This conversation with author Mitch Weathers, delves into the concept of executive functioning in education, emphasizing its importance for student success. The speakers discuss the challenges students face in managing their time and tasks, the significance of establishing routines, and the need for educators to explicitly teach executive functioning skills. They highlight the role of working memory in learning and the impact of a supportive and predictable learning environment. The discussion also touches on the importance of collective efficacy among educators to create a cohesive approach to teaching and learning.

Resources:

Executive Function Toolkit

Executive Function in MTSS

Organized Binder

Webinar: Ask the Author: Executive Functioning in Every Classroom

Takeaways:

• Executive functioning is crucial for goal-oriented behavior.
• Students need explicit instruction on executive functioning skills.
• The hidden curriculum can significantly impact student success.
• Predictability in routines helps students feel safe and engaged.
• Working memory is the engine for learning and retention.
• Collective efficacy among educators enhances student outcomes.
• Teaching skills should be a universal approach, not just for struggling students.
• Repetition and practice are key to mastering executive functioning skills.
• Creating a supportive learning environment reduces cognitive load.
• Students can transfer executive functioning skills to real-world situations.

Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our Branching Minds Website, or sign up for our weekly Newsletter on all things MTSS. Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds.

Send feedback or inquiries to podcast@branchingminds.com!

In this conversation, Larissa and Joyce Abbott discuss the impact of the TV show Abbott Elementary on the perception of educators, Joyce's personal experiences as a teacher, and the importance of community, teamwork, and effective communication in education. They explore the challenges teachers face, including student behavior and burnout, while emphasizing the rewarding nature of teaching and the need for support within the profession.

Resources:

Teaching the Ms. Abbott Way

Ms. Abbott's Website

Classroom Management Is Much More Than Discipline

Administrators Guide to Supporting Teachers

Takeaways:

• Joyce Abbott's experiences as a teacher inspired the show Abbott Elementary.
• Writing a book allowed Joyce to reflect deeply on her teaching career.
• Teaching involves understanding students' backgrounds and building relationships.
• Effective teaching goes beyond instruction; it requires holistically addressing students' needs.
• Teamwork among educators is crucial for student success.
• Communication with students should be conversational, allowing their voices to be heard.
• Building community partnerships enhances the educational experience for students.
• Teacher burnout is a significant issue that requires support and understanding.
• Teaching is a calling that can change lives, one student at a time.

Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our Branching Minds Website, or sign up for our weekly Newsletter on all things MTSS. Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds.

Send feedback or inquiries to podcast@branchingminds.com!

In this conversation, Larissa and Sandra discuss essential back-to-school strategies for educators and school leaders. They emphasize the excitement of a new school year, the importance of setting a positive tone, and the need for clear communication and visibility in leadership. They also highlight the significance of building relationships and support systems among staff, the necessity of meaningful professional development, and the role of feedback in fostering a culture of continuous improvement. The discussion provides practical tips and insights for creating a successful school year.

Resources:

Administrators Guide to Supporting Teachers

Leader Protocol Guide for Buy-In

Beginning of Year MTSS Gameplan Ebook

Takeaways:

• The excitement of a new school year brings fresh opportunities.
• Showing value to staff and students is crucial for success.
• Clear expectations help prioritize important goals.
• Effective communication reduces stress and fosters collaboration.
• Visibility and approachability of leaders enhance school culture.
• Building relationships among staff supports a positive environment.
• Professional development should be meaningful and relevant.
• Feedback should be constructive and promote growth.
• Creating a culture of continuous improvement benefits everyone.
• Leaders should focus on one goal at a time to avoid overwhelm.

Learn more about MTSS and Branching Minds by visiting our Branching Minds Website, or sign up for our weekly Newsletter on all things MTSS. Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn @BranchingMinds.

Send feedback or inquiries to podcast@branchingminds.com!