In this conversation, I chat with Peter Liljedahl to unpack the research behind Building Thinking Classrooms and what it really means to design classrooms where students think deeply. We explore the conditions that support thinking, from how tasks are introduced and timed to the surprisingly powerful role furniture and physical space play in student engagement. Peter clarifies what productive struggle looks like in action and how to normalize getting stuck. We dig into questioning, including the types of questions students ask and which ones teachers should actually answer, and we reframe homework as a tool for students to check their understanding. This episode is packed with research-backed insights that invite educators to rethink how they design for thinking every day. Click here to check out SchoolAI!   Episode Resources Check out Peter’s books Instagram: @‌buildingthinkingclassrooms X: @‌pgliljedahl or @‌BTCthinks

As the year winds down, many teachers find themselves thinking about what they want to change and why it’s been so hard to change it. In this episode, I guide listeners through a practical reflection process that helps explain why meaningful change often feels elusive, even when the desire is there. Using real coaching stories and classroom-based examples, I unpack how hidden commitments and assumptions shape our instructional choices. This episode is an invitation to slow down, get curious, and replace self-blame with clarity. If you’re feeling tired, stuck, or ready for a different kind of reset, this conversation offers a more humane path forward. Related Resource: Activity—Immunity to Change Model

Transitions can make or break a station rotation, especially when time is tight and energy is high. In this episode, I respond to a teacher’s question about transitions and logistics by unpacking practical strategies for creating clear, consistent routines that students can actually manage. I share why transition systems need to be explicitly taught and practiced, how strategic seating can eliminate the scramble for spots, and the powerful role of a group facilitator in keeping stations running smoothly. These small design moves reduce friction, protect instructional time, and help students build independence. The strategies connect directly to the design principles in The Station Rotation Model and UDL, with a focus on clarity, predictability, and student agency. Related blog: The Station Rotation Model Tip #3: Practice Rotating for Seamless Transitions

High-quality instructional materials are designed to strengthen Tier 1 instruction, but what happens when fidelity turns into rigidity? In this episode, I explore how HQIM can function as a strong foundation rather than a script teachers are expected to follow. I unpack when whole-group instruction makes sense, when small-group instruction is more effective, and how data can guide those decisions. Using a reimagined HQIM lesson as an example, I share how flexible structures like station rotation can create space for differentiation, formative feedback, and student agency. Click here to check out SchoolAI!   Episode Resources Using High-Quality Instructional Materials Flexibly to Strengthen Tier 1 Instruction Resource: Design with HQIM: Guiding Questions for Instructional Coaches & Teachers

In this episode, I chat with Suzy Evans and Dr. Shane Saeed about how learner agency, metacognition, and assessment can work together rather than be siloed or disconnected. We explored what the science of learning tells us about helping students take more ownership of their thinking and how teachers can design routines that make assessment something they do with students, not to them. Shane and Susie shared concrete strategies they use in classrooms across their district, along with insights from hosting their popular podcast, Vrainwaves. They also talked about what it looks like to seek balance while juggling so many roles in education. This episode brings the pieces together for anyone trying to make their practice feel more connected and purposeful. Click here to check out SchoolAI!   Episode Resources X: @‌drshanesaeed  Instagram handle: @‌drshanesaeed X: @‌SuzannahEvans2 LinkedIn: Suzy Evans

In this episode, I dig into one of the most common challenges teachers face when using the Station Rotation Model: managing noise while maintaining meaningful collaboration. I walk through six quiet, high-engagement collaborative routines—from virtual scavenger hunts to shared visual artifacts—that help students think together without the chaos. These strategies are easy to set up, work across subjects, and support deeper learning in secondary classrooms. I also share tips for balancing station types and setting clear expectations so teachers can stay focused on their small-group instruction. If you want rotations that run smoothly and keep students engaged, this episode gives you concrete moves to try tomorrow. Click here to check out SchoolAI! Episode Resources Related Blog: Station Rotation: 6 Silent Collaborative Activities for Secondary Classrooms Googlel Slides Scavenger Hunt The Station Rotation Model & UDL: Elevate Tier 1 Instruction and Cultivate Learner Agency

In this episode, I talk about using video strategically for explanations or models that we plan to present the same way for all students, and that they often need to revisit. I dig into the common concerns teachers raise about video and explain why it can actually remove barriers that live instruction sometimes creates. I share strategies that turn watching into an active, collaborative experience so students are thinking, talking, and making meaning together. I also explain how this shift frees teachers to support individuals and small groups while keeping the whole class engaged. This episode is all about moving from delivery to discovery and designing classroom experiences that let students take a more active role in their learning. Episode Resources Click here to check out SchoolAI! Related Blog: Using Video for Tier 1 Instruction: From Passive Watching to Active Learning

In this episode, I talk with Matt Graham, an award-winning educator and the digital media specialist for Chesapeake Public Schools. Matt shares how he first used podcasting with middle school students, then expanded that work and eventually led efforts to create a districtwide podcast focused on clear, consistent communication with families and the larger community. We dig into the origin story, the early challenges, and the systems he put in place to get the district podcast off the ground. Matt also talks about how this work has helped the district build trust, highlight student and staff voices, and strengthen the connection between schools and the community. It’s a practical look at how one district is using podcasting to open doors and keep families informed.Episode Resources Check out Chesepeake Public Schools' Podcast Amplified Connect with Matt Graham on LinkedIn

In this episode, I explore how we can make Tier 1 whole group instruction more intentional, engaging, and effective for every learner. I share how chunking content into manageable segments prevents cognitive overload and keeps students engaged in their learning, rather than passive listeners. I share how cooperative learning strategies, like Numbered Heads Together, can transform teacher-led lessons into rich opportunities for thinking, dialogue, and collaboration. Finally, I unpack how Depth of Knowledge (DOK) questions can deepen thinking and move students beyond recall to reasoning and application. If you’re ready to strengthen your Tier 1 instruction and reach more learners, this episode is for you! Related Blog: Making Tier 1 Whole Group Instruction More Effective: Chunking, Cooperative Learning, and DOK Questions [Resource] Numbered Heads Together (NHT) Cooperative Learning Strategy

In this episode, I share how a simple seating chart can transform the Station Rotation Model into a more focused and productive learning experience. I talk about how intentional grouping can minimize distractions, strengthen collaboration, and make it easier to assign a facilitator or group leader at each station. I also offer tips for displaying groups and numbering stations so both teachers and students can navigate rotations smoothly and stay on task. Episode Resources Related Blog Grouper — Grouping Tool  [Template] Grouping Sheet  [Template] Grouping Display

In this episode, I chat with Christine Feenstra, Executive Director of the California Association for Leading Innovation in Education (CALIE)—formerly known as CUE—about the organization’s evolution and rebrand. Christine shares the why behind the shift, how her team engaged educators and stakeholders throughout the process, and what this change means for the community moving forward. We discuss CALIE’s renewed mission to inspire learning, empower educators, and expand access to professional growth opportunities. Episode Resources JoinCALIE.org Linkedin Twitter/x Facebook Instagram

In this episode, I explore how AI can make differentiation not only doable but sustainable. I share how I use AI tools to support differentiation across content, process, product, and learning environment—helping teachers meet diverse learner needs without doubling their workload. From creating leveled texts and choice boards to designing asset-based rubrics and flexible online spaces, I highlight practical ways AI can enhance equity and efficiency. My goal is to help you spend less time prepping and more time connecting with students as learners. Related Blog

Differentiation doesn’t have to mean creating 30 different versions of a lesson. In this episode, I unpack what differentiation really looks like in practice and why it’s essential in today’s diverse classrooms. I share examples from elementary, middle, and high school to show how teachers can adjust content, process, product, and learning environment to make learning more accessible and engaging for every student. You’ll hear how small, intentional design choices can strengthen Tier 1 instruction, reduce the need for intervention, and make teaching more sustainable over time. Related Blog: Differentiation in Action: Why It Matters, What It Is, and How It Works

In this episode of The Balance, Jessica Vance joins me to discuss her new book, Evidence of Inquiry: Exploring, Questioning, and Documenting with Learning Walls. We explore what it means to “follow your learners” and how inquiry shifts the way teachers engage students around the topics and concepts at the center of the curriculum. Jessica unpacks the purpose and power of learning walls, explaining how they make student thinking visible, create space for collaborative meaning-making, and even serve as professional playgrounds for teachers themselves. Together, we reflect on the mindset, culture, and practical strategies that help both teachers and students embrace uncertainty, curiosity, and deeper learning. Episode Resources Jessica’s Instagram: @‌jess_vanceedu Evidence of Inquiry: Exploring, Questioning, and Documenting with Learning Walls Leading with a Lens of Inquiry: Cultivating Conditions for Curiosity and Empowering Agency

In this episode of The Balance, I tackle one of the biggest concerns teachers raise about the Station Rotation Model: can I really trust students to work independently while I’m at the teacher-led station? I share strategies for setting the stage for success, including co-creating class agreements, establishing a clear and consistent path of consequences, and teaching smooth transitions between stations. I also talk about how to set realistic grading expectations so you don’t burn out trying to collect work from every station. These routines and structures not only build trust and accountability but also make it possible for teachers to focus fully on their small groups, where the real magic of differentiation happens. Episode Resources The Station Rotation Model and UDL: Elevate Tier 1 Instruction and Cultivate Learner Agency [Template] Safe Space Reflection Form

In this episode of The Balance, I dig into why the teacher-led station is the heart of the Station Rotation Model. I share how I use this time with small groups for differentiated direct instruction, modeling sessions, and need-based instruction driven by real-time data. I also discuss how I facilitate rich discussions using Webb’s Depth of Knowledge questions and incorporate the feedback process into the classroom through formative feedback on work in progress. With concrete examples from math, reading, history, science, and writing, I show how the teacher-led station makes personalized learning and UDL feel doable and sustainable for teachers.The Station Rotation Model & UDL: Elevate Tier 1 Instruction & Cultivate Learner Agency

In this episode of The Balance, I talk with Shira Woolf Cohen, co-founder of Innovageous and author of Leading Future-Focused Schools: Engaging and Preparing Students for Career Success. With nearly three decades in education and workforce development, Shira shares why the gap between what students learn in school and the skills needed in today’s workplace demands urgent attention. We explore what it means to cultivate a future-focused mindset, why every teacher is a “career teacher,” and how schools can embed career-connected learning across grade levels and subject areas. Shira offers strategies for building on student strengths, examples of what this work looks like in practice, and actionable steps leaders can take to begin designing future-focused schools. Connect with Shira Woolf Cohen and learn more about her work. Leading Future-Focused Schools: Engaging and Preparing Students for Career Success http://innovageous.com https://www.instagram.com/innovageous/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/innovageous https://www.facebook.com/InnovageousSolutions/

In this episode, I’m digging into a challenge I hear about a lot: the tension between fidelity to an adopted curriculum and the need for teacher creativity. Too often, teachers feel pressured to follow lessons lockstep, leaving little room to respond to their students’ needs or bring their own expertise into the design. That rigidity can strip away joy and engagement for both teachers and students. I’ll share why schools adopt curriculum, the benefits and challenges these programs bring, and concrete shifts teachers can make to move from scripted compliance to creative engagement. We’ll also explore how leaders and instructional coaches can shift their messaging and support so teachers feel empowered to adapt curriculum with purpose. If your team is navigating the challenges of curriculum adoption, this episode will give you practical strategies and fresh ways to think about fidelity, differentiation, and engagement. If your team or teachers need support, feel free to contact me. Related Blog:  From Scripted Compliance to Creative Engagement: Rethinking How We Use Adopted Curriculum

AI is transforming education, but I believe strong prompts are the key to unlocking its potential. In this episode, I share the REFINE acronym I developed to give educators a structured approach to writing effective AI prompts. I walk through each step—assigning AI a role, setting clear expectations, framing the context, specifying inclusions, defining nuance, and evaluating outputs—to show how this process keeps teachers in the driver’s seat. Whether you’re designing lessons, assessments, or scaffolds, REFINE can help you create more effective, inclusive, and responsive learning experiences with AI. Related blog: https://catlintucker.com/2025/08/refine-ai-prompting/

In this episode of The Balance, I chat with Sunil Gunderia, Chief Innovation Officer at Age of Learning, the company behind ABCmouse. Sunil is driving efforts to design AI-powered tools that personalize learning for young children while keeping safety and effectiveness at the center. We discuss how AI can support rather than replace teachers, the importance of guardrails and evidence-based best practices, and the role of personalized learning programs in helping young learners build strong foundations in reading and math. Sunil also shares how programs like My Reading Academy are helping thousands of pre-K students develop confidence, resilience, and a love of learning.