The Robb Review Podcast

Independent Reading Post Pandemic

Sun, 13 Feb 2022 12:16:57 -0400

Revisit the importance of independent reading with Laura Robb and Evan Robb. As we move out of a global pandemic, there is a heightened need for independent reading to be part of ELA classrooms! Laura and Evan share Monday morning strategies to increase independent reading, some research, and the role of school leaders to support and elevate independent reading in schools.

4 Types of Reading for ELA Classrooms

Sat, 16 Oct 2021 13:35:52 -0300

Laura Robb and Evan Robb have a discussion about the 4 types of reading that can be a part of every ELA classroom. Are all 4 in your class or school? Check the podcast to affirm your work or to reflect on how you can elevate literacy with 4 types of reading!

Tips to Increase Independent Reading

Fri, 04 Dec 2020 11:45:49 -0400

In this podcast, Laura Robb and Evan Robb share ideas to champion independent reading in your classroom and school. In addition, they share ways to promote more reading and their opinions on motivating readers VS some traditional accountability methods. Help students develop reading lives and collaboratively create a culture of reading!

Tips to Create a Culture of Reading!

Sun, 01 Nov 2020 09:44:14 -0400

In this podcast, Laura and Evan share tips to make reading a priority in your school.
Evan shares leadership tips to support and promote reading; Laura shares specific ideas on how teachers can prioritize reading. The principal and teacher perspectives can lead to schools full of readers.

Guided Practice for ELA Classrooms

Sun, 20 Sep 2020 11:33:51 -0300

Laura discusses the role of guided practice in ELA classrooms. Evan and Laura share a definition of guided practice and give tips to make guided practice part of your instruction. Evan, as always, shares a story about how he was forced to memorize poems and lose points if he missed a word.

Celebrating Teachers!

Sun, 03 May 2020 16:27:57 -0300

Laura and Evan chat about a very important week, Teacher Appreciation Week! Laura and Evan created a list of how teachers inspire them every day and especially during this time of remote learning. In addition, they each share a story about a teacher who made an impact on them and they encourage you to reflect on a special teacher in your life and reach out to them during Teacher Appreciation Week.

Reading and Writing Tips for Remote Learning

Sun, 05 Apr 2020 11:42:27 -0300

In this podcast, Laura and Evan share tips on how to make reading and writing relevant in a time of remote learning.

Remote Learning Tips

Sun, 29 Mar 2020 10:52:40 -0300

In this podcast, Laura and Evan share tips to assist with remote learning. They review key reflective questions for educators and affirm the importance of working with students to find the best path for remote learning.

Striving Readers

Sun, 01 Mar 2020 10:06:41 -0400

Laura and Evan discuss the importance of students reading books and selections that they can read and understand. They dispel the practice of one book for everyone with the logic that to become better readers, a student must-read books they can read. Laura and Evan share a message of differentiation and a professional effort to make sure all subjects, not just language arts, are creating access to all students. Take ten minutes and get some tips!

Meetings, Fanta Orange, Nehi Grape, Keys, and Short Ties

Sat, 01 Feb 2020 12:59:39 -0400

Enjoy this podcast as Laura and Evan take an honest look at meetings. Some funny stories about sweaters, soda, keys, and more ending with some ideas on how to make meetings more effective and efficient. Drop-in and listen to Laura and Evan discuss a topic they both have strong opinions on!

Words, Actions, Congruency, and Positivity!

Sun, 26 Jan 2020 13:04:58 -0400

In this podcast. Evan expands on the second chapter of his Corwin book, The Ten-Minute Principal. Evan discusses the importance of congruency between words and actions, collective efficacy, positivity, and much more! Take a few minutes to listen, and reflect as you focus on freeing up your time to focus on leadership!

Choice in Reading Matters!

Sun, 19 Jan 2020 11:39:41 -0400

Listen in as Evan and Laura discuss the importance of choice when students read independently. Get some quick ideas on what choice in reading looks like and how to make it part of your school. Plus Evan shares a funny story about a faculty meeting, a teacher, and soda.

Reading: Volume and Diversity Matters

Sun, 17 Nov 2019 10:31:25 -0400

Laura and Evan discuss the importance of books being relevant to students, the power of choice, and the role volume plays in creating strong readers. For students to read better, they need to read books! Take a few minutes and listen in!

Reclaiming Reading Agency

Sat, 26 Oct 2019 11:54:17 -0300

Laura and Evan have a surprise guest on The Robb Review! Take about ten minutes of your day to listen in as Laura, Evan, and their guest discuss reclaiming reader agency. As always, there are a few funny moments, some honest conversation, and tips to make impactful change.

Reading Stamina Matters!

Sat, 14 Sep 2019 11:35:57 -0300

In this podcast, Laura and Evan discuss reading stamina and the importance of developing stamina. Laura gives insight into how to build reading stamina based on research and strategies that can work immediately in classrooms. Listen in as Laura and Evan explain how building reading stamina should be a daily focus for classrooms and schools. For students to read better, they need to read books!

TeamMakers! Mindset Matters!

Mon, 02 Sep 2019 11:48:55 -0300

In this podcast, Laura and Evan discuss the impact of mindset on learning, teaching, and leading. Enjoy listening as Laura and Evan expand on ideas in their newest book, TeamMakers, published by Dave Burgess Publishing Inc. TeamMakers has been ranked the #1 Best New Education Book by Book Authority for 2019!

TeamMakers! Dreaming, Collaborating, and Change!

Sat, 24 Aug 2019 11:48:19 -0300

In this podcast, Laura and Evan discuss their new book with Dave Burgess Publishing, TeamMakers! Laura and Evan give insight into the TeamMaker project and pose questions to ponder that are not in the book! TeamMakers has been ranked the #1 Best New Education Book by Book Authority for 2019!

Finding Your Reading Identity!

Tue, 09 Jul 2019 21:03:01 -0300

Laura and Evan have a surprise guest on The Robb Review! Check out this podcast to learn what it means for students to establish a reading identity and how educators can help students see themselves as readers! A few funny moments, some great information, and some honest conversation. Take a few minutes and listen in!

Reading Intervention Matters!

Sun, 28 Apr 2019 11:51:13 -0300

Join Laura and Evan as they discuss reading intervention. Evan shares ideas on how a micro-block can support reading intervention. Laura adds to the conversation by sharing her thoughts on how to support students using formative assessment for “on the spot” intervention during class. Intervention is not only for students who struggle; it can also be for students who need enrichment.

A Reading Teacher's Toolkit

Sun, 07 Apr 2019 10:20:34 -0300

In this podcast, Laura and Evan discuss three types of reading for any Language Arts/English classroom K-12. Imagine how reading could improve if all children were exposed to three different types of reading each day! Laura and Evan will tell you how to do this and make it part of your classroom and school. For students to read better they need to read books!

Volume in Reading Matters

Sun, 24 Feb 2019 17:50:35 -0400

In this podcast, Laura and Evan explain why the amount of time that students read self-selected books at school and at home has everything to do with their progress and delight in reading. As always, Laura and Evan have some funny stories including Evan's confession of what volume meant to him in middle school.

Increase Teacher Agency

Sat, 16 Feb 2019 14:10:26 -0400

Evan and Laura discuss five ways to increase teacher agency in your school or division. As always, this is a favorite topic of Laura; Evan has his usual funny, reflective moments. Take 10 minutes to learn some ideas on how to promote a culture of teacher agency leading to increased student agency.

Choose Professional Learning!

Mon, 21 Jan 2019 14:40:48 -0400

In this podcast, Evan and Laura draw a distinction between staff development and professional learning. Together they share why the traditional model of staff development can be problematic and how relevant professional learning can bring about impactful change. As always, Evan adds some “odd” stories from his personal experiences. Enjoy The Robb Review Podcast with Evan and Laura!

Class Seating and Instruction

Sat, 08 Dec 2018 11:14:45 -0400

In this podcast, Laura and Evan discuss class seating and how seating can positively impact class instruction and student engagement. But creative seating does not always equal creative teaching. As always, Evan has a story from his middle school days and how one class reminded him of the game Battleship.

Myth Busting With Laura and Evan!

Sat, 20 Oct 2018 09:24:05 -0300

Laura and Evan discuss several myths that exist in education. They share honest thoughts and views about the changes that must happen for students and teachers. This podcast has a mix of humor along with very frank opinions. When it comes to busting education myths....who you gonna call- Laura and Evan!

Grading and Change with Travis Crowder

Sun, 23 Sep 2018 12:12:20 -0300

Grading and Change: Travis Crowder returns to the Robb Review Podcast. Enjoy their before dinner chat about grading and breaking away from some traditional practices to create new and better learning opportunities for students. Laura and Evan add to the conversation and as always Evan shares some funny stories from his school experiences.

Non-Traditional Practices With Travis Crowder

Sun, 02 Sep 2018 10:11:02 -0300

Travis Crowder makes a visit to the Robb Review Podcast to have a chat about breaking away from some traditional practices to create new and better learning opportunities for students. Laura and Evan add to the conversation and as always Evan shares some funny stories from his school experiences.

P.D. On a Budget

Sun, 27 May 2018 16:27:43 -0300

In this podcast, listen in as Evan and Laura have a conversation about professional development when money is tight. Learn several strategies to continue professional learning in your school or on your own.

More Than One Way To Skin A Cat

Sun, 29 Apr 2018 08:46:57 -0300

Listen in as Laura and Evan have a conversation about doing things differently. Today, Laura and Evan discuss classroom management with tips on how to create a positive classroom environment. Laura shares insights from a teachers perspective and Evan shares thoughts on classroom management from a principal's perspective. As with every podcast, Evan has a unique story from his school days to share!

Part 2 Practices of Effective Schools

Fri, 30 Mar 2018 14:20:59 -0300

Enjoy part 2: Practices of Effective Schools! Laura and Evan continue their conversation about effective practices they have observed in schools. Evan focuses on how best practices can positively influence school culture and Laura shares practices she has seen in classrooms.

Practices of Effective Schools

Sun, 11 Mar 2018 11:16:25 -0300

In this podcast, Laura and Evan have a conversation about effective practices they have observed in schools. Laura's focus is on practices of effective teachers, and Evan shares his ideas on impacting the culture of a school.

The Power Of Yet!

Sun, 11 Feb 2018 12:04:31 -0400

In this podcast, Laura and Evan share strategies to help reframe thinking using the power of yet and a growth mindset. As always Evan has a story to share from his rather interesting school experiences.

Independent Reading Not Only For English Class

Sun, 28 Jan 2018 13:27:03 -0400

In this podcast reading enthusiasts, Evan and Laura have a conversation on building reading capacity in schools. Independent reading is important but as Evan and Laura note reading should occur in all classes not just English classes. Evan and Laura discuss how students can engage in independent reading in all content areas! Evan starts the podcast with a confession to Laura!

Never Ask Students To Do These Things - Part 2

Sun, 14 Jan 2018 12:08:53 -0400

Never Ask Students To Do These Things, Part 2! Evan and Laura are back at it sharing thoughts on change and why certain things we ask students to do needs to stop. Evan starts with another one of his stories from his school experiences, including a reference to the Bay City Rollers. This podcast is conversational and allows you hear Evan and Laura like they are sitting with you. Enjoy Part 2 of Never Ask Students To Do These Things.

Never Ask Students To Do These Things - Part 1

Sun, 07 Jan 2018 14:25:03 -0400

In this podcast, listen in while Evan and Laura have a chat on several practices teachers sometimes ask students to do and why change is needed. As always, Evan starts with an odd memory from his seventh grade English class; be glad you were not in that class! Although there is humor in this podcast, Evan and Laura have a message you need to hear; some things need to change. They encourage honest reflection, challenge the status quo, and continue to advocate for what is best for students.

The Robb Review: New Years Resolutions From Evan and Laura

Sat, 30 Dec 2017 13:16:27 -0400

Evan and Laura have some New Year's resolutions and they are sharing them with you. The new year is a time to reflect and refocus on our passions and where we find inspiration. No doubt Evan and Laura are passionate about education! Hopefully, their ideas will inspire all listeners to set some big goals for 2018. Happy New Year!

Raise Reading Scores and Increase Reading!

Sun, 17 Dec 2017 14:03:09 -0400

Evan shares some of his thoughts on elements of a successful reading program. Evan is a believer in best practice and the need to incorporate best practices in the classroom. Also, Evan explains how a purposeful reading program can inspire students to read more and lead a school to better performance. Finally, Evan shares some down-home wisdom to encourage you to reflect on practices that may be loved but just don't work.

The Robb Review: Feedback Is Needed For Learning

Sun, 10 Dec 2017 16:17:04 -0400

Learning can occur without grades, but learning cannot occur without feedback.
In this podcast, Laura and Evan discuss the importance of feedback and give examples of how feedback should be part of all quality instruction. As always, Evan shares some funny stories about his “odd” experiences when he was in school.

The Robb Review: Let's Discuss Homework!

Sun, 03 Dec 2017 11:57:22 -0400

Laura and Evan have some strong opinions on homework, and they share them in this podcast. As usual, Evan shares an odd story from his schooling past! Maybe you can relate to what he shares? Bottom line, many things in education carry on because we have always done them. Take a few minutes and enjoy this fresh and energized homework conversation with Laura and Evan and why we need to look differently at what homework is and is not.

The Robb Review: Stop Labeling Students, Staff, and Schools

Sat, 25 Nov 2017 10:39:49 -0400

In this podcast, Evan and Laura share their thoughts and opinions on using labels in education. You might guess, they are not fans of labeling students, staff, or schools. Use of labels is a topic of frequent discussion by Evan and Laura; podcast listeners will get insight into what is a frequent conversation between these two educators.

The Robb Review: Social Media and Your School Brand

Sat, 18 Nov 2017 11:29:59 -0400

In this podcast, Evan encourages you and your team to use social media to build your unique school brand and to better communicate with families and your community. Take the time to integrate at least one new strategy suggested by Evan to enhance your school's public relations and community connections. Social media is an additional way for you to create an appreciation for your school, students, and staff. People all over the world enjoy and appreciate the power of story. Social media is another way for you to tell your story. Never underestimate the power of your stories

The Robb Review: Advancing Teacher Expertise

Sun, 05 Nov 2017 16:28:43 -0400

In this podcast, Evan and Laura discuss how school-wide initiatives such as differentiating instruction can increase teacher-expertize. Through teacher partnerships, staff can have ongoing opportunities to discuss what they read and learned and to observe one another in a trusting and confidential relationship.

The Robb Review: Efficacy and Your School

Sun, 29 Oct 2017 13:26:26 -0300

In education, the concept of belief is defined by a person’s sense of efficacy, a strong belief can make a difference in the lives of students. In this podcast, Evan shares his thoughts on efficacy and how it is an important part of any effective school.

The Reading Teacher- Teach Readers, Not Programs

Sat, 21 Oct 2017 18:56:06 -0300

In this podcast, Evan and Laura discuss how teachers can meet the needs of diverse readers in the language arts classroom. They spotlight the importance of investing in teachers, purchasing great books, and investing in quality on-going professional development at the building level.

The Robb Review: These Practices Must Go! Part 2!

Sun, 15 Oct 2017 19:25:57 -0300

This is part two of Practices That Must Go. Evan and Laura each share two practices in schools that make no sense at all. This podcast has some funny stories as Evan recalls his high school experience with book reports! Laura also reminds Evan of how little reading he did during his seventh grade English class.

The Robb Review: Walk Through Observations

Sat, 07 Oct 2017 15:38:45 -0300

Walk-through observation is a buzz word we hear if we are educators. Are they valuable and worth doing? Well according to Laura and Evan it depends how they are communicated and done. Take a few minutes and learn some great ideas on how to effectively do walk-through observations!

The Robb Review: These Practices Must Go!

Sun, 01 Oct 2017 15:41:04 -0300

In this podcast Evan and Laura each share two practices in schools that make no sense at all.

The Robb Review: Creating a Culture that Values Independent Reading!

Sun, 24 Sep 2017 10:46:45 -0300

As a principal, you can shape teachers' theories of education by being an instructional leader who brings best practices to your school. The journey can be slow with setbacks, but when teachers help students develop personal reading lives, they prepare their students for life, college, and career. There's nothing better than being part of that outcome!

The Robb Review: Interactive Read Aloud

Sat, 16 Sep 2017 13:24:45 -0300

Evan and Laura continue to discuss instructuional reading. In this episode they focus on interactive read alouds and how they can immediatley be part of your classroom or school. Laura is always excited to share her experience and understanding of what is meant by instructional reading! So, check out the pocast and learn what Laura and Evan have to share!

The Robb Review: Principal Leadership Reflections

Sat, 09 Sep 2017 14:33:52 -0300

In this Robb Review podcast Evan Robb shares his thoughts on leadership, effacacy, trust, and profesional development.

The Robb Review Instructional Reading K-8

Sun, 27 Aug 2017 15:49:02 -0300

Laura and Evan Robb discuss what instructional reading is and what it isn't. Laura provides two types of instructional reading to meet the needs of students whether they read below, on or above grade level.

The Robb Review: Independent Reading

Sat, 05 Aug 2017 17:28:47 -0300

We hope you enjoy our first podcast! In this episode, we discuss independent reading with commentary on the value along with dispelling some myths when the topic of holding students accountable for it arises.