BPD3 Beyond The Bell Ep. 16: Dylan Shore, 4th Grade Gifted Teacher at Newport Elementary

In this episode, we explore Dylan Shore’s inspiring journey into education, his experiences navigating the challenges of teaching during a pandemic, and his innovative work with gifted learners at Newport Elementary. Dylan shares insights on building relationships, fostering creativity, and balancing academic rigor with social-emotional support.Key Topics:Dylan’s background growing in Kenosha and his pathway into teachingImpact of the pandemic on his first years and virtual learning challengesInsights into teaching gifted elementary students and fostering creative projectsExtracurricular involvement: PBIS, leadership teams, STEAM club, and coaching volleyballIncorporation of STEM activities like 3D printing and circuitry into classroom learningStrategies for maintaining fun, chaos, and purpose in a gifted classroomBalancing academic pressure with social-emotional well-beingThe importance of relationships, trust, and vulnerability in leadershipAdvancing in educational leadership: graduate studies and mentorship experiencesAdvice for aspiring educators: preparation, vulnerability, and continuous learningAppreciating the supportive team culture at Newport ElementaryTimestamps:00:00 - Welcome to Beyond the Bell: Connecting our district's educators01:30 - Dylan’s journey into education and inspiration from childhood03:11 - Summer camp counseling as a foundation for teaching04:36 - College experience at Benedictine University and sports influence05:24 - Growing up in Kenosha and early school background07:00 - Starting teaching during the pandemic in 202008:11 - Navigating virtual student teaching early in pandemic09:07 - Adapting to teaching in a pandemic and tech advancements10:29 - Transitioning from virtual to in-person instruction11:43 - Incorporating STEM activities like 3D printing and circuitry13:08 - Teaching the gifted program and instructional adjustments15:48 - Classroom environment: fun, chaos, and intentionality16:09 - Balancing academic pressure and social-emotional health17:50 - What makes teaching rewarding for Dylan19:01 - Progress toward principal certification and mentorship21:24 - Advice for future school leaders and lifelong learning24:46 - Why Newport’s team culture is supportive and collaborative26:30 - Tips for struggling teachers: vulnerability, seeking help, teamwork29:37 - Recognizing mentors and colleagues at Newport32:09 - Insights on district culture, staff relationships, and community35:27 - Fun lightning round: energy boosts, hobbies, and favorite sports37:22 - Dylan’s favorite sport and teams38:29 - Surprising talents: drawing and fishing39:06 - Coaching volleyball and level of competition40:50 - Memorable concerts and Nashville adventures43:12 - Binge-watching and entertainment choices45:11 - The best advice Dylan has ever received46:43 - Reflections on being an educator and making a difference47:55 - Invitation to join Beach Park District, gratitude to staff and community48:56 - Final words and call to action for listeners to support and subscribeSocial MediaInstagram: bpd3beyondthebellFacebook: Beyond BellTikTok: BPD3BeyondtheBell5"X": @BPD3BeyondBellSnapchat: BPD3BeyondBell#bpd3beyondthebell #bpd3district #bpd3podcast #bpd3family #teachers