The Education Biz Podcast

Ep 36: Why Coaching Changes Everything (And Why Information Alone Usually Doesn't)

Jenn Kleiber — Wed, 20 May 2026 02:00:00 -0500

In this episode, Jenn talks about the real power of coaching and why so many consultants stay stuck—not because they lack resources, but because they’re trying to build their business alone.

One day of PD rarely creates transformation.

Implementation does.

And the same thing happens in business.

In this episode, you'll learn:

• Why information alone rarely creates momentum
• The difference between learning and implementation
• Why PD + coaching creates stronger outcomes for schools
• The 3 things coaching actually provides: speed, perspective, and confidence
• Why many consultants stay stuck in decision fatigue
• How coaching helps shorten the path to consistent progress

Plus, stay to the end to hear a testimonial mashup from education consultants who have experienced coaching firsthand.

Ready for support and implementation?

My 90-Day 1:1 Coaching is now open.

This is a high-touch coaching experience focused on helping education consultants clarify their positioning, strengthen their messaging, build a clear offer, and create momentum toward consistent contracts.

Because of the hands-on nature of the program, only a limited number of spots are available.

Apply here: https://www.jennkleiber.com/coach90

Connect with Jenn:
Instagram: @jenn_kleiber

Ep 35: What Schools Actually Say Yes To (And Why Most Consultants Miss It)

Jenn Kleiber — Thu, 07 May 2026 02:00:00 -0500

If you’re not getting booked consistently, it’s probably not your expertise—it’s your positioning.

In this episode, we break down what schools actually say yes to, why vague offers get ignored, and how to structure your work so it leads to real contracts.

Join the free 3-day challenge: https://www.jennkleiber.com/challenge

Ep 34: If You Want Contracts Next School Year, You Should Be Doing This Right Now

Jenn Kleiber — Tue, 07 Apr 2026 02:16:00 -0500

If you’re planning to “figure it out this summer,” this episode is your wake-up call.

Schools are already making decisions for next year—and if you’re not part of those conversations right now, you’re not top of mind when budgets open.

In this episode, Jenn breaks down exactly what education consultants should be doing in April–June to position themselves for high-value contracts next school year.

This is not about doing more—it’s about doing the right things at the right time.

What You’ll Learn

Why waiting until summer to sell is costing you contracts
What’s actually happening inside schools right now (and why it matters)
The difference between being “visible” and being in real conversations
How to position your offer as a solution—not just a training
The exact steps to start connecting with decision-makers this week
What to focus on over the next 60–90 days to get booked out

Action Steps

If you want to move on this now:

Get clear on the specific problem you solve and the transformation you provide
Package your work into a structured solution (PD + coaching), not a one-off training
Create one simple way for administrators to see your work (landing page, webinar, etc.)
Start 15-minute conversations with administrators this week
Position your work as a solution based on what they share
Focus your visibility on decision-makers—not just general content

Ready to Take the Next Step?

The Education Consultant Accelerator: Momentum Track is designed to help you take everything from this episode and actually implement it.

Inside, you’ll:

Build and refine your framework
Package your offer into a high-value solution
Strengthen your messaging for administrators
Get a clear plan to book high-ticket contracts in 90 days

You’ll also get:

Weekly Action Guide To-Do Lists for 90 days
A 1:1 brainstorming call with Jenn
6 months of group coaching through office hours

Get $250 off when you enroll by April 13th

https://www.jennkleiber.com/momentum-track
IG: www.instagram.com/jenn_kleiber

Ep 33: Plan Your Consulting Revenue Like a CEO (Not a Workshop Provider)

Jenn Kleiber — Wed, 01 Apr 2026 02:00:00 -0500

If you’re still piecing together your consulting income one workshop at a time… this episode is your wake-up call.

In this episode, Jenn walks you through how to actually plan your revenue for next year—starting with your income goal, auditing what’s already on your calendar, and identifying the gap.

More importantly, she breaks down why filling that gap with one-off PD days is keeping you stuck… and what to do instead.

If you’re ready to stop “hoping” your calendar fills up and start building a consulting business that generates real income—this is where to start.

What You’ll Learn

✔ Why most consultants rely on “hope-based planning” (and how it’s costing you)
✔ How to set a clear revenue goal for your consulting business
✔ A simple way to audit what’s already booked vs. what you still need
✔ Why one-off workshops make it harder to hit your income goals
✔ How multi-day contracts create more revenue with less chaos
✔ The shift from filling your calendar → building strategic partnerships

Take 10 minutes and map this out:

Your revenue goal for next year
What’s already booked or likely to renew
The gap between the two

Then ask yourself:
Am I planning to fill this with random workshops… or strategic contracts?

If you’re ready to:

✔ Stop piecing together one-off PD days
✔ Start landing $10K–$15K+ contracts
✔ Build consistent, predictable revenue

Join me live for my new training:

The $15K Education Consultant Contract System

In this training, I’ll show you exactly how to position, package, and sell multi-day contracts to schools and districts.

👉 Register for the free LIVE webinar, The $15K Education Consultant Contract System to learn what actually builds authority, momentum, and consistent high ticket contracts:
www.jennkleiber.com/bookedout

IG: www.instagram.com/jenn_kleiber

Ep 32: Why Being a “PD Provider” Is Costing You Thousands (And What to Do Instead)

Jenn Kleiber — Thu, 19 Mar 2026 02:15:00 -0500

If you’re stuck booking one-off workshops and constantly customizing your work, this episode will show you why—and how to fix it.

The issue isn’t your expertise. It’s your positioning.

In this episode, I break down the difference between being a PD provider and a solution provider, why a “menu of workshops” keeps you underpaid, and how to shift into higher-value, longer-term contracts.

What You’ll Learn:

✔ The difference between PD provider vs. solution provider
✔ Why offering multiple workshops weakens your positioning
✔ How this impacts your pricing and contracts
✔ 3 simple shifts to start booking higher-value work

IG: www.instagram.com/jenn_kleiber

Ep. 31 The Costly Mistake Slowing Your Education Consulting Business (Part II)

Jenn Kleiber — Tue, 03 Mar 2026 02:00:00 -0600

You’re smart. Experienced. Highly qualified.

So why isn’t your education consulting business growing the way it should?

In Part 2 of this series, we’re uncovering one of the biggest blind spots I see: unclear, overly professional messaging.

As educators, we’re trained to inform. To explain. To provide all the details.

But in business? That instinct can actually hold you back.

In this episode, we’ll unpack:

Why over-explaining weakens your authority
How vague language confuses decision-makers
The real reason your content isn’t converting
And how to shift from “educator mode” to “CEO mode”

If you want more consistent contracts and clearer positioning, this is a must-listen.

Then grab your seat in the free masterclass: The Booked Out Consultant.

👉 Register for the free LIVE webinar, The Booked-Out Consultant to learn what actually builds authority, momentum, and consistent contracts:
www.jennkleiber.com/bookedout

IG: www.instagram.com/jenn_kleiber

Ep. 30 The Costly Mistake Slowing Your Education Consulting Business (Part I)

Jenn Kleiber — Thu, 12 Feb 2026 02:00:00 -0600

In Part I of this two-part series, Jenn breaks down one of the most common—and costly—mistakes she sees capable education consultants making: trying to grow two businesses at the same time.

Selling directly to teachers while also building a consulting business for schools may feel logical, but these are two completely different business models. When focus is split, clarity suffers, authority weakens, and momentum stalls.

In this episode, Jenn covers:

Why direct-to-consumer and education consulting require different strategies
How split focus drains energy and slows traction
The hidden ways mixed messaging weakens authority with decision-makers
Why divided attention delays mastery and clouds your data
How lack of focus prevents the compounding effect that drives booked-out consulting businesses

If this episode hits close to home, it’s likely because this mistake quietly holds back otherwise strong consultants.

👉 Register for the free evergreen webinar, The Booked-Out Consultant to learn what actually builds authority, momentum, and consistent contracts:
www.jennkleiber.com/bookedout

Be sure to tune in for Part II, where Jenn breaks down the second major mistake that often shows up alongside this one—and how fixing both changes everything.

IG: www.instagram.com/jenn_kleiber

Ep 29- The Pre-Selling Season Checklist Every Education Consultant Needs

Jenn Kleiber — Thu, 29 Jan 2026 01:11:00 -0600

Selling season is not the time to be building your backend — it’s the time to leverage it.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

Why your email list is the backbone of selling season (and why social media can’t replace it)
What makes an administrator-facing opt-in actually work
Why a named, visual framework increases credibility and confidence with decision-makers
What a high-converting landing page needs to include (and what it should not)
How your LinkedIn profile functions as a verification tool, not a content grind
When and why a simple website and blog still matter
Why running a beta group now makes selling season easier later

Business Asset Checklist:

Jenn walks through these non-negotiable assets:

An Email Platform

A real email service provider (not Gmail)
A working opt-in form
A simple nurture sequence to stay top of mind

2. An Administrator-Focused Opt-In PDF

Short, skimmable, and practical
Designed for decision-makers, not teachers
Positioned as a quick win or quick insight

3. A Clear, Named Framework

3–5 steps or pillars
Consistent language
A simple visual representation
Easy to explain in under 30 seconds

4. A Landing Page That Does One Job Well

Clearly names the problem administrators care about
Connects pain points to student outcomes
Shows your framework and results
Leads to one clear call to action: book a call

5. A Strategic LinkedIn Profile

Optimized for verification, not virality
Speaks to administrators, not recruiters
Includes long-form articles that reinforce credibility and expertise

6. Optional but Powerful: A Simple Website + Blog

Builds credibility and trust
Houses your opt-in and messaging
Positions you as a thought leader with minimal content

7. A Beta Group (If You Don’t Have Data Yet)

Collect testimonials, stories, and outcomes
Gather proof that your framework works
Make selling season about sharing results, not making claims

Here’s the link: LIVE Workshop - The Booked-Out Consultant

Education Consultant Accelerator: 90-Day Blueprint

IG - www.instagram.com/jenn_kleiber

Ep 28: The Authority Mistake Costing You PD Contracts

Jenn Kleiber — Wed, 14 Jan 2026 02:19:00 -0600

In today’s episode, we’re breaking down one of the most overlooked drivers of a profitable education consulting business: authority. If you’re not getting responses from administrators, not booking multi-day contracts, or not seeing consistent growth, the issue isn’t your expertise—it's how you're positioned.

You’ll learn what authority really looks like in the consulting space, why frameworks and evidence matter more than ever, and the key shifts that separate booked-out consultants from everyone else. This episode gives you the clarity and direction you need to elevate your presence and become the consultant administrators take seriously.

And if you’re ready to build a profitable, predictable consulting year, make sure you register for the free LIVE training: The Booked-Out Consultant: The Fail-Proof Formula for a Profitable Year.

Here’s the link: LIVE Workshop - The Booked-Out Consultant

Education Consultant Accelerator: 90-Day Blueprint

IG - www.instagram.com/jenn_kleiber

Episode 27: Planning Your 2026 with the Campus Calendar in Mind

Jenn Kleiber — Thu, 01 Jan 2026 02:00:00 -0600

If you haven’t noticed by now, if you’re following other marketing gurus and influencers on social media, you may have figured out that an education consulting business runs a little differently than a normal direct to consumer business. In this episode, we’re going to set a revenue goal and then talk through the plan that can make it happen!

Links:

2026 Planning Worksheets

Education Consultant Accelerator

Episode 26: Start Smart: The 4 Steps to Launching Your Education Consulting Business

Jenn Kleiber — Wed, 12 Nov 2025 02:00:00 -0600

If you’re just getting started with your education consulting business—or if you’ve been dabbling and you’re ready to finally treat it like a real business—this episode is for you.

Jenn breaks down the four foundational steps every new consultant should take to set up their business the right way—from legal and financial logistics to market research and framework development. Plus, she shares the essential mindset shift every educator must make when stepping into entrepreneurship.

You’ll learn how to think like a business owner, how to handle the “no-response” moments that come with outreach, and why playing the long game is the real secret to building predictable, six-figure success.

Links

Free Masterclass - 4-Step Framework to Build and Sell Profitable PD

Concept to Cashflow Mini-Course

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jenn_kleiber

LinkedIN: www.linkedin.com/in/jennkleiber

Episode 25: Positioning Yourself for Sales, Not Likes

Jenn Kleiber — Thu, 30 Oct 2025 02:00:00 -0500

Shownotes:

Positioning is all about how you define yourself in the market. It’s the intersection of who you help, what problem you solve, and how you communicate that.

When your positioning is off—when your messaging doesn’t match the right audience—you end up spinning your wheels. You can have the best workshop or the best framework in the world, but if the people you’re speaking to aren’t the decision-makers, you won’t book contracts.

Links

Free Masterclass - 4-Step Framework to Build and Sell Profitable PD

The Education Consultant Accelerator: 90 Day Blueprint

Episode 24: Want growth? You Need a Business System

Jenn Kleiber — Sun, 12 Oct 2025 02:10:00 -0500

Your business systems will be the key to your education consulting business making it or falling apart. The problem is that most of us, myself included, started our businesses out of our passion for a field in education. We had all the expertise and experience in education - perhaps we even have experience in the coaching or presenting field - maybe we had the opportunity to do it while we were still working for a district - and we were good at it, so we thought - surely I can step out and consult with more consistency - and get paid for it! And you can!

But you probably figured out that without having a business model, or business system to wrap your expertise in, one (or more) of a few different things probably happened:

You are relying on one-off trainings - you are building new trainings all the time. You have 25 that you can offer, but you don’t know how to market yourself and you’re just waiting for the next call to come in to ask you to come to their school.
You’ve built out a resource or course or training (or maybe all of them), but you are having trouble getting it in front of decision makers.
You are really uncomfortable “selling” - so you’re holding on to all of the solutions you have to offer the world.

Do any of these sound familiar?

Links

4-Step Framework to Build and Sell Profitable PD

The Education Consultant Accelerator: 90 Day Blueprint

Episode 23: The Fail-Proof Formula for a Profitable Education Biz

Jenn Kleiber — Thu, 18 Sep 2025 02:00:00 -0500

I get asked all the time “How do I know if my education business is going to work? Is it going to be profitable and predictable?”

In this episode, I’m going to give you the fail-proof formula for creating this business. We went over this in our last webinar: The Education Biz Growth Gameplan, but I wanted to share it here as well.

There are 3 parts to this formula:

Pressing Pain Points + Framework Solution + School Budget = Booked Out Business

Links

4-Step Framework to Build and Sell Profitable PD

Concept to Cashflow Mini-Course

Episode: 22 - If You’ve Said, “It’s My Last Year in a District”... Do This!

Jenn Kleiber — Thu, 28 Aug 2025 02:00:00 -0500

This episode is for the educator who has decided that this is your last year working in a school district and you are ready to go full time with your business next school year! You may be a teacher, administrator, instructional coach, district administrator - but you know that this is your last year working in a school district - listen up!

There are so many things that you can be doing right now to lay the solid foundation of your business - from setting up tech, to building content and credibility, to starting the networking game - you can do all the things to feel comfortable jumping out of a district and stepping boldly into this entrepreneur role!

If you’re ready to build or grow your education consulting business, there are three ways I can help:

👉 If you’re just starting out, grab Concept to Cashflow for only $47—it’ll walk you through setting up the foundations of your business.
👉 If you’re ready to grow with a proven system, the Education Consultant Accelerator is my 90-day blueprint—and now it includes Concept to Cashflow as a bonus. Use this link to get ECA for only $297! That’s $200 off!
👉 And if you’re ready to scale fast, 1:1 Coaching gives you personalized support, live calls, Voxer access, and direct feedback to accelerate your results.

You can click the links above, or head to www.jennkleiber.com and choose which level works for you!

Episode 21: Let’s Talk About Funding (and why we’re Pivoting, not Panicking)

Jenn Kleiber — Sun, 03 Aug 2025 18:38:18 -0500

Shownotes:

Hey friends. I want to talk about a very pressing issue that is happening right now in our industry. To say that the funding for education is a bit wonky right now is the understatement of the YEAR- especially for education consultants. I know this can shake our confidence in our business, especially if you’ve had contracts that have been put on hold.

So, in this episode, we going to talk about why I’m not panicking and also what pivots you may want to make moving forward.

I am not an expert in this. I’m going to explain this to the best of my ability - also, by the time this gets published, and especially by the time you are listening, things could’ve very well changed!

I’m also going to give my opinion on a few things - but understand this - it’s just my opinion and it’s just based on what I know today. In a few months, my opinion may change. This episode is just to serve as maybe a helpful guide on clarity or maybe even a bit a bit of encouragement.

**Listen after this episode for an update since funding was released!

Links:

IG: www.instagram.com/jenn_kleiber

Free Masterclass: 4-Step Framework to Build and Sell Profitable PD

Education Consultant Accelerator:90 Day Blueprint

Episode 20: “But I’m Not Good At Selling”

Jenn Kleiber — Tue, 01 Jul 2025 02:08:00 -0500

Of course there are some sales strategies that people who are in that industry know and learn…however, I’m making this stat up but 90% of sales is mindset. So if you go into conversations with the wrong mindset, feeling uncomfortable, your business is going to be affected. None of us want to sabotage our business, so lets change this!

Here’s a sales strategy:

Ask questions and listen - here are 3 questions I love to ask administrators - especially if they are new to me or I’m reconnecting with them -

What’s one celebration you’ve had this year or last?
What’s the thing that keeps you up at night in regards to (literacy). Why do you think this is such a problem?
What do you think teachers need to solve that problem?

Links:

Free LIVE Webinar: Education Biz Growth Game Plan- https://www.jennkleiber.com/gameplan

IG: www.instagram.com/jenn_kleiber

Education Consultant Accelerator 1:1 Coaching

Episode 19: The Power of Coaching

Jenn Kleiber — Thu, 29 May 2025 02:02:00 -0500

Good coaching is such an impactful practice, and I can honestly say that in my education consulting business, coaching teachers has had the single biggest impact both on my business and on school results, and having a coach has had the single biggest impact on my own business growth.

Links:

Free LIVE Webinar: Education Biz Growth Game Plan- https://www.jennkleiber.com/gameplan

IG: www.instagram.com/jenn_kleiber

Education Consultant Accelerator 1:1 Coaching

Episode 18: 3 Phases of Building a Biz

Jenn Kleiber — Thu, 15 May 2025 02:00:00 -0500

Links:

Free Training: 4-Step Framework to Build and Sell Profitable PD - https://www.jennkleiber.com/ppf-registration

IG: www.instagram.com/jenn_kleiber

Education Consultant Accelerator: https://www.jennkleiber.com/ECA

The 4 Steps to Profitable PD (PD meaning professional Development)

FOCUS - (Phase 1) I would say that easily ½ of the clients I’ve worked with the ECA Blueprint members that I’ve brainstormed with have this as their biggest problem. They are great problem solvers and have been fabulous educators, which means they can solve all the problems at the same time…but this doesn’t work in business - especially at the beginning or close to the start of a business.
BUILD - (Phase 2) We have to Build PD in ways that make the administrators ask us back again and again. We need to coach in focused ways that bring measurable results.
PACKAGE - (Phase 3) Getting your solution in front of decision-makers in a way that helps you book those high-ticket contracts. It is up to us to present a package that brings the desired results.
SELL- (Phase 3)This, for a lot of people, feels like the most daunting piece of it - and I totally get that. There are several mindsets you have to wrap your mind around.

Episode 17: How to Book High-Ticket Contracts

Jenn Kleiber — Thu, 01 May 2025 02:00:00 -0500

Links:

Free Training: 4-Step Framework to Build and Sell Profitable PD - https://www.jennkleiber.com/ppf-registration

IG: www.instagram.com/jenn_kleiber

Education Consultant Accelerator: https://www.jennkleiber.com/ECA

One of the great parts about being an entrepreneur is the fact that you can build your business in a model that works best for you. You get to lean into your strengths and your super power and operate within that wheelhouse.

Within the education consultant space, there are a lot of different “vehicles” as I call them to get your solution to teachers - you have training days, or what we call PD or professional development. You have online courses, virtual trainings, and coaching. You can have physical products like books or workbooks or resources. And this, to me, is one of the exciting things about this industry. So in today’s episode, I’m going to tell you the model that I lean into and why… This is not the only way to do this, but this is the way that I have found my solution to be the most impactful and my business to be the most profitable and predictable.

And that is packaging high-ticket offers together. So in a nutshell, I offer a workshop or full day Professional development training, and then a number of coaching days. I also have a book that I sell with the PD, and a number or courses that I use as either an upsell or a bonus.

Episode 16: The Key to Building Fast: Relationships

Jenn Kleiber — Sun, 20 Apr 2025 02:00:00 -0500

Links:

Free Training: 4-Step Framework to Build and Sell Profitable PD - https://www.jennkleiber.com/ppf-registration

IG: www.instagram.com/jenn_kleiber

Education Consultant Accelerator: https://www.jennkleiber.com/ECA

Shownotes:

The vast majority of your business the first 5 years (and maybe longer - depending on how you want to build your business model) will be from your warm market - people you already know. People that don’t care about your brand. People that will respond to a text message in a heartbeat but never open one of your newsletters.

So what does this look like -

We ask questions. Harvard researchers found when using an MRI, that questions that asked participants to disclose their opinions increased neural activity in the areas of the brain associated with reward and pleasure. What does this mean? People like to be heard. And when we can sit down in front of an administrator, and instead of give information or even give solutions, but ask questions - give them the opportunity to share their voice and their thoughts on what’s going on in the trenches where they spend every day, they like it. And they like the conversation.
We listen. We empathize and we take notes.
We connect. Whether it be on a personal or professional level of both - look for ways to make authentic connections. It’s not just about booking the dates. Be authentic and don’t waste their time, but if you walk in and they have a picture of your favorite place on their wall, or you notice you went to the same college, or they have pics of their kids and you have kids about that age, make a connection. If you already know them, ask them about their family, or how they’re doing. And listen.
We follow up. We ask for feedback. We thank them for their time or inviting us to their campus.
We check in. Now this is different then following up. If you are doing a long-term contract, you want to check in throughout the work. Be transparent. Maybe you’re in a period of time where you’re not working with them - check in! Authentically! If they are local, set up a quick meeting, take them their favorite drink and just check-in. No sales call. Just a check in. Or a Starbucks gift card and say Coffee on me.
We ask for testimonies and referrals. We leverage their relationships with our relationship. I know this may not seem like a comfortable thing to do, but have a system where you send a short survey that asks for feedback, asks if you can use the testimony, and asks for a referral. You can even give a referral incentive if that feels good to you.

The bottom line is this - you will not build and scale your education consultant business by only sitting behind a computer.

Episode 15: Why I Don’t Use Social Media (and what I do instead)

Jenn Kleiber — Thu, 03 Apr 2025 02:00:00 -0500

Links:

Free Training: 4-Step Framework to Build and Sell Profitable PD - https://www.jennkleiber.com/ppf-registration

IG: www.instagram.com/jenn_kleiber

Education Consultant Accelerator: https://www.jennkleiber.com/ECA

Shownotes:

There are so many ways to market your business, and it can be easy to get overwhelmed by all of the options. Between social media, email marketing, word of mouth, cold calling, dropping by schools, events, conferences…literally it’s enough to stop you in your tracks - especially if you don’t “feel” like marketing is your expertise.

This is the bottom line of why I didn’t continue with social media. I didn’t like it AND it was not targeting my ideal client - who is an administrator. Social media is great for direct to consumer business plans - where you are selling directly to the person on the other side of the screen. However, selling to a school or a school district is a very different system. Also, I served teachers. So my content was based on helping teachers - therefore, the audience I built on social media was…teachers!

There are so many other options for marketing that give value and bring a better turn for my time and financial investment in marketing!

Episode 14: Start Your Back-To-School Campaign NOW! (Here’s How)

Jenn Kleiber — Thu, 20 Mar 2025 02:00:00 -0500

SHOWNOTES

It’s “selling season”! Maybe I should better call it “booking season”. Now is the time when administrators want to start thinking about summer and back to school training. Many of them like to have those PD dates booked by the time school is out. And as a consultant, my goal is to have about 75% of dates booked out before the next school year even starts.

Here are the 3 things to be prioritizing during this season:

Email list
A landing page
Automated email sequence

Links:

Free Training: 4-Step Framework to Build and Sell Profitable PD - https://www.jennkleiber.com/ppf-registration

IG: www.instagram.com/jenn_kleiber

Website: https://www.jennkleiber.com

Episode 13: How to Build and Use an Email List

Jenn Kleiber — Thu, 06 Mar 2025 02:00:00 -0600

Free Training: 4-Step Framework to Build and Sell Profitable PD - https://www.jennkleiber.com/ppf-registration

IG: www.instagram.com/jenn_kleiber

Education Consultant Accelerator: https://www.jennkleiber.com/eca

Shownotes:

As you try to prioritize your never-ending to-do list, put what we’re talking about today as one of those 3 main things if you haven’t already - and that’s building your email list.

Let’s start with why -

You don’t own social media. So while the “trend” is to put content on social media, it can change in a second.
The vast majority of your consulting business, especially for the first 5 years, will be word-of-mouth and recurring clients. Because of this, you need a place where you can nurture your audience and stay top-of-mind
Let’s talk conversion rates. The typical conversion rate for email marketing is 3-5%. This may sound low, but the typical conversion rate for IG (for top performing brands) is 1%. And I would even venture to say that that is lower for our industry because school districts don’t tend to purchase off of social media. So, let’s talk numbers. If you have 1000 administrators who have chosen to be on your email list, 3% of that is 30. If 30 administrators buy from you (and then refer you to others), this is huge. If you have 100 administrators on your list and 3 of them buy from you - this is also huge.

This is why building your email list as soon as possible is really crucial to the success of your business.

Now, here is a common misconception- a lot of my clients think they need to have the rest, or at least a good part of the rest of their business built BEFORE they start building their email list - like they need to have their website built, or their training built or fill in the blank - but that’s simply not true. Building your email list is something that you want to do as you build the rest of your business.

Episode 12: Conference Season: Book Conference Sessions (and New Clients)

Jenn Kleiber — Thu, 20 Feb 2025 23:45:00 -0600

This episode is for you if…

You’re wanting to start presenting at conferences but you’re unsure of how to do that.
You’ve been presenting at conferences but you’re not getting your return on the investment of going to conferences, so you want to learn how to make them work better for your business.

Conference Checklist Freebie

Free Masterclass: 4-Step Framework to Build and Sell Profitable PD

Education Consultant Accelerator

Ep 11: It's Testing Season: Here's What Your Should Do

Jenn Kleiber — Thu, 06 Feb 2025 02:00:00 -0600

Whether you are seasoned in your business or just getting started, if you have been in the education world for any length of time, you are aware that there are cycles throughout the school year.

Although I want to help you get to 10K months, and I know you can get there fairly quickly, I do not want you to sell month by month. Why? Find out in this episode!

Free Training: 4-Step Framework to Build and Sell Profitable PD - https://www.jennkleiber.com/ppf-registration

IG: www.instagram.com/jenn_kleiber

Website for Education Consultant Accelerator: https://www.jennkleiber.com/eca

#10 -How To Set Yourself Apart as the Expert

Jenn Kleiber — Thu, 23 Jan 2025 02:00:00 -0600

Hi friend! I hope this month has found you feeling excited and hopeful about the rest of the year. I recently got a question from someone going through the free training: 4-Step Framework to Build and Sell Profitable PD (shameless plug- you can still pick a time that works for you and go through that free training using the link in the shownotes)

Ok - so here’s the question:

How do I know if I’m an expert?

What a great question- and I’ve been asked it before, so let’s talk about it.

Free Training: 4-Step Framework to Build and Sell Profitable PD - https://www.jennkleiber.com/ppf-registration

IG: www.instagram.com/jenn_kleiber

Website: https://www.jennkleiber.com

Ep 9 - Biggest Mistakes to Avoid in 2025 with your Biz

Jenn Kleiber — Thu, 09 Jan 2025 02:00:00 -0600

In this episode, I want to focus on a few things NOT to do in your education consulting business in 2025, no matter where you are in the growth of your business. We dive into these mistakes, as well as the things to focus on in order to make your PD business impactful (and therefore, profitable) in our free training: 4-Step Framework to Build and Sell your Profitable PD.
Free Training: 4-Step Framework to Build and Sell Profitable PD - https://www.jennkleiber.com/ppf-registration

IG: www.instagram.com/jenn_kleiber

Website: https://www.jennkleiber.com

Episode #8- Setting up your Breakthrough Year

Jenn Kleiber — Mon, 23 Dec 2024 02:00:00 -0600

In this episode, I want to walk you through a few reflections/vision-casting questions for next year. Why? Because it is so easy to get in the weeds of the work - whether that you as an educator still in a district, or consultant building your business, it can be hard to actually take a step back and do the important work of reflecting for the purpose of planning.

Free Masterclass: 4-Step Framework to Build and Sell Profitable PD

IG: @jenn_kleiber

www.jennkleiber.com

Episode #7: Making Predictable Profit (Know When Schools Buy)

Jenn Kleiber — Tue, 10 Dec 2024 02:00:00 -0600

Hey friends! Welcome back to the Education Biz Podcast! It’s hard to believe that 2024 is coming to a close. In the last episode, I went through all 4 steps of the Profitable PD Framework. If you haven’t had a chance to check out that episode, make sure to do so! Whether you are providing PD currently or working towards that, you do not want to leave money on the table by not building profitable PD!

A common issue that I often see with my clients in Education Consultant Accelerator, and a problem that I really had to overcome when I was figuring all of this out in my business was how to bring in predictable income throughout the year. In this episode, I'll explain how I plan out my year, so you'll have some ideas when planning yours.

Links:

Free Masterclass: 4-Step Framework to Build and Sell Profitable PD

IG: @jenn_kleiber

www.jennkleiber.com

6: 4 Steps to Profitable PD

Jenn Kleiber — Tue, 12 Nov 2024 02:00:00 -0600

Hi friends! I have good news and bad news. Bad news first - Did you know that not all PD is profitable? In fact, I’d venture to say that most people giving PD are not actually making a sustainable profit. But here’s the good news - you absolutely can, and there is so much money to be made! In this episode, I'm going to give you the framework so you have profitable PD.

Links:

Profitable PD Framework

www.jennkleiber.com

How long does it take?

Jenn Kleiber — Thu, 17 Oct 2024 02:10:00 -0500

How long does it take before my education consultant business can become profitable? This is such a common (and valid) question! Like any sustainable business, the work you put in to it on the front end will determine the success of your business.

In this podcast, I’m going to give you 6 steps to speeding up the profitability of your business.

www.jennkleiber.com

IG: @jenn_kleiber

Pain Points

Jenn Kleiber — Tue, 01 Oct 2024 02:00:00 -0500

I’ve said this before, but as an educator, you are used to being a master problem solver. If you are a teacher, you are solving an infinite number of problems all day long. If you are an administrator, you are putting out fires all day long. If you are an instructional coach, you observe a class and then work with the teacher to solve problems all day long. In this episode, I'll discuss figuring out what pain points your stakeholders have, so you will have the solution.

www.jennkleiber.com

IG: @jenn_kleiber

Having an Entrepreneur Mindset

Jenn Kleiber — Tue, 17 Sep 2024 02:00:00 -0500

Today I want to talk to you about the right kind of mindset to have as you shift from educator to entrepreneur. You may be rolling your eyes a bit, but here’s the deal, the right mindset will make or break your success. The right mindset will also bring success, and profit, more quickly.
I'll give you 3 mindsets you need to have in this episode...

www.jennkleiber.com

Business Basics Bootcamp

IG: @jenn_kleiber

What is an Education Consultant (and is it your next right step?)

Jenn Kleiber — Tue, 03 Sep 2024 11:00:00 -0500

Before we dive into the actual episode I have for you today, I want to tell you a story. I remember sitting in a PD during my 3rd year of training. It was a single lady who sat at the front of the room and talked about ABA - which is Applied Behavior Analysis - and to be fair, I was super interested in her content. She was funny, but not an entertainer. She presented clearly and at the right pace, and I remember sitting there thinking - “I would like to do what she’s doing”, but of course, with zero knowledge of how to make that happen, and without the experience in the teaching world to back it up.

But 10 years later, I started that journey. So before I move on, I want to ask you, what was that moment for you? That moment where you thought - I can do that. I want to do that!

Now hang on to that dream, friend!

www.jennkleiber.com

IG @jenn_kleiber

What Makes PD Effective (and sellable)?

Jenn Kleiber — Tue, 03 Sep 2024 11:00:00 -0500

Let’s talk about PD. Now, if you ask teachers about PD, most of them will look at you with disdain in their eyes and will say the word PD like it’s a bad 4-letter word. Why is this?

It doesn’t hit the teachers’ current pain points
They feel like they have other, more important things to do,
The implementation of the PD adds more to their plate instead of making what they already do easier
They are made to feel bad or inadequate or like they aren’t doing enough

Let’s talk first about what makes it effective.

www.jennkleiber.com

IG @jenn_kleiber

What is an Education Consultant? (and is it your next right step?)

Jenn Kleiber — Thu, 09 May 2024 11:00:00 -0500

Is education consulting your next right step? At the Responsive classroom, I’ve started a new section of my business called the EquippED Consultants Collective. You can find us on IG @equipped_consultants_co. The mission of this is simply to help and coach those of you who want to move into being an education consultant to start and grow your own business. I know it can feel daunting to go from education to business ownership, but it’s absolutely doable!

10: The #1 Way to Guarantee Growth for 2024-2025 (Now)

Jenn Kleiber — Thu, 18 Apr 2024 11:00:00 -0500

Hey friends! I know this time of year is tough, but I also know that if you are an administrator, you are already looking towards next year. You have to be.

So do you want to know the #1 way to guarantee growth for 2024-2025? Reflect on the current year and make a plan proactively - now.

Reflection Questions to think about:

If your campus was running at the level you want it to be, what is happening in the classroom? What are you seeing the students doing? What are you seeing the teachers doing?
If your campus was running at the level you want it to be, what would the mornings look like- the very start of the day? How do the students feel about walking in the doors? How do the teachers feel about being there? How do the teachers and students react when they see each other?
If your campus was running at the level you want it to be, what is happening in PLCs or during planning time? What types of conversations are being had? What is getting done during these times? What do you see the teachers doing?

Next, use data - both qualitative and quantitative, to determine where your campus is in each of the current areas. This would be a great place to get teacher (and student) input. Here are a few questions to ask yourself:

When I look in most classrooms now, I see ___________________________________.
In the mornings, students/teachers seem _____________________________________.
During PLC meetings, the primary conversations center around ________________________________. The productivity in PLCs is ______________.

Finally, what needs to happen to get from where we are currently to my vision?

Want to see how responsive your campus currently is? How Responsive is Your Campus Checklist
Schedule a time to talk about PD! Jenn Kleiber's Calendar

If you want the full blog of this episode, check out www.theresponsiveclassroom.org/the-responsive-educator-blog/

Want PD that Sticks? Roles of Admin, Teacher and Provider to Increase Retention

Jenn Kleiber — Mon, 18 Mar 2024 11:39:24 -0500

If you want the full blog of this episode, check out www.theresponsiveclassroom.org/the-responsive-educator-blog/
To check out our summer and BTS PD calendar and spring sale, click here!
If you are thinking about Responsive Education PD and want to see how responsive your campus currently is, click here for our checklist!

PD can be super impactful and really important to the growth of students, BUT research shows us that the average teachers pulls away just 10% of a PD day - 10%! What a waste of time! We want to change that! In this episode, we discuss a checklist for the 3 stakeholders involved that when done well, will create a PD plan that has an meaningful influence on the campus: the service provider, the administration, and the teacher.

Take a listen, and if you want to discuss PD with The Responsive Classroom, email jenn@theresponsiveclassroom.org.

Re-Engaging Students in the 3rd Quarter

Jenn Kleiber — Sat, 09 Mar 2024 08:52:57 -0600

Students and teachers are both tired at this point, and many students have checked out - even though there is a lot of learning left to go! How do we combat that?

Re-engage
Re-connect

Re-Engage:

Sometimes, at this time of the year, we find we need to engage the students cognitively. We need to get their brains going again! When we start to see them disconnect, it’s even more important that put in the work to re-engage them (not get mad at them for getting off task). Unfortunately, I often see (and did) just the opposite. This tends to be a time when we get very focused on the state assessments, and can get very “worksheet” and “independent practice” heavy.

I would ask you this (again – pointing the finger at myself):

You are needing them to refocus, but are you putting as much effort into planning engaging activities? When we get tired, and when we feel stressed, we may back off on our planning as well.

I will give you two things to consider in trying to re-engage:

Transfer the ownership back to the students. Give them choice. Give them responsibility. Let them hold each other accountable. You are in charge of your classroom, but give them ownership in their learning.
Set learning goals. Scores on state assessments or district curriculum tests are not learning goals. And scoring higher may seem unattainable to many students, leading to unwanted behavior. Remember that the scores only reflect learning – so learning should still be the goal. This gives students something attainable to master, and will eventually raise their scores as well.

Re-connect:

By now you know your students. You know their names. You probably know a lot of their families. You know their academic struggles. You may know some about their lives. What I want to encourage you to think about is how you’re viewing each student. Because along with knowing your students at this time, you also have feelings towards each of your students – like, dislike, frustration, annoyance, enjoyment, sympathy, etc. They know exactly how you feel about them. If you are patient and kind, or frustrated and short-tempered. If you still light up when they come in the room, or if you ignore or immediately start nagging.

I would encourage you to do a mental check, and if there are any students that you need to reconnect with, now is the time! Get them one-on-one. Send encouraging notes home. Make positive phone calls with authentically positive statements (even if there are negative things happening as well). Speak support and encouragement into your students. Give them value by giving them ownership (remember re-engage?).

Want to get on the calendar for summer PD or take advantage of our Spring Sale? Click here!
Want an engaging strategy that easy to implement? Get a T-A-C-O! (Think, Answer, Concensus, Output); Click here for details!

7: The Effective Coach (when you have no time)

Jenn Kleiber — Tue, 20 Feb 2024 11:00:00 -0600

This episode is for instructional coaches! There are a lot of you who may have more non-coaching things on your plate than actual coaching.

Sub plans
Covering classes
Organizing events
Compliance paperwork
Testing coordinator/assistant
Mediator

The list goes on and on. The point is, there are somethings you aren’t going to be able to help, BUT if we can’t have coaching cycles, the efficacy of the coaching suffers!

I want to give you 5 things to think about in your limited time that you may have to actually coach.

Choose your coaching model and stick to it as much as possible.
Use a form.
Debrief is more important than the planning. Debrief in PERSON.
Suggestions stink. Questions rule.
Authentic praise goes a long way.

Click here to sign up for the FREE Webinar for Instructional Coaches (Available through February 27th!)

6: Misconceptions of Data (and How to Use It for Student Growth!)

Jenn Kleiber — Tue, 16 Jan 2024 13:00:00 -0600

Before we get started, I want to talk to instructional coaches, or administrators who are blessed enough to have instructional coaches on your campus! Next week, January 22, I will be opening access to a FREE webinar for instructional coaches- 5 Steps to Reduce Coaching Overwhelm. This is a tough time of year, and the coaches’ plates tend to be overloaded. This webinar will give practical tips to lowering overwhelm now and through the year.

Sign up here: Free Webinar: 5 Steps to Reduce Coaching Overwhelm

BIGGEST MISCONCEPTION: A score is the end goal. As you know, data serves as one measurement tool towards a bigger goal of learning. Listen to this episode to hear how data is actually doing more harm then good in some campuses, and then get ways to use data effectively!

Grab your free guide: The Deal with Data and actually see data lead to student growth!

4: Vision Driven Goal Setting for Your Campus

Jenn Kleiber — Thu, 07 Dec 2023 09:00:00 -0600

It's not easy to lead a campus vision! As we head into 2024, and the second part of this school year, we want to be clear on the vision-driven goals for our students! Use the questions in this podcast to help guide your creation of these goals!

Download the Vision-Driven Goal Setting Guide for free here!

Also, at the time of this release, we are in our End of Year Sale! Everything is discounted for a VERY limited time! If bringing student growth through responsive teaching is on your goal list this semester, let's book a call before December 15th! You can get all of the details here or head to www.theresponsiveclassroom.org!

5 Steps to Coaching for Student Growth

Jenn Kleiber — Fri, 03 Nov 2023 11:00:00 -0500

Teachers are working so hard to keep their heads above water! It's easy to get into survival mode of just "getting things done". This is where instructional coaches play a crucial role when guiding teachers to intentionally planning responsive lessons!

This episode gives you 5 steps to ensure you (or your instructional coaches) are coaching for student growth!

The Responsive Coaching Toolkit is the perfect resource to give your instructional coaches the support they need! From the right mindset, to knowing what type of coaching model you have, to coaching logistics and content competency, this course will equip coaches to coach for student growth! Click here to request an estimate!

Our Virtual Administrator Symposium: Creating Independent Learners is Wednesday, November 8 at 7pm CST! Registration is free and there will be a replay. Simply by registering, you will earn 50% off The Responsive Coaching Toolkit! Register today!

Lastly, grab your free resource, Planning Questions for Student Growth! Download here.

The Profile of an Educator with Mr. Tim Drysdale

Jenn Kleiber — Tue, 17 Oct 2023 10:00:00 -0500

Mr. Drysdale is an exceptional leader who has helped lead his campus into a place of better culture, engagement, and scores!

One tool that he uses is a Profile of an Educator that he created 6 years ago.

This interview came out of questions that came after our last Virtual Administrator Symposium! These are the awesome take-aways that come from these symposiums! You can now save your spot and register for FREE by clicking here!

2: 5 Steps to Creating an Independent Learner

Jenn Kleiber — Tue, 03 Oct 2023 08:00:00 -0500

Creating independent learners is a critical component, and perhaps even the main goal, of responsive education. Here are 5 skills to teach in order to move students from dependent to independent learners:

Problem solving
Prioritizing
Setting deadlines for myself
Researching
Asking questions

To get this info in blog form, head to www.theresponsiveclassroom.org.

To download your free resource: 5 Steps to Creating Independent Learners, click here!

Our next Virtual Admin Symposium is scheduled for November 1st! The focus will be...drumroll please...Creating Independent Learners! It's free to attend, and a reply will be available, but you do need to reserve your spot! Click here to reserve your spot today!

1: What is a Responsive Educator?

Jenn Kleiber — Tue, 19 Sep 2023 13:00:00 -0500

Welcome to the newly revamped Equipped Educator Podcast! You are here for episode #1!

Responsive teaching is the solution for unengaged students, growing academic gaps, overwhelmed teachers, and low-rigor classrooms.

This is why is works!

1.) Teachers gain a better understanding of their students’ perspective when they understand their deep culture (collectivist or individualist), and move into an alliance.

2.) Teachers can design their first teach, or Tier 1, instruction based on the deep culture and background knowledge of their students.

3.) Teachers can identify their dependent learners and intentionally move them into being independent learners by providing language supports, environmental supports, scaffolds, systems, and alliances that move the students into independence.

4.) Teachers have high expectations but provide the scaffolds and language instruction in the first teach that are needed for students to move to the higher level.

5.) Teachers can create Tier 1 instruction that is relevant to their students.

6.) Teachers can respond appropriately and effectively to students who need redirection because they have an understanding of the behavior they may be seeing in class.

7.) Teachers can create instruction and environment that works with the brain by understanding how the brain operates.

Right now, you can grab your copy of Building a Bridge from "I Can't" to "I DID!" on Amazon, upload your receipt in email to jenn@theresponsiveclassroom.org, and I'll send a free book study to the physical address you provide!

You can also download your free Culturally Responsive Checklish by clicking here or heading to www.theresponsiveclassroom.org/podcast.

Lastly, you can get all of the podcast episodes (and more) in print at www.theresponsiveclassroom.org/blog!

Thank you for loving kids!

5 Days of Refresh for Educators (in one podcast episode!)

Jenn Kleiber — Mon, 09 Jan 2023 15:00:00 -0600

Happy New Year and Welcome to the Teaching by Reaching Podcast!

In this episode, I want to shift the focus from the students to the teachers for a moment! If you are an administrator, I would encourage you to share this episode with your educator peeps! You can also download all 5 days of Refresh by clicking here. And then, of course, you can share with the people who need a little bit of encouragement going into 2023!

1. You are important and needed. Seems pretty cliche, but I think some of you may need to really get that in your mind and heart. So to do that, I want you to think of 3 specific students you have had an impact on. Write them down. How did you impact them? How did they let you know that you had an impact on them? How did it make you feel to know that you impacted them?

I love this Todd Whitaker quote so much I put it at the very beginning of my book – “The best thing about being a teacher is that it matters. The hardest thing about being a teacher is that it matters every day.”

But just think – you were put in your students’ lives for a reason – the students you have right now. And they may be really difficult students, but the students who are taking the most out of you are probably the ones you can have the biggest impact on!

2. You are blessed to have met and to be in the lives of each of your students. You are blessed to have the opportunity to teach them.

So...why are you thankful for your current students? Who’s personality do you really love? What situations are some of your students going through right now that God intentionally put them with you because He knew you could take care of them while they are in school?

What an honor to be a teacher. Society doesn’t always give credit to teachers, but you literally have the opportunity to shape lives every day – and for some of those lives, you may be the only point of love and security they know. This is a big job, but what an honor!

So when you get worn down, which you will, because it’s hard to be that person day in and day out, remember that you are blessed to have had this calling, you are making an impact FAR beyond what you will ever see here on Earth, and your students are blessed to have you.

#3: You get to have a job that you are passionate about!

My sweet dad sold pipe for the pipeline for his entire career, and while he liked the people and the company he worked for, he couldn’t stand what he did. He had no passion for selling pipe. He did it as a job. He did it well and he was consistent, but he was just living for his days off and eventually retirement. Thankfully, he got to enjoy a couple of years of retirement before he passed away, but I have thought many times how thankful I am that my work is actually my passion.

My mom has journal entries that she wrote about me when I was 4 years old of setting up my "classrooms" with my stuffed animals and dolls. I have always been passionate about students and teaching, and I love to learn myself, so that goes hand in hand. I love to see students’ faces light up, and to try something new, and to collaborate with other teachers.

Here’s the flip side of that though, whenever you do something you’re passionate about, you tend to take it more personally and invest more of yourself. So you get tired. When students don’t respond the way you want them to, it keeps you up at night. You get frustrated and angry, and want to control so much more of it because you love it, and you love them.

So take a minute to remember (and you know I'm all about writing it down) why you are passionate about being a teacher…what fills you up when you are teaching? Why did you become a teacher? What are you still

8 Questions for Student Growth

Jenn Kleiber — Tue, 29 Nov 2022 10:00:00 -0600

As you can probably guess, one of the main aspects of being a responsive educator is knowing your students, and then planning instruction accordingly - but what exactly does this mean?

In this episode, we go over 7 questions that every teacher needs to ask while planning to create an effective, responsive lesson, plus the 8th overarching question - "What does this information mean for this lesson I'm planning?"

Show Links:
Language is Power Mini-Course for a step-by-step explanation and easy implementation plan for growing language

Responsive Classroom Academy (formerly Coaching Clarity) is available before December 16th. That will be the last time it is offered this school year so that teachers can implement it in the spring!

Check out our current Cyber Monday Sale going on now through December 16th here.

For the free Student Questions for Growth Chart, click here.

For this content in blog format, head to www.theresponsiveclassroom.org/blog.

3 Phases of Crisis: Where Are Your Teachers?

Jenn Kleiber — Thu, 17 Nov 2022 13:00:00 -0600

According to Psychologist Amy Wine, there are 3 Phases of Crisis, and every person in the country is sitting in one of them. I couldn't help but think about the state of education and how knowing where teachers are is so critical. This information brought a lot of clarity for me, and I wanted to pass it on to you.

3 Phases of Crisis
1. Safety
2. Stress Management Mode
3. Success

Take a listen to the different phases and ideas for helping move someone into the next phase.

Also, Clarity is OPEN for a limited time! We know students don't have the luxury of losing one more year! Equip teachers to plan with clarity and responsiveness and watch students soar!(We have!) Click here for more info and to set up a time to chat! FYI - We've started the process of changing the name to Responsive Classroom Academy!

Email me at jenn@theresponsiveclassroom.org!

6 Ways to Gain Academic Ground Now!

Jenn Kleiber — Thu, 06 Oct 2022 10:00:00 -0500

Students can learn! But it's hard right now. As teachers, we've got be more intentional than ever on moving students into academic success.

In this podcast episode, we will look at 6 ways we can help students gain academic ground right now!

Links in Show:
If you'd rather have this in blog format, click here.

To register for the Free Virtual Administrator Symposium on October 20th with topic: Gaining Academic Ground Now! Click here

To get more information on our Clarity resource (available for a very limited time), click here.

For your Free Culturally Responsive Checklist, click here.

For more information on PD, coaching or any of the resources, reach out to jenn@theresponsiveclassroom.org or check out our website at www.theresponsiveclassroom.org.

The Connection between Environment and Learning

Jenn Kleiber — Wed, 14 Sep 2022 14:00:00 -0500

A student’s culture defines how they look at the world and learn about the world! When we can tap into the culture, we will help the student make deep learning connections that stay with them! Culture can be traditions, beliefs, ethnicity, music, and values – just to name a few. When these cultural points can be included in the physical environment, students will take a huge step towards taking ownership of the learning.

Here is a good rule of thumb: Represent your students first, then yourself. I’ll never forget walking into a 5th grade classroom last year that looked right out of Pinterest – camping Pinterest. This room had camping decorations from top to bottom. Clearly the teacher liked camping. But there was not one representation of her students’ likes, culture, or even work.

Let’s move to academic representation now. I want to give you 4 ways to set up the physical classroom environment in a way that promotes learning.

Have visual vocabulary posted. This can be in the form of anchor charts, word walls, or simply vocabulary lists. It needs to be clear, readable from every seat in the class, and only the vocabulary that students are learning currently.
Have a learning objective for the day (or class period) posted. I know that learning objectives can seem like “one more thing to do” , but giving the students a clear learning target to hit in kid-friendly (but academically appropriate) language is so important. For example, being able to say, “Today, before you leave second period, you will be able to list and explain 3 events that led to World War II.” It also gives you and the students something to measure their learning by.
Have sentence frames posted. If you are wanting students to produce language in writing or speaking (which you should), giving them sentence frames can be hugely helpful for producing language.
Have directions posted. You can lower the affective filter and set students up for learning when they have directions to read and refer back to. Think about it – if someone is giving you more than two-steps worth of directions, isn’t it helpful if you have it written down as well?

So to sum it up, we want to represent our students culturally and set up our classrooms to be the best learning environments they can possibly be!

We also talk about using the environment to lower the affective filter. Here are 4 ways!

Have a positive routine when students come in the door. Call them by name, give them hug, handshake, fist bump (whatever you are comfortable with), and tell them something authentically positive. Even if their affective filter is up from something that has happened previously in the day, you've taken huge steps to lowering it by having them enter the room positively.
Have a classroom that represents them. We all need and like connection. When you have set up a classroom so that it represents the students' likes, backgrounds, traditions, and work, an automatic comfort and sense of belonging occurs, which lowers the affective filter.
Use music to calm and stimulate. Calming instrumental music can be used to bring students' anxieties and heightened states down. Upbeat music (that students like) can be used for brain breaks and recharge. Music is a research-based way to help regulate emotions.
Have an orderly classroom. Chaos, whether that be from people or from clutter or things can raise the affective filter. If students are in a dirty classroom or don't where to find or put things, this raises the filter. It may not bother you, but for students who often live in chaos, it can be a trigger. **Quick tip, have systems in place for your students to help clean each day. This instills a sense of responsibility and ownership, and takes the brunt of it off of you! A quick 3 minute clean up time can make all the difference in the world!

If you want to take your staff into a deeper dive on respons

Teacher Clarity: Why it's necessary (and why it's not happening)

Jenn Kleiber — Tue, 26 Jul 2022 08:00:00 -0500

In this episode, we take a dive into what teacher clarity is, why it's so important, and what is keeping it from happening in every classroom! Teacher clarity answers these questions:
1. What do I want my students to learn?
2. How will I know they learned it?
3. What will I do to proactively prepare for students who may struggle?
4. What will I do for the students who don't learn it?

These questions seem so straight forward, but unfortunately, teacher clarity is missing in so many classrooms! Why?

This episode will dive into that!

Interested in helping your teachers plan and facilitate instruction with teacher clarity? We can help! Click here to learn more about our Clarity and Coaching Clarity resources (for instructional coaches) to move your teachers into clarity one component at a time, watching student success soar as they go through each step. This 8-month support resource starts in September (doors close August 26th for the 2022-2023 school year) and provides one component a month through a short video and support resources, along with coaching along the way if preferred. Click here for more information!

What does it mean to have a responsive classroom?

Jenn Kleiber — Wed, 25 May 2022 18:00:00 -0500

Welcome to The Responsive Classroom! Formerly, Pressing Onward. We are excited to be back on our podcast!

In this episode, Jenn chats about our rebranding and discusses what it means to have a responsive classroom. We have so many amazing resources to move your campus to cultural responsiveness and we can't wait for you to check them out! Visit our website or send an email to info@pressing-onward.org and let's connect!

Tips for Instructional Coaches

Jenn Kleiber — Wed, 29 Sep 2021 13:00:00 -0500

Are you an Instructional Coach, Academic Dean, or an Academic Coach? If so, this episode is for you! We know that Instructional Coaching is becoming more common in the public school setting. However, we also know, that Instructional Coaching can bring many challenges such as, "How do I have those difficult conversations with teachers?" or "What exactly should I be looking for when I walk into classrooms?" Don't worry, Jenn has got you covered!

In this episode, Jenn dives into 5 Tips for Instructional Coaches that will help guide you as you are working alongside educators. With these 5 tips, you'll walk away with clarity and confidence to continue coaching your teachers.

Want more information about resources for Instructional Coaches, register for our first Administrator Symposium of the 21-22 school year here: https://pressing-onward.mykajabi.com/admin-symposium-navigating-the-21-22-school-year This is a great way to get connected with other game-changing educators and talk through solutions to some of the most challenging scenarios.

In addition, we are now offering Additional Supports for Instructional Coaches on our website, www.pressing-onward.org. As always, don't forget to like, share, & subscribe! Thank you for loving kids.

Ways to be Proactive for Your Teachers - Before the Overwhelm

Jenn Kleiber — Thu, 19 Aug 2021 12:00:00 -0500

While we know that this school year will not be 2020, we also know that it will not look like 2019. In the midst of everything going on in our world, it is essential that administrators are proactive for their teachers during this next school year. In this episode, I dive into 6 different ways you can show up for your teachers AND questions that will help guide effective communication between administrators and staff. While you're listening, don't forget to like, share, and subscribe to the Teaching By Reaching Podcast!

Pressing Onward: www.pressing-onward.org

Admin Symposium: https://youtu.be/fJNMZi9yods

Building Alliances with Families Through All Pro Dad With Mike Sipple, Jr.

Jenn Kleiber — Fri, 28 May 2021 00:00:00 -0500

As we know, building alliances is a core component of cultural competency and cultural responsiveness, and building alliances with the families can be as important as building them with students. Building alliances with families can hold challenges on their own, however. Mike Sipple, Jr. introduces us to an amazing organization called All Pro Dad that does just that! Get more information here!

www.allprodadchapters.com

12: The Power of an Alliance: Equity in Responses

Jenn Kleiber — Fri, 14 May 2021 00:00:00 -0500

If you've done anything with culturally responsive teaching, you know building an alliance is crucial, but what does that actually look like in the classroom? In this episode we are going to dive into how equity in responses can build and strengthen alliances! Cultural responsiveness is about intentionality! This episode will give you the steps you need to move into the power of alliances!

11: Taking Steps Towards Social Emotional Learning with Shari Halpin

Jenn Kleiber — Fri, 30 Apr 2021 00:00:00 -0500

Social Emotional Learning is all about teaching and developing the skills necessary to be successful at life - and in the education world, this includes teachers and students. Shari gives us some great resources, as first as the first steps towards implementing a social emotional climate in your campus or district.

3 Ways to Re-Engage Students and Finish the Year Strong with Jenn Kleiber

Jenn Kleiber — Fri, 16 Apr 2021 00:00:00 -0500

This time of year is difficult for everyone in education! Students and staff alike have to find extra motivation to push though. In this episode , we go over 3 ways to re-engage students and make teaching fun and meaningful for the rest of the year.

For additional resources mentioned in this episode, click on the following links:

TPR and Repetition YouTube Video

Notecard Heads Up

Stress Down, Scores Up! Online Course

Taking the First Steps Towards Equity with Reggie Bibb

Jenn Kleiber — Thu, 01 Apr 2021 10:00:00 -0500

If you know that you need to move your campus into a more equitable place, you don't want to miss this episode with Diversity and Inclusion Director for Wylie ISD, Mr. Reggie Bibb. Reggie's candid and practical wisdom will get you inspired and ready to take those first steps towards equity!

Why I am FOR State Assessment (Hear Me Out Teachers...)

Jenn Kleiber — Tue, 23 Mar 2021 00:00:00 -0500

I wanted to take just a moment and talk through an emotionally charged topic right now - state assessments. While I definitely disagree with state assessments holding any weight towards accountability, I do think they are necessary. I dive into "why" in this episode. If you are looking for a way to talk through this reasoning with your teachers, this episode may help.

Also, head to www.pressing-onward.org for information on how we can partner wiht you to move your campus into cultural competence.

Helping Teachers Move from Fear to Action! with Sha Sparks

Jenn Kleiber — Thu, 04 Mar 2021 14:00:00 -0600

This episode was a treat to record! The more Sha Sparks and I talked for my other podcast, The Faith Filled Entrepreneur, the more I thought how PERFECT her framework is for teachers!

Sha moves us through the 4 As - Acknowledge, Allow, Ask and Act! This will give you tangible steps as you move towards teacher care and guidance during this school year!

You can find more information on Sha at www.shasparks.com!

Building a Healthly Culture with Teachers and Students with Dr. Maricela Helm

Jenn Kleiber — Fri, 26 Feb 2021 00:00:00 -0600

Dr. Maricela Helm gives some practical steps for taking care of teachers, building a more inclusive climate and creating an environment for learning in this episode. Her collaborative and honest approach made her an HEB Award Winner as a Principal and super effective and respected in her role as Director of Student Services in Wylie ISD.

In the episode, we discuss the 5 Love Languages Quiz for students, linked here.

We also discuss our Cultural Competence in the Classroom Course, where you can find more information at our website www.pressing-onward.org.

Building Strengths in Kids or Conforming to a Classroom "Box?" with Mabble Munyimani

Jenn Kleiber — Thu, 11 Feb 2021 08:00:00 -0600

As I interviewed Mabble for our other podcast, her story about her own children, and the reasons she pulled them out of public schools hit hard, and I thought her story needed to be told on this podcast as well.

Her focus is helping parents build up the strengths in their own children, but teachers have the power to do this as well!

Seven years ago, when her first child was younger, Mabble found that she needed more parenting solutions that would help her, not just differently but a method that would help her bring out the best in what her children had within themselves, without feeling like there is something wrong with him and that he needed fixing. She was after a parenting style that empowered her children and left her feeling happy and confident with her abilities as a parent.

Mabble is a qualified mental health nurse with experience of over 15 years. She has seen worked with families and children who experience challenges in all walks of life, school, at home, peer pressure etc. Through her experience, she has identified that lack of expression and understanding of the child’s strengths and abilities, contributes to children’s frustrations and can be a contributory factor to some mental illnesses eg anxiety and depression.

Having lived in 3 continents, born in Zimbabwe Africa, studied and lived in the UK for 12 years and now living in Australia. Mabble has acquired insights, experience and exposure to different cultures and developed an understanding that allows her to empathise with the families she works with.

Mabble herself has identified and is cultivating her children’s gifts, strengths, and talents. Her boys who have now come out the other side as high achievers and are amongst the top young athletes in the country and working to become professional athletes.

Now living her purpose and passion as a strength coach, she successfully manages Intentional Living Coaching. Mabble created Intentional Parenting, to provide the support parents need to raise confident human beings who know and value their unique genius and how to leverage it. .via workshops, coaching programs and masterclasses.

Mabble walks up through how her sons' teachers unknowingly squashed their natural strengths, and how she uses their strengths and learning modalities to help them thrive!

You can find Mabble on FB at Intentional Coaching 1, IG at Intentional Coaching, and at www.intentionalliving.com!

Moving Towards Equity in Media with Clement Townsend

Jenn Kleiber — Fri, 05 Feb 2021 08:00:00 -0600

Clement Townsend is a former journalist who spent 17 years on TV. He is the creator of Video Journalism Pro, a supplemental online program that teachers can seamlessly integrate into their current curriculum. This online program offers a project based learning approach that engages students and teaches them valuable skills they can use in any profession such as writing, speaking, and critical thinking skills. The program also helps students develop their creativity so they can thrive in the 21st century. The online program contains 4 modules and walks students step by step through the storytelling process while teaching the technical skills of media, including shooting video and editing.

Upon completion students will have demonstrated their ability to create and present information in a compelling way. Students will have a tangible video story that can be posted on the internet to impact the school, parents, the community and even the world. This is a great fit to integrate with the core curriculum in the classroom, a media club or afterschool program.

And now, you can go to www.videojournalismpro.com and enter Coupon Code: PressingOnward10 for 10% off!

Moving English Learners to Learning with Mary Casto

Jenn Kleiber — Fri, 29 Jan 2021 00:00:00 -0600

There is so much goodness in this episode! Mary is an EL guru! She has a huge heart and the instructional knowledge to move ELs forward. In this episode, we discuss how she changed the program model by adding a coaching model. We also discuss the strategies she used personally in the classroom to move her ELS to tremendous linguistic and academic growth.

Taking Care of Teachers and Focusing on the Learning with Mantequilla Green

Jenn Kleiber — Fri, 22 Jan 2021 01:00:00 -0600

In this episode, Ms. Green, Academic Dean and Martin Middle School in Austin, Texas, discusses ways to take care of teachers during this pandemic so that they can continue to take care of students. As a new administrator just out of the classroom, she has a unique perspective on how to focus on learning even in a virtual world.

You won't want to miss this conversation about some practical ways to guide teachers during this chaotic time in education.

When Students Take Ownership of Their Campus with James Stewart and Lisa Saxenian

Jenn Kleiber — Fri, 15 Jan 2021 03:00:00 -0600

In this episode, Mr. Stewart and Ms. Saxenian talk about the transformation of their Waco High School by giving students the opportunity to take ownership of their campus and their learning. They discuss 4 really powerful ways they've seen learning increased, as well as some amazing ideas for creating a student-centered campus.

I've known these two administrators for 16 years, and I loved hearing their perspective as they are doing what is needed to move marginalized students into success in a difficult environment.

Check out this quiz to see how Culturally Responsive your campus really is.

How Culturally Responsive Is Your Campus?

Bonus Episode #4: 5 Reasons to Be a PROACTIVE Culturally Responsive Campus in 2021!

Jenn Kleiber — Fri, 01 Jan 2021 08:00:00 -0600

Happy New Year! In this episode, I define culturally responsive teaching, and briefly talk about the incredible value and results of being a proactive culturally responsive campus! Your students don't have time to waste, and your teachers need tools!

Remember to visit www.pressing-onward.org for information on ordering your free book (if you are an administrator) and information on the Grace, Grades, and Guidance Administrator Symposium!

Also, subscribe to our YouTube channel at Jenn Kleiber for strategies and implementable activities and ideas for being a culturally responsive teacher in the current climate! Share with your teachers!

Bonus Episode #4: Happy Holidays! 5 Things You Need to do NOW to be Ready for 2021!

Jenn Kleiber — Fri, 25 Dec 2020 12:00:00 -0600

In this bonus episode, Jenn gives 5 things you need to be doing now as a teacher or administrator to ensure a proactive 2021! We are done being reactive, but you have to be ready to thrive in 2021!
REST
RECHARGE
SEPARATE FROM STRESS
SERVE
REFLECT

This episode dives into these important disciplines for you personal and professional sanity and success! And if you are more of a reader, catch this blog at www.pressing-onward.org!
Follow us on FB @Pressing Onward, IG @jenn_kleiber, and Twitter @onwardpressing!

9: Environment and Student Learning with Dr. Yanira Oliveras-Ortiz

Jenn — Fri, 11 Dec 2020 01:00:00 -0600

"The students themselves were surprised by how much their learning environment affected their learning!"

In this episode, we heard from Dr. Yanira Oliveras Ortiz, and her fascinating research on the impact of environment and learning. Although her research is done with VLK Architects and the actual physical space the students are given, perhaps the more interesting piece is that the teachers had to do a learning modalities observation on every student! What valuable information!

Dr. Oliveras also has some great findings from her research in Belize that can absolutely translate into our culturally responsive classrooms here.

8: The Impact of Consistency with Kathryn Humer

Jenn — Fri, 27 Nov 2020 01:00:00 -0600

In this interview with Assistant Principal, Kathryn Humer, she emphasizes the power and impact of consistency. When students have a clear target to hit in instruction, classroom behavior and participation, they are set up to reach academic success. Kathryn explains what this looks like in a middle school classroom, and what can happen if consistency isn't there. You can find her on Twitter @khazzard76 or by email at kathryn.hummer@birdvilleschools.net.

Bonus #3: THANK YOU from us, your students and teachers!

Jenn Kleiber — Wed, 25 Nov 2020 01:00:00 -0600

In this episode, we want to give a huge shout out to the educators making a difference! Hear appreciation from students and teachers alike, as well as my own appreciation as Tate's mom! Educators are sacrificing more and making a difference in 2020, and we want to say thank you!!!

7: The "Must Haves" with Scott Drue

Jenn — Fri, 13 Nov 2020 01:00:00 -0600

I absolutely loved this interview. New Superintendent, Scott Drue, discusses his turnaround process as a principal at Aloha Park school in Beaverton, Oregon. With 85% students living in poverty, 33 languages spoken in the school, and a 50% attrition rate in the staff, he had his work cut out for him, but he put in the transformative work and changed the climate of the school, and now leads the district in academic growth!

6: Finding their Voice through the Earhart Club

Jenn Kleiber — Fri, 30 Oct 2020 01:00:00 -0500

In this episode, the inspirational founder and director of the Earhart Club, Angus Williams, takes us through the importance of guiding students to find their own voice, before the world tells them what their voice should be. His organization, The Earhart Club, is making a powerful impact on girls in the Kentucky area. Hear his story and his passion!

You can find more information about the Earhart Club at www.theearhartclub.org, and you can reach out to Mr. Williams at angus.earhartclub.org.

Bonus #2: Thoughts from a 10 year old

Jenn Kleiber — Mon, 19 Oct 2020 18:00:00 -0500

Enjoy my conversation with Tate as we get his insight as to the messages students receive from teachers. Sometimes, it's good to take a listen to the students!

5:Cultural Competency - Communicating WELL with Dr. Shauna Sobers!

Jenn Kleiber — Fri, 16 Oct 2020 00:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I'm so pleased to introduce my friend and colleague, Dr. Shauna Sobers.

In this episode, Dr. Sobers dives into reserving judgment, assuming positive intent, and communicating well across cultural differences.

I had the privilege of creating a course, Cultural Competency in the Classroom, with Shauna, that addresses so many of these difficult topics. You can find information on that here!

Dr. Shauna T. Sobers is the CEO / Facilitator / Consultant for shaunatsobers, LLC, a company specializing in leadership education and consulting for supervisors, student organizations, individuals, and teams. She is passionate about helping people recognize their talents and express it in their own way.

For over a decade, Dr. Sobers has been advising leaders of all levels as well as presenting and facilitating workshops on CliftonStrengths™ based leadership, employee engagement, women’s empowerment, and career advancement preparation. Dr. Sobers has a Doctorate of Education in Administration and Leadership from University of the Pacific in Stockton, California and certifications in Strengths Approaches to Higher Education Leadership and Student Success as well as Intercultural Development Inventory® (IDI).

Dr. Sobers is also an Assistant Director for Residence Life in the Department of Housing and Dining at the University of Texas at Austin with 14 years of experience working as a student affairs administrator for 6 colleges/universities.

In 2016 Dr. Sobers started a blog entitled, “Leadership Lessons from Dance” which led to the TEDx Talk entitled, “The Dance of Leadership”. In 2018 Dr. Sobers did a SA Speaks Talk entitled, “Resilience Tree: Growing Pathways to Senior Leadership” about the model referenced in this chapter and which will be featured in an upcoming book!

For more information about Dr. Sobers and her research, or to book a consultation or workshop, visit www.shaunatsobers.com, email drsobers@shaunatsobers.com, or follow @ShaunaTSobers on LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter.

4:Equity in Crisis - with PD Director, Jenny Stumbaugh

Jenn Kleiber — Fri, 02 Oct 2020 07:00:00 -0500

Jenny Stumbaugh, Director of Professional Development in Los Fresnos Consolidated ISD has been in the thick of the COVID-19 Crisis in South Texas. She brings us some interesting insight into this current issue, and talks about the importance of culture in this South Texas town.

She is an experienced teacher, principal and now director. She loves and cares deeply for her community and district, and I have really enjoyed the opportunity to work with her.

Student VOICE: Kieran Jackson

Jenn Kleiber — Fri, 25 Sep 2020 04:00:00 -0500

As a high school student, Kieran was involved in theatre, art, track and field, and fashion club! She is currently attending Tarrant County College to achieve her Associates degree in Social Work, and she plans to transfer to a university afterwards. She is also super ambitious and while she is in school, she is preparing to launch her small business called MadeByKCharee within the next handful of months or sooner!

You are going to love her valuable insight as to how she was able to rise above the "norm" at her high school and succeed!

You can find her on social media on Twitter and Instagram @madebykcharee!

3: Trust FIRST - with Aristo Torres

Jenn — Fri, 18 Sep 2020 00:00:00 -0500

"When you build a relationship, you have to be prepared to change a little bit. If you just decide that you're doing it your way and not willing to change at all, you're not going to build a relationship. It's the same in your classroom." Wow!

In this episode, Mr. Aristo Torres, Principal of Faith Family Academy Elementary, Oak Cliff in Dallas, TX gives us some great words of wisdom on what it takes to teach effectively on his campus. He goes over the 3 basic things that teachers must do in order to position:

1) Build trust
2) Build a relationship
3) Be consistent

This is invaluable information if you feel like you're hitting some walls with your students! Also, you have to start with number 1 from DAY 1! So let's dive in!

2: What's Missing in Virtual Learning...and what to focus on as a teacher.

Jenn — Tue, 01 Sep 2020 16:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I couldn't jump ahead to our interviews until I addressed the elephant in the room - virtual learning! We are in our 3rd week of virtual learning in my house, and I have learned a lot from the parent perspective as well. Here are 3 things to focus on when facilitating virtual learning:

1) Assume Positive Intent

2) Build an Alliance - you and your students are on the same team!

Patiently explain and model (multiple times) where to find information. This lays the foundation of independent learners.
Connect (click here for ways to do this virtually: blog)

3) Choose 1-3 primary skills for students to master if the virtual learning is temporary.

You guys are awesome! Here's how to connect with us!
www.pressing-onward.org
info@pressing-onward.org
FB: @pressingonwardblog IG: jenn_kleiber Twitter: @onwardpressing

1: Welcome to Teaching by Reaching: Empowering Classroom Heroes!

Jenn — Tue, 01 Sep 2020 16:00:00 -0500

In this episode, Jenn introduces herself and explains the podcast! Get ready to be inspired, encouraged, and challenged as you listen to Teaching By Reaching, and YOU become an empowered classroom superhero!

Here's how to get more information about Jenn and Pressing Onward, LLC!

www.pressing-onward.org
Social Media:
FB: @pressingonwardblog IG: jenn_kleiber Twitter: @onwardpressing