TandL Talks

TandL Talks S2Ep31 - Why Dual Language Is a Gift That Lasts a Lifetime.mp4

What does it really mean for students to learn in two languages?In this episode of TandL Talks, we go inside our Spanish Dual Language program with two Dessie Evans teachers, Karina Wheeler and Christina Pizana, to explore the power of bilingual, biliterate learning. They share what dual language looks like in practice—and why it’s so much more than just learning Spanish.You’ll hear about the role of culture and identity, the importance of strong family partnerships, and the reality that bilingualism is a process that unfolds over time. Plus, we hear directly from students about how dual language helps them connect, communicate, and lead.Whether you’re an educator or a family considering dual language, this conversation offers insight, inspiration, and a clear reminder: learning in two languages opens doors—for school and for life.https://www.puyallupsd.org/academic-programs/dual-language

Encore Episode 3: Seen, Heard, Valued: Elevating Paraeducator Leadership

In this encore episode of TandL Talks, Nancy and Genarevisit a powerful conversation with paraeducator leaders Ali, Nikki, and Jennifer. Together, they share their journeys into education, the impact of para-specific collaboration and mentoring, and why building strong, connectedparaeducator communities matters. From recess and communication supports to certification pathways and professional growth plans, this episode highlightsthe leadership, advocacy, and instructional partnership paraeducators bring to every corner of the school day. A must-listen for anyone committed to elevatingpara voice, learning, and impact.

TandL Talks S2Ep30 - Learning That Doesn’t Move in Straight Lines - AP Research PODs

In this episode of TandL Talks, Nancy sits down with AP Research teachers to unpack the Presentation and Oral Defense—an experience that challenges students to think deeply, reflect honestly, and defend their ideas with confidence. The conversation explores how curiosity, inquiry, and reflection drive this work, why mistakes matter, and how foundations built in elementary and junior high classrooms lead to powerful learning moments in high school. It’s a rich look at what happens when students become thinkers, researchers, and scholars.

TandL Talks S2Ep29 - More Than Online: Inside Puyallup's Flexible Learning Options

What does flexible learning really look like in practice? In this episode of TandL Talks, two Puyallup Digital Learning teachers—one from P4 and one from POA—share how choice, personalization, and strong family partnerships shape teaching and learning every day. As the district prepares to transition PDL into Flexible Learning Options next year, this conversation highlights what’s changing, what’s staying the same, and why these pathways matter for so many students and families. A behind‑the‑scenes look at learning designed to fit real lives.

TandL Talks S2Ep28 - Teacher-Led, Student-Powered: Inside our Social Studies Adoption Journey

In this episode of TandL Talks, we sit down with two teacher leaders from our district’s social studies cadre to talk about what it really looks like to pilot new curriculum in real classrooms. They share insights from piloting InquirEd’s Inquiry Journeys in fourth and fifth grade, the power of inquiry‑based instruction, and why teacher and student voice matter in adoption decisions. You’ll also hear how this work connects to John McCoy lúḻilas: Since Time Immemorial and our broader commitment to meaningful, equitable social studies learning. Since this episode was recorded, the school board has approved the adoption of Inquiry Journeys—making this conversation both a reflection on the process and a look ahead to what’s next.