Scott Lee: Letting Educators Take the Lead

Defining Us uses the power of media and the promise of education to inspire educators to join the conversation on the socio-political cultural issues that matter.  In this episode of Defining Us…Stacey DeWitt interviews Scott Lee. Scott directs curriculum design at the CWK Network and is the producer/host of The Thoughtful Teacher Podcast. They discuss a variety of issues related to teachers, the struggles they face in and out of the classroom today, and how asking the right questions can be a start for change.  

Powerful Moments 

Throughout this podcast there are powerful moments that provide deeper insight into the individuals and topics discussed in this podcast.   

1:25 - Scott’s backstory as a teacher and the inspiration behind his podcast, The Thoughtful Teacher. 
3:41 – Importance of developing the positive relationship as a teacher. 
5:30 – Issues in teacher retention. 

7:20 – The three issues teachers are facing today: COVID, Communication Issues, Control Issues. 
10:00 – Teachers are feeling scapegoated by issues in the world. 
12:01 – Importance of a teacher in helping students deal with social issues impacting them. 
13:15 – Unintended consequences of telling teachers to not talk about certain subjects. 
17:25 – What should school look like in the 21st Century?

18:32 – We have to be asking the right questions. 
19:00 – What are some solutions and how can everyone help? 
21:45 – Take a lead from educators. 
23:00 – Everyone remembers the best teacher(s) they had.  

Critical Reflection Questions (During and After the Listening) 

Use the following critical reflection questions to make deeper meaning of the topics discussed in this episode. 

How do my own identity, experiences and knowledge influence my understanding of this topic?  
How does this topic connect with my current context? 

What are the implications to my practice? 
How can I support students in taking on and solving big important problems? 
How will I continue the conversation in my school/community/organization? 

Inside the Conversation  

Want to know more? Continue the learning with some of the important individuals, organizations, and topics discussed in this episode. 

Scott Lee on Twitter 
The Thoughtful Teacher Podcast 

Chief Academic Officer of LA Unified School District 
Marc Brackett, Ph. D. – Yale University 
Defining Us Podcast with Tim Shriver 

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