Teachers on the Loose

On this episode of Teachers on the Loose, we laugh our way through all the things college definitely forgot to mention—like how lesson plans go from Pinterest-perfect to “survive the day,” and how no one prepared us for parent-teacher conferences or the actual hours teaching takes. It’s a lighthearted look at the reality behind the degree, full of relatable moments, surprises, and plenty of teacher truth.

In this episode of Teachers on the Loose, we dive into the unique world of “teacher kids”—the ones who get a behind-the-scenes pass to school life, from early mornings to late afternoons and everything in between. We share laughs, real talk, and even hear from our own kids about what they loved (and didn’t love) about growing up in a teacher’s classroom.

Have you ever tried to decode a first grader’s "invented spelling" and felt like you were solving a national security cipher? This week, we’re talking all about the magic (and the madness) of teaching writing! From the funniest personal narratives to the battle against writer's block, we’re covering it all. Grab your headphones and join the conversation!

On this episode of Teachers on the Loose, we dive into the wild world of science and social studies—sharing our favorite topics, why these subjects matter, and how we actually squeeze them into an already packed day. Expect lots of laughs, real classroom stories, and a reminder that learning about the world (past and present) can be just as fun as it is important!

On this episode of Teachers on the Loose, we dive into the Winter Olympics and discover that teaching has a lot in common with elite competition — moments of glory, chasing gold (stickers count), and the occasional spectacular wipeout before first period. Join us as we laugh our way through the triumphs, defeats, and endurance it takes to survive both the slopes and the school year.

On today’s episode of Teachers on the Loose, we dive into data and show that it’s more than just numbers on a spreadsheet. We talk mindset, meaningful conversations, and how to actually have fun while using data to support students

Winter break — where the coffee stays hot, the schedule is optional, and bathroom breaks whenever you want. In this episode, we’re talking all about how we unplugged, relaxed, and recharged before heading back to teacher life. From slow mornings to cozy moments, we loved our break with family and friends.

No bells. No emails. No lesson plans. Just resting and recharging.

On today’s episode of Teachers on the Loose, four teachers ride the emotional rollercoaster of unexpected weather days off. From cheering when the notification hits to replanning missed lessons. We cover the joy, the chaos, and the surprise. Grab your coffee (or stay in your snow-day pajamas) and laugh along as teachers find humor in every cancelled day. ❄️☕

Phase 6 is where learning really comes to life. In this episode, we’re talking about how students extend and apply their learning—making connections, trying skills in new ways, and showing what they truly understand. Because learning doesn’t end with the lesson… it grows from there.

In this episode of Teachers on the Loose, four teachers tackle the fifth phase of McREL’s Phases of Learning—practicing and rehearsing—aka the part where learning finally sticks (and not just until the test). We break down why this phase matters and share practical, classroom-ready ways to get students retrieving content on purpose, all while swapping laughs and real-life teacher moments along the way.

In Phase 4, students step into the heart of learning, their chance to really practice new skills, try strategies, and grow stronger with each piece of feedback.

We’re talking guided practice, meaningful participation, and giving students the space to try out their learning while we offer feedback that sticks.

Join us for a conversation full of insight, encouragement, and classroom joy!

In this episode of Teachers on the Loose, we dive into McRel’s second phase of learning—helping students commit to learning through clear intentions, success criteria, and simple goal setting. Along the way, we sprinkle in our usual humor and lighthearted classroom stories. Tune in to hear how we turn commitment into clarity… and clarity into a whole lot of laughs.

The Teachers on the Loose crew is kicking off McRel’s 6 phases of learning with Phase One—getting kids actually interested in what we’re teaching (no small feat!). We’re swapping stories, tricks, and a few laughs about how we reel them in before the real learning begins.