ShiftED Podcast #43 In Conversation with Dean Shareski: Infusing more Play, Joy & Love into Education

What happens when you blend education with joy and curiosity? Dean Shareski, a seasoned educator and our special guest, paints a vivid picture of the transformative power of play-based learning. Despite not having a familial legacy in teaching, Dean discovered his calling amongst the laughter and boundless energy of primary grade classrooms. Listen as he shares his journey and insights into why nurturing a playful mindset is crucial for fostering a stress-free and engaging learning environment, arguing against the early push towards career-focused education.Imagine a classroom where passion ignites learning and every student feels a sense of belonging. This episode uncovers how educators can infuse their personal interests into teaching to build a close-knit community. We discuss the freedom teachers often overlook and how small rituals, like a class tea time, can create a supportive atmosphere. Recognizing that students bring complex needs to school, we echo the sentiment that “you can't have Bloom's stuff until you take care of the Maslow's stuff,” advocating for a nurturing foundation before diving into academics.Finally, we explore the evolving landscape of AI in education, drawing lessons from the early days of social media integration. Dean shares his experiences with AI tools in the classroom, emphasizing the importance of thoughtful implementation and the collaborative potential these tools offer. The Canadian Ed Leadership Show’s mission to spotlight educational innovations and share inspirational stories takes center stage as we reflect on the power of podcasts to drive positive change. Join us for a conversation filled with gratitude, inspiration, and commitment to advancing education in meaningful ways.