In this episode of "The Best of Us," we talk with National Teacher of the Year Missy Testerman, a master educator who gives us a look at teacher professional learning from the classroom perspective.

Missy gives us a ground-level look at what makes for excellent teacher PD, sharing insights and telling stories of how school leadership can become courageous leaders for continuous improvement. We go also go through the art of DIY professional learning, why two weeks is too darn long for lesson planning, and ways to save educators that most precious resource: time.

Her story is also a testament to the power of educator voice, with examples and tips for successful advocacy from the principal’s office to the Senate. (Step 1: Always come with a solution.)

Listen now:

Guest's Journey as an Educator (00:02:40)
Missy shares her lifelong passion for teaching and experiences in a small-town school.

Contributing Factors to Success (00:08:48)
Missy identifies stress management and proactive problem-solving as key components of her success.

Teacher Retention Insights (00:11:08)
Missy highlights the importance of strong leadership in schools for teacher retention and job satisfaction.

Effective Leadership Qualities (00:12:29)
Missy describes her principal's listening skills and ability to adapt policies based on feedback.

Example of De-Implementation (00:13:48)
Missy shares a specific instance where the principal removed burdensome lesson planning requirements to support teachers.

Feedback and Classroom Support (00:16:40)
Missy discusses the principal's commitment to providing high-quality feedback through daily classroom visits.

Effective Professional Learning (00:21:19)
Missy highlights the importance of relevant professional development tailored to teachers' specific needs.

Innovative In-House Training (00:21:44)
Colleagues shared expertise during in-house training, proving effective despite budget cuts for external professional development.

Engagement in Professional Learning (00:29:33)
In-person learning fosters intrinsic motivation, enhancing teacher engagement compared to online training.

Advocacy with Legislators (00:32:23)
Missy discusses building relationships with legislators to influence educational policy and advocacy for students.

Third Grade Retention Law (00:36:47)
Missy discusses Tennessee's third-grade retention law and its unintended consequences.

Pathways for Student Support (00:39:36)
Missy's advocacy led to the creation of pathways for students at risk of retention.

Teacher Voice in Policy (00:41:36)
Missy discusses challenges in incorporating teacher feedback in educational policy development.