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Year One

Year One

DocumentaryEducation19 episodes
This August, many fresh college graduates are stepping into their classrooms for the first time. They knew what they were signing up for when they decided to be a teacher—but did they, really? While education is still a career many choose to pursue, just as many are dropping out of teaching, creating a nationwide teacher shortage. Will these new teachers just become another statistic? Meet Miss Jenna MacNulty, a first-year teacher in a bustling third-grade classroom. This year, she’s putting all her education and training into practice, and it’s not easy. This is Year One, a podcast from Carnegie Learning that dives into...Show more
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Live From The National Institutes: Jenna’s Journey in Year One

Live From The National Institutes: Jenna’s Journey in Year One

13 min 28 sec
Join me, Janet Erwin, Vice President of Marketing at Carnegie Learning, for a special bonus episode of the Year One podcast titled "Live From The National Institutes: Jenna’s Journey in Year One." In this episode, I sit down with Jenna, a passionate third-grade teacher from Indiana, to reflect on her transformative first year in the classroom. Recorded live at the National Institute (TNI) in Miami Beach, Jenna opens up about her motivations for teaching, the challenges and triumphs of her first year, and the importance of reflection and professional development. Discover how TNI has empowered her with new insights and connections, and hear her candid advice for fellow educators. Tune in to explore the realities of teaching and the power of community in education.
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Jenna’s Last School Days of Year One

Jenna’s Last School Days of Year One

12 min 6 sec
In this heartfelt episode of Year One, join me as Jenna reflects on her final days as a first-year teacher. Having accepted a new position as a fifth-grade math teacher, Jenna faces the bittersweet task of saying goodbye to her third-grade students and her fellow first-year teacher friend, also named Jenna. As she wraps up her year, Jenna shares the emotional journey of growth, challenges, and triumphs she experienced in her first classroom. From the initial nerves of the school year to the rewarding connections formed with her students, Jenna's story highlights the unique impact teachers have on young lives. Tune in to hear how Jenna's first year shaped her as an educator and the lasting memories she created along the way.
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To Stay or Not to Stay – That is the Question

To Stay or Not to Stay – That is the Question

11 min 34 sec
In this episode of Year One, titled "To Stay or Not to Stay – That is the Question," we dive into Jenna's pivotal decision-making moment as her first year of teaching draws to a close. With nearly a year of teaching experience, Jenna faces a life-changing opportunity when a school she admired offers her a position. Torn between her current supportive environment and the prospect of new beginnings, Jenna navigates the emotional whirlwind of potential change. Join me, Kanika Chaddha Gupta, as we explore Jenna's journey of self-discovery, the bittersweet farewells to her colleagues and students, and the excitement of embracing new challenges. Will she stay or venture into a new chapter? Tune in to find out how Jenna's story unfolds.
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Spring Fever

Spring Fever

9 min 43 sec
In this episode of Year One, titled "Spring Fever," we dive into the chaotic yet rewarding final months of Jenna's first year teaching. With state testing behind her, Jenna navigates the unique challenges of keeping students engaged as summer break approaches. I explore how Jenna manages the restless energy in her classroom, employing strategies like reinforcing routines and introducing creative activities such as cursive writing and a captivating book study. Despite the chaos, Teacher Appreciation Week provides a much-needed morale boost, with thoughtful gestures from the school community. Jenna also shares her personal strategies for maintaining order and sanity as the school year winds down. Join me as we follow Jenna's journey through these pivotal weeks and discover how she turns potential chaos into a learning opportunity.
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The Realities of State Testing

The Realities of State Testing

13 min 52 sec
In this episode of Year One, titled "The Realities of State Testing," I explore the intense pressures faced by Jena, a first-year teacher, as she navigates the state testing process. Spring brings the challenge of standardized tests, and Jena experiences firsthand the stress it places on both students and educators. While these tests are designed to measure educational standards, they often overshadow the diverse learning methods Jena was taught to embrace. Balancing test prep with an inclusive classroom environment proves daunting, as Jena grapples with logistics, student anxiety, and her own fears of failure. Despite the hurdles, Jena's dedication to her students shines through as she prepares them for this crucial milestone. Join me as we delve into the complexities of state testing and its impact on teaching and learning.
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