Mr. Clarke After Dark

#119 - Dr. Mark Hirschkorn | Supporting New Teachers: Challenges and Opportunities Ahead

In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Mark Hirschkorn to explore the evolving landscape of teacher education in Canada. We unpack the structure of various teacher preparation programs, the impact of practicum length and quality, and the challenges new educators face when trying to secure roles in their areas of specialization—especially in the wake of COVID-19. Mark shares valuable insights on how subject specialization, mentorship, and strong support systems can dramatically influence teacher retention and professional growth. We also examine the rise of international teaching opportunities, the increasing integration of professional development into daily practice, and how teaching methods are shifting with the demands of a changing world. Our conversation also dives into the transformation of science education, moving from memorization to process-based learning, and how AI in education is both a tool and a challenge for today’s teachers. Throughout it all, Mark reminds us of the core truth: the human connection remains at the heart of effective teaching—and reflection is essential for growth.

#118 - Richelle Marynowski | Navigating Math Anxiety in Education

In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Richelle Marynowski to unpack the challenges and opportunities in math education today. We talk about the anxiety many teachers face—especially when they don’t feel confident explaining the “why” behind math concepts—and how that impacts both instruction and student confidence. Richelle shares strategies for making math more engaging and meaningful, from using manipulatives and project-based learning to incorporating gamification thoughtfully. We also explore how math assessment often falls short compared to literacy, and why flexible thinking should be prioritized over rote fluency. Our conversation also touches on bigger-picture issues like teacher retention, the growing role of AI in education, and how data tracking and differentiated instruction can support diverse learners. This episode is packed with practical strategies and honest reflection for anyone who wants to make math class a more supportive, human-centered space.

#117 - Dr. Lori Desaultes | The Eyes Are Never Quiet

In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Lori Desautels, a leading expert in the intersection of neuroscience and education, to explore how understanding the brain can reshape the way we teach, connect, and support students. We dive into the science of neuroplasticity, emotional regulation, and self-awareness, and how these elements are essential to building trauma-informed, student-centered classrooms.Dr. Desautels shares how teachers’ emotional states and nervous systems directly impact student learning and behavior. We talk about the importance of proactive discipline strategies, the power of connection and empathy over compliance, and how to foster safe, engaging learning environments. Her insights are a call to action for educators to reflect, grow, and prioritize both their own well-being and that of their students.Whether you’re a classroom teacher, school leader, or education changemaker, this episode offers practical strategies and research-backed approaches to integrating brain-based teaching, social-emotional learning (SEL), and trauma-informed practices into your work.

#116 - Durga Suresh-Menon | How To Embody an Innovative Ethos

In this episode, I sit down with Durga Suresh Menon, the new Head of School at New England Innovation Academy (NEIA), to talk about what it means to truly reimagine education. Durga shares her unexpected transition from higher education into the world of secondary schooling, and how that shift has given her fresh insight into how we prepare students—not just for college, but for life. At NEIA, students are called “innovators,” and it’s more than just a name. The school is built around a culture of entrepreneurship, creativity, and student-centered learning. Durga and I dive into the innovative assessment practices being used there, the intentional design of learning environments that foster curiosity, and the importance of collaboration across grades. We also talk about what it means to embrace failure as a vital part of the learning process, and how NEIA is working to close the gap between high school and real-world readiness. This conversation is a powerful reminder that education doesn’t have to follow a single path—and that when we center curiosity, collaboration, and growth, we give students the tools to thrive in whatever path they choose.

#115 - Brent Saccucci | Ungrading, Equity, and the Heart of Education

Brent Saccucci is an education professor with the University of Lethbridge. In this episode, I sit down with Brent Saccucci to talk about how mentorship, equity, and compassion shape us as educators, and why creating safe, inclusive spaces for students is at the heart of meaningful teaching. We dig into some of the big, often uncomfortable questions like how we handle controversial topics with care, why traditional grading might be doing more harm than good, and how ungrading can open the door to deeper engagement and risk-taking. I share my thoughts on why compassion often matters more than comprehension, and how emotional intelligence, relationships, and feedback can redefine what learning looks like. We also explore how school culture impacts everyone—students and teachers alike—and what the future of education might hold if we start centering student voice, inclusive practices, and holistic assessment.