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 Calla Miller and Sarah Krasowski to explore self-paced learning in their elementary classrooms.

Here are three key takeaways from this podcast episode:

• Building a Self-Paced Community: One key insight from the conversation is the importance of building a supportive community of educators when implementing self-paced learning. Both Calla and Sarah emphasize the benefits of having a teacher "bestie" to collaborate with. This partnership can help in navigating the challenges of self-paced learning, especially in elementary settings.

• Utilizing Progress Trackers: The podcast highlights the use of progress trackers as a valuable tool for self-paced learning. These trackers help students monitor their progress and allow teachers to identify areas where students might need additional support. The discussion emphasizes that even in a self-paced model, teachers can maintain control and structure through the use of these tools.

• Adapting and Granting Grace: A significant challenge for educators transitioning to self-paced learning is effective planning. Calla mentions the importance of adapting and being open to reflection and adjustment. The model might require more time than initially anticipated, and educators should grant themselves and their students grace as they acclimate to this new approach.

In summary, this podcast episode emphasizes the importance of collaboration, the use of progress trackers, and the need for flexibility in the transition to this model if you are looking to implement in elementary.

Discussion questions for PLC and PD: 

• How can educators in elementary settings collaborate effectively to create a supportive community for implementing self-paced learning? What strategies can be employed to find and partner with a "teacher bestie" to navigate the challenges together?

• Progress trackers are highlighted as essential tools for self-paced learning. How can educators design and implement progress trackers in their classrooms to empower students to monitor their progress while maintaining teacher control and structure? What are the potential benefits of using such trackers?

• The summary mentions the importance of adaptation and granting grace during the transition to a self-paced learning model. How can educators strike a balance between setting initial expectations and being flexible enough to adjust their approach as needed? What strategies can help educators manage the challenges of planning and pacing in self-paced elementary classrooms?

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 she never had growing up, so she focuses on anti-bias, anti-racist work and wants to create a brave space for everyone around her. As a queer Filipinx, she understands just how important it is to be represented, be valued, and belong. She especially loves being a thought partner for and celebrating teachers.

Our Guest: Calla Miller and Sarah Krasowski

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