In this episode, we take the next step in our phonics journey by introducing silent e words—also known as Mommy E if you're using Secret Stories in your classroom. After reviewing letter sounds, CVC words, blends, and digraphs, it's time to help students understand how a silent “e” changes everything.

I’ll explain how I introduce this concept using a fun and meaningful story students love, and I’ll walk you through 3 engaging classroom activities that make the “magic e” stick:

✨ Magic E Wand Words

🔄 Flip & Match Word Cards

🧠 Silent E Sorting Mats

Whether you're teaching whole group, small group, or intervention, these simple ideas will help your students confidently decode long vowel CVCe words like make, Pete, poke, and rule.

🎧 Listen now and grab some fresh inspiration for your phonics block!

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In this episode, we continue our phonics journey by introducing consonant blends paired with short vowels. After reviewing CVC words and digraphs the last two weeks, we dive into how blends work, why they matter, and how to teach them effectively. You'll walk away with three engaging classroom activities—Blend & Match Cards, Scoot & Blend, and Blends Bingo—that make learning blends fun and memorable for your students.

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In this episode of The Education Connection, we continue our phonics journey by building on last week’s CVC word practice and diving into digraphs — ch, sh, th, wh, ph, and ck. You'll learn how to teach these essential sound chunks alongside short vowels using fun, simple activities that keep young readers engaged. Whether you’re introducing digraphs for the first time or reinforcing them with hands-on practice, you’ll walk away with practical strategies you can use in your classroom tomorrow.

🎒 Perfect for K–2 teachers 📚 Includes ready-to-use activity ideas ✏️ Builds confidence in early decoding.

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In this episode of The Education Connection, we’re diving into the first steps in teaching reading — from mastering letter sounds to blending CVC words. Whether you're teaching kindergarten, first grade, or supporting early readers in any setting, these foundational skills matter more than ever.

We’ll talk about:

• Why fluency with letters and short vowels is essential
• How to assess what your students truly know
• What CVC blending really looks like
• Practical, low-prep activities you can use tomorrow
• Encouragement for the journey — including a Scripture and prayer just for teachers

Whether you're a new teacher or a seasoned pro, this episode will leave you feeling equipped and inspired to support your young readers in meaningful, effective ways.

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Are you getting ready to launch literacy centers in your classroom? In this episode of The Education Connection, I’m sharing exactly how I introduce literacy centers during the first weeks of school. I walk you through the four stations I will start with, how I model expectations, and what my students will experience during our very first day of rotating through centers—spoiler alert: we keep it short and sweet!

You’ll hear how I teach routines for Heggerty, decodable reading, computer time, and my teacher table (where I focus on word work, decoding, and fluency). I’m also sharing tips for easing into rotations, what I watch for, and how I set the stage for successful independent work all year long.

Whether you’re new to literacy centers or just want a fresh approach to launching them, this episode will give you the confidence to start strong—with grace, structure, and purpose.

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Planning for a substitute teacher can feel overwhelming, but with the right sub plans, your classroom can run smoothly even when you’re out. In this episode of The Education Connection, I share practical tips for writing effective substitute teacher plans, organizing emergency sub folders, and leaving extra activities like coloring sheets, read-aloud books, and time-filler activities. Whether you’re a first-year teacher or a veteran, these classroom management strategies will help you create stress-free, detailed lesson plans that any sub can follow.

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In this episode of The Education Connection, Robin Wilson shares practical, everyday ways teachers can use ChatGPT to save time and spark ideas in the classroom.

From creating schedules and organizing classroom spaces, to drafting polished parent letters, generating writing prompts, and even recovering lost game directions—this tool is becoming a teacher’s secret helper.

Robin also explains how ChatGPT works, addresses common fears about using AI in education, and offers encouragement for using it wisely without sacrificing privacy or professionalism.

Scripture and prayer wrap up this episode with a reminder that true wisdom comes from God, and technology can be a blessing when used with discernment.

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The first week of school sets the tone for your entire year — and it doesn’t have to be complicated.

📎In this episode, we’ll talk about the two most important goals for your very first day: knowing exactly how every student is getting home and making each child feel loved and cared for.

👉🏻I’ll walk you through simple ways to build your classroom community from Day 1, including creating a mission statement with your students, using visuals to introduce the daily schedule, and crafting a classroom mantra.

🎉I’ll also share my go-to parent sign-in sheet from my First Day Packet that makes dismissal a breeze. Whether you’re a brand-new teacher or a seasoned pro, this episode will help you start the year with purpose, clarity, and joy.

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Back to School Night (Going Home Forms.)

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