Overview:

In this episode, we sit down with Valerie Shay, a passionate advocate for California Educators Together and its mission. From attending Spring Cue to becoming deeply involved in the initiative, Valerie shares her journey from a devoted fan to a Workshop Leader. We delve into her experiences, discussing the impact of the initiative on educators and the process of becoming actively engaged. Tune in as Valerie offers insights into the value of community-driven initiatives in transforming educational landscapes.

1. Introduction
   • Jami Butler introduces herself and her role in supporting California Educators Together.
   • Welcoming Valerie Shay as the guest, highlighting her significant involvement with the initiative.
2. Valerie's Background and Introduction
   • Valerie Shay provides an overview of her extensive career in education, spanning various roles and locations.
   • She shares her journey leading up to her current position and involvement with California Educators Together.
3. Valerie's Journey with California Educators Together
   • Discussion on Valerie's initial encounter with the initiative at Spring Cue in 2023.
   • Progression from attendee to Workshop Leader, highlighting key milestones and experiences along the way.
4. Inspiration and Involvement
   • Valerie reflects on the factors that inspired her to become involved with the project.
   • Insights into how her involvement has contributed to her growth as an educator.
5. Perspectives on Education and Teaching
   • Valerie shares how her perspective on education and teaching has evolved through her involvement with California Educators Together.
   • Emphasis on the need for innovative teaching methods to meet the demands of the 21st-century learner.
6. Roles within the Initiative
   • Valerie discusses her various roles within the initiative, including lesson writing, vetting, and facilitating workshops.
   • Insights into the impact of each role and the opportunities they provide for professional development.
7. Unique Aspects of the Initiative
   • Exploration of what sets California Educators Together apart from similar programs for educators.
   • Focus on community building, collaboration, and the free accessibility of high-quality resources.
8. Empowerment and Engagement
   • Valerie elaborates on how the initiative empowers and engages educators.
   • Discussion on the platform's role in fostering collaboration and supporting teachers' diverse needs.
9. Prioritizing Lesson Design
   • Valerie shares key principles and practices educators should prioritize in their lesson design.
   • Emphasis on promoting critical thinking, collaboration, and student-centered learning experiences.
10. Aspirations for the Project
    • Valerie discusses her aspirations for the future of California Educators Together.
    • Ideas for potential enhancements and expansions to make a broader impact on education in California.
11. Podcast Closing
    • Jami expresses gratitude to Valerie for her insightful contributions to the podcast.
    • Invitation for listeners to join the movement and participate in upcoming workshops or institutes.
    • Closing remarks and anticipation for the next episode of the California Educators Together Podcast.

Valerie Shay is in her 23rd year of education. She began her career in Ontario-Montclair teaching ELD with Middle Schoolers. She has taught high school, adult school, community college, and university in North Carolina, Chicago, Milwaukee, and Detroit. She wrote curriculum for China Disney and lived there for 18 months helping teachers teach English.

Jami Butler is a Program Specialist in the High-Quality Instructional Materials Department at the Kern County Superintendent of Schools. In 2022, KCSOS was awarded the High-Quality Online Instructional Materials contract with the California Department of Education.