D35 on the Go

In this episode, we are joined by Amy Holaday, Director of Curriculum and Instruction, who is also a leader in our work with instructional technology. During our conversation, we will discuss:Our philosophy about instructional technology in the districtThe work we are doing as a district to ensure intentional and purposeful use of technology in classroomsOur tech practices in D35 and their connection to Jonathan Haidt’s call to action for schools in The Anxious GenerationResources: Away for the Day parent letter

In this episode, we hear from West Teachers Courtney Orosz and Katie Doherty to discuss the power of reading aloud with children (no matter their age)! Our discussion includes:The value of reading aloud in the classroomWays in which you can incorporate reading aloud in your homeHow reading aloud can support your child in perspective takingResources: Resource shared at West Family Literacy Night with ways parents can support at home during read aloudDumpling Soup picture book discussed in the episodeThe Dunderheads picture book discussed in the episodeThe Thing About Georgie novel discussed in the episodeTomas and the Library Lady picture book discussed in the episode

In this episode, Dr. Wang is joined by Dr. David Yeager, acclaimed developmental psychologist and author of the recently published book, “10 to 25: The Science of Motivating Young People.” Dr. Yeager is a professor of psychology at the University of Texas at Austin and worked closely with Carol Dweck and her research on growth mindset. Dr. Yeager and Dr. Wang will discuss:Current misconceptions about adolescentsHow to embrace the mentor mindset when working with young peopleStrategies that will support adults in communicating with youth in a way that they can hear usResources: FAN website with Dr. Yeager’s FAN Talk

As we look forward to the 2024-25 school year, we have planned an exciting lineup of parent engagement opportunities for the Glencoe community. During this episode, Dr. Wang and Betty Weir, Director of Professional Learning, discuss:The learning opportunities you have to look forward to in the upcoming school year.The process that we use to plan parent engagement in D35Family Night gatherings to put on your calendar so you can save the date!Resources: D35 2024-2025 Parent Engagement CalendarEnhancing the Partnership Between School and Home

As we enter summer, our teachers have supported students with making plans for summer reading. In this episode, we welcome Dr. Amy Stewart, District Literacy Specialist, and Michelle Gonzalez, Central Reading Specialist, to discuss ways parents can support their children with reading over the summer. Enjoy information on:Research behind the value of summer readingTools parents can utilize to support student reading motivation Ideas for great books to read and shareSummer Reading Note & Ideas/Links-2024

It seems to be the #1 topic on parents’ and teachers’ minds…how are smartphones impacting our children? In this episode, Dr. Wang speaks with a Glencoe parent about what we are noticing and wondering when it comes to our children’s phone usage. Topics addressed will include:The interactions parents and educators are noticing our children have via phonesRecent research and articles presenting ideas about this topicWays we can support our children and each other in living a balanced life

For the past 5 years, D35 has partnered with Julie Freeman to provide dedicated Mindfulness instruction to students K-8. This May, some of our West classrooms are piloting a 21-day mindfulness challenge for our students, staff, and families. In this episode, Dr. Wang and Julie discuss:The benefits of mindfulnessThe ways we have partnered to bring mindfulness instruction to studentsThe details of the 21-day Mindfulness ChallengeSpecial thanks to the Glencoe PTO for funding this learning experience for our students and staff.

Each year, West School invites Bill Buczinsky to lead a poetry learning experience for the 3rd graders. In today’s episode, Dr. Wang talks with Mr. Buczinsky about his work with the children. During the conversation, they will touch on:The role poetry can play in learningThe idea that poetry lives within each of usThe performances students make at WestSpecial thanks to the Glencoe PTO for funding this learning experience for our students.