Paddling Through the Year: Reflections, Laughs, and Lessons

Paddling Through the Year: Reflections, Laughs, and Lessons

As the school year winds down, your favorite Panther Creek podcast crew, Mandi, Lauren, Julie, and Kate are back with a special episode of In the Creek with a Paddle. We’re joined by teachers Coach Adams and Coach Edgemon, as well as our very own Mr. Swenson, to look back on the memories, growth, and lessons from the year. From student shout outs to summer bucket lists, and a few laughs along the way, this episode is full of heart. Plus, hear who gets nominated for the mic next time!

1% Every Day

In this episode of In the Creek with a Paddle, your IC+ team dive into the practical side of turning foundational Project-Based Learning (PBL) knowledge into impactful everyday classroom practices. They discuss how to balance structure with student autonomy, design intentional learning experiences, and incorporate meaningful feedback loops. Tune in to discover how making small, consistent shifts can lead to big gains in student engagement, rigor, and real-world readiness—both for students and for educators themselves.

BONUS: PCPD Cohort Kickoff- Next Steps

🎙️ Bonus Episode: The Beginning of IC+ Podcast! 🎙️ We’ve launched the IC+ Podcast, but that’s just the beginning! In this special bonus episode, we’re breaking down what’s next for our cohort groups—how we’ll continue to support, collaborate, and grow together as instructional leaders. 🚀 What’s Ahead? ✅ Next cohort meetings & what to expect ✅ Key takeaways from our first sessions ✅ Resources & strategies to keep the momentum going This journey is all about building community and growing together, and we can’t wait to take the next steps with you!

Cohort Kickoff

Welcome to the first episode of In the Creek with a Paddle! 🚣‍♂️ We’re setting off on this adventure with a deep dive into our PBL cohorts—small groups designed to support and strengthen our approach to Voice & Choice, Inquiry, and Authenticity in the classroom. In this episode, we break down: ✅ Takeaways from our first cohort meetings—what’s working, what’s challenging, and what’s next ✅ Real talk on making PBL more practical (without drowning in logistics) So grab your metaphorical paddle, and let’s navigate teaching, learning, and maybe a little chaos together!