A Window into Summer Joys and Classroom Inspiration

This episode is packed with sunshine, sisterhood, and soulful reflection! Candice takes us on a heartfelt summer journey, starting with highlights from the Chalkboard Chatter Girls’ Retreat—a joyful space for 3rd and 4th-grade girls to connect through yoga, scavenger hunts, and a beautiful ceremony honoring 4th-grade leaders. She also introduces the Teach. Play. Learn. initiative, a summer program designed to inspire learning through play and creativity. As summer stretches on, Candice encourages us to reconnect and restore with simple joys—whether through books, walking challenges, or soul-soothing recipes (hello, Cajun sausage and red beans!). She reflects on the honor of being named the 2023–2024 Michigan Teacher of the Year, sharing how she’s using the platform to promote positive change in education statewide. Plus, she gives us a peek into her day at the Plymouth Art Festival (yes, she broke her diet for that donut!), and shares the playful walking rivalry she shares with her husband, Vern. From style tips to wellness rituals, this episode celebrates balance, brilliance, and the beauty of summer.