The Balance, by Dr. Catlin Tucker

Ask Catlin: Using AI with Students

In this episode of Ask Catlin, I’m diving into your questions about AI in the classroom! From practical ways to use AI with students to strategies for fostering critical thinking and balancing AI use, I’ll cover it all. I also tackle the tricky issue of AI-generated student work and share how AI can support special needs students and English language learners. And as a bonus, I dish on my most—and least—favorite Thanksgiving foods!

Designing for a Block Schedule

In this mini-episode, I explore strategies for designing effective block periods. Transitioning from a traditional 6- or 7-period day to longer blocks can feel overwhelming, but with intentional planning and the use of content blocks, you can create dynamic, engaging lessons.

Learn how to balance direct instruction with student-led activities, mix individual and collaborative tasks, and keep students engaged throughout the entire block.

To read more about this, you can check out my blog on this topic!

Leading with Purpose and Passion

In this episode, I chat with Colton Monti, the principal at Selah High School, about his leadership journey. Colton shares how he has cultivated a school culture that encourages teachers to embrace lifelong learning and adapt to change. We discuss the strategies he uses to support educators in shifting their instructional practices, putting students to the center of the learning experience, and infusing joy into this work.

Ask Catlin: Choice Boards

In this episode, I’m answering all your questions about choice boards! Wondering how many options to offer or how to differentiate effectively? I’ve got you covered. Plus, I share a ridiculous Halloween memory involving me, a golf cart, and a wild chase—while dressed as the Wicked Witch of the West.

5 Tips for Designing AI-Resistant Tasks

In this mini-episode, I share five tips teachers can use to design tasks and assignments that are AI-resistant. These tips seek to capitalize on some of the limitations of AI right now. Designing AI-resistant tasks isn’t about avoiding technology; rather, it’s about designing assignments that challenge students to think critically, collaborate meaningfully, and demonstrate their unique understanding in ways AI simply can’t replicate.

If you want to read or share the blog on this topic, you can access that here.

Audio Diary From Work in Africa

In this special episode, I share my audio diaries, reflecting on daily experiences and insights from working with schools in Cairo and Ghana.

Overcoming Fear & Leaning into Change: The Power of Self-paced Learning

In this episode, I chat with Toni Rose Deanon about their journey as an educator and the transition from traditional, teacher-led lessons to a more student-driven, self-paced learning model with the Modern Classroom Project. We explore our shared work supporting teachers, the ways fear can stifle innovation, the limitations of conventional teaching methods, and how to design classrooms that foster deeper human connection.

Why Don't We Trust Students?

In this mini-episode, I explore the questions: Why don’t we trust our students? What is it that we really fear? As someone who regularly works with teachers on topics like blended learning, Universal Design for Learning (UDL), and student-led learning, one recurring theme I encounter is control. Educators have a lot of fears about releasing control and allowing students to take more ownership and responsibility for their learning.

To read my blog on this topic, click here.

Tech Talk: Data Visualization, The Digital Divide & Artificial Intelligence

In this episode, I chat with Jose Gonzolas, the Chief Technology Officer for the Los Angeles County Office of Education. He was recently named one of the top 100 influencers in education. We chat about data visualization, artificial intelligence, and supporting student and teacher success with technology.

You can connect with Jose on X @JRGonzalezSELA

Ask Catlin & Noelle: Creating Inclusive Classrooms with Station Rotation Model and Co-teaching

In this episode, Noelle and I discuss five strategies designed to maximize co-teaching using the Station Rotation Model. As schools focus on creating inclusive classrooms and least restrictive learning environments, co-teaching offers an exciting pathway to meet all learners' needs in the classroom.

To read more about these strategies and see examples of each, check out this blog post.