Summary

In this episode of Beyond the Bell, host Gabriel Cappozzo welcomes Matt Russell, a dedicated special education teacher at Oak Crest Elementary. Matt shares his journey into education, revealing that he initially pursued a career in finance before realizing his true calling was in teaching. He discusses his experiences in the CABS program, emphasizing the importance of creating a supportive and engaging environment for his students. Matt also highlights the collaborative culture at Oak Crest, where he feels a strong sense of community among staff and students alike.

As the conversation unfolds, Matt talks about his ongoing pursuit of a master's degree in educational leadership, expressing his aspirations for future leadership roles within the district. He offers valuable advice for educators considering furthering their education, encouraging them to take the leap and pursue their goals. The episode concludes with a heartfelt discussion about the impact of teaching, the importance of asking for help, and the rewarding moments that come from witnessing students' growth and success.

Takeaways

"Every day is a different challenge. It just kind of keeps me coming back."

"If you're thinking about doing it, take the leap and go for it."

"Trust your gut. If you feel it's the right decision, you need to do it."

"There's always someone willing to help you."

"The biggest advice I got was to ask for help."

Titles

Empowering Education: Matt Russell's Journey in Special Education

From Finance to Teaching: Matt Russell's Inspiring Path

Sound bites

"Every day is a different challenge."

"Take the leap and go for it."

"Trust your gut."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Matt Russell

01:23 Matt's Teaching Journey and Background

04:42 Pursuing Further Education and Leadership Goals

08:57 The Joys of Teaching Special Education

15:19 Creating a Positive Classroom Environment

20:14 Support and Growth in Beach Park District

20:45 The Importance of Support in Education

21:34 Shining a Light on Teaching Assistants

23:12 Tuition Reimbursement and Professional Growth

24:46 Advice for New Teachers

25:44 Overcoming Challenges in the First Years

28:41 Quickfire Questions and Personal Insights

33:40 Closing Thoughts and Community Engagement

Keywords

special education, Oak Crest Elementary, Beach Park District, teacher journey, educational leadership, CABS program, teacher advice, community support, teaching philosophy, student success

Summary

In this episode of Beach Park District 3's podcast, host Gabriel Cappozzo interviews Allison Olenek, a dedicated special education teacher at Oak Crest Elementary. They discuss Allison's journey in education, her transition from early childhood to K-1 CABS, and the challenges and rewards of pursuing a master's degree while balancing family life. Allison shares valuable advice for new educators, emphasizing the importance of support from colleagues and the joy of seeing students succeed. The conversation highlights the strong community within Beach Park District 3 and concludes with rapid-fire questions that reveal more about Allison's personal interests and beliefs.

Takeaways

Allison Olenek has been a teacher for 10 years at Oak Crest Elementary.

She transitioned from early childhood education to K-1 CABS to meet changing student needs.

Pursuing a master's degree was challenging but rewarding, supported by her family.

New educators should lean on their colleagues for support and guidance.

Success in education is defined by students coming to school happy and leaving happy.

Building relationships with students is crucial for their independence and growth.

The community at Beach Park District 3 is supportive and engaged.

Allison emphasizes the importance of being present in the moment with students.

Education has always been a part of Allison's life, influenced by her family.

Allison believes that anyone can be a leader, regardless of their title.

Sound bites

"Just do it, honestly. Just keep going."

"Lean on the people that you work with."

"The people is what keeps me here."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Allison Olenek

03:02 Allison's Journey in Education

05:55 Transitioning to K-1 CABS

09:00 Pursuing a Master's Degree

11:47 Advice for New Educators

14:55 The Importance of Support

17:52 Defining Success in Education

21:00 The Joy of Teaching

23:45 Community and Colleagues

25:53 Rapid Fire Questions

29:11 Closing Thoughts

Keywords

education, special education, Beach Park District 3, teaching, K-1 CABS, master's degree, support, community, success, advice for teachers

Summary

In this episode of the Beach Park District 3 podcast, host Gabriel Cappozzo interviews Jason Smith, a dedicated PE teacher at Oak Crest Elementary. They discuss Jason's journey in education, the importance of building relationships with students, and the supportive culture within the Beach Park community. Jason shares impactful moments from his teaching career, advice for new educators, and the significance of personal connections in the classroom. The conversation highlights the challenges and rewards of teaching, the value of supportive administration, and the joy of making a difference in students' lives.

Takeaways

Building relationships is crucial in education.

Teachers may not realize their impact on students until years later.

Reflecting on teaching practices is essential for growth.

Students remember how teachers made them feel, not just the lessons.

Supportive administration fosters a positive work environment.

Education is a journey filled with challenges and rewards.

It's important to listen to students and colleagues alike.

The culture in Beach Park is like a family.

Personal connections with students enhance the teaching experience.

Never burn bridges in your professional journey.

Titles

Building Relationships in Education

The Journey of a Dedicated Educator

Sound bites

"Every day is a new opportunity to connect."

"It's the students that keep me here."

"Don't burn bridges in your career."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Beach Park District 3 Podcast

00:57 Meet Jason Smith: A Journey in Education

02:51 Transitioning from Classroom to PE Teacher

05:03 The Challenges of Balancing Work and Education

07:34 Inspiration and Growth in Education

08:04 Education was My Calling

09:34 I'm from the Neighborhood:)

10:01 Building Relationships in Education

10:35 What I love Most About Education

12:28 The Impact of Teachers on Students' Lives

14:42 Lessons Learned from Teaching Experiences

17:12 What Guides My Work Everyday?

17:16 Advice for New Educators

19:58 The Importance of Supportive Culture in Education

22:45 The Value of Relationships in Education

24:09 The Importance of Community and Support

25:50 Why Beach Park? A Teacher's Perspective

27:07 Accessibility and Support in the District

28:29 Inspiration and Growth in Education

31:26 Creating Memorable Experiences for Students

33:45 Passions Beyond Education

36:17 Life Lessons and Advice

38:06 Local Favorites and Community Connections

Keywords

education, Beach Park, relationships, teaching, support, community, personal growth, advice, podcast, culture