The Employee Experience in Education Podcast

Empowering Educators: Data-Drive Decision-Making for Positive School Change with Matthew Courtney

"One of the rules that I have when I work with folks - I call it the ‘research says’ rule. I'll put a little bell on the table, and sometimes we pass it around. And anytime someone says research says, we ring the bell and we stop. We say ‘whose research says that? In what context do do that research say that?’ And we hold ourselves accountable to being as specific and transparent as possible. But how can school leaders effectively empower educators to make evidence-based decisions? On this episode, we’ll speak with Matthew Courtney, a specialist in evidence-based decision making in school improvement settings. Today, Matthew shares his unique insights on the crucial role of knowledge brokering in helping educators apply research to solve deep-rooted problems. Matthew also discusses: * The importance of deep root cause analysis using local data * The essential steps for creating a sustainable system for evidence-based decision-making * And the secrets to empowering educators through transparent communication Guest Bio - Dr. Matthew B. Courtney is a passionate advocate for education and a specialist in evidence-informed school improvement. He began his career as a music educator before moving on to leadership roles within the nonprofit, higher education, and state government sectors. Dr. Courtney is a published researcher whose work focuses on school improvement. As the founder of Courtney Consulting LLC, he’s advised schools on leveraging evidence-based decision-making to accelerate student achievement. His impact extends beyond students and schools, influencing state-wide educational policies. Dr. Courtney's expertise and dedication continue to bridge gaps in education, fostering progress and development in diverse communities. Links to additional resources: * https://www.matthewbcourtney.com/ [https://www.matthewbcourtney.com/] * https://twitter.com/mbcourtneyedd [https://twitter.com/mbcourtneyedd] * https://www.linkedin.com/in/mbcourtneyedd/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/mbcourtneyedd/] * https://www.youtube.com/@mbcourtneyedd [https://www.youtube.com/@mbcourtneyedd] * https://www.facebook.com/mbcourtneyedd [https://www.facebook.com/mbcourtneyedd] * https://www.instagram.com/mbcourtneyedd/ [https://www.instagram.com/mbcourtneyedd/]

Addressing Challenges in AI Implementation and PD with Nneka McGee

“AI can support personalized learning for teachers by providing resources tailored to their learning styles and goals.” But how can educators access the necessary professional development to utilize AI effectively in the classroom? On this episode, we'll speak with Nneka McGee about AI in education and personalized professional development. Nneka shares her insights on the * challenges and opportunities of implementing AI * tailoring professional development to teachers' needs * and the impact of AI on the overall teacher experience. Guest Bio - Nneka McGee has served in public schools for over 15 years. She taught middle school mathematics for six years and was recognized as a district finalist for teacher of the year. Nneka has also served as District Gifted and Talented Coordinator, Director of GT and Advanced Academics, Executive Director for Learning and Innovation, and currently, as Chief Academic Officer for San Benito Consolidated Independent School District. As part of her doctoral studies, Nneka completed research on the impact of artificial intelligence in K-12 learning environments. She serves on the Board of Directors of HAKing Innovation, a non-profit organization providing students STEM access and opportunities. Episode links: * Nneka's Linkedin profile - https://www.linkedin.com/in/nnekamcgee/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/nnekamcgee/] * https://day29.ai [https://day29.ai]

An EdTech Investor’s Perspective on Education Innovation with Graham Forman

"The idea of earning and learning at the same time, which is what the apprenticeship program can provide. That might open up more opportunities for people with more diverse backgrounds.” In a rapidly changing educational landscape, how can schools effectively prioritize essential tools for student and adult success amidst the influx of possibilities? On this episode, we speak with Graham Forman, an experienced EdTech investor with a passion for the impact of technology in education. Today, Graham shares his unique insights on the challenges and opportunities in education today, including: * The 4 areas in education that need continued innovation and investment * Why student personalization is essential in the learning experience * And the ever-evolving landscape of education technology Guest Bio - Graham is founder and managing director of Edovate Capital. He’s spent his career in education, entrepreneurship, and investing. He spent 15 years leading sales, marketing, business development, and customer success in startup SaaS education companies. In his last operating role, he led sales and business development for Netchemia where he grew the company to serve more than 2,400 districts and 20,000 schools. Netchemia was acquired by Vista Equity Partners in 2015. With Edovate, Graham backs impact-focused K12 companies with investment and advisory support, including companies like Pear Deck (acquired by GoGuardian), LearnPlatform (acquired by Instructure), ClassWallet, Paper, and more. Episode links: * Email Graham - graham@edovatecapital.com * Graham's LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/grahamforman/ * Follow Graham on Medium - https://grahamforman.medium.com/

Understanding Teacher Motivation and Job Satisfaction with Nicole Endsley

“Teachers value relationships and agency as important factors in their job satisfaction.” We talk all the time about the need to increase teacher retention, yet despite our efforts teachers continue to leave the classroom at alarming rates.  But how can district leaders ensure teachers have high job satisfaction while feeling empowered in their roles? On this episode, we’ll speak with doctoral candidate and former educator Nicole Endsley. Today, Nicole shares her unique insights and research on how school and district leaders can improve teacher satisfaction and combat teacher turnover. Nicole also discusses: * How Frederick Herzberg’s two-Factor Theory of Motivation applies to education * The impact of relationships and teacher agency on the employee experience * and a surprising truth about what truly motivates teachers to stay in the profession Guest Bio - Nicole Endsley is a doctoral candidate at the University of West Florida. Her research interests include national teacher turnover trends and teacher turnover trends in the wake of COVID-19. Nicole has over 10 years of classroom experience and 5 years of experience working in state government. Nicole is passionate about furthering her research on teacher turnover and bringing reform to the profession. Links: * Nicole\'s LinkedIn page [\'https://www.linkedin.com/in/endsleynicole/\']

Closing the Behavior Gap: From Classroom Management to Classroom Leadership with Larry Davis

“Classroom management is a term I really don’t like to use. Because I really want my teachers to be classroom leaders.” Many teachers struggle with classroom management. And most administrators struggle to fully support their teachers with strategies that work in the classroom. On this episode, we speak with author, founder, and speaker Larry Davis. Larry shares his unique insights on the need to transition from classroom management to classroom leadership. Larry also shares: * The connection between data and culture * Ways to address the well-being of teachers * And the analysis you need to conduct in your organization today Guest Bio - Davis’s passion for education and social betterment is fourth only to his love of God, his blessed children, and family. Davis spent 12 years in corporate America, and 24 years in education. Davis has published seven books and received his Associate degree from Weatherford College, his bachelor’s degree from the University of Texas at Arlington, and his master’s degree from Texas Woman’s University. Education Needs A Champion and Our Children Deserve One! Episode links: * remedyteam.org [\'http://remedyteam.org\'] * Email Larry [\'https://www.notion.so/026-Larry-Davis-9d9e41cd44214e088357867259f194e6?pvs=21\'] * Larry’s LinkedIn Profile [\'https://www.linkedin.com/in/larry-davis-49b70410/\']