Category: Forum Faculty Podcast

In this episode of the Forum Faculty Podcast, Tom invites Heights teachers Austin Hatch, Mark Grannis, and Shane O’Neil to discuss the use of textbooks in their classes. They explore whether textbooks are vital tools or limiting agents, sharing personal experiences and strategies for balancing textbooks with engaging and personalized teaching methods. The conversation covers a range of subjects including literature, history, logic, and math, discussing the benefits and drawbacks of using textbooks, the importance of teacher-student interactions, and the flexibility required in dynamic teaching environments. 00:00 Introduction and Guest…

In this episode of the Forum Faculty Podcast, Tom Cox hosts a discussion on the nuances of discipline versus punishment in educational settings with guests Jeff Thompson, Elias Naegele, and Joel Sellier. They share personal anecdotes and insights from their extensive teaching experience, emphasizing the importance of individualized approaches and the need for empathy in effective discipline. The conversation also highlights the role of parental involvement and administrative support in creating a balanced and supportive environment for students. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introductions 02:19 Defining Discipline vs. Punishment 03:23 First-Year Teaching Experiences 06:35 Classroom…

In this episode of the Forum Faculty Podcast, middle school teacher Rob Liotta, upper school teacher Mark Grannis, and lower school teacher Josue Zelaya—discuss their transitions from careers in policing, law, and medicine, respectively, to teaching. They share their backstories, motivations for changing careers, and how their previous experiences shape their approach in the classroom. The discussion also dives into the skills they bring into teaching and advice for those considering a similar career switch. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Teacher Podcast 00:10 Meet the Guests: Transitioning to Teaching 01:11 Josue Zelaya: From…

In this episode, Lower School teacher, Elias Naegele, and Upper School teachers, Joel Sellier, and Michael Hude, engage in a comprehensive debate on the role and effectiveness of homework in student development. They explore differing viewpoints on the necessity of homework, its impact on motivation and resilience, and how it balances with classroom work and personal time. The conversation delves into the merits of fostering independent learning versus traditional rote assignments, the importance of tailored and thoughtful homework, and strategies for incorporating creativity and virtue-building into school routines. The discussion…