Mr. Bryan's Classroom

The final days of the school year can either be the most stressful… or some of the most meaningful. Too often, teachers shut things down early and fill the days with unstructured free time. While that may work for some classes, for many teachers it leads to more behavior problems, stress, and chaos. In this episode, Bryan shares practical ideas to help teachers finish the year strong while still keeping learning fun, engaging, and purposeful. Your students can absolutely enjoy the final weeks of school without turning the classroom into a free-for-all. Remember: students have all summer to relax and goof around. It shouldn't start in your classroom.

In Smart Kids, Bad Schools, award-winning author and educator Brian Crosby (brian-crosby.com)draws on his many years as a high school English teacher to offer a candid appraisal of why our schools are failing and what we must do to save them.       

If you watched the Super Bowl, you couldn't help but notice the atmosphere was filled with excitement and passion. The announcers, players, fans, and halftime performers acted like they really wanted to be there and enjoyed what they were doing.  Can the same be said about you in your classroom?

Teaching is supposed to be about shaping lives—not surviving the workplace. We talk a lot about bullying in schools, and rightly so. But there’s a hard truth we rarely acknowledge: teachers are being bullied too—by students, parents, and even the very leadership meant to support them. In spaces that claim to be “safe zones,” many educators are walking on eggshells, burned out, and leaving. 

Congratulations to the teachers in the States! You have made it to Thanksgiving break. Kriscia Cabral took some time to write down what she is thankful for when she goes to work as a teacher. In the spirit of the Thanksgiving holiday, Bryan shares her top five reasons on why she is a thankful teacher. For the full article go to http://www.scholastic.com/teachers/top-teaching/2013/11/top-5-reasons-im-thankful-teacher

In this episode, Bryan is joined by returning guests Dr. James Hughey and Evelyn Sellers, who bring years of experience and valuable perspective on the teaching profession. Together, they respond to listener questions and tackle some of the most common challenges teachers face in the classroom and beyond.  

In this episode, Bryan sits down with National Teachers Hall of Fame educator Alan Haskvitz to explore what truly defines a successful teacher. Too often, we equate success with test scores or picture-perfect classrooms seen on Pinterest. But as Alan explains, the real value in education comes from deeper, less flashy qualities.

In this episode, Bryan shares how his dogs, Max and Nikki, brought joy, comfort, and connection to his students—proving that the right dog can make a lasting impact in a school community. From classroom visits to becoming beloved companions, their presence not only supported student well-being but also gave him precious time with them during their senior years. Janelle's Cox article lists those benefits at http://www.teachhub.com/teacher%E2%80%99s-guide-classroom-pets

With over 3.5 million educators in public school classrooms, teaching is the largest professional workforce in the U.S.—yet nearly half leave the profession within five years. Why is burnout so common, and what can be done about it? In this episode, Bryan sits down with a former classroom teacher who was on the verge of walking away from education but instead made a pivotal change that reignited her passion to stay in education. She became a librarian/media specialist. Together, they explore the realities of modern teaching, the evolving landscape of education, and how finding the right fit can make all the difference.

In a world where classroom demands are higher than ever, clutter—both physical and mental—can silently drain creativity and focus. This episode explores how embracing minimalism can lead to a more intentional, efficient, and inspiring learning environment. By removing what no longer serves you or your students, you make space for what truly matters. Our days are tough enough as it is. Why not use the end of the year to get rid of things that are serving no real value to you or your students?Mentioned on the program: Tiny Houses & the Quest to De-Clutter As most of us conclude a challenging school year, this will be the final show for this season.

In this inspiring episode, I'm joined by Erin Gruwell whose powerful teaching journey became the foundation for "The Freedom Writers Diary" and the major motion picture "Freedom Writers". Erin shares how she transformed a classroom of students once labeled "unteachable" by embracing diversity, challenging stereotypes, and fostering a culture of empathy and critical thinking. With her unwavering belief in her students, they not only wrote their own stories but also became published authors. Erin reflects on the impact of their bestselling book and the lasting legacy of the Freedom Writers. For more about the Freedom Writers foundation visit http://www.freedomwritersfoundation.org

While complaints about failing schools and negativity within the profession are common—sometimes even from teachers themselves—we’re diving into what keeps educators going. What fuels your passion when you walk into the classroom each day? In this episode, we explore the heart of teaching, the moments that inspire us, and the reasons we stay committed.

In this episode, we dive into an important topic for teachers considering a change: exploring new opportunities at other schools. One of the unique challenges of our profession is the short window of time available for interviewing and hiring. Returning guests Evelyn and James join us to share valuable insights into what school administrators are really looking for in candidates. Whether you're actively seeking a new position or just curious about the process, this conversation will give you the tools and perspective you need to stand out. 

Every teacher has faced that one unmotivated student—the one who just won’t engage, no matter what strategy you try. Parents have given up, and you're left wondering: is this my fault? Could a better teacher have reached them? In this episode, I challenge that mindset and address the excuses that often shapes today’s classrooms. Instead of getting frustrated, educators are encouraged to rise above the noise, do the best you can, reject the excuses, and get creative.

In this episode, I’m joined by the inspiring Dr. Todd Whitaker, one of the most sought-after motivational speakers in education. We dive into what truly sets great teachers and principals apart, exploring the habits, mindsets, and decisions that make a lasting impact on students and school culture.

As teachers, it’s easy to fall into the comparison trap—especially in the age of social media, where we see picture-perfect classrooms and educators who seem to have it all together. But constantly measuring ourselves against others isn’t always healthy, and yet, we do it anyway. In this episode, I share insights from Joshua Becker’s blog post "Stop Comparing Your Life. Start Living It," exploring why comparison holds us back and how we can shift our focus to living with purpose and contentment. Tune in for a refreshing perspective on embracing your unique teaching journey. Read the original blog post here: [http://www.becomingminimalist.com/stop-comparing-your-life-start-living-it]

For this episode, we're joined by Robert Wilder, author of Tales From The Teachers Lounge—a humorous and brutally honest collection of essays about what it really means to be a teacher today. After leaving a lucrative advertising career in New York, Robert took a teaching job at an alternative school in Santa Fe—and never looked back. Now, he shares his sharp-witted, laugh-out-loud insights as a teacher, parent, and former student, revealing the absurd, challenging, and rewarding realities of education.http://robertwilder.com/ 

It's my birthday month and that has put me in a reflective mood. I'm reminded that I'm getting older.  I have more years behind me than in front of me. This reflection has led me to look back over my long teaching career and offer some of what I have found to be effective for my classroom experience. 

For this episode, I dive into the tough decisions many teachers are facing—should you stay in education or explore new opportunities? With so many educators feeling uncertain or even fearful about making the perfect choice, we’re here to provide insight and support. Today, we’re joined by special guest Dr. James Hughey, who will share valuable guidance on navigating this crossroads and offer practical strategies for protecting your mental health as we close out the school year.  For blog posts, podcasts, and videos from Dr. Hughey visit pfpl.us.

For this episode, we’re diving into a video role-play that features a scenario we can all relate to—an angry student disrupting the learning environment. Classroom management is one of the biggest challenges educators face, and how we handle these moments can shape the entire atmosphere of our classrooms. As we watch this video together, let’s analyze the teacher’s response—was it effective? Could it have been handled differently?

With the rising cost of living and the immense challenges of the teaching profession here at home, many teachers are exploring opportunities abroad; seeking a fresh start where their work is better respected and their stress levels are lower. One popular destination is South Korea, known for its appreciation of educators and unique cultural experiences. We’ll be speaking with a young teacher currently working in South Korea, who shares valuable insights into the pros and cons of teaching overseas.

With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, I thought it’d be the perfect time to celebrate the passion and love we have for our work as educators. It’s easy to get caught up in the challenges and negativity surrounding the teaching profession, but today, we’re flipping the script. I’ll be sharing what I enjoy about being in the classroom and the overall profession.

While many educators are searching for ways out of the classroom, Ernie took the opposite path, transitioning from a successful legal career to teaching. In this episode, he’ll share practical strategies that worked for him, along with motivational insights to inspire fellow teachers to reignite their passion for education.

In this episode, we explore a crucial question many teachers are grappling with: When is it time to quit teaching? I'll be reading the insightful article "When Is It Time to Quit Teaching" by former guest Vicki Davis. Deciding whether to step away from something you love is never easy, but this episode will guide you in evaluating if you simply need a break to recharge or if it’s time to move on to a new chapter. Whether you're considering leaving the classroom or looking for clarity on your teaching journey, this episode is here to help. The full article can be found at http://www.coolcatteacher.com/when-is-it-time-to-quit-teaching/ Original NBC news clip https://youtu.be/c6i2U6dRhgs    

On this episode, acclaimed author Lewis Buzbee join us to discuss his insightful book, "Blackboard: A Personal History of the Classroom". He shares his reflections on classrooms of the past, evaluates the current state of schools, and imagines the possibilities for the future of education. For more from Lewis Buzbee, visit his website at https://www.lewisbuzbee.com/index.htm.  

Take a nostalgic journey back to 1947 with a classic educational training video. This fascinating glimpse into the past highlights how teaching practices and classroom dynamics have evolved over the years—and how some timeless advice still holds true today.

Happy New Year, teachers! Welcome to the podcast where educators come together to inspire, learn, and grow. I'm thrilled to kick off the year with a special guest, Vicki Davis—a passionate teacher and successful podcaster. In this episode, Vicki shares invaluable teaching strategies, motivational insights, and lessons from her remarkable journey as an educator. Whether you're looking for fresh ideas or a dose of inspiration, this conversation is packed with actionable tips to energize your teaching practice. Be sure to visit Vicki's site at (https://www.coolcatteacher.com) for even more resources!

This time of year, we often pause to reflect on the past and plan for the year ahead, but have you ever wondered—what advice would the older version of yourself give you today? Imagine your future self, nearing the end of life, offering insights to you in the present. Would your future self encourage you to stay with teaching? Would they encourage you to take a risk and try something else? In this episode, we'll consider the invaluable messages from those who have walked before us and how their perspective can guide our resolutions as we begin a new year.

Feeling guilty about leaving education? In this video, I dive into why it’s okay to transition out without guilt. While you may love the kids and cherish your co-workers, the truth is that they’ll adapt and move on just fine. Kids are resilient, and your co-workers will adjust to new dynamics. You need to prioritize your well-being because staying in an unhealthy situation doesn’t serve anyone, especially not you. Leaving doesn’t mean you don’t care—it means you’re choosing to take care of yourself. Tune in for reassurance, encouragement, and a reminder that it’s okay to put yourself first.

Teachers, may your holiday break be merry and bright!  It's Christmas time in the city, and that means we not only get to enjoy the holiday season but also some much needed time off.  Bryan shares some inspiring stories from teachers to remind you that we as educators are a big deal.

Child abuse is an incredibly difficult subject to confront, especially during a season traditionally filled with hope and joy. However, the painful truth is that sexual abuse of children is happening even now. As educators, we often receive training on this issue at the start of the school year—a time when our plates are already overflowing, and we haven’t yet had the chance to truly know our students. Now, as we approach the midpoint of the academic year and have developed relationships with our students, it may be a good time to revisit this critical topic with the help of expert guests from Darkness to Light(www.d2l.org). This organization is dedicated to empowering adults to protect children from sexual abuse and supporting those affected. In this episode, we tackle the myths surrounding child sexual abuse, discuss the vital role educators play in identifying and responding to concerns, and share practical strategies for addressing this sensitive issue. Join us as we shine a light on this difficult subject, equipping ourselves with the knowledge and tools to better support the children in our care.

December often brings unique challenges for elementary teachers, as excitement for the holidays can make classroom management more difficult. Will students in your class be naughty or nice this year? In this festive episode from A Modern Teacher (amodernteacher.com), discover a creative approach one teacher used to keep her students off Santa’s naughty list. With practical tips and holiday cheer, this resource is perfect for maintaining a joyful and focused classroom during the bustling holiday season. amodernteacher.com/classroom-management-during-the-holidays/ May this time with your students be merry and bright!

Teaching is one of the most rewarding professions, yet it often comes with challenges that can feel overwhelming. It’s easy to slip into negativity, focusing on frustrations and struggles. But what if there’s a better way to approach our work and inspire our students? In this episode, we’re joined by Owen Griffith, a veteran teacher and author of the educational blog Spiritually Teaching. Owen shares his transformative journey of teaching gratitude in the classroom. By fostering an attitude of gratitude, he has not only positively impacted his students’ lives but has also found renewed strength and fulfillment in his teaching career. Join us as we explore practical strategies for incorporating gratitude into your teaching practices and discover how it can enhance classroom culture, improve student engagement, and reignite your passion for education.

Are you looking for an effective way to balance your lectures with meaningful student interaction? In this episode, I introduce and comment on the **Ten Plus Two Strategy** from the Let's Teach YouTube channel —a simple yet powerful teaching technique that promotes active engagement while maintaining the structure of your lesson. Perfect for creating a dynamic and interactive classroom, this strategy ensures students stay engaged and retain key concepts. *Let's Teach* YouTube channel [https://youtu.be/Y2udPWz_3vg]

Girls are excelling in schools today—fantastic news, right? But what about the boys who are falling behind? Across the country, millions of boys are struggling with reading and writing, being diagnosed with learning disabilities at unprecedented rates, and increasingly opting out of college altogether. In this eye-opening episode, we’re joined by Peg Tyre, bestselling author of The Trouble with Boys, who will shed light on the challenges boys face in today’s educational landscape. Teachers, school administrators, and parents alike will gain valuable insights into why boys from all backgrounds are underperforming—and, most importantly, how we can support them. Peg offers practical strategies to help educators and families ensure all children, including boys, have the tools they need to succeed academically and beyond. Peg Tyre's website https://www.pegtyre.com

Like Ben Ellis, one day we will all pass from this life. But before that day comes, we have the profound opportunity to leave a lasting legacy through our work as educators. The teaching profession offers countless moments where we can make a real difference—not only in the academic success of our students but in their lives as whole people. We never truly know the depth of the impact we can have on others, but it's there, often quietly waiting to unfold years after they've left our classrooms. What will our students remember about us years from now? It won’t be about test scores or how well we aligned with state standards. The real question is: How did we make them feel? Did we ignite a love of learning? Did we show them kindness, patience, and understanding? Our greatest impact will come from the relationships we build, the encouragement we offer, and the belief we instill in our students that they are capable of greatness. In the end, it’s these human connections that will define our legacy as teachers. Let's make the most of every opportunity to teach not just with our heads, but with our hearts.

  Parent-teacher conferences often feel like a routine obligation that neither parents nor teachers look forward to. These meetings can become repetitive, with teachers listing off a student's challenges or, in the case of high achievers, simply praising their performance. Unfortunately, this traditional format often fails to spark meaningful change or inspire student growth and it frequently sidelines the most important voice in the conversation—the students. What if, instead of the typical conferences, we reimagine these meetings as student-led goal-setting sessions? These meetings could shift the focus toward proactive, positive collaboration aimed at improving student achievement. By empowering students to take the lead, they can articulate their own goals and take ownership of their learning. This approach also fosters a growth mindset, turning what was once a one-sided conversation into a dynamic opportunity for reflection and future planning. As educators, we know that learning thrives when expectations are clear and students are motivated with a positive mindset. A student-led goal-setting conference encourages both of these, while also engaging parents as active members of the instructional team. This collaboration strengthens the support system around the student, making success more attainable. By giving students the platform to advocate for themselves and aligning efforts between teachers and parents, we can transform these meetings from something we dread into an exciting opportunity for growth and progress.

While teachers naturally expect their students to be attentive and engaged, how often do we prioritize being active listeners ourselves? Listening is a crucial skill for educators, yet many of us find it challenging to fully engage with our students' thoughts and feelings. Join Dr. James Hughey and Bryan as they explore the transformative impact of teachers who truly listen.  For Dr. Hughey's “Power For Positive Living” podcast & blog posts visit PFPL.US

Remind (@RemindHQ) is a free tool that has helped me to be more effective with classroom communication by sending quick, simple messages to any device that parents and students may use. All phone numbers stay private. I talk with Taylor Chapman about the many benefits of using the Remind platform and how it can make us more effective in communicating with students and parents. Visit Remind at https://www.remind.com/

In this episode, we dive into the reality many teachers face: the struggle to keep creativity alive in a classroom setting that often feels like it’s moving away from innovative teaching methods. Just like a car battery can lose its charge, educators can sometimes find themselves in a rut, losing the inspiration that fuels their passion. Fortunately, these ruts don't have to be permanent. Bryan shares insights from a blog post by "Write On With Mrs. G" that offers practical tips to help teachers recharge their creativity and reignite their passion for teaching. Whether you're feeling burnt out or simply looking for new ways to keep your classroom engaging, this episode will give you the boost you need to stay creative and energized. Check out Mrs. G's post at https://writeonwithmissg.com/2020/03/04/15-ways-to-jump-start-your-creativity-as-a-teacher/ Shout out to the creative Math Teacher/Jedi at https://youtu.be/Z9NQatne0xg?si=ijHpFHPE5xl-1jOy

Discover invaluable insights from Emily Jennette, the 2008 Georgia Teacher of the Year, as she shares her passion for transforming the lives of students and inspiring fellow educators. In this enlightening program, Emily opens up about her journey into teaching, revealing the key moments that fueled her dedication. She also dives into practical strategies that brought success in her classroom—approaches that you can apply to inspire your own students. Whether you're a seasoned teacher or just starting your journey, Emily offers heartfelt encouragement and actionable tips to help you make a lasting impact in education. #teachers #classroom #school #teaching #teachermotivation #education

  We as educators give attention to those who excel in our classrooms and to the ones who disrupt the learning environment.  However, what about our invisible students? They are disappearing and we may not even know it. You know the type. They don't misbehave and we can go through a whole period/subject without engaging them at all. We can't ignore them. Bryan shares some strategies to help us include the invisible students in our classroom.

In this episode, we dive deep into the complexities of shyness and how it impacts students in the classroom. Often misunderstood, shyness isn’t just one emotion—it’s a combination of fear, tension, apprehension, and embarrassment. Many shy students may appear to lack confidence or seem self-conscious, especially in new situations or when they're the center of attention. Environmental changes and school pressures can further amplify these feelings. Shyness isn’t always a negative trait. In fact, many shy students have a unique ability to think for themselves, observe quietly, and please others. Being reserved can even be a valuable personality characteristic. However, when shyness becomes severe, it can hinder a student’s development, and that's when educators need to take notice. Join Bryan and education expert Leah Davies (@Kellybearbooks) as they explore the quiet thinkers/observers in the classroom and discuss how teachers can support them. Whether you're a parent, teacher, or anyone interested in child development, this episode offers insights on helping shy students thrive.

"Shut up and sit down!" No, that's not Samuel Jackson acting out a role as a teacher. It's Mr. Ruffen. Several years ago, this teacher went viral in how he handled a conflict between two students in his classroom. Of course, not all classroom conflicts are the same. However, I believe Mr. Ruffen did an excellent job of breaking up these two students and showing his class that he cares. All in record time!

 On this episode, Bryan interviews his mom. Not only did she have an incredible impact on her family, she also made a difference in the lives of many students. Evelyn taught a vast amount of students during three decades. This episode highlights some of what she learned in her teaching journey. 

As many of us start another year of teaching, Bryan shares an article from Mike Roberts (@BaldRoberts) on 20 simple-yet-meaningful things teachers can do every day to improve the classroom atmosphere for themselves and their students. This article can be found on the National Association of Independent Schools website at https://www.nais.org/learn/independent-ideas/august-2018/20-simple-yet-meaningful-things-educators-can-do-every-day/

No smiling till Christmas? Do we need to act like a drill instructor the first few weeks of school? There are many misunderstandings when it comes to being a firm and fair teacher. Fortunately, we have an experienced educator, mentor, and author Robert Ward to help us identify what that looks like in an effective classroom. We also discuss what makes teachers fascinating facilitators to their students. Robert's book "The Firm, Fair, Fascinating Facilitator: Inspire your Students, Engage your Class, Transform your Teaching" can be found on Amazon and his blog is at https://rewardingeducation.wordpress.com

Welcome back to school! It's been awhile since we've had a normal classroom environment. It can be helpful to explain your class procedures. Procedures tell a student what to do. This form of prevention can be an important key to solving discipline problems and make your classroom run more smoothly. For the full article, visit http://www.teachers.net/wong/SEP13/

It's that time of year again! Summer vacation is coming to an end and we're getting ready to start a brand new school year! The start of the year is critical, and so much depends on your attitude. Bryan and Dr. James offer some helpful suggestions about the mindset/attitude you convey the first few weeks. For more of Dr. James content visit ⁠PFPL.US

On this podcast series, Bryan will not only share his own views and experiences but feature the voice of other educators as well. Some are featured in a conversational episode and others are highlighted by having their written words read aloud.    This episode features an article from edutopia.org titled ⁠"How Novice and Expert Teachers Approach Classroom Management Differently"⁠ by Youki Terada—plus 6 takeaways for managing your classroom effectively this year."