Episode Details

Mike is a principal of a pre-K–8 school. He is a great principal and also really great at using technology in unique ways. You can follow him on Twitter (@Techedvance). Spending a few minutes on his web site will teach you a ton about how to use technology to improve your professional practice.

• How Mike got into administration.
• The difference between public schools and private (religious) schools. Doing more with less. Relying on fundraising.
• We need to strike the right balance between instructional leadership and all the other stuff we are tempted to spend our time on.
• The most important aspects of Mike’s leadership.
• There is a little more flexibility in how things are done in the private school, and they are able to meet the needs differently.
• How to challenge teachers to do better.
• Hiring makes a huge difference.
• We give teachers tools and an opportunity to learn on their own, share with their colleagues and grow.
• What kind of people Mike is looking for as teachers: What is it about this age group of students that makes you want to teach them?
• Systematic Podcast appearance
• Mac Power Users Podcast appearance.
• Why Mike likes to share what he is learning and doing.
• The podcasts Mike listens to: 5by5 network (MPU, Back to Work, Systematic). Out of School, 99 percent invisible, Workflowing.

Sponsor: Sanebox

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Learn more about today's sponsors, Playworks, IXL, and Renaissance Learning:

As a global leader in education technology operating in more than 110 countries, Renaissance is committed to providing educators with insights and resources to accelerate growth and help all students build a strong foundation for success. We believe that technology can unlock a more effective learning experience, ensure that students get the personalized teaching they need to thrive, and help educators and administrators to truly, fully, See Every Student. Learn more at renaissance.com.

We’re proud to be sponsored by Playworks, a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization with evidence-based practices that help schools improve the health and well-being of children by increasing opportunities for physical activity and safe, meaningful play.

If you’re a school or district leader struggling with the challenge of chronic absenteeism, as so many are across the U.S., you may not realize that structured recess is a research-backed approach to keep kids in school. In fact, a UC Berkeley study of Title I schools found that those partnering with Playworks had significantly lower chronic absenteeism rates. Further, Mathematica research demonstrated that Playworks schools spent 27% less time transitioning from recess back to learning, saving teachers valuable instructional time. 

These results are possible for your students, too. Learn how Playworks can help you