Season 2, Episode 6

Making time for science in the K–5 classroom

In this episode,  Eric Cross sits down with TikTok star and podcast host Lauran Woolley about her experience teaching science content in her K–5 classroom. Lauran shares how she’s learned how to make time for science and what most K–5 teachers experience when creating their own science curriculum. Lauran also talks about her rise in popularity on TikTok; her podcast, Teachers Off Duty; and establishing strong relationships with her 5th grade students.

Meet our guest(s):

Lauran Woolley

Lauran Woolley is a fifth grade teacher in Northeast Ohio. She has loved being able to combine her love of education and entertainment into one career. Her goal is not only to humanize educators to both families and students, but to create a safe space for her students on the internet. She has had the privilege of collaborating with educators around the world to shed a light on this amazing career. You can listen and watch the Teachers Off Duty podcast here!

Meet our host: Eric Cross

Eric Cross is a seventh grade science/technology teacher, grade level lead, and digital learning innovator for Albert Einstein Academies, International Baccalaureate schools. He is also an adjunct professor of learning and technology at the University of San Diego and a Google certified innovator. Eric earned a bachelor’s degree from Azusa Pacific University and a Master of Education from the University of San Diego. He had 17 years of experience working with at-risk youth and underserved populations before becoming a middle school teacher. By building relationships with students, colleagues, and the community, he has become an empowered leader in and out of the classroom. Through meaningful learning experiences centered around student agency, STEM has become accessible to students through highly engaging lesson design, thoughtful integration of digital tools, and culturally relevant pedagogy.

Transcripts and additional resources

Show notes:

Quotes

I want to make sure they're ready for the real world and I want to make sure they're ready to apply these things I'm teaching them in their life, not just on a multiple choice test. - Lauran Woolley