In this episode Derek McCoy dives deeper into the need for educators to "get uncomfortable" in order to grow. He shares his own education journey with loving, well-meaning teachers as well as teachers who were able to cultivate his gifts and provide the learning environment he needed. According to Derek, taking a breath happens in your comfort zone, but growth happens in discomfort. Far too many teachers teach the way they have been taught, using "whole group," as the default. Derek talks about the impact of this approach and the power in personalized learning. Connecting, leading, and growing with educators is Derek's mission and his passion.
Derek has over 20 years experience as a middle school principal, assistant principal and middle school math teacher. He is passionate about serving others and helping teachers and teacher teams change their practices, beliefs, and skills to meet the needs of schools and school communities. In 2014, Derek was recognized as a National Digital Principal of the Year. And, in 2018 he was asked to join a panel of experts on Capital Hill to discuss how to rethink middle school education with lawmakers and address critical needs.
Derek is also the co-author of the book: The Revolution: It’s Time to Empower Change in Our Schools.
Derek McCoy
Elissa Frazier