Herd Spotlight: Social Workers - The Heart of Our Schools

Episode 6: Surviving Until Spring Break

In this episode of Bison Byte, hosts Tobey Realley and Abigail Masi discuss the challenges and excitement surrounding the upcoming spring break with special guest Katy Rickards. They explore the symptoms of spring fever in students, effective teaching strategies to maintain engagement, and the importance of self-care for educators. The conversation also touches on creative solutions for managing classroom dynamics and fostering student participation, culminating in light-hearted rapid-fire questions that reflect on the joys and challenges of teaching.

Episode 5: Work-Life Balance

In this episode, the hosts discuss the unique challenges faced by educators who also have demands of their time outside of school. They share personal experiences and practical strategies for balancing the challenges of teaching with family responsibilities. The conversation emphasizes the importance of setting boundaries, prioritizing self-care, and building a supportive community among colleagues. Listeners are encouraged to implement these strategies to create a healthier work-life balance and to seek support when needed.

Herd Spotlight: AVID

In this episode of the Bison Byte podcast, Rich Abram and Colleen Fitzgerald discuss the AVID program at Woodbury City Public Schools. They explore the impact of AVID on student engagement and success, Colleen's extensive educational journey, the target audience for AVID, and the school's recognition as a national demonstration school. They also highlight the importance of professional development and support for teachers in implementing AVID strategies effectively. In this conversation, Rich and Colleen discuss the transformative power of AVID in education, emphasizing the importance of in-person connections, gradual student growth, and the development of essential skills such as open-mindedness and empathy. They share success stories of students who have thrived through AVID programs and provide practical teaching strategies that can be easily implemented in classrooms. The discussion also touches on personal passions and the impact of educational experiences on student representation and leadership.

Herd Spotlight: Social Workers - The Heart of Our Schools

This podcast episode celebrates National School Social Worker Week by highlighting the vital roles of social workers in the Woodbury School community. The conversation explores the challenges students face today, practical strategies for teachers to support their students, and the importance of self-care for social workers. The episode emphasizes the need for supportive environments for both students and staff, showcasing the collaborative efforts of social workers in fostering a nurturing educational atmosphere. In this engaging conversation, educators discuss the complexities of their roles, the importance of creating safe spaces for students and teachers, and the power of perspective in helping students envision their futures. They reflect on their aspirations, the superpowers they wish they had to support their students, and the significance of their work in the community.

Episode 2: "Re?" Engagement Strategies for January 51st

In this episode, Rich Abram, Kelly Cagle, and Joanne Salvatore discuss various strategies for re-engaging students during the winter months. They explore the importance of disrupting routines, fostering student ownership, and creating a collaborative learning environment. The conversation emphasizes the need for relevance and meaning in education, encouraging educators to connect learning to students' lives and interests. The episode concludes with a call to view engagement as a mindset that guides instructional choices.