New Teacher Spotlight: Teaching Overseas

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Show Notes:

During this time of year, I love putting the spotlight on new teachers and discussing what’s been happening in their classrooms. In this spotlight conversation, we’re joined by Jenna Barron, an international educator who has taught in both Thailand and Spain over the last several years. Now teaching first and second grade at a private school in Madrid, Jenna shares her journey from assistant teacher to confident classroom leader, and how enrolling in the R.E.A.D.Y. for School Academy made all the difference.

While Jenna had several years of classroom experience working alongside other teachers, she found that stepping into her own classroom came with a whole new set of challenges. From classroom setup and organization to classroom management and building routines, there were so many things her university program hadn’t prepared her for. That’s when she decided to invest in herself and join the R.E.A.D.Y. for School Academy — a move she says completely transformed how she approached teaching.

Inside the Academy, Jenna gained the structure, support, and step-by-step guidance she needed to walk into the school year feeling calm, confident, and fully prepared. From designing an engaging learning environment to implementing consistent behavior systems, she was ready for it all. And the results? Her classroom environment was so effective and nurturing that her school director took notice and recognized her efforts!

I love how honest and transparent Jenna is about her experiences throughout this conversation, and I have a feeling you’ll appreciate that too! Whether you're a new teacher preparing for your first classroom, teaching overseas, or a veteran educator looking for new techniques and strategies to revamp your teaching, Jenna’s experience will be helpful for you to hear. If you want to gain the same tools and confidence that Jenna has, save your seat for my free masterclass: How to Get Ready for the School Year in Five Weeks or Less. At the end of the class, you’ll receive a special discount for The Academy!

 Inside this week's show, you'll learn:

• The journey Jenna took while completing the R.E.A.D.Y. for School Academy and how it ultimately impacted her experience in the classroom.
• How The Academy has several layers to it, with strategic steps that build on each other.
• Opportunities for you to take templates from The Academy and personalize them to meet your needs.
• Jenna’s favorite lesson from The Academy, which helped her plan for unexpected student behaviors. 
• How being clear and communicating specific needs and routines to your students allows for more independence and freedom inside the classroom.

Links & resources mentioned inside this episode: 

• Sticky Flip Chart Paper
• Book Bins for Centers
• Supply Caddies for Centers 
• Free Masterclass: How to Get Ready for the School Year in 5 Weeks or Less
• Beginning Teacher Talk on YouTube
• Grab a copy of my book, Dear New Teacher, Here's Exactly What to Do: Your 5-Step R.E.A.D.Y. for School Roadmap for Elementary Classrooms
• Lung Cancer Free: One Couple’s Journey Through a “Lungs in a Box” Double Lung Transplant.
• Enter to win a $25 Amazon gift card by leaving a review for Beginning Teacher Talk on Apple Podcasts!
• Follow Dr. Lori on Instagram
• Follow Dr. Lori on Facebook
• Follow Beginning Teacher Talk on TikTok

I hope this information is helpful as you prepare for your first, second, or third year of teaching. Until next time, remember, just because you're a beginning elementary teacher, there's no need for you to struggle like one.

💛 Lori

Dr. Lori Friesen | Beginning Teacher Mentor

Creator of the R.E.A.D.Y. for School Academy and The Classroom Management Club, Dr. Lori Friesen has mentored thousands of beginning teachers across the country through her workshops and courses. Host of the popular podcast Beginning Teacher Talk and author of Dear New Teacher, Here's Exactly What to Do, Dr. Lori is dedicated to serving educators and inspiring learners. Learn more at drlorifriesen.com.

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Related episodes you might enjoy:

• New Teacher Spotlight Series Part Two: Rebecca Stafford
• New Teacher Spotlight Series Part Three: Teresa Grosboll
• New Teacher Spotlight: Kelsey Moody
• New Teacher Spotlight Series Part Five: Beth Bowe
• 6 Things to Do This Summer to Ensure You are Ready for Your First Year: The New Teacher Guide
• Natural Consequences: What Do You Do When Kids Don’t Listen?
• Natural Consequences: Part Two

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