Build Systems that Stick: Stop Chasing the Next Big Thing | Art Works for Teachers Podcast

Recently, I was a guest on the Art Works for Teachers podcast hosted by Susan Riley, Founder of The Institute for Arts Integration and STEAM where I had the chance to share my journey from orchestra teacher to ed-tech innovator. I began by explaining how my 15-year career as an orchestra teacher in Pennsylvania and New Jersey, along with running an opera company in Brooklyn, evolved into my current work in educational technology.

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I shared that my podcasting career started around 2009-2010 when my school district asked me to teach professional development classes on topics I wasn’t familiar with. My solution? Start a podcast to interview experts and learn directly from them. This led me into the world of Google, Microsoft, and educational technology, eventually becoming an instructional coach for about 15 years, supporting multiple school districts, serving as a district administrator, and now teaching digital learning skills to middle school students.

During our conversation, I explained how my orchestra conducting background perfectly prepared me for podcasting and coaching—it’s all about audience, questions, feedback, and guiding the overall sound while respecting each educator’s expertise. I discussed my approach to instructional coaching and how it needs to be tied to district goals and vision rather than being an afterthought.

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I also talked about my new book, “Impact Standards, Designing District Systems, that power K-12 learning,” which helps bridge the gap between strategic planning and classroom implementation. The book guides school districts in building systems that achieve their strategic goals through effective instructional coaching. I’m excited that it’s currently sitting at number two on the new book list, and I invited listeners to check it out at teachercast.net/standards.

If you enjoyed this discussion about my journey from orchestra teacher to educational technology innovator, I’d love to stay connected with you. My weekly newsletter provides exclusive insights into educational technology, instructional coaching strategies, and practical tips you can implement in your classroom right away. You’ll also be the first to know about upcoming podcast episodes, book updates, and professional development opportunities. Join our growing community of educators passionate about transforming teaching and learning through technology. Simply visit teachercast.net/newsletter to subscribe today and receive a free digital resource as a welcome gift!