On a brand-new Teachers’ Lounge Podcast, a LIVE state of education panel recorded in Springfield, Illinois at the Illinois News Broadcasters Association’s spring conference.
You can think of this episode as a guide to some of the most important issues in education in Illinois. We cover everything from staff shortages, education funding, school curriculum changes, and state legislation that impacts students.
We were lucky enough to be joined in the conversation by two professors from the University of Illinois - Urbana Champaign. Cara Gutzmer, an instructor and the director of school and community experiences, and Paul Bruno, assistant professor of education policy. We were also joined by a fellow education reporter: Samantha Smylie, state education reporter at Chalkbeat Chicago!
If you’ve never listened to Teachers’ Lounge before, our show is based on an idea -- we’ve all had teachers in our lives who shaped who we are. And we want to hear about the teachers who inspired you or deserve a spotlight in your community. Every educator we have on this podcast, whether teacher, coach, counselor or professor, is nominated by our listeners.
So, tell us about the person who comes to your mind. Shoot us an email and nominate an educator at teacherslounge@niu.edu and they could be on the podcast! And please subscribe to our Teachers' Lounge newsletter right here where you can stay up to speed on the show and share stories you think we should cover!
Also, Teachers’ Lounge is on the radio! Catch the show as an hour-long radio program every month LIVE on 89-5 FM and streaming at WNIJ.org. We have multiple guests, stories, and exclusive segments. Our next episode airs on Friday, May 26th at 11 a.m. Tune in on the last Friday of the month at the same time for future episodes.
SHOW NOTES
Educators and reporter in this episode:
Cara Gutzmer
Paul Bruno
Samantha Smylie
Story featured in this episode:
Music: Our show's theme music is from the northern Illinois-based band "Kindoves" and their songs "Popn," "Origins" and "Quiche." You can find more of their music on their Soundcloud page. You can also listen to the episode of WNIJ's own Sessions from Studio A where they were featured.
Teachers! People who know teachers! People with stories about teachers! Send us an email and be part of the show! Also, send us your topic recommendations: teacherslounge@niu.edu
