Teachers on the Loose

The Day We Taught Reading

In this episode, we’re sharing the heart behind teaching children to read—our favorite books from childhood, the joy of reading to our own kids, and our favorite parts of teaching reading, from phonics and phonemic awareness to comprehension and reciprocal teaching. We explore how each step helps students grow into confident, thoughtful readers.Teaching reading is more than a skill—it’s connection, imagination, and opens doors to a lifetime of learning.

The Day We Discussed Data

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

The Day We WereObserved

Your evaluator walks in… and suddenly your heart drops, your brain forgets how to teach, and you’re silently begging your students to remember everything you’ve ever taught them. In this episode, we’re talking all about teacher observations and evaluations — the nerves, the overthinking, and the hope that you remember your own lesson plan. ​​Join us for laughs, honest conversation, and reassurance that a single observation doesn’t capture every amazing thing that you bring to the classroom.
 

The Day We Returned From Winter Break

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.

The Day With All The Weather

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. ❄️☕

The Day We Extended and Applied

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.

The Day We Practiced and Rehearsed

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.

The day we made sense of learning

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!

The Day We Focused On New Learning

In this episode of Teachers on the Loose, the four of us dive into the third phase of McRel’s 6 Phases of Learning: Direct Instruction. We break down what this phase really looks like in the classroom, how to keep students engaged while you’re front and center, and the small shifts that make big differences. And of course, it wouldn’t be Teachers on the Loose without a few hilarious tales of direct instruction gone sideways—because sometimes the “direct” part takes a detour. Join us for practical tips, real talk, and plenty of laughs as we unpack this essential phase of learning.
 
 
 

The Day We Committed To Learning

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.