Welcome back to the blog! Today, I’m thrilled to share highlights from my latest podcasts featuring two remarkable guests who are making waves in the world of education.
Unlocking Creativity: Jonathan Payne's Innovative Approach to STEAM Education
In my recent conversation with Jonathan Payne, the STEAM specialist from Lackland ISD and founder of The Innovative Mind Lab, we dive deep into the transformative power of hands-on STEAM education. Jonathan’s journey from insurance salesman to passionate educator is both inspiring and enlightening.
He likens educators to gardeners, emphasizing the importance of patience and care in nurturing students’ creativity. “You have to have that mentality,” Jonathan explains. “You know you want to see fruit, but you know gardening is not microwaving a plate. It takes time, care, patience, and a certain heart to do it well.”
Jonathan introduces us to some of his most exciting projects, including robotic class pets that teach coding and biology, as well as complex Rube Goldberg machines designed by older students. These engaging projects not only ignite student interest but also equip them with essential skills for the future. Tune in to this episode for practical insights and innovative strategies to foster creativity in your own classrooms.
In the Aftermath of Hurricane Helene:
Flooding Western North Carolina with Books
In this week's episode, I speak with Carolyn B. Fraiser, a compassionate author dedicated to restocking school libraries in Western North Carolina after they were devastated by Hurricane Helene. Carolyn shares her personal connection to the community and the urgent need for children’s literature in times of crisis.
Her initiative, born from a simple plea by a local teacher, has sparked a movement to support educators and students alike. Carolyn highlights the importance of community action and the impact that books can have on children's lives, especially in challenging times.
We discuss how you can get involved, offering a curated list of book recommendations for those eager to contribute to this vital cause. Together, we can make a difference!
Links: Donate Books to Western North Carolina Schools:
Visit Carolyn Fraiser's website to learn how you can send books and support the rebuilding of classroom libraries. You can also connect to @carolynbfraiser on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn.
Contact author Constance Lombardo to learn how you can donate books to teachers and students in Asheville and Madison County.
Book Recommendations: If you want to donate books but don't know what to send, check out these curated lists of books I put together.
Subscribe & Follow: Stay updated with our latest episodes and follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn, and the Adventures in Learning website. Don't forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!*Disclosure: I am a Bookshop.org. affiliate.
Bringing These Insights to Your School or Community
Are you inspired by the innovative approaches discussed in these episodes? I would love the opportunity to bring this knowledge and passion directly to your community! My presentations focus on practical strategies for integrating hands-on STEAM education and the importance of diverse literature in fostering a well-rounded learning environment.
Whether you're looking for a workshop on enhancing creativity in your curriculum or a talk on the significance of community-driven initiatives in education, I can tailor my presentations to meet your school's specific needs.
Let’s work together to unlock the creativity in every student and make a lasting impact on their educational journey. If you're interested in scheduling a presentation or workshop, feel free to reach out!
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