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 is joined by educators Whitnei Moore and Andrea Kowalski to share their experiences implementing the Modern Classrooms Project and leading Professional Learning Communities (PLCs) in their school.

Whitnei and Andrea emphasized the significance of introducing innovative teaching methods through Professional Learning Communities (PLCs). They discussed their success in engaging more teachers and fostering excitement for professional development within their school community.

Here are three key takeaways from this podcast episode:

• Collaborative PLCs play a pivotal role in fostering teacher buy-in and creating a supportive environment for implementing new teaching methods. When teachers see their colleagues successfully utilizing innovative strategies, they are more inclined to embrace change. Whitnei noted, "Once they see it from us, they're like, 'Oh, I can do that, too,’ or ‘I already do something very similar to that, you know, I can implement it in this way.'"

• Embracing open-mindedness and finding a balance between structure and creativity are essential when leading PLCs. Educators should focus on making professional development engaging and applicable to the classroom, rather than imposing rigid mandates. Andrea emphasized the importance of being open-minded and adaptable, saying, "You have to realize that you might make a mistake, and you have to learn from that mistake and either be able to quickly rebound or have a Plan B."

• Classroom observations can be a powerful tool for learning and improvement. They promote the sharing of best practices and allow educators to witness firsthand the positive impact of innovative teaching methods.

Discussion questions for PLC and PD: 

• How can schools and districts encourage more collaborative PLCs among educators to foster buy-in for innovative teaching methods and create a culture of sharing and experimentation?

• What strategies can educators use to strike a balance between providing structure and allowing for creativity when leading professional development sessions, ensuring that teachers are engaged and motivated to implement new approaches in their classrooms?

• In what ways can classroom observations be effectively integrated into the professional development process to promote the sharing of best practices and support teacher growth and improvement?

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 focuses 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: Whitnei Moore, Andrea Kowalski

Connecting with Whitney: Email at wmoore@aceroschools.org

Connecting with Andrea: Email at akowalski@aceroschools.org

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