EPISODE 109: Cultivating a Community of Learners | FETC EDITION

February 27, 2023

Sarah Hembree is the principal of Elizabeth Cobb Middle School, a progressive public middle school in Tallahassee, Florida. Under her leadership, Cobb meets the unique needs of adolescents through compassion, strong relationships, curiosity, and a lot of humor.

Overview:

With over 20 years of experience in secondary education, Sarah is passionate about seeing students through their journey of adolescence. During her tenure at Cobb, she is re-envisioning the idea of discipline, leading daily community-building activities, and supporting families through ongoing education and partnership. When students feel safe, seen, heard, and held in loving community, middle school turns out to be a much richer experience than the terrible cliché we’ve all come to know. With the right mix of support and engagement, Sarah knows we can tap into everyone’s superpowers and help them grow into their full potential.

Unlocking others’ potential doesn’t end at the eighth grade. Sarah mentors experienced educators seeking to take on a leadership role or make their next career move. Aspiring leaders seek out Sarah’s guidance because they value her expertise in giving ongoing, actionable feedback and supportive coaching; building relationships through trust and purposeful interactions; curriculum design based on individual-student need; developing long and short-term strategic plans, and fostering an environment where every employee is valued.

Meet Our Guest:

Website Links:
Elizabeth Cobb Middle School
LinkedIn Profile

The Host:

While students may only be 20%-25% of our population today, they are 100% of our future. That is why education is one of the most important investments a country can make and the sole purpose for the existence of the Better Learning Podcast.

The Better Learning Podcast brings on valued guests that talk about ways we can improve education for our kids. Because after all, they are 100% of our future!

Kevin Stoller:
Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com.

Kay-Twelve
LinkedIn Profile
Twitter Profile

If you are interested in being on the show or know someone who would be a great guest, please visit the Better Learning Podcast website.

Our Partners:

Kay-Twelve:
Kay-Twelve
LinkedIn Profile
Twitter Profile

Better Learning Podcast
Better Learning Podcast
YouTube Profile

Association for Learning Environments (A4LE):
The Association for Learning Environments (A4LE)
LinkedIn Profile
Twitter Profile

Second Class Foundation
Second Class Foundation

Be a Guest on the Better Learning Podcast!

Do you have a favorite school-related movie that left a lasting impact? Join us as a guest on the Better Learning Podcast, where we dive into iconic films, break down memorable moments, and hand out fun awards—all while connecting them to real-world education.

From standout teachers to unforgettable one-liners, we’ll explore how these movies reflect (or totally exaggerate!) school life. Plus, you’ll get to share your own insights and experiences in education.

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About the podcast

The Better Learning Podcast combines education and entertainment in a fresh, engaging format where guests share their favorite school-related movies. Host Kevin Stoller leads dynamic conversations, exploring memorable scenes, iconic characters, and timeless lessons through award-style categories like “The John Keating Award” for standout teachers and “Realistic or Ridiculous?” to dissect school life portrayals.

With humor, analysis, and reflection, each episode celebrates the fun, flaws, and impact of these films while sparking nostalgia and insights. Whether you’re an educator, student, or movie buff, join us to relive the movies that shaped how we see school life, and share your favorites.