Discover why students and teachers have mixed feelings about Artificial Intelligence in education. Learn about the pros and cons of AI from students and teachers themselves in this eye opening conversation. In this episode, Audrey Watters, Edtech's "Cassandra" talks about her concerns about artificial intelligence and the things we need to preserve in schools as we adopt its use.

Also, Vicki's students Will and Lucy talk about how students are using AI today, how students are beating AI detectors (the only students who get caught are those who don't really know how to use AI) and their thoughts about what teachers and professors should do at the beginning of each semester related to AI.

Additionally, Vicki's producer and son, John, joins the show to talk about what his recently graduated friends think about AI at work and also the perspectives of those who may not be fans as well as some positive uses even as we edit this show.

The full show notes can be found at https://www.coolcatteacher.com/talkai

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In this episode, award-winning educator Vicki Davis (that's me) explores how technology and innovative teaching strategies are revolutionizing the way we teach writing. From the inspiring story of Ms. Ezera Washington's transformative ELA classroom to practical tips on integrating tools like Book Creator, Minecraft, and even drones, this episode is packed with actionable insights for educators. Furthermore, I dive into this essential question by sharing 10+ practical, innovative strategies to transform writing instruction. Much of these are updates to chapters in my book Reinventing Writing published several years ago. I talk about the tools and ways you can better teach writing. This is part 1 which covers the tools, the writing landscape, and how teaching writing is changing. Part 2 will cover ideas from classroom teachers who are teaching writing now.

The episode will be posted here and on the show notes page at: https://www.coolcatteacher.com/talkwriting

Special Offer from Our Sponsor: 📖 Discover Book Creator and help your students unleash their creativity!

Sign up at https://www.coolcatteacher.com/bookcreator and use the code COOLCATTEACHER to get 3 months of Premium Book Creator FREE!

In this Cool Cat Teacher Talk episode, we will explore effective assessment strategies with Dr. Thomas Guskey, Becky Holden, Dr. Samuel Nix, Alan November, Mike Roberts, and Christie Thompson. We will talk about what makes an effective assessment and the importance of both formative and summative assessments. I'll share tools and how I use a custom GPT to give formative feedback for project-based learning. Experts and teachers will share tips for all grade levels as we focus on practical formative assessments.

Show notes and bios: https://www.coolcatteacher.com/talkassessment

In this heartfelt episode of Cool Cat Teacher Talk, we reflect on the remarkable careers of Mrs. Grace Adkins, who retired at age 94 after 77 years in education, and Mrs. Sharon Howard, who taught kindergarten for 44 years. These veteran educators share invaluable lessons on resilience, compassion, and the love of learning that every teacher can carry into their own classroom. Listen for timeless wisdom on creating a positive impact in students' lives. These women are spunky, vibrant women.

The episode with Grace Adkins was recorded five years before Mrs. Adkins retired when she was 89. She was my 4th grade teacher and colleague for 16 years. Mrs. Howard was my colleague at Sherwood Christian Academy and is such an amazing woman!

Show notes: https://www.coolcatteacher.com/talklegacy

If this episode resonated with you, please subscribe here or on YouTube and subscribe to my weekly newsletter.

In this episode, we dive into essential qualities of effective school leadership. From building relationships to tackling teacher burnout, our guest principals and educational experts share their strategies for creating positive, high-impact school environments. Hear from award-winning principals like Tracie Anderson Swilley and Carlos Ramirez, alongside thought leaders George Couros, Eric Sheninger, and top episodes from the past including Nancy Blair, Chris Chappotin, Pam Moran and more…

This full episode and show notes can be found at https://www.coolcatteacher.com/talkleadership

Welcome to Cool Cat Teacher Talk Episode 6, where we dive into the essential role of teachers, parents, and communities in helping children heal from trauma. This episode focuses on supporting children impacted by recent natural disasters and life's storms, with insights from leading educators, child psychologists, and leaders who know firsthand the challenges and power of resilience. As you watch, remember that every small act of kindness and support can make a difference in a child's life. Whether it's a smile, a listening ear, or a classroom community built on understanding, these moments shape healing. I hope this episode offers both practical strategies and heartfelt encouragement as we support our children.

Show notes: https://www.coolcatteacher.com/talkstorm

• Dr. Steven Berkowitz
• Dr. Michael Catt
• Dr. Brianna Kurtz
• Joe Mazza
• Your host, Vicki Davis

Lately, I’ve had people tell me, “Just breathe,” or “Take care of yourself.” But how? When life is a constant whirlwind of responsibilities, how do we actually make time for self-care?

In this episode of Cool Cat Teacher Talk, I’ve gathered some of the most powerful interviews I've done on teacher well-being. These “best of” excerpts will encourage and inspire you to prioritize yourself—because self-care isn’t selfish, it’s essential.

✨ Michelle Blanchet, co-author of Startup Teacher Playbook, explains how understanding our frustrations is the first step toward real self-care.

✨ Tinashe Blanchet tackles procrastination—because sometimes, taking care of ourselves starts with getting things done.

✨ Stephanie Dorsey offers sustainable self-care habits that have helped her navigate the toughest seasons of teaching.

✨ Lana Penley, an Oregon principal, shares how self-care became a crucial part of her school’s recovery after a devastating fire.

✨ Sarah Parker Wolf, author of Daily Intentions for the Classroom Teacher, reminds us of the power of intentional self-care in managing daily stress.

Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed or just need a reminder that you matter, this episode is for you. Listen now at coolcatteacher.com/talkselfcare.

🚀 What happens when a whole school shifts to a mastery-based model? Principal Nicki Slaugh shares how Quest Academy made the leap, improving student engagement and outcomes. Plus, hear from three educators using mastery-based learning in science, language arts, and math!

✅ What competency-based learning is & how it differs from traditional models
✅ How Quest Academy implemented a school-wide mastery-based system
✅ Strategies that boost student engagement & academic performance
✅ How teachers personalize learning in science, language arts, & math
✅ Misconceptions about mastery-based learning & how to overcome them
✅ Practical tips for bringing mastery-based learning to ANY classroom

🎧 Read the show notes and bios of today's guests: coolcatteacher.com/talkmastery

💡 Tag us! Share your takeaways on X (Twitter), LinkedIn, or Instagram @coolcatteacher!