Just Thinking

The skilled trades industry is at a crossroads. With a growing labor shortage and an aging workforce, industries like construction and electrical work face urgent challenges in attracting and developing new talent. While the demand for skilled trade professionals is expected to continue rising, many young people remain unaware of the career opportunities available…

The role of education in shaping military readiness is often overlooked, yet its impact on future generations is profound. As artificial intelligence reshapes how we think about career readiness, discussions on College, Career, and Military Readiness (CCMR) highlight the pressing need for holistic preparation. While college and career pathways often dominate these conversations, military…

Education stands at a pivotal moment. Rapid societal changes and evolving student needs are challenging traditional school structures. Teachers are facing significant stress, with 44% of K–12 educators reporting burnout “often” or “always,” according to a Gallup survey. Feelings of isolation among educators further compound these challenges, emphasizing the need for more connected and…

As advancements in technology reshape how we learn, innovate, and engage with scientific research, how can we cultivate a scientific mindset in education and beyond? Today’s discussion highlights a growing emphasis on curiosity-led learning as a catalyst for systemic change in education. Curiosity plays a crucial role in learner engagement, with research showing that…

Resilience isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a critical skill for navigating life’s toughest challenges. This week’s episode of Just Thinking dives into stories of individuals who turned adversity into strength, highlighting why personal narratives matter more than ever. The American Psychological Association states that resilience is a learned skill, not an innate trait, underscoring its…

Principals significantly influence student outcomes, second only to classroom teachers. According to a Wallace Foundation report, effective school leadership plays a significant role in shaping a school’s impact on student learning. However, principals face increasing pressures, juggling operational responsibilities with the need to foster academic success and school culture. These challenges underscore the importance…

Turning adversity into a leadership tool has never been more critical with the educational landscape being so fast-paced. Recent ongoing challenges, from the pandemic’s aftermath to the evolving technological demands, educators now have to harness resilience to inspire and lead effectively. Studies show that leaders who have faced significant personal challenges are often more…

Balancing continuous improvement and compliance for student success is crucial in the educational landscape, particularly within Louisiana’s schools. This topic forms the core of an engaging conversation between Just Thinking host Kevin Dougherty and Gleacia Durand, a Professional Learning Specialist at 806 Technologies. Their discussion offers insights into the significance of setting strategic goals…

Innovative planning and continuous improvement in education stands at the forefront of school improvement, a strategic linchpin that propels institutions toward a future of achievement and excellence. At the heart of this transformation is adopting a continuous improvement mindset, where educators and administrators constantly seek better strategies and outcomes for their students. Just Thinking…