Modern Classrooms in Kindergarten: Key Insights from the Podcast
Welcome to the Modern Classrooms Project Podcast. Each week we bring you discussions with educators on how they use blended, self-paced, and mastery-based learning to better serve their learners. In this episode, Toni Rose Deanon is joined by Saenovia Smith, a kindergarten teacher, to share what successful implementation of the Modern Classrooms Project looks like in kindergarten.
Saenovia emphasized creating a joyful learning environment, incorporating play and celebrating mastery, like her "learning brain" reward system. A crucial element was establishing clear, consistent routines from day one, including designated areas and peer support systems like "Ask Me" students.
Here are three key takeaways from this podcast episode:
Building Stamina: Starting with short durations of virtual learning and self-pacing and incrementally increasing them allowed her kindergarteners to develop impressive focus. Saenovia wisely built student stamina gradually, starting with five-minute activities and progressing to 20 minutes. "Don't be afraid of any mistakes that you make. I was told once that in order to master something, you have to mess it up," she advised.
Impact on Teaching Practices and Mental Health: The model positively impacted Saenovia's teaching, making her more intentional. "The structured routines in the self-paced learning environment have reduced stress and allowed me to focus on what matters most, which is my student growth," she explained.
Systems and Procedures: Clear routines, designated areas, and peer support systems enabled student independence. Her students even guided substitute teachers, demonstrating remarkable self-direction.
Saenovia's story exemplifies how the Modern Classrooms model can thrive in early childhood education, promoting student engagement, independence, and a love of learning. "If they can do it, it can be done at a higher level as well," she asserted, highlighting the model's potential across all grade levels.
Discussion questions for PLC and PD:
Saenovia emphasizes the importance of starting small and not being afraid of mistakes. How do you create a classroom culture where students (and yourself!) feel comfortable taking risks and learning from mistakes, especially when implementing a new model like Modern Classrooms? What specific strategies do you use to encourage this risk-taking?
Saenovia uses "Ask Me" and "Super Ask Me" students to foster peer collaboration and support. What are some other innovative ways you can incorporate peer learning and support structures into your classroom, particularly within a blended learning environment? How do you ensure that these roles are beneficial for both the students receiving help and the students providing it?
Saenovia highlights the positive impact of the Modern Classrooms model on her mental health, citing reduced stress due to structured routines and self-paced learning. How do you prioritize your own well-being as an educator, especially when implementing new instructional models or facing challenges? What specific strategies or systems do you use to manage your workload and stress levels, and how do you advocate for your needs in this regard?
Our Host
Toni Rose taught MS English for 10 years and will forever identify as a teacher. Toni Rose strives to be the teacher that they never had growing up, so they focus on anti-bias, anti-racist work and wants to create a brave space for everyone around them. As a queer Filipinx, they understand just how important it is to be represented, be valued, and belong. They especially love being a thought partner for and celebrating teachers.
Our Guest
Saenovia Smith
Saenovia Smith is a dedicated kindergarten teacher with a passion for fostering a love of learning in young minds. Recently, Saenovia celebrated the achievement of graduating with a master’s degree in education, a testament to her commitment to her profession and continuous improvement.
As a Distinguished Modern Classroom Educator, Saenovia is at the forefront of innovative teaching methods, always eager to try new things and incorporate the latest educational strategies into her classroom. Her enthusiasm for helping all students learn and achieve success is evident in everything she does.
Balancing a busy career and family life, Saenovia’s experience as a parent enriches her understanding and empathy towards her students and their families. Her dedication to creating a nurturing and effective learning environment is matched by her desire to see every child thrive academically and personally.
Saenovia’s interests extend beyond the classroom; she is a lifelong learner who values personal growth and professional development. Her journey in education is driven by a heartfelt belief that every student deserves the opportunity to succeed.
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