aggieTEACH Momentum

In this episode, we feature a conversation with Dr. Justin Randolph, Assistant Professor of History at Texas A&M, and Adam Cook, Laboratory Manager and Senior Forensic Engineer, regarding the implementation of strategies to make content relevant in the secondary classroom. Justin and Adam share their unique perspectives on connecting academic disciplines to the real world, ranging from the interpretive work of public history to the essential role of materials science in everyday infrastructure. The episode serves as a practical guide for educators, exploring how to move beyond rote memorization by using primary sources and industrial applications to engage students and help them understand the broader impact of their learning.Mentioned ResourcesASM Materials Education FoundationJournal of Texas HistoryJournal of Southern HistoryMusic Included:Song: Jam Time (Instrumental)Artist: NAMLicense #: 4601725855Song: New Kids (Instrumental)Artist: More Like GeorgiaLicense #: 9511520888

In this episode, we talk with a guest from the TAMU LIVE lab about Game Based Learning and using Gamification in the classroom. We also include a conversation about how Virtual Reality (VR) may be helpful for student learning and engagement in your classroom.Mentioned ResourcesTAMU LIVE Lab WebsiteTAMU LIVE Lab SocialsMusic Included:Song: Jam Time (Instrumental)Artist: NAMLicense #: 4601725855Song: New Kids (Instrumental)Artist: More Like GeorgiaLicense #: 9511520888

To round out the series on inquiry in the classroom, host Kenric Davies reflects on the universal themes found across the science, social studies, mathematics, and English episodes. In this bonus episode, Kenric shares his own experiences as a former physics and astronomy teacher to highlight how inquiry-based learning (IBL) transcends specific content areas and focuses on the fundamental process of learning. He discusses the critical role of asking powerful "how" and "why" questions to spark student curiosity and the importance of teachers stepping back to allow for student discovery. Kenric describes IBL as a vital tool for building student identity and agency, transforming the classroom into a space where students learn to analyze information and navigate the world with a critical, scientific mindset.Music Included:Song: Jam Time (Instrumental)Artist: NAMLicense #: 4601725855Song: New Kids (Instrumental)Artist: More Like GeorgiaLicense #: 9511520888

In the final part of our series on inquiry in the classroom, guest Dr. Sarah DiCaglio, Assistant Professor and Writing Program Administrator at Texas A&M University, describes her experiences implementing inquiry-based learning in the English classroom. Dr. DiCaglio shares practical insights into the process of writing as a form of thinking, emphasizing the importance of student discovery over finished products. She describes inquiry as a vital tool for helping students find their voice through language and navigating the challenges of the AI era by focusing on the transformative power of the writing process.Music Included:Song: Jam Time (Instrumental)Artist: NAMLicense #: 4601725855Song: New Kids (Instrumental)Artist: More Like GeorgiaLicense #: 9511520888

In part 3 of our 4 part series on inquiry in the classroom, guest Dr. Jennifer Austin, Professor of Instruction at the University of Texas at Austin, describes her experiences implementing Inquiry-Based Learning (IBL) in the mathematics classroom. Dr. Austin shares practical insights for applying inquiry in both small and large class settings while describing IBL as a powerful tool to engage students and help them find their academic voice, transforming the classroom from passive lecturing into a space for active, student-led discovery.Mentioned Resources- Mathematics Association of America (MAA)- MAA Inquiry Based Learning Special Interest Group- Math Circles in TexasMusic Included:Song: Jam Time (Instrumental)Artist: NAMLicense #: 4601725855Song: New Kids (Instrumental)Artist: More Like GeorgiaLicense #: 9511520888

In part 2 of our 4 part series looking at Inquiry Based Learning (IBL) in the classroom, guest Dr. Sarah Wiseman, veteran social studies teacher in Frisco ISD, describes her experiences using IBL with social studies classes. Dr. Wiseman shares practical strategies for scaffolding inquiry while describing IBL as a way to equip students with the critical thinking skills to make meaning in their world, which is essential for careers and citizenship.Mentioned ResourcesHarvard's Project ZeroC3 Framework for Social StudiesFacing History & OurselvesMusic AcknowledgementsMusic Included:Song: Jam Time (Instrumental)Artist: NAMLicense #: 4601725855Song: New Kids (Instrumental)Artist: More Like GeorgiaLicense #: 9511520888

In part 1 of our 4 part series looking at Inquiry Based Learning (IBL) in the classroom, guest Dr. Dawson Nodurft, Instructional Associate Professor in the Department of Physics and Astronomy at Texas A&M University, describes his experiences implementing inquiry in the science classroom. Dr. Nodurft shares practical strategies for using counterintuitive demonstrations to spark curiosity while describing IBL as a way to develop critical thinking and highlighting the role of timely feedback in helping students master complex concepts.Mentioned ResourcesTAMU Physics & Astronomy Department WebsiteTAMU Physics & Engineering FestivalTAMU Physics Supplemental MaterialTAMU DEEP ProgramMusic Included:Song: Jam Time (Instrumental)Artist: NAMLicense #: 4601725855Song: New Kids (Instrumental)Artist: More Like GeorgiaLicense #: 9511520888

In this episode, we feature a conversation with veteran AP Physics teacher Christine Rittenhouse regarding the implementation of student-centered grading practices in the secondary classroom. Christine shares her focus on a grading philosophy that emphasizes student growth, ownership, and mastery over traditional point-chasing. The episode serves as a practical guide for educators, detailing a multi-tiered assessment structure that leverages frequent feedback to help students navigate the learning cycle and reach their full academic potential.Mentioned ResourcesGrading From the Inside Out: Bringing Accuracy to Student Assessment Through a Standards-Based Mindset by Tom SchimmerBuilding Thinking Classrooms in Mathematics by Peter LiljedahlFrisco ISD Secondary Grading Philosophy (7/2023)Music Included:Song: Jam Time (Instrumental)Artist: NAMLicense #: 4601725855Song: New Kids (Instrumental)Artist: More Like GeorgiaLicense #: 9511520888

In this episode, we take a deep-dive conversation with teacher candidates Alysa, Julianna, Parker, and Abigail regarding the rigorous process of preparing for Texas secondary teacher certification exams. While the students briefly touch on their personal inspirations for entering the field , the primary focus is on the academic and logistical hurdles of the certification pathway. The episode serves as a practical guide for pre-service educators, leveraging the recent successes and stressors of current candidates to help those coming after them navigate the path to certification.Mentioned Resources:Texas Educator Certification Examination Program WebsiteMusic Included:Song: Jam Time (Instrumental)Artist: NAMLicense #: 4601725855Song: New Kids (Instrumental)Artist: More Like GeorgiaLicense #: 9511520888

In this episode, guest host Dr. Jennifer Whitfield interviews aggieTEACH-Arts & Sciences Program Manager Kenric Davies about why he decided to become a high school educator. Kenric also shares why he eventually got out of the classroom to pursue his changing passion related to supporting educators in Texas.Music Included:Song: Jam Time (Instrumental)Artist: NAMLicense #: 4601725855Song: New Kids (Instrumental)Artist: More Like GeorgiaLicense #: 9511520888

In this episode, a deputy for a local sheriff's department joins in a discussion about school safety and what a teacher should do in difficult situations.Mentioned Resources:Texas School Safety CenterStop The Bleed TrainingMusic Included:Song: Jam Time (Instrumental)Artist: NAMLicense #: 4601725855Song: New Kids (Instrumental)Artist: More Like GeorgiaLicense #: 9511520888

In this episode, former teachers in science and social studies discuss tips to help a classroom run smoothly. We cover topics from room layout, classroom procedures, group work and projects, and content spiraling as all ways to help teachers stay on track and enjoy their classroom environment.Music Included:Song: Jam Time (Instrumental)Artist: NAMLicense #: 4601725855Song: New Kids (Instrumental)Artist: More Like GeorgiaLicense #: 9511520888

In this episode, we talk with ⁠Dr. Matthew Neighbors '96 ⁠about the role of the superintendent of a school district and how they can support classroom teachers.Music Included:Song: Jam Time (Instrumental)Artist: NAMLicense #: 4601725855Song: New Kids (Instrumental)Artist: More Like GeorgiaLicense #: 9511520888

In this episode, we discuss how technology can be integrated into a classroom to emphasis learning. Our guest speaker (Miguel Guhlin from TCEA) gives advice to new teachers about how to avoid the traps of introducing technology to your lessons at the wrong time or for the wrong reasons.Episode Resources:Ed Tech Adoption Stages, Part 1 - https://blog.tcea.org/ed-tech-adoption-part-1/AI and the SOLO Taxonomy: A Path to Deeper Learning - https://blog.tcea.org/ai-and-solo-taxonomy-a-path-to-deeper-learning/Evidence-Based Teaching - https://www.mglead.org/materials/ebsOnline, Self-Paced Courses - https://tcea.org/coursesFree Resources for Teachers  - https://mglink.org/resources/Music Included:Song: Jam Time (Instrumental)Artist: NAMLicense #: 4601725855Song: New Kids (Instrumental)Artist: More Like GeorgiaLicense #: 9511520888

In this episode, we talk with a teacher turned assistant principal about the current teacher appraisal system in Texas. Our conversation covers the individual parts of the process as well as how new teachers can use this process to hone their craft and become more effective in the classroom.Music Included:Song: Jam Time (Instrumental)Artist: NAMLicense #: 4601725855Song: New Kids (Instrumental)Artist: More Like GeorgiaLicense #: 9511520888

In this episode, I dive into the various people that are part of the day-to-day work that a teacher does. Having a good relationship with these groups or individuals will greatly enhance the job satisfaction and effectiveness of a classroom teacher.Music Included:Song: Jam Time (Instrumental)Artist: NAMLicense #: 4601725855Song: New Kids (Instrumental)Artist: More Like GeorgiaLicense #: 9511520888

In this episode we discuss the expectations a general education teacher has when working with students in special education or Section 504. Many new teachers have little experience in this area and our guest (Catherine Davies '10, Registered Educational Diagnostician) helps give more practical information.Resources: TEA - Special Education , Intervention Central , Positive Behavioral Interventions & SupportsMusic Included:Song: Jam Time (Instrumental)Artist: NAMLicense #: 4601725855Song: New Kids (Instrumental)Artist: More Like GeorgiaLicense #: 9511520888

Teachers have the opportunity to bring their passion for content and teaching to their students in a variety of ways. In this episode, leaders from local education foundations discuss how writing classroom grants can help teachers elevate student engagement and bring relevance to their content. Our conversation focuses on tips for writing great grant proposals and examples of previous teacher grants.Mentioned ResourcesBryan Education Foundation Classroom Grant IdeasCollege Station Education Foundation Classroom Grant IdeasMusic Included:Song: Jam Time (Instrumental)Artist: NAMLicense #: 4601725855Song: New Kids (Instrumental)Artist: More Like GeorgiaLicense #: 9511520888

Teacher burnout is real and new teachers need to go into the field with tools and knowledge to help weather through the difficult times. In this episode, we talk with representatives of the Charles Butt Foundation, Kurt Lockhart and Chris Lowak, about the data they collect about teacher retention in Texas. During our conversation, we touch on why teachers feel burn out and how they can manage the stress of the job especially in their first few years in the classroom.Episode Resources:2024 Texas Teacher PollMusic Included:Song: Jam Time (Instrumental)Artist: NAMLicense #: 4601725855Song: New Kids (Instrumental)Artist: More Like GeorgiaLicense #: 9511520888

In this episode, recent aggieTEACH alumni discuss their experiences in the first year of teaching. The invited guests share success and areas of growth and how the aggieTEACH program helped them have a great first year.Music Included:Song: Jam Time (Instrumental)Artist: NAMLicense #: 4601725855Song: New Kids (Instrumental)Artist: More Like GeorgiaLicense #: 9511520888

In this episode, we talk with Quinn McCall, aggieTEACH alumni and now works with the Texas Classroom Teachers Association (TCTA) on how professional and educational associations can help new and veteran teachers in the classroom.Music Included:Song: Jam Time (Instrumental)Artist: NAMLicense #: 4601725855Song: New Kids (Instrumental)Artist: More Like GeorgiaLicense #: 9511520888

In this episode, we discuss thoughts around what assessment in the secondary classroom does and should look like. Topics range from national and state assessments, such as STAAR or College Board, to the simple formative assessments that check for understanding. Music Included: Song: Jam Time (Instrumental) Artist: NAM License #: 4601725855 Song: New Kids (Instrumental) Artist: More Like Georgia License #: 9511520888

In this episode, aggieTEACH alumni discuss the opportunities and challenges they see in different types of school districts around Texas. The invited guests share their perspective on teaching in a rural, suburban, or urban district. Music Included: Song: Jam Time (Instrumental) Artist: NAM License #: 4601725855 Song: New Kids (Instrumental) Artist: More Like Georgia License #: 9511520888

Developing your personal teaching philosophy is an important step in becoming an educator. In this episode, we discuss what should be included in your personal teaching philosophy and how it can be leveraged in your classroom and your career. Music Included: Song: Jam Time (Instrumental) Artist: NAM License #: 4601725855 Song: New Kids (Instrumental) Artist: More Like Georgia License #: 9511520888

In this episode, we talk with Barclay Osborne, former science teacher and current Career Center Director for the College of Arts & Sciences at Texas A&M University. We discuss how teachers should view interviews with school and districts as bi-directional where a teacher applicant learns just as much about a prospective job as campus admin learn about the teacher applicant. Music Included: Song: Jam Time (Instrumental) Artist: NAM License #: 4601725855 Song: New Kids (Instrumental) Artist: More Like Georgia License #: 9511520888

In this episode, we discuss aspects of classroom management that stretch across classroom, districts, and years. No matter where you are or what district/level you are teaching in, you will see these classroom characters. Listen to the tips we have for how to handle specific student behaviors in your classroom. Music Included: Song: Jam Time (Instrumental) Artist: NAM License #: 4601725855 Song: New Kids (Instrumental) Artist: More Like Georgia License #: 9511520888

In this episode, we talk with Taylor Donias, Certification Officer at Texas A&M University, about the requirements for obtaining a teacher certification in Texas and how programs at TAMU go above and beyond to prepare future educators. Music Included: Song: Jam Time (Instrumental) Artist: NAM License #: 4601725855 Song: New Kids (Instrumental) Artist: More Like Georgia License #: 9511520888

Classroom observations are a requirement for teacher certification in Texas.  In this episode, we discuss with Dr. Bart Taylor, Lecturer in the Teaching, Learning & Culture department at Texas A&M, what a pre-service educator should be looking for during their classroom observations to help them learn to be a better teacher. Music Included: Song: Jam Time (Instrumental) Artist: NAM License #: 4601725855 Song: New Kids (Instrumental) Artist: More Like Georgia License #: 9511520888