolutionized the learning experience, offering new possibilities for both educators and students.  As we look back on which stories received the most attention on the Class Dismissed Podcast, it’s clear that readers and listeners desire to learn precisely how generative AI will impact the worl ..read more

Leading with laughter in a school setting can positively affect the learning environment and the overall well-being of fellow educators. Here are some reasons why incorporating humor and laughter into leadership can be beneficial: 1. Creates a Positive Atmosphere: Laughter is a powerful tool for creating a positive and enjoyable atmosphere. When leaders use humor, it helps to build a sense of camaraderie and fosters a more relaxed and welcoming environment. 2. Builds Connection and Trust: Humor can be a great connector. When leaders use laughter appropriately, it helps to build trust and rappo ..read more

Tween girls face unique challenges in a world where social media is an integral part of daily life. The impact of the digital age on their development can be both positive and negative, making it essential to understand and address these challenges. Our guest in Episode 253 of Class Dismissed created a program designed to teach that every girl has specific talents and gifts that make her unique and beautiful to the world. Katie Parker is the founder of Bloomfully and co-creator of I Believe in Me. I Believe In Me is a unique program for tweens that promotes self-confidence, self-este ..read more

Climate change is one of the most urgent challenges of our era, demanding that educators take an active role in educating students about this global issue. Yet, delving into such a multifaceted and occasionally contentious topic can appear daunting.  In a recent episode of Class Dismissed (Episode 251), we had the privilege of speaking with Mark Windschitl, a distinguished Professor of Science Teaching and Learning at the University of Washington, who also boasts a background as a former middle school science teacher. Windschitl, who has recently published a compelling book titled “T ..read more