The Embrace the Messy Podcast with Shannon Schinkel

Segment 7 - Messy Minutes: Assessment Edition - student voice and choice

In this episode, we explore the balance of student voice and choice in the classroom—where students are empowered to make decisions while teachers provide structure and guidance. We'll break down how this approach encourages autonomy without chaos, ensuring students meet learning goals while engaging meaningfully with the material. If you're ready to shift from controller to facilitator, this episode will give you the tools to start.

Segment 6 - Messy Minutes: Assessment Edition - supporting teachers to take their first steps in assessment reform

In this episode, we're tackling the challenge of helping educators who are deeply rooted in traditional assessment practices take their first step toward reform. We'll explore how small, manageable changes can shift their perspective, even when there's pushback. If you’re ready to learn how empathy and patience can lead to meaningful transformation in the classroom, this episode is for you! Tune in to find out more.

26 - Ken Williams Embraces the Messy

In this episode, Shannon chats with Ken Williams, a nationally recognized trainer, speaker, coach and consultant in leadership and school culture. A practitioner for nearly three decades, Ken led the improvement efforts at two schools by leveraging the Professional Learning Communities at Work process. Skilled in joining the why of the work to the how of the work, Ken is known for his powerful and engaging combinations of “heart, humor, and hammer.” He is an expert at helping schools build capacity in the collective commitments required of learning for all cultures.  His book, RUTHLESS EQUITY, is a must read for any educator who wants to learn more about how to "start with the crown."
To learn more about Ken’s work, visit Unfold The Soul online at www.unfoldthesoul.com, and follow @unfoldthesoul on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIN.
 
Before the conversation with Ken, Shannon shares a story about a student who needed grace at a time when some might have shut the door on them, and how that proved the power of assessment flexibility and compassion
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Contact Shannon Schinkel about the podcast or consulting:
Website: mygrowthmindset.home.blog
Email: embracethemessypodcast@gmail.com
Instagram: @dramaqueenbrc 
Threads: @dramaqueenbrc 
If you are an educator who exclusively uses the British Columbia curriculum join Shannon's group on Facebook, Beyond Report Cards. https://www.facebook.com/share/g/65juRisqcoN4FmTa/
 

Segment 5 - Messy Minutes: Assessment Edition - feedback

In this episode, we're diving into the heart of effective feedback—when to give it, how to give it, and how to ensure it actually leads to student growth. We'll explore why it's not about the amount of feedback but the impact it has, and how timely, actionable comments can make all the difference. Ready to rethink your feedback strategy? Tune in to learn more!

Segment 4 - Messy Minutes: Assessment Edition - talking to caregivers about assessment reform

In this episode, we tackle the challenge of talking to caregivers about assessment reform and shifting away from traditional grades. You'll learn how to break down the benefits of standards-based grading in a way that builds trust and understanding, helping caregivers see how this approach supports their child's growth. Tune in for strategies on how to make these conversations productive and empowering for everyone involved.

Segment 3 - Messy Minutes: Assessment Edition - learning habits vs work habits

In this episode, we’re uncovering the hidden power of learning habits and why they matter more than traditional work habits. We’ll explore how shifting the focus from behaviors like attendance and homework to the skills behind student success can lead to more meaningful growth. If you’re ready to rethink how you view student progress, this conversation is for you.

25 - Peter Liljedahl Embraces the Messy

In this episode, Shannon talks with Dr. Peter Liljedahl, a professor of mathematics education at Simon Fraser University in Vancouver, Canada. Peter has authored or coauthored numerous books, book chapters, and journal articles on topics central to the teaching and learning of mathematics, and is most known as the author of the global phenomenon Building Thinking Classrooms in Mathematics: 14 Practices for Enhancing Learning (Corwin 2020).
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Find out more about Peter Liljedahl at peterliljedahl.com and buildingthinkingclassrooms.com
 
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Contact Shannon Schinkel about the podcast or consulting:
Website: mygrowthmindset.home.blog
Email: embracethemessypodcast@gmail.com
Instagram: @dramaqueenbrc 
Threads: @dramaqueenbrc 
If you are an educator who exclusively uses the British Columbia curriculum join Shannon's group on Facebook, Beyond Report Cards. https://www.facebook.com/share/g/65juRisqcoN4FmTa/

Segment 2 - Messy Minutes: Assessment Edition - rethinking your grade book

In this episode, we're taking a fresh look at how you organize your grade book, challenging the conventional approach of focusing on task types. Discover how a simple shift toward standards-based categories can create a clearer picture of student learning, without the chaos of grade soup. Tune in to learn how you can rethink your assessment practices and bring intentionality to your grading.

Segment 1 - Messy Minutes: Assessment Edition - formative and summative assessment

In this episode, we're shifting the way we think about assessment—from static events to ongoing actions that shape our teaching. We'll explore how subtle changes in approach can transform your classroom, making assessment more dynamic, flexible, and meaningful for both you and your students. Ready to embrace the messiness? Tune in and find out how!

24 - Ken O'Connor Embraces the Messy

In this episode, Shannon talks with Ken O’Connor, an internationally recognized expert on grading and reporting practices in education. With years of classroom experience followed by decades of consulting and writing, Ken has become a leading voice advocating for standards-based grading. His work emphasizes the importance of separating academic achievement from behaviours like effort or participation to provide a clearer, more accurate picture of student learning. Known for his practical strategies, Ken has authored multiple books, including three editions of A Repair Kit for Grading, which helps educators rethink traditional grading systems. He has worked closely with the Canadian Assessment for Learning Network in which he is a co-founder and schools and districts worldwide, helping them implement effective, fair assessment practices. He is my assessment hero, one of the kindest, most thoughtful people I have ever met. Honestly, in the moments when I have thought to myself, why am I am on this grading reform journey, Ken’s books, interviews and presentations have kept me going.
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Find out more about Ken O'Connor --> https://www.oconnorgrading.com/
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Contact Shannon Schinkel about the podcast or consulting:
Website: mygrowthmindset.home.blog
Email: embracethemessypodcast@gmail.com
Instagram: @dramaqueenbrc 
Threads: @dramaqueenbrc 
If you are an educator who exclusively uses the British Columbia curriculum join Shannon's group on Facebook, Beyond Report Cards. https://www.facebook.com/share/g/65juRisqcoN4FmTa/