The Culture-Centered Classroom podcast

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What if the most powerful lesson your students learn isn’t in your curriculum—but in your character? In this reflective and deeply human episode, Jocelynn explores what W.E.B. Du Bois called the “double consciousness”—and how that internal tension shapes what we model as educators. Students aren’t just learning from our words; they’re watching our pauses, our reactions, our silence, and our joy. This is an episode about mirror work —the quiet, ongoing practice of modeling courage, joy, humility, and humanity. It’s not about perfection. It’s about presence. From classroom culture to leadership choices, Jocelynn weaves in powerful quotes from Baldwin, Freire, and Octavia Butler, plus a call to revisit our earliest memories of power, apology, and grace. This episode will stay with you. Key Themes: What students learn from teacher behavior The emotional power of modeling courage, joy, and imperfection The “unspoken curriculum” in every classroom Reflection as liberation The AnchorED for Achievement framework in practice Reflective Prompts: Reflection – What do students learn about justice by watching me? Community – How am I shaping the unspoken climate of my classroom or school? Norms – What behaviors or mindsets have I normalized—intentionally or not? Empowerment – When have I modeled what it looks like to speak up? Agency – How do I invite student feedback on how I show up? If you’re ready to begin or deepen your mirror work, Jocelynn offers coaching and workshops designed to support reflection, recalibration, and intentional modeling. Learn more at https://customteachingsolutions.com…

The Culture-Centered Classroom

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S6.E6 - From Politics to Policy: Anchoring Your Leadership in Data and Clarity 11:48

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This episode is for every principal, coach, and school leader carrying the weight of instructional equity in a moment of increased scrutiny and resistance. When inclusive practices are questioned, books are banned, and professional values are under fire, what does it look like to lead with courage and clarity? Jocelynn Hubbard explores what it takes to hold the line and protect the vision when your integrity is tested and your community is watching. She shares real stories from her leadership coaching cohorts, unpacks the tension between risk and responsibility, and reminds you that instructional excellence is an equity strategy. Key Themes: Instructional leadership in politically restrictive climates How to lead for equity when systems are pushing back The emotional cost of carrying the work Coaching cohorts as communities of care and courage Using data and norms to protect culturally responsive practices Equity as evidence-based instructional improvement Thought Leaders Referenced: Jimmy Casas – “Your title doesn’t make you a leader. Your impact does.” Brené Brown – “You can choose courage or you can choose comfort. But you cannot choose both.” Bell Hooks – “The function of leadership is to produce more leaders, not more followers.” Reflection Questions: Would I follow me? Why or why not? What instructional or behavioral norms can serve as a shield in moments of pushback? How am I modeling vulnerability and clarity for my team? What equity-centered practice needs to be defended with data this week? What does courageous leadership look like for me right now? Are you a school leader navigating the tension between advocacy and accountability? Let’s build your capacity AND your community. Explore coaching cohorts, equity audits, and strategy sessions with Jocelynn at https://customteachingsolutions.com/equitytools .…

The Culture-Centered Classroom

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S6.E5 - Fearless Teaching: How to Teach Truth Without Risking Your Job 13:53

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In this episode, we tackle the monumental challenge of teaching equity, justice, and critical thinking in an era of restrictive policies and political scrutiny. We provide a strategic roadmap for maintaining your professional integrity without sacrificing your personal safety. Key Takeaways The Duty of Non-Neutrality: We examine Freire’s belief that education must always serve freedom, and what neutrality truly costs our students. We also share the powerful context of his exile for holding this stance. Strategic Advocacy: We break down actionable moves into two categories: Subtle Moves (using curriculum as a shield, letting primary sources speak) and Bold Moves (collective advocacy, knowing your policy). The AnchorED Framework: We introduce the AnchorED for Achievement framework— Agency, Norms, Community, Hope, Opportunity, Reflection, Empowerment, and Data-Informed Practice —as a memory tool and strategic guide for applying these advocacy moves. The Un-Bannable Work: We focus on how empowering students through Agency and Empowerment ensures that the core work of critical thinking continues, regardless of external attempts to restrict content. Reflection Questions For Teachers: What is one "anchor" from the AnchorED framework that you can apply this week to a potentially challenging topic? How can you use Data or Norms to shield a crucial discussion? For Instructional Coaches & School Leaders: Where in your curriculum or PD agenda are you inadvertently promoting neutrality or compliance? What is one way you can create a safer "collective" space (the Community anchor) for teachers to discuss restrictive policies without fear of retaliation? For Everyone: Where in your community or personal life are you tempted toward silence? What is the personal cost of that silence? Resources Mentioned The work of Paulo Freire ( Pedagogy of the Oppressed ) Cultivating Genius: An Equity Framework for Culturally and Historically Responsive Literacy by Dr. Gholdy Muhammad If you're looking for support to continue this work in your own school or classroom, I invite you to explore my Equity Audit Tools , Student Data Dive Tool , and Coaching services . You can find all of these resources at https://customteachingsolutions.com/equitytools .…

The Culture-Centered Classroom

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S6.E4 - Are You Giving Up Control or Gaining True Student Agency? 18:44

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In this episode, we explore the crucial shift from student voice to student agency. We discuss how co-creating the learning narrative with our students is a powerful act of equity that fosters ownership, intellectualism, and true freedom in the classroom. Key Takeaways Student Agency > Student Voice: We distinguish between the concepts of "voice" and "agency," arguing that true power is found in shared ownership and co-designed learning. Co-Creating is a Mindset: We define co-creation as designing curriculum, culture, and assessments with students, rather than just for them. Trusting Student Genius: We discuss how trusting our students' intellect is a fundamental act of equity and how it is essential for their intellectual liberation. Small Shifts, Big Impact: We offer simple, actionable steps that educators can take to experiment with co-creation without feeling overwhelmed. Reflection Questions For Teachers: What is one small way you can give up a little control to increase student agency? What is one part of your upcoming lesson you can let your students co-design? For Instructional Coaches & School Leaders: What is one area of your professional development that you can co-design with your teachers? What is one way you can create a culture where your team feels empowered to lead with agency and to fail forward? For Everyone: What might it look like to trust your students with something that matters this week? If you're looking for support to continue this work in your own school or classroom, I invite you to explore my Equity Audit Tools , Student Data Dive Tool , and Coaching services . You can find all of these resources at https://www.customteachingsolutions.com/equitytools .…

The Culture-Centered Classroom

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S6.E3 - How do you keep hope in the broken places? 10:35

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Dedication: This episode is dedicated to the students, families, and educators of Annunciation Catholic School in Minneapolis, Minnesota. We honor their immense courage and resilience in the face of the tragic school shooting that occurred in August 2025, and their profound choice to walk in their theme: "A future filled with hope." If you wish to support the victims and their families , please consider donating to the official fund here: https://secure.myvanco.com/L-ZM37/campaign/C-1619X . Key Takeaways Hope as an Action: We discuss how hope is not a passive wish, but a defiant and active choice—a powerful act of resistance in the face of tragedy. Bravery is Vulnerability: We redefine bravery, moving away from the idea of being unafraid to embracing vulnerability, honesty, and community as core components of courageous leadership. Rest is Resistance: We explore how intentional rest and self-care are essential forms of resistance against systemic fatigue. Modeling Humanity: We discuss the importance of educators modeling humanity and resilience for their students, showing them that it's okay to not be okay, as long as we continue to show up. Reflection Questions For Teachers: What is one small, tangible act of rest you can commit to this week that will help you sustain your energy for the work? How can you become a gentle observer of yourself this week? For Instructional Coaches & School Leaders: How are you modeling care and sustainability for your team? What is one thing you can take off their plate this week to ease the burden? For Everyone: What is one thing that brings you a quiet, reflective joy? What is one thing you can do this week to connect with that joy? If you're looking for support to continue this work in your own school or classroom, I invite you to explore my Professional Development workshops , Equity Audit Tools , Student Data Dive Tool , and Coaching services . You can find all of these resources at: https://customteachingsolutions.com/equitytools .…

The Culture-Centered Classroom

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S6.E2 - Is Your Classroom a Space of Conformity or Freedom? 17:08

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In this episode, we dive into the core themes of our season by directly addressing the current backlash against Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) and the often-ironic arguments used to oppose it. We explore the tension between conformity and freedom in education and the importance of creating spaces where students and teachers can thrive authentically. Key Takeaways The Irony of Backlash: We discuss how some who oppose DEIB work are driven by their own cultural beliefs, demonstrating a key hypocrisy at the heart of the current "culture wars." All Instruction is Culturally Responsive: We explore the powerful truth that culture is always present in the classroom. The real question isn’t whether or not to include culture, but rather, whose culture is being centered. Personal vs. Political: We explore the powerful shift that happens when the political becomes personal, forcing individuals to re-evaluate their stance on DEIB when it affects them or their loved ones directly. Conformity vs. Freedom: We use Paulo Freire's quote to frame the purpose of education, challenging listeners to reflect on whether their actions are fostering a space of conformity or one of courageous freedom. The Power of Words and Action: We reframe the debate around words, emphasizing that their true power lies in the actions that accompany them. Words can be a bridge or a wall , and their meaning is found in our commitment to live out the values they represent. Creating a Space for Safety: We talk about how educators have the power to create an environment where students and teachers are free to be authentic, curious, and collaborative without fear. Quotes “Education either functions as an instrument to bring about conformity or freedom.” — Paulo Freire “All instruction is culturally responsive. The question is to whose culture is it responding?” — Zaretta Hammond Reflection Questions: For Teachers: When you hear these words, "Education either functions as an instrument to bring about conformity or freedom," how do they make you feel? Does the idea of conformity feel safe or scary? Does the idea of freedom feel chaotic or courageous? Why? Really ask yourself what you feel the purpose of education is and why you feel this way. What messages have you been receiving from childhood? What experiences did you have in education as a child and an adult that have shaped your understanding of why we go to school, not why we learn, but why we go to school. For Instructional Coaches and School Leaders: What conversations are you having with your teams about the difference between conformity and freedom in the classroom? How are you creating a space where teachers can be vulnerable about their fears and questions about DEIB work without feeling judged? Resources Mentioned The work of Paulo Freire The book Unearthing Joy by Dr. Gholdy Muhammad The book Choosing to See: A Framework for Math Equity in the Classroom by Dr. Pamela Seda and Kyndal Brown The book Culturally Responsive Teaching & the Brain by Zaretta Hammond If you're looking for support to continue this work in your own school or classroom, I invite you to explore my Equity Audit Tools , Student Data Dive Tool , and Coaching services . You can find all of these resources at https://customteachingsolutions.com/equitytools…

The Culture-Centered Classroom

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S6.E1 - Tired of Buzzwords? The compelling Truth About Equity in Action 15:50

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In this episode, we dive into the core theme of our season: moving beyond the buzzwords of equity and into tangible action. We explore the powerful idea that what we do, not just what we say, defines who we are. Our discussion is rooted in the words of James Baldwin, Gholdy Muhammad, and the timeless message of Martin Niemöller's poem. Key Takeaways Integrity in Action: True integrity is what we do when no one is watching. We discussed how this applies to educators and leaders who are committed to advocating for their students behind closed doors. A "Hum" of Commitment: We introduced the concept of the "quiet, persistent hum" of living out your values, even when it's difficult or goes against the grain. The Power of Joy: Drawing from Dr. Gholdy Muhammad's framework, we explored joy as a critical act of resistance in equity work. We discussed how defining and pursuing joy is essential for both students and educators. The Importance of Authenticity: You heard a personal story about how to create a brave and belonging space for multilingual learners by valuing their heart language and being vulnerable as an educator. From Theory to Practice: We shared how these principles translate to the work of instructional coaches and school leaders who must build trust and a culture of psychological safety. Quotes from the Episode “We are not what we say we believe; we are what we do.” — James Baldwin “First they came for the socialists, and I did not speak out—because I was not a socialist. Then they came for the trade unionists, and I did not speak out—because I was not a trade unionist. Then they came for the Jews, and I did not speak out—because I was not a Jew. Then they came for me—and there was no one left to speak for me.” — Martin Niemöller "Equity is teaching and learning that is centered on justice, liberation, truth, and freedom, and is free of bias and favoritism.” — Gholdy Muhammad Reflection Questions: For Teachers: What is one small way you can put your values into practice in the classroom? What is one way you can be brave and vulnerable for the students in your care? For Instructional Coaches and School Leaders: What is one small thing you can do to create a space for teachers where they feel safe and where their voices are valued? What is one story you can share with your team to show them that you're in the work with them, not just asking them to do it? Cultivating Genius: An Equity Framework for Culturally and Historically Responsive Literacy by Dr. Gholdy Muhammad Unearthing Joy: A Guide to Culturally and Historically Responsive Teaching and Learning by Dr. Gholdy Muhammad Choosing to See: A Framework for Math Equity in the Classroom by Dr. Pamela Seda and Kyndal Brown If you're looking for support to continue this work in your own school or classroom, I invite you to explore my Equity Audit Tools , Student Data Dive Tool , and Coaching services . You can find all of these resources at https://customteachingsolutions.com/equitytools…

The Culture-Centered Classroom

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BTS- How to Sustain Classroom Belonging All Year: Beyond the First 10 Day 16:33

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What an incredible journey we've been on together! In this episode, we reflect on the powerful foundation of belonging we've built and, most importantly, look ahead at how to sustain this vibrant culture throughout the entire school year. Key Takeaways from this Episode: For Reflecting on the Journey: Understand the importance of individual reflection on the "First 10 Days" experience, using prompts to articulate feelings of belonging, pride, and hopes for the future. Learn how to create a final "Growth Chain" link to visibly represent personal growth in belonging. For Inclusive Celebration: Discover the critical need to understand what "celebration" means to all students, recognizing that not everyone views it as loud or noisy. Explore diverse celebration options, including "Shout-Outs" or Appreciation Circles, and flexible "Celebration Centers" that cater to varied preferences (e.g., quiet reflection, music, games). Learn how to incorporate student-chosen music via anonymous Padlets or shared playlists for truly inclusive celebrations. For Sustaining Belonging All Year (Connection to Hill Model & SEL): See how Day 10 activities culminate in profound Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) development, enhancing self-awareness, social awareness, relationship skills (through appreciation), and responsible decision-making. Understand how these practices align with the Hill Model's framework for Identity, Criticality, Skills, Joy, and Intellect, ensuring holistic student development beyond the initial days. For Impacting Learning (Connection to John Hattie): Learn how reflection supports Metacognitive Strategies and how "Shout-Outs" provide impactful Feedback . Discover how celebrating collective efforts boosts Collective Teacher Efficacy and strengthens Teacher-Student Relationships . Understand how articulating belonging contributes to higher Self-Efficacy and positive Self-Reported Grades/Student Expectations . Reflect on quotes from Maya Angelou and Stephen Covey about the lasting impact of feelings and prioritizing what truly matters. In this episode, I mention: The "First 10 Days: Building a Welcoming and Respectful Classroom of Belonging" Resource Bundle FREE Day 1 Lesson Plan & Materials Individual Reflection Prompts (for journal/video) Growth Chain Shout-Outs / Appreciation Circle Celebration Centers Ready to take action? Download your FREE Day 1 Lesson Plan here: customteachingsolutions.com/btsfree Explore the full "First 10 Days" Resource Bundle here: customteachingsolutions.com/btsbundle Reflection Questions for Educators: How will I gather student input on what "celebration" means to them to ensure an inclusive Day 10? What specific strategies will I commit to implementing consistently throughout the year to sustain belonging? How can I continue to encourage student reflection on their growth and sense of belonging beyond the first 10 days? What is one thing I will celebrate about my classroom community's journey this year? Stay connected: I would absolutely love to know how you are using these ideas in your classroom! What inspiration did you gain from this series? What activities resonated most with your students? Please don't hesitate to reach out and share your experiences. DM me on Instagram: @iteachcustom Connect with me on LinkedIn: Search for Custom Teaching Solutions Email: Jocelynn@customteachingsolutions.com Website: https://customteachingsolutions.com Don't miss out on making this school year your most belonging-centered one yet!…

The Culture-Centered Classroom

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BTS- Why Every Piece Matters: Visualizing Your Interconnected Classroom 12:59

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In this episode, we explore how to visually demonstrate that every individual strength and unique identity fits together to form a complete, interconnected, and thriving classroom community. It's about showing that every single student is an essential piece of our collective whole. Key Takeaways from this Episode: For Visualizing Interconnectedness: Understand the "Puzzle Piece Identity Display" as a powerful metaphor for classroom community, where each unique piece is vital for the whole picture. Learn how to guide students in decorating their puzzle pieces to reflect their identity (interests, strengths, culture, dreams). Discover the impact of collaboratively assembling the puzzle, reinforcing that "No matter how small you are, you can make a difference." For Fostering Empathy & Support: Explore how reflection discussions around the assembled puzzle encourage empathy and proactive support within the community (e.g., "How do we support each other's pieces?"). Understand that "Individually, we are one drop. Together, we are an ocean," highlighting the strength in collective unity. For Holistic Development (Connection to Hill Model & SEL): See how this activity impacts the Hill Model's areas of student development: Identity, Criticality, Skills, Joy, and Intellect , through self-affirmation, analyzing interdependence, practicing teamwork, and experiencing collective accomplishment. Learn how it's a powerhouse for Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) , enhancing self-awareness, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making. For Impacting Learning (Connection to John Hattie): Discover how this collaborative task boosts Collective Teacher Efficacy and positively impacts the Classroom Climate . Understand how it strengthens Teacher-Student Relationships through shared purpose and visible interconnectedness. Reflect on Henry Ford's quote: "Coming together is a beginning; keeping together is progress; working together is success." In this episode, I mention: The "First 10 Days: Building a Welcoming and Respectful Classroom of Belonging" Resource Bundle FREE Day 1 Lesson Plan & Materials "Puzzle Piece Identity Display" Activity John Hattie's Visible Learning research (Collective Teacher Efficacy, Classroom Climate, Teacher-Student Relationships) The Hill Model (Identity, Criticality, Skills, Joy, Intellect) Ready to take action? 🎧 Listen now and empower your students to see their vital role in your classroom community! Download your FREE Day 1 Lesson Plan here: customteachingsolutions.com/btsfree Explore the full "First 10 Days" Resource Bundle here: customteachingsolutions.com/btsbundle Reflection Questions for Educators: How will I introduce the puzzle piece activity to emphasize the importance of every student's unique contribution? What strategies can I use to ensure all students feel their piece is valued and fits perfectly into the whole? How can I facilitate the assembly and reflection discussion to deepen understanding of interdependence and mutual support? Beyond Day 9, how will I continue to reinforce the idea that every student is an essential piece of our classroom puzzle? Stay connected: Email: Jocelynn@customteachingsolutions.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/cts-custom-teaching-solutions/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iteachcustom/ Website: https://customteachingsolutions.com Don't miss out on making this school year your most belonging-centered one yet!…

The Culture-Centered Classroom

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BTS- Celebrate Individuality: How to Use the Uniquely You Tree 12:45

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In this episode, we bring it all back to the individual with a creative twist. We dive into Day 8: Uniquely You Creative Snapshot , exploring how to celebrate the incredible individuality of each student through imaginative prompts and a special visual display that will grow with them throughout the year. Key Takeaways: For Expressing Unique Identity: Understand the "Uniquely You" tree worksheet as a living, evolving self-portrait for students. Learn how to use imaginative prompts (e.g., "If you were a sound, what would you be and why?") to encourage deep self-reflection and creative expression. Discover how this activity, like the "Culture Hand," can be modified to be subject-specific (e.g., "My Scientist Tree," "My Mathematician Tree") and used throughout the year to track growth. For Celebrating Creativity & Authenticity: Explore how this activity allows students' "intelligence to have fun," echoing Albert Einstein's quote on creativity. Understand the power of publicly displaying these "Uniquely You" trees in the hallway or on the door to celebrate individuality and reinforce that "To be yourself... is the greatest accomplishment" (Ralph Waldo Emerson). For Holistic Development (Connection to Hill Model & John Hattie): See how this activity impacts the Hill Model's five areas of student development: Identity, Criticality, Skills, Joy, and Intellect . Learn how it aligns with John Hattie's Visible Learning research by boosting Self-Efficacy and Student Voice through public affirmation and diverse expression. In this episode I mention: The "First 10 Days: Building a Welcoming and Respectful Classroom of Belonging" Resource Bundle FREE Day 1 Lesson Plan & Materials "Uniquely You" Tree Worksheet "Uniquely You Creative Snapshot" Prompt Cards Quotes from Albert Einstein and Ralph Waldo Emerson The Hill Model (Identity, Criticality, Skills, Joy, Intellect) John Hattie's Visible Learning research (Self-Efficacy, Student Voice) Ready to take action? Download your FREE Day 1 Lesson Plan here: customteachingsolutions.com/btsfree Explore the full "First 10 Days" Resource Bundle here: customteachingsolutions.com/btsbundle How can I introduce the "Uniquely You" tree to truly spark my students' imaginations and encourage authentic self-expression? Which of the creative prompts might resonate most with my students, and how can I support diverse responses? How will I use the "Uniquely You" tree as an ongoing tool for reflection and celebration throughout the year, perhaps connecting it to subject-specific growth? What steps can I take to ensure all students feel comfortable and celebrated when their unique work is displayed publicly? Stay connected: Email: Jocelynn@customteachingsolutions.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/cts-custom-teaching-solutions/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iteachcustom/ Website: https://customteachingsolutions.com Don't miss out on making this school year your most belonging-centered one yet!…

The Culture-Centered Classroom

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BTS- Top Strategies for Deeper Classroom Connections & Cohesion 16:17

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In this episode, we move beyond superficial "get to know you" activities to genuinely deepen connection and shared understanding among your students. We dive into Day 7: Building Classroom Community , exploring how to create a classroom where students don't just sit next to each other, but truly know and support each other. As Helen Keller famously said, "Alone, we can do so little; together, we can do so much." Key Takeaways: For Deeper Connections & Psychological Safety: Understand why true community building requires sustained, intentional opportunities for sharing, listening, and connecting. Learn how to facilitate impactful Community Circles or Pair-Shares using structured prompts and a "talking object" to ensure every voice is heard. Discover questions that invite vulnerability and foster genuine relationships (e.g., "What's something others might not know about you?"). For Impacting Learning (Connection to John Hattie): Explore how strong Teacher-Student Relationships and rich Classroom Discussion are directly strengthened by these activities. Understand how a cohesive community contributes to high Collective Teacher Efficacy . Learn how co-creating a "Classroom Constitution" or "We Belong Here" poster aligns with Student Voice and Teacher Clarity . For Holistic Development (Connection to Gholdy Muhammad's Hill Model): See how intentional community building profoundly impacts the Hill Model's five areas of student development: Identity: Affirming individual place within the collective. Criticality: Analyzing and upholding collective well-being. Skills: Practicing active listening, empathy, and collaboration. Joy: Experiencing positive connection and shared purpose. Intellect: Engaging abstractly with social constructs. In this episode I mention: The "First 10 Days: Building a Welcoming and Respectful Classroom of Belonging" Resource Bundle FREE Day 1 Lesson Plan & Materials Community Circles or Pair-Shares "Classroom Constitution" or "We Belong Here" poster John Hattie's Visible Learning research (Teacher-Student Relationships, Classroom Discussion, Collective Teacher Efficacy, Student Voice, Teacher Clarity) The Hill Model (Identity, Criticality, Skills, Joy, Intellect) Quotes from Helen Keller and Phil Jackson Ready to take action? Download your FREE Day 1 Lesson Plan here: customteachingsolutions.com/btsfree Explore the full "First 10 Days" Resource Bundle here: customteachingsolutions.com/btsbundle Reflection Questions: How can I consistently create opportunities for students to share and listen deeply in my classroom? What specific questions will I use to spark genuine connection during community circles or pair-shares? How will I involve my students in co-creating a "Classroom Constitution" that truly reflects their shared commitment to belonging? In what ways can I continue to nurture classroom community beyond Day 7 to support all five areas of the Hill Model? Stay Connected: Email: Jocelynn@customteachingsolutions.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/cts-custom-teaching-solutions/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iteachcustom/ Website: https://customteachingsolutions.com Key Takeaways from this Episode:In this episode, I mention:Ready to take action?Reflection Questions for Educators:Stay connected:…

The Culture-Centered Classroom

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BTS-How to Make Learning Visible: Launching Your Classroom's Growth Chain 11:52

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We've reached the halfway point of our "First 10 Days" journey! In this episode, we explore how to make the invisible process of learning beautifully visible by launching your classroom's Growth Chain—a powerful tool for metacognition and shared growth. Key Takeaways: For Making Learning Visible: Understand the "Growth Chain" as a tangible, visual representation of individual and collective learning journeys. Learn why giving students a visible way to track their growth boosts engagement and self-awareness. Discover how to explain and model the creation of a concise, personal reflection link for the chain. For Fostering a Growth Mindset (Connection to John Hattie): Explore how the Growth Chain directly taps into John Hattie's Visible Learning research, specifically: Metacognitive Strategies: Students actively think about their own thinking and learning. Formative Evaluation/Assessment: Each link serves as an ongoing self-assessment of progress. Self-Reported Grades / Student Expectations: Seeing tangible growth significantly boosts self-efficacy. Feedback: The chain provides continuous self-feedback and collective feedback. Understand how this activity reinforces that "Growth is not an automatic process. It's a choice." (John C. Maxwell). For Building Community & Affirmation: Learn tips for flexible expression (writing, drawing, symbols) to accommodate diverse learners. Discover how adding links to the growing chain creates a powerful, visible symbol of shared progress and collective development. In this episode, I mention: The "First 10 Days: Building a Welcoming and Respectful Classroom of Belonging" Resource Bundle: Your comprehensive guide with 10 days of intentional lesson plans and activities. FREE Day 1 Lesson Plan & Materials: Get a taste of the full bundle! Includes the "I Am..." template, "Norms of Engagement" chart, and the "Self, Peers, World" exit ticket. Growth Chain Paper Strips: Pre-cut strips for student reflections. Growth Chain Prompt Cards: 12 different ideas to inspire student reflections. John C. Maxwell and John Hattie's Visible Learning research. Download your FREE Day 1 Lesson Plan here: customteachingsolutions.com/btsfree Explore the full "First 10 Days" Resource Bundle here: customteachingsolutions.com/btsbundle Teacher Reflection Questions: How can I consistently integrate opportunities for students to reflect on their own growth? What specific prompts will best encourage metacognition in my students? How can I use the visible Growth Chain to celebrate individual and collective progress in my classroom? How might seeing their own growth impact my students' self-efficacy and motivation throughout the year? STAY CONNECTED: Email: Jocelynn@customteachingsolutions.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/cts-custom-teaching-solutions/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iteachcustom/ Website: https://customteachingsolutions.com Don't miss out on making this school year your most belonging-centered one yet!…

The Culture-Centered Classroom

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BTS-The Power of One Word: How to Build a Classroom Belonging Wall 10:23

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In this episode, we explore the profound impact of words on identity and connection. We dive into Day 5: Belonging Through Words , discovering how choosing a personal "power word" and creating a collaborative "Belonging Wall" can beautifully personalize your classroom space and reinforce a collective sense of belonging. For Understanding the Power of Words: Reflect on quotes that highlight the lasting impact of words, both positive and negative. Understand how a single word can evoke feelings, represent beliefs, or describe aspirations. Learn why choosing a personal "power word" is an act of self-reflection and empowerment. For Creative Self-Expression: Discover various ways students can express the meaning of their chosen word: through art, poetry, journal entries, music, song, or dance. Explore how these diverse modes of expression tap into different intelligences and ensure all students can participate authentically. For Building a Living Classroom Display: Learn how to create a "Belonging Wall" – a dynamic, visual representation of your classroom's collective values and identities. Understand the importance of revisiting this wall at least once a quarter (or as needed) to reflect the evolving sense of belonging throughout the school year. See how each unique word contributes to the richness and strength of your classroom community. The "First 10 Days: Building a Welcoming and Respectful Classroom of Belonging" Resource Bundle: Your comprehensive guide with 10 days of intentional lesson plans and activities. FREE Day 1 Lesson Plan & Materials: Get a taste of the full bundle! Includes the "I Am..." template, "Norms of Engagement" chart, and the "Self, Peers, World" exit ticket. "My Word" Brainstorming Sheet: A printable sheet to help students select their power word. "Belonging Wall" Guidance: Tips and ideas for creating and maintaining this impactful display. Quotes on the Power of Words from Rachel Wolchin and KushandWizdom. 🎧 Listen now and inspire your students to find their power word! Download your FREE Day 1 Lesson Plan here: customteachingsolutions.com/btsfree Explore the full "First 10 Days" Resource Bundle here: customteachingsolutions.com/btsbundle What "power word" resonates most with me for this school year, and why? How can I best support students who might struggle to choose a word or express its meaning creatively? What strategies will I use to make our "Belonging Wall" a truly living and revisited display throughout the year? How can I intentionally use the power of my own words to foster belonging and positive self-perception in my classroom daily? Email: Jocelynn@customteachingsolutions.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/cts-custom-teaching-solutions/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iteachcustom/ Website: https://customteachingsolutions.com Don't miss out on making this school year your most belonging-centered one yet! Seeking joy, celebrating diversity, affirming culture, centering equity, and striving for liberation through learning every single day.…

The Culture-Centered Classroom

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BTS-Our Classroom, Our Promise: How to Co-Create a Classroom Promise for Belonging 12:39

for 14 weeks siden12:39

12:39

In this episode, we move from individual sparks to a collective flame. We dive into Day 4: Creating Norms Together , exploring how to transform initial brainstorms about respect, community, safety, and belonging into shared, actionable agreements that will guide your classroom throughout the year – a true collective promise. For Understanding Rules vs. Norms: Learn the crucial distinction: rules are often imposed, while norms are shared agreements collectively decided by the group. Understand why co-creating norms fosters greater student ownership, accountability, and a truly equitable community. Discover how norms are about the how – how we want to interact, learn, and feel together. For Co-Creating & Finalizing Norms: Explore strategies for reviewing and revising brainstormed norms, guiding students to create clear, positive, and actionable statements. Learn how to create a prominent "Class Norms Poster" and involve students in its design and "signing" to foster deep ownership. For Practicing Accountability & Revisitng Norms: Understand how to facilitate discussions about what it looks like to live by the norms and how to gently remind each other when a norm is forgotten. Discover the power of using sample role-play scenarios (e.g., talking over others, not sharing materials, disagreeing respectfully, off-task distractions, group exclusion, uneven workload) to practice navigating common classroom challenges. Learn why norms are "living documents" that should be revisited periodically to reflect the community's growth. The "First 10 Days: Building a Welcoming and Respectful Classroom of Belonging" Resource Bundle: Your comprehensive guide with 10 days of intentional lesson plans and activities. FREE Day 1 Lesson Plan & Materials: Get a taste of the full bundle! Includes the "I Am..." template, "Norms of Engagement" chart, and the "Self, Peers, World" exit ticket. "Class Norms Poster" Template: A large printable template for your collaborative classroom agreements. Role-Play Scenario Cards: Printable cards with various situations for students to practice applying norms. 🎧 Listen now and empower your students to build their own classroom promise! Download your FREE Day 1 Lesson Plan here: customteachingsolutions.com/btsfree Explore the full "First 10 Days" Resource Bundle here: customteachingsolutions.com/btsbundle What's one key difference between "rules" and "norms" that I will emphasize with my students? How can I ensure every student's voice is heard and valued during the norm-creation process? Which role-play scenario might be most beneficial for my class to practice accountability? When and how will I plan to revisit our classroom norms throughout the school year? Email: Jocelynn@customteachingsolutions.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/cts-custom-teaching-solutions/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iteachcustom/ Website: https://customteachingsolutions.com Don't miss out on making this school year your most belonging-centered one yet! Seeking joy, celebrating diversity, affirming culture, centering equity, and striving for liberation through learning every single day.…

The Culture-Centered Classroom

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BTS-Every Learner, Every Story: Why Their Journey Matters 11:23

for 14 weeks siden11:23