On today’s episode of Teachers on the Loose, four teachers laugh through the emotional rollercoaster of unexpected weather days off. From celebrating surprise cancellations to stressing over missed plans, we find humor in every snowy (or stormy) twist.

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.

Four teachers on Teachers on the Loose dive into the fifth phase of McREL’s Phases of Learning—practicing and rehearsing—where learning finally sticks (and not just until the test). We share why this phase matters and practical, classroom-ready ways to get students retrieving content, with plenty of laughs along the way.

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!

In this episode of Teachers on the Loose, we break down McRel’s third phase of learning—Direct Instruction—and share practical ways to keep students engaged while you’re leading the learning. We also sprinkle in some hilarious moments when our instruction completely derailed, proving that even the best plans can turn into the best stories

In this episode, we explore the second phase of McRel’s learning model by sharing how we help students commit to learning through intentions, success criteria, and goal setting. With plenty of humor and relatable classroom stories, we break down how simple strategies can make a big impact.

n this episode, the Teachers on the Loose team dives into Phase One of McRel’s 6 phases of learning—getting students hooked from the start. From wild attention-grabbers to subtle engagement tricks, we share how we spark curiosity, why it matters, and what happens when it all goes hilariously off-script.

Sometimes even teachers on the loose need to slow down. In this solo episode, Allison shares a behind-the-scenes look at the podcast and reminds us that taking a break is how we find our spark again.

In this episode of Teachers on the Loose, we hit the reset button with gratitude, laughter, and maybe a little DoorDash. From hilarious coworker pranks to heartwarming student moments, we’re finding joy and perspective in the beautiful chaos of teaching life.

Between student cupcakes, surprise staff treats in the lounge, and coordinating make-up celebrations for summer babies, it often feels like it’s always birthday season in school! In this episode of Teachers on the Loose, the crew is diving into the glorious, sugar-fueled chaos of classroom celebrations. We’re talking through the sheer logistical challenge of coordinating treats, the pressure to make every student feel special, and the most hilarious, frosting-fueled stories that only classroom parties can deliver. Join us as we discuss our favorite ways to celebrate birthdays and why sometimes, you just have to embrace the chaos (but maybe leave the kazoos at home).

From parent-teacher conferences to grading marathons, homecoming madness, and hilarious kid moments — we’ve all been there! This week on Teachers on the Loose, we’re finding humor in the hectic. Tune in as we turn stressful teacher moments into stories that make you laugh.

Technology: can’t teach with it, can’t teach without it! In this episode, we share our favorite “tech triumphs” and “total meltdowns”—from the Smartboard that refused to be smart to the lesson that turned magic thanks to one well-timed click. Tune in for laughter, lessons learned, and maybe a few tech tips that actually work.

From silly costumes to pajama day, teachers know how to make school a little more magical. In this episode, we’re talking all things dress-up days - the laughs, the over-the-top outfits, and how a little bit of silly can bring joy to students and staff.

Parent-teacher conference season is here, and for teachers, it’s a whirlwind of long days, quick chats, and... sibling chaos. In this episode of Teachers on the Loose, we dive into the ”joys, challenges, and laugh-out-loud moments that only parent-teacher conferences can deliver.

Join us as we commiserate over the PD that should have been an email... But we’re also celebrating the truly impactful, hilarious, and inspiring moments that actually made us better teachers. So grab your coffee (or something stronger), and let’s get our PD on!

The back-to-school honeymoon is over—yes, the silly and challenging behaviors have arrived—but so have the real moments of growth. In this episode, we’re talking about helping students who are struggling, building strong connections, and finding joy in the messy, wonderful reality of teaching.

Back-to-school brings fresh starts, new routines, and yes… plenty of teacher tired.  In this episode, we share our favorite first week of school lessons and routines that turn the back-to-school chaos into meaningful connections and transform our classrooms into a place that feels like home.

Join your favorite teaching quartet on Teachers on the Loose as they tackle the wild world of classroom setup! Get ready for laughs, confessions about their biggest decor mishaps and guilty pleasures, and the universal experience of staring blankly at a room until inspiration strikes. It’s a fun and relatable episode perfect for any teacher.

In this episode of Teachers on the Loose, we share the lighthearted ways staff build relationships in elementary schools—from team excursions to setting norms, It’s proof that strong schools are built on connection, not just curriculum

Teacher self-care isn’t all about spa days and silence—it might just be reading a book that you picked, finishing a load of laundry, or drinking your coffee before it gets cold. In this episode, we’re keeping it real about what self-care looks like and why it actually matters. What’s one thing you do just for you during the school year?