Spotlight 4 Success | EP: 11 | Jennifer Bell on Connecting Students to History | Season 1

12/17/2024

Jennifer Bell, an inspiring educator from Houston County Schools, joins us on Spotlight for Success to share her incredible journey and innovative teaching methods. With 11 years of experience teaching fourth and fifth graders, Jennifer is passionate about integrating social studies with Language Arts to create an engaging, inquiry-based learning environment. Discover how she brings history to life through the use of primary sources, encouraging students to explore, ask questions, and develop critical thinking skills. Her engaging approach ensures that every student, regardless of ability, can connect with the material in a meaningful way. If you've ever wondered how to make social studies fun and inclusive, Jennifer has the answers. We dive into her methods for fostering curiosity and a love for learning in her students. Hear about her milestone moments using inquiry-based education, where students get hands-on with photographs, journal entries, and maps. Jennifer discusses the importance of starting with questions and addressing biases to create an interactive classroom atmosphere that captivates students' interests. Tune in to hear her story and learn how you can implement similar strategies in your educational practices. Stream the Spotlight 4 Success Podcast: https://spotlight4success.buzzsprout.com

Previous Podcasts

Spotlight 4 Success | EP: 10 | Interactive Economics for Today's Teachers | Season 1

12/16/2024

Discover the journey of Dr. Rhonda Webb, a powerhouse in education and the driving force behind the Georgia Council of Social Studies. After three decades as an innovative classroom teacher, Dr. Webb now leads GCSS with a vision to transform teaching through place-based learning. Hear her passion as she discusses plans to expand regional opportunities for educators, allowing them to experience history firsthand and enrich their teaching methods. Despite funding hurdles, Dr. Webb remains committed to providing intellectually stimulating experiences for Georgia's teachers, inspired by a life-changing federal grant program that fueled her own academic pursuits. Join us for an insightful discussion as Dr. Webb reflects on her transformative experiences with historians and how they ignited her love for social studies and history. Learn about her ambitious plans for GCSS to recreate similar opportunities for Georgia teachers and her dedication to nurturing the professional growth and intellectual curiosity of educators. With her hands-on approach at GCSS and as a part-time U.S. history teacher, Dr. Webb continues to empower teachers and enhance educational environments across Georgia. Tune in to this episode of Spotlight for Success to gain a deeper understanding of Dr. Webb’s inspiring vision and the positive changes underway in Georgia's educational landscape. Stream the Spotlight 4 Success Podcast: https://spotlight4success.buzzsprout.com

Spotlight 4 Success | EP: 9 | Interactive Economics for Today's Teachers | Season 1

12/16/2024

Unlock the secrets of engaging economics education with Dr. Chris Cannon, a leading voice from the Georgia Council for Economic Education. Discover how his two-decade-long journey from teaching high school in Clayton County to transforming statewide education initiatives has empowered countless teachers and students. With a focus on interactive workshops and innovative lesson plans, Dr. Cannon shares how the Georgia Council is demystifying economics and making it accessible and exciting for educators far and wide. Join us for an inspiring conversation as Dr. Cannon recounts his rewarding moments, including the success of their renowned week-long institute that draws educators from across the nation. Hear about the vital role of networking and collaboration with partners like the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta, and learn why Economic Education Month is a critical time for raising awareness. Whether you're an educator or simply passionate about the art of teaching, prepare to walk away with valuable insights and motivation to bring economics to life in creative ways. Stream the Spotlight 4 Success Podcast: https://spotlight4success.buzzsprout.com

Spotlight 4 Success | EP. 8 | Bringing Energy and Excellence to the Classroom and Beyond | Season 1

12/3/2024

Join us as we journey into the inspiring life of Daniel Manning, a dedicated social studies teacher and coach at Union High School in Henry County. Discover how Daniel's passion for education and sports, fueled by his experiences as a student in the same district, has led him to make a profound impact on his students. Through engaging stories and insights, Daniel challenges the notion that history is dull and reveals how his energetic approach keeps students engaged both in the classroom and on the playing field. From his collegiate days at Kennesaw State to his return to his alma mater as an educator, Daniel shares the lessons that have shaped his teaching philosophy, rooted in passion, detail, and the pursuit of excellence. Listeners will be captivated by Daniel's anecdotes about his mentors, Dr. Charles Wynn and Dr. William Oki, who ingrained in him the importance of passion and detail in teaching. These influences have driven Daniel to emphasize the significance of doing the small things right, both academically and athletically, to prepare students for success. Through his storytelling, Daniel not only sheds light on the transformative power of passionate teaching but also offers inspiration and valuable insights for educators, students, and anyone eager to see how dedication can change lives. Tune in for a conversation that is both enlightening and motivating, as we spotlight the magic Daniel brings to the world of education. Stream the Spotlight 4 Success Podcast: https://spotlight4success.buzzsprout.com

Spotlight 4 Success | EP. 7 | Bringing History to Life in Georgia Schools | Season 1

12/2/2024

Join us for an enlightening conversation with Barbara Manwell, a former high school social studies teacher who now leads education programs at the Atlanta History Center. Barbara shares her remarkable journey from the classroom to the museum world, where she crafts innovative educational experiences that make Georgia's rich history accessible to students of all ages. Learn how Barbara's transformative work is breaking down barriers in education through grant opportunities and virtual resources for Title I schools, and discover the creative initiatives she champions, such as traveling trunks filled with real artifacts to bring history directly to schools. Barbara's passion for education extends beyond her role at the museum, as she enthusiastically discusses her involvement with the Georgia Council for the Social Studies (GCSS) conference. Listen as she highlights the value of professional development for teachers and describes the vibrant atmosphere of the conference, which offers a feast of learning opportunities. This episode is a testament to Barbara's dedication to transforming educational landscapes and fostering a deep love for history among educators and students alike. Don't miss out on this inspiring discussion that promises to ignite your enthusiasm for innovative educational practices. Stream the Spotlight 4 Success Podcast: https://spotlight4success.buzzsprout.com

Spotlight 4 Success | EP. 6 | Amanda Fanelli on Fostering Critical Thinking | Season 1

11/27/2024

Uncover the transformative journey of Amanda Fanelli, a remarkable social studies teacher whose passion and dedication are changing the educational landscape at Sol C. Johnson High School in Savannah, Georgia. Discover what keeps Amanda anchored to the classroom despite numerous opportunities to step away. With nearly two decades of experience, she shares her insights into fostering independent thought and challenging students to question the status quo. Highlighting her experience as a Fulbright Scholar, Amanda recounts her enriching voyage to Ghana—a pivotal moment that reshaped her perspective on global education. Recognized as the Gilder Lehrman Georgia History Teacher of the Year, Amanda’s story is a testament to the impact of nurturing critical thinkers and problem solvers in a diverse, Title I school environment. Explore how Amanda empowers students to be agents of change by teaching them to address community issues with the skills they learn in her classroom. This isn’t just about education; it’s about transformation and making a real difference. Amanda defies the traditional essentialism in education, advocating for a more dynamic approach where students are inspired to become changemakers. Concluding on a hopeful note, Amanda extends her gratitude and receives well-wishes for ongoing success, particularly at the Georgia Council for Social Studies conference. Tune in for an inspiring conversation that challenges conventional education paradigms and celebrates the power of teaching to transform lives. Stream the Spotlight 4 Success Podcast: https://spotlight4success.buzzsprout.com

Spotlight 4 Success | EP. 5 | From Concerned Parent to Dedicated Educator | Season 1

11/26/2024

Alicia Gentle stepped into the world of education to support her daughter in middle school, but discovered a calling that transformed her life. On our latest episode of Spotlight for Success, Alicia, now an inspiring social studies teacher at Henderson Middle School in Mutz County, shares how her journey from a concerned parent to a dedicated educator is inspiring change across Georgia. Alicia talks about the triumph of witnessing students' 'aha' moments and the importance of perseverance in learning. Her passion is infectious, and her story is a testament to the power of education and determination. Join us as Alicia recounts her experience at the Georgia Council of Social Studies conference, where she embraced the challenge of integrating technology into the curriculum. Discover how she's using tools like AI and ChatGPT to engage students in exciting new ways and the strategies she's excited to bring back to her colleagues. Alicia emphasizes the crucial role of relationships within the educational community, leaving listeners inspired by her commitment to fostering a nurturing and innovative environment for both students and teachers. Tune in to be inspired by Alicia's drive to create meaningful change in education. Stream the Spotlight 4 Success Podcast: https://spotlight4success.buzzsprout.com

Spotlight 4 Success | EP. 4 | Empowering Tomorrow's Leaders with Taylor Oliver | Season 1

11/26/2024

Join us as we spotlight Taylor Oliver, a dynamic force in social studies education, whose passion and innovative spirit have transformed the educational landscape across North Florida and Georgia. Through her compelling narrative, Taylor reveals how she transitioned from a classroom teacher to a district curriculum specialist, and now to a key player at EverFi, impacting hundreds of thousands of students. Her journey is filled with inspiring stories, including the time she orchestrated a mock presidential election, revealing to students the consequential power of their votes. Taylor's insights into professional development and her role in bringing engaging instructional tools to schools exemplify her commitment to making learning an exciting adventure for both teachers and students. Our conversation with Taylor also takes us into the realm of networking and educational conferences, where she shares cutting-edge resources with educators far and wide. Her enthusiasm for presenting at the Georgia Council of Social Studies is palpable, as she prepares to engage with educators eager to adopt new strategies in their classrooms. Taylor's story is a testament to the impact of innovative education and the ripple effect it can have when one passionate individual dares to step beyond the classroom walls. Tune in to explore the remarkable strides Taylor Oliver is making and discover how her work with EverFi is reshaping the future of social studies education. Stream the Spotlight 4 Success Podcast: https://spotlight4success.buzzsprout.com

Spotlight 4 Success | EP. 3 | Cultivating Tomorrow's Civic Leaders | Season 1

11/25/2024

Imagine stepping into the shoes of Georgia's future leaders—this is precisely the opportunity Dr. Randall, CEO of the Georgia Center for Civic Engagement, is providing to thousands of students across the state. Join us as we sit down with Dr. Randall to uncover how his lifelong commitment to civic education was sparked by his own transformative experience in a model legislature program. From humble beginnings in Dalton, Georgia, to leading statewide initiatives, Dr. Randall shares his passion for equipping the next generation with the tools of civic engagement, ensuring that students don't just learn about democracy—they live it. In this episode, discover the groundbreaking programs Dr. Randall is spearheading, including a statewide mock election involving over a quarter of a million K-12 students and an immersive model legislature experience at the Georgia State Capitol. With roles like Speaker of the House and Governor being played by students, these initiatives are more than educational exercises; they're the breeding ground for tomorrow's civic leaders. Tune in to hear about the challenges, triumphs, and the undeniable impact these programs have on shaping engaged, informed citizens ready to take on the world. Stream the Spotlight 4 Success Podcast: https://spotlight4success.buzzsprout.com

Spotlight 4 Success | EP: 2 | Fresh Perspective on Teaching History and Honoring Veterans | Season 1

11/21/2024

Kristen Singleton, a trailblazer in social studies education, joins us to share her innovative approach at the Mighty Eighth Air Force Museum. Discover how she combines history with STEM to create engaging and interdisciplinary educational experiences. Kristen's journey from Armstrong State to becoming the HSTEM coordinator highlights her commitment to making history relevant and accessible. Supported by the Cynthia Lake Foundation, her work is setting a new standard for teaching history in Chatham County and beyond, inspiring both teachers and students to view history through a fresh, integrative lens. Join us as Kristen unveils the lesser-known stories of the 8th Air Force during World War II and the profound impact of place-based education. At the Georgia Council of Social Studies, she connects with educators eager to explore these innovative methods. Her passion for honoring the sacrifices of veterans while enhancing educational strategies resonates deeply, offering a unique perspective on how history and STEM can unite to enrich learning. This episode celebrates the power of education to transform communities and foster a deeper appreciation for our past. Stream the Spotlight 4 Success Podcast: https://spotlight4success.buzzsprout.com

Spotlight 4 Success | EP: 1 | Michelle's Educational Journey and Impact | Season 1

11/20/2024

Michelle Schaefle, a driving force in social studies education, joins us on Spotlight for Success to share her dynamic journey from the classroom to the forefront of educational innovation. Discover how her passion for teaching science and STEM has evolved into a role at News-O-Matic, where she crafts educational products that nurture critical thinking and strengthen students' real-world connections. Michelle's story is a testament to her dedication to enhancing the learning environment, offering valuable insights for educators and innovators alike. Embrace Michelle’s reflections as she discusses her seamless transition from teaching sixth to eighth graders to identifying and filling gaps in educational tools. Her interactions with the Georgia Council of Social Studies have been instrumental in fostering a collaborative spirit among educators, resulting in practical ideas that can be implemented statewide. Whether you're an educator seeking inspiration or an innovator looking to make meaningful changes in education, Michelle's experiences and perspective promise to resonate and inspire. Stream the Spotlight 4 Success Podcast: https://spotlight4success.buzzsprout.com

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