Research-Based Literacy, Creative Teaching & Teacher Sustainability with Get Your Teach On’s Naomi O’Brien
Are you an educator searching for ways to blend creativity, research-based instruction, and sustainable teaching practices? In a recent episode of The Flip Side Podcast’s “Get Your Teach On” segment, hosts sat down with Naomi O’Brien, an acclaimed primary educator and literacy specialist, to unpack the nuances of effective teaching. Naomi’s candid stories, actionable strategies, and expert advice offer a goldmine for teachers eager to elevate their craft while maintaining their well-being.
Let’s dive deep into the main themes and practical takeaways from this inspiring conversation!
Building Strong Reading Foundations
Naomi’s Philosophy:
Naomi O’Brien’s passion for early literacy is rooted in her belief that a strong reading foundation prevents future academic struggles. She’s not just a teacher, she’s a lifelong learner, constantly immersing herself in the latest reading research.
Actionable Tips:
Prioritize Early Literacy: Invest time in phonemic awareness, decoding, and comprehension from the start.
Stay Informed: Regularly read research articles, attend workshops, and follow literacy experts to keep your methods current.
Be the Go-To Resource: Position yourself as a literacy leader in your school by sharing insights and supporting your colleagues.
Expert Insight:
Naomi’s approach is both research-driven and creative, ensuring that foundational skills are taught with rigor and engagement.
Creativity Meets Curriculum: The Right Way
The Common Pitfall:
Many teachers start with engagement—fun activities, games, or flashy lessons—hoping to capture students’ attention. Naomi warns that this can lead to shallow learning if not grounded in solid pedagogy.
Naomi’s Approach:
Start with Research: Build lessons on evidence-based strategies and clear learning objectives.
Layer in Creativity: Once the academic core is set, add creative elements—storytelling, interactive activities, or real-world connections—to make learning memorable.
Maintain Rigor: Engagement should never come at the expense of depth or challenge.
Actionable Steps:
Lesson Planning Checklist:
Is the lesson aligned with standards and research?
What is the core skill or concept?
How can I make this relevant and exciting for my students?
Creative Enhancements: Use music, art, or technology to reinforce—not replace—key concepts.
Pro Tip:
Naomi’s “coffee shop vibe” classroom, with lo-fi beats and cozy reading nooks, is a great example of how environment can support both engagement and focus.
Culturally Relevant Teaching: Beyond the Basics
Why It Matters:
Culturally relevant teaching isn’t just a buzzword—it’s essential for equity and student engagement. Naomi intentionally designs lessons that reflect the diverse backgrounds of her students, even those not currently in her classroom.
How to Do It Well:
Reflect on Your Students: Consider the cultures, histories, and experiences represented in your classroom and beyond.
Broaden Your Lens: Use current events, diverse literature, and global perspectives to prepare students for the world.
Embrace Discomfort: It’s normal to feel uneasy at first. With practice, culturally responsive teaching becomes second nature.
Actionable Ideas:
Audit Your Curriculum: Whose voices are missing? Add texts and resources that reflect a wider range of experiences.
Connect to Real Life: Tie lessons to students’ lives and current events to foster empathy and critical thinking.
Expert Advice:
Naomi emphasizes that culturally relevant teaching, when combined with creativity and rigor, leads to powerful, inclusive learning experiences.
Classroom Management: The Power of Consistency
Underrated Skill:
Naomi identifies consistency as the most underrated teacher skill. It’s not glamorous, but it’s the backbone of effective classroom management.
Why Consistency Matters:
Builds Trust: Students know what to expect and feel safe.
Promotes High Expectations: Persistence and clear routines lead to better behavior and academic outcomes.
Reduces Stress: Predictable systems free up mental energy for teaching.
Actionable Strategies:
Set Clear Routines: Teach, model, and practice procedures regularly.
Follow Through: Enforce rules and expectations every time, not just when it’s convenient.
Avoid Shame-Based Tools: Naomi strongly advises against clip charts, which can harm self-esteem. Use restorative practices and positive reinforcement instead.
Teacher Mindset: Boundaries, Burnout, and Self-Advocacy
The Reality:
Teaching is demanding, and burnout is real. Naomi’s journey from overcommitted to empowered is a lesson in self-advocacy.
Key Lessons:
It’s Okay to Say No:** You don’t need a perfect excuse to protect your time and energy.
Ask for Help:** Honest conversations with administrators can lead to support and solutions.
Respect Colleagues’ Boundaries:** When teachers say no, it ensures their yes is meaningful.
Actionable Advice:
Set Non-Negotiables: Decide what you will and won’t take on each year.
Communicate Needs: Don’t wait until you’re overwhelmed—speak up early.
Prioritize Well-Being: Remember, your health is essential for your students’ success.
Encouragement:
Naomi’s story proves that setting boundaries doesn’t diminish your impact—it sustains it.
The Power Hour: A Game-Changer for Teachers
What Is the Power Hour?
Faced with burnout and a packed schedule, Naomi created a “Power Hour”—a daily block where students rotate through three purposeful centers (about 20 minutes each).
Why It Works:
Intentional Learning: Students engage in meaningful tasks (reading, catching up on work) instead of passive activities.
Teacher Relief: This block gives teachers time to plan, catch up on emails, or prep materials—reducing after-hours work.
Student Growth: Naomi saw her highest student growth during the year she implemented Power Hour.
How to Implement:
Plan Centers Carefully: Each station should have a clear purpose and be easy for students to manage independently.
Set Expectations: Teach students how to transition and work productively.
Use the Time Wisely: Dedicate your Power Hour to tasks that lighten your load and improve instruction.
Expert Tip:
Power Hour isn’t just a “break”—it’s a strategic tool for both student engagement and teacher sustainability.
Professional Growth: Data-Driven Focus
The Challenge:
With so many areas to improve, it’s tempting to try everything at once. Naomi recommends a focused, data-driven approach.
How to Grow Effectively:
Pick One Focus Area: Use student data to identify your greatest instructional need (often reading).
Go Deep, Not Wide: Master one new strategy or skill before moving on.
Seek Research-Based Practices: Avoid fads! Look for evidence-backed methods.
Find a Mentor: Connect with experienced educators in person or online for guidance and support.
Action Steps:
Reflect Regularly: What’s working? What’s not? Adjust your focus as needed.
Give It Time: Change takes time so stick with your focus long enough to see results.
Encouragement:
This approach prevents overwhelm and leads to meaningful, lasting growth for both you and your students.
Final Encouragement and Resources
Naomi O’Brien’s journey is a testament to the power of intentionality, creativity, and self-care in teaching. Her blend of research-based strategies, culturally relevant pedagogy, and practical classroom management offers a roadmap for educators at any stage.
