LIVE from TCEA 2026! Finding Your Groove in Middle Grades

Guest: Amanda Hawthorne, 6th Grade Teacher, Schertz-Cibolo-Universal City ISDEpisode Description: Amanda Hawthorne is a 6th grade Science and Social Studies teacher in Schertz-Cibolo-Universal City ISD who brings curiosity, creativity, and a deep love of earth science into her classroom every day. In this live Convention conversation, Amanda shares what it’s like teaching two content areas, finding ways to make every subject engaging, and supporting students during the pivotal transition years of 5th and 6th grade. We talk about launching a student-led school news broadcast, staying current with emerging trends like AI in education, and why paying attention to what excites learners (and educators) makes all the difference.