Welcome to the Modern Classrooms Project Podcast. Each week we bring you discussions with educators on how they use blended, self-paced, and mastery-based learning to better serve their learners. In this episode, Toni Rose Deanon is joined by Evette Reid, a second-grade teacher in Baltimore City Public Schools who has been implementing a blended, self-paced, mastery-based learning model in her classroom.

Evette emphasizes the benefits of this approach, including increased student engagement, personalized learning opportunities, and the ability to cater to different student needs. She also shares challenges she faced, such as technical difficulties and the need for ongoing professional development.

Here are three key takeaways from this podcast episode:

• Blended learning can be highly effective in elementary classrooms. Evette's experience demonstrates that young learners can successfully adapt to this model, even when starting in the middle of the school year. "The kids love the digital lessons, and then when I make videos, they really like seeing me on the screen. I mean, that makes me even bigger of a celebrity!” Evette says.

• Creating a positive and collaborative learning environment is crucial. Evette emphasizes the importance of flexible seating arrangements, peer-to-peer support, and a focus on building a supportive classroom community. Evette uses colors to signify typical sections of initial learning and reteaching. She also uses technology to walk students back through a skill when they struggle.

• Technology can be a valuable tool but requires careful planning and implementation. Evette highlights the need for reliable internet access, student training on digital tools, and backup plans for when technology fails.

Discussion questions for PLC and PD: 

• How can we effectively implement blended, self-paced, and mastery-based learning in elementary classrooms, particularly for students who may have different learning styles or needs? What strategies can we use to ensure that all students have access to the support they need to succeed?

• What are some practical ways to create a positive and collaborative learning environment, especially in a blended learning setting? How can we foster peer-to-peer support and encourage students to take ownership of their learning?

• How can we address the challenges of technology integration in the classroom, such as technical difficulties and student access to devices? What backup plans can we put in place to ensure that learning continues even when technology fails?

Our Host

Toni Rose taught MS English for 10 years and will forever identify as a teacher. Toni Rose strives to be the teacher that they never had growing up, so they focus on anti-bias, anti-racist work and wants to create a brave space for everyone around them. As a queer Filipinx, they understand just how important it is to be represented, be valued, and belong. They especially love being a thought partner for and celebrating teachers.

Our Guests

Evette Reid

Evette is in her 23rd year as an elementary teacher in Baltimore City Public Schools. She teaches primary-aged kids in grades Pre-K to 3rd grade and absolutely loves her work!

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