How We Teach This

In this special reunion episode, guest host Stephanie Taylor leads a conversation with a panel of elementary educators recognized as Kansas Master Teachers. These award-winning teachers share the strategies, stories, and philosophies that have shaped their approach to teaching—covering everything from classroom management and student engagement to the power of play, authentic learning, and teacher self-care.

Whether you're new to te...

In this inspiring episode of How We Teach This, we turn the mic over to a special guest host, Brooklynne Morrison — an honors student and future educator from the Teachers College—who interviews the 2025 Kansas Master Teachers. With fresh curiosity and thoughtful questions, she explores what motivates exceptional educators, how they build connections with students, and the wisdom they would pass on to the next generation. This cros...

In this inspiring episode of How We Teach This, we sit down with the 2025 Kansas Teacher of the Year team—educators recognized for their outstanding impact in the classroom and beyond. They share the purpose statements that guide their teaching, memorable “this is why I teach” moments, and practical strategies that consistently support student success. The conversation explores the thoughtful use of technology, classroom management...

We’re joined once again by Amanda Young, principal at Education Imagine Academy, a Microsoft Showcase School known for its forward-thinking approach to teaching and learning. In this follow-up conversation, she is joined by educators LaKeshia Brooks and Robert Black, who share how they are using technology to design engaging, personalized learning experiences.

Microsoft Reflect, for example, can provide valuable feedback on the emot...

 What’s the secret sauce for reigniting passion in teaching? It starts with amplifying teacher voice, fostering autonomy, and creating space for innovation. In this episode of How We Teach This, we welcome back Jessica Asbury, Real World Learning Coordinator for Piper USD 203, who is leading transformative initiatives that empower educators to drive meaningful change. 

From passion-based clubbing and gamified professional developmen...

Are virtual schools really easier? Do students lose out on social interaction? Can students with IEPs succeed in online learning?

In this episode of How We Teach This, we tackle the biggest myths about virtual education with Amanda Young, Principal, Education Imagine Academy, Courtney Compton, and Tim OBryhim, both teachers at Education Imagine Academy.

We break down common misconceptions, share insights, and explore how virtual scho...

Generative AI is transforming education, but how can schools use it effectively? In this episode, we talk with Jake Potter, APR, about the role of generative AI in schools from a leadership perspective. We explore how administrators can support educators with varying interest levels and confidence in using AI, providing tools and resources to ensure all teachers can leverage its potential. Additionally, we discuss the impact of gen...

In this episode, we take a deeper dive into the world of school counseling with returning guests Dr. Sarah Lendt andDr. Susan Dodd, along with new guestMatthew Fischer. From the moments that make the job rewarding to the unseen challenges they navigate daily, our guests share what it truly means to support teachers and students' academic, social, and emotional well-being.

Tune in for an insightful conversation that sheds light on th...

In this episode of How We Teach This, we dive into the transformative role of technology in education with a dynamic teacher panel from the AECT Mini Teacher Conference. Facilitated by Dr. Cecil Short, this conversation features Jessica Asbury (Piper USD 203), Sara Hoffman (Olathe USD 233), Shawn Harrel (Lee’s Summit Schools), and Jacob Hall (Associate Professor of Educational Technology at SUNY Cortland).

Discover how these educat...

In this episode, we’re thrilled to feature a dynamic panel of innovative administrators from the AECT Mini Teacher Conference. Special thanks to Dr. Cecil Short for facilitating this enlightening conversation and inviting us to participate.

Together, Jake Potter (Leavenworth USD 453), Amanda Young (Wichita Public Schools), Jacob Hall (Past-President, AECT Teacher Education Division), and Dr. Cecil Short (Emporia State University) s...

What do school counselors really do? Join Dr. Sarah Lendt and Dr. Susan Dodd, faculty in the school counseling program at Emporia State University, as they clarify the role of school counselors in K-12 education. This episode dives into the preparation counselors receive, the real-world experience they gain, and the differences between school counselors, social workers, and psychologists. 

Discover what responsibilities school coun...

Join Carrie Boettcher, PhD., Assistant Professor, and Damara Paris, PhD., Professor, from Emporia State University as they explore the vital field of vocational rehabilitation counseling.

Vocational rehabilitation counseling focuses on helping individuals with disabilities overcome barriers to employment and achieve independence. These counselors wear many hats, providing advocacy, job training, assistive technology support, and ...

This episode highlights the remarkable work of middle and high school students who went beyond traditional lectures to "do" history. Guided by their teacher, Terry Kaldhusdal, inductee into the National Teachers Hall of Fame, these young historians developed award-winning projects for National History Day. The students share their experiences conducting in-depth research, uncovering hidden stories, and even making global connection...

In this follow-up episode with Joel Truesdell, we continue our exploration of effective teaching by diving into the creation of student-centered classrooms. Truesdell shares practical strategies for fostering inclusivity, engagement, and confidence in students. We discuss specific classroom techniques, such as using inquiry-based activities and positive reinforcement, and the importance of cultivating a supportive classroom culture...

In this episode, we speak with Joel Truesdell, a 2024 inductee into the National Teachers Hall of Fame and a retired Hawaiian culture-based chemistry teacher from Kamehameha Schools. Joel shares his unique approach to education, rooted in the teaching methods of his elders. We discuss the importance of culturally centered classrooms, understanding barriers to student success, and the key to creating student-centered learning enviro...

In this episode, we dive into the world of Project-Based Learning (PBL) and how it can transform student engagement and learning outcomes. Sara Hoffman, 2024 Kansas Master Teacher, shares her expertise in designing impactful PBL experiences, from crafting driving questions to aligning projects with standards using backward design. We discuss the importance of involving outside experts and creating public products that give students...

🎉 Enter to Win an Exclusive SWAG Bag Full of Surprises! 🎉

As we celebrate the 10th season of the How We Teach This podcast, we're offering a special SWAG Bag to one lucky listener! To participate, complete the form on our website and share your feedback on our podcast. Your insights help us continue providing meaningful and valuable content to educators and leaders in the field.

For full giveaway details and entry rules, visi...

In this episode, Sara Hoffman, a 2024 Kansas Master Teacher, shares insights into the fundamentals of Project-Based Learning (PBL), a dynamic teaching approach that promotes collaboration, critical thinking, and real-world problem-solving. Hoffman explains how PBL differs from traditional projects and highlights research demonstrating its impact on student achievement and engagement. She also contrasts the effectiveness of teaching...