Ed Soul

In this episode, we sit down with Sourcewell Educator Summit keynote speaker Thomas C. Murray to explore what it really means to keep learning personal, authentic, and rooted in strong relationships. Thomas shares practical ways to move from believing in student-centered learning to applying it through intentional design of experiences, spaces, and school culture. We also dig into what “Future Ready Schools” look like in practice—a...

In this episode, we talk with social studies leaders Sung Ja Shin (Minnesota Humanities Center) and Brittany Rawson Haeg (Minnesota Department of Education) about the key shifts in Minnesota’s updated social studies standards and the broader review/revision process behind them. We dig into what’s meaningfully different in this set of standards, when they go into effect, and what K–12 educators can expect. While there’s no perfect c...

In this episode, keynote speaker and author John Garrett explores what it means to challenge “traditional professionalism” and create workplaces where people can bring more of their full selves to work. We discuss the core ideas behind his award-winning book What’s Your And? and what choosing humanity, passion, and purpose can look like in schools for teachers, staff, and leaders. John shares practical examples and addresses common...

This episode of Ed Soul, is the third and final episode in our Career and College Readiness series. Hear from awardwinning educator Randy Thompson and his students as they share what academic and career planning looks like in practice. The conversation explores how a CCR approach feels different for both teachers and students, how it impacts students’ readiness for life after high school, and how personal interests intersect with r...

In this episode of Ed Soul, we continue our Career and College Readiness series by exploring the vital role of partnerships between PreK–12 schools, higher education, and industry. Dr. Norman from Central Lakes College and Kathy Cottew from Essentia Health share insights on what effective school–partner collaborations look like and how these relationships can be mutually beneficial. The conversation also tackles the balance between...

In this episode of Ed Soul, we kick off a three-part Career and College Readiness series with administrative leader, Principal Amie Westberg, and Sourcewell Director of Career and College Readiness, Dr. Maggie Velasco, exploring what it truly means to lead career-connected learning from a systems-level perspective. Amie Westberg unpacks key CCR terminology, including work-based learning and CTSOs, and shares how leadership decision...

This episode dives into modern, student-centered grammar instruction with author and grammarian Patty McGee. The conversation explores what it truly means to study grammar versus simply identifying it. We highlight insights from her new book Not Your Granny’s Grammar, and unpack myths tied to traditional “granny grammar.” 

 Resources and ideas from this episode:

• Amazon.com: Not Your Granny’s Grammar: An Innovative Approach to Mea...

This episode of Ed Soul explores what it truly means to build data and assessment literacy alongside COMPASS specialists Erin Potter and Jessica Rice. Together, they unpack the similarities and differences between data and assessment, clarify common misconceptions, and break down the wide range of data educators encounter—from statewide metrics to classroom observations. They also dive into assessment types and ways students can au...

 This episode of Ed Soul explores what truly shapes a positive school culture and climate with COMPASS specialist Megan Perry. Together, we unpack the differences between climate and culture, what healthy staff experiences look like, and how those internal conditions connect to student success. Megan also highlights the conditions that help students, families, and communities feel valued—and offers practical advice for sustaining p...

This episode explores the growing presence and importance of multilingual students and families in schools. We clarify key distinctions, address common misconceptions, and share up to date terminology for best supporting our multilingual learners. The conversation covers identification, the responsibilities for providing support, and strategies for schools with limited resources, emphasizing the inclusion of families in the support...

This episode features specialists Jodi Altringer, Kayla Awolope, and Amy Krueger, who discuss the partnership between general and special education teachers in early childhood and primary years. The conversation explores early intervention and strategies for supporting all students. Guests share personal motivations, favorite success stories, and insights on what they wish colleagues understood about each other’s roles.  

Resources...

This episode explores the partnership between high school general education and special education teachers, featuring insights from Anjanette Kraus and Stacey Jurek. The discussion highlights the co-teaching model, debunks common myths, and emphasizes how collaboration benefits all students, especially through inclusive practices and tier 1 strategies within the MTSS framework. The guests share personal stories and practical strate...

This episode explores how educators can effectively manage challenging student behaviors in general education classrooms by focusing on Tier 1 strategies and the importance of building authentic relationships. Lisa Worden discusses why simply telling teachers to “build a relationship” isn’t enough, emphasizing the need for self-awareness, understanding cultural identities, and recognizing behavior as a form of communication. The co...

In this episode, Emma Needham, a Minnesota Indigenous Education Equity Access Specialist, discusses the importance of supporting Indigenous education. Emma shares her personal connection to the work, addresses the historical and ongoing barriers to including Native perspectives in schools, and offers advice for educators who feel uncertain about teaching Indigenous content. 

Resources and ideas from this episode: 

A Teacher’s Guide t...

This episode explores the importance of interdisciplinary literacy—the integration of reading and writing skills across all subject areas—with expert guest Shannon Rivard. Shannon shares her extensive experience in literacy instruction and discusses how literacy standards differ from traditional ELA standards, covers practical strategies for vocabulary instruction, and shares strategies for supporting students and teachers in under...

In this episode Ann McGee, Founder of Open Windows Books, shares her journey in increasing diverse literature for our rural schools. Learn about the concept of windows and mirrors in literature, how diverse texts are important for all our students, and teacher learning for how to “teach” diverse books. Interested in getting involved? Check out an Open Windows Books near you!

Resources and ideas from this episode:

 Open Windows Books...

This episode features guests Chris Castillero and Mike Jordahl, who are experts in mathematics education. The episode focuses on the importance of high-quality math instruction in every classroom and addresses common barriers that teachers face in providing such instruction. Chris and Mike share their insights on overcoming math anxieties, the latest revisions in math standards in Minnesota, and resources available for educators.

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This episode reminds us of important themes at the start of a new school year, such as the value of building strong relationships with students, establishing routines collaboratively, and embracing fresh starts for both teachers and students. Whether you are new to teaching or a veteran, we all make mistakes; it’s part of the process. Finding support networks and ongoing learning are essential for a successful year for us all.

Resou...