Working On vs In Your School

Stumbling Through Work

#Self-Improvement #Jerek Hough #Early Childhood Education #Edleaders #Educhat #Preschool Director #Center Director #Activity Director #Program Director #Early Childhood #Ece #Preschool #Podcasting Education #EDU #Ear

34:01

I think you could probably go back and track the stages of grief, probably that is what I went through. But I think if you do it right, you end up at acceptance. And that's where I ended up. And that's not to say that I've fully accepted the idea that the golden toad is extinct. Personally, I do still hold out hope that it could still be out there in those forests." - Trevor Ritland This conversation is with Trevor Ritland, who—along with his twin brother Kyle—authored The Golden Toad . The book chronicles their remarkable journey into Costa Rica’s cloud forest, once home to hundreds of brilliant golden toads that would emerge for just a few weeks each year—until, one day, they vanished without a trace. What began as a search for a lost species soon became something much more profound: a confrontation with ecological grief, a meditation on hope, and a powerful call to protect the natural world while we still can. Links: SpeciesUnite.com Kyle and Trevor: https://kyleandtrevor.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adventureterm/ Goodreads - https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/222249677-the-golden-toad Amazon - https://www.amazon.com/Golden-Toad-Ecological-Mystery-Species/dp/163576996…

2 years ago 18:28

MP3•Episode home

Send us a text

Directors have to work both "on" and "in" their schools. To achieve this, how do you delegate tasks to yours staff?

Follow me :
Website: https://www.jerekhough.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stumblingthroughwork/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jerekhough/

51 episodes

Working On vs In Your School

Stumbling Through Work

published 2 years ago

MP3•Episode home

Send us a text

Directors have to work both "on" and "in" their schools. To achieve this, how do you delegate tasks to yours staff?

Follow me :
Website: https://www.jerekhough.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stumblingthroughwork/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jerekhough/

51 episodes

All episodes

1
Naptime Narcotics: When Teachers Turn to Benadryl 31:08

7 days ago31:08

31:08

Send us a text A troubling case from Georgia reveals how a daycare lost its license after staff administered Benadryl to toddlers without consent, raising serious questions about trust and safety in childcare settings. Meanwhile, nearly $6.8 billion in federal education funding is being withheld, affecting critical programs for vulnerable student populations. Through a candid exploration of real-world scenarios, we offer practical guidance for keeping outside drama where it belongs - outside - and strategies for handling challenging situations with family members who may attempt to override parents' decisions. Follow me : Website: https://www.jerekhough.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stumblingthroughwork/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jerekhough/…

1
Dangerous Preschools, Woke Tests, and the Walmart Bag Exit Strategy 33:09

9 days ago33:09

33:09

Send us a text The alarming realities of unregulated childcare facilities operating with twice its maximum occupancy, this facility housed infants in a windowless basement alongside propane tanks, creating what authorities described as "nightmarish, hellish conditions." The conversation shifts to Oklahoma's peculiar response to teacher shortages—creating additional barriers rather than incentives and professional approach to firing employees that maintains dignity while protecting children and programs from unnecessary drama. The episode concludes with a thoughtful response to an educator contemplating leaving the field due to burnout. Rather than seeing this as an indictment of early childhood education as a profession, the solution may be finding a better fit rather than abandoning our calling. Follow me : Website: https://www.jerekhough.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stumblingthroughwork/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jerekhough/…

1
Drop Off Mistakes, Transitions, and Overtime Challenges 41:56

32 weeks ago41:56

41:56

Send us a text A young girl was accidentally dropped off at the wrong preschool. What do you do? Shifting gears, I share insights into how observing and coaching can be more impactful than immediate critiques or corrective actions. Finally, we tackle a common workplace conundrum: managing unauthorized overtime. Don't miss this engaging episode filled with valuable insights and practical advice, and feel free to share your thoughts or get in touch through my website. Follow me : Website: https://www.jerekhough.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stumblingthroughwork/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jerekhough/…

1
Extended Play: Wine and Overqualified 7:00

37 weeks ago7:00

7:00

Send us a text Can a simple bottle of wine transform the way we show appreciation to educators? Join me in this extended play episode as we explore the art of meaningful recognition, venturing beyond the standard pizza party. Whether you’re an educator or an employer, these insights promise to guide you in navigating the often tricky world of hiring and workplace appreciation. Follow me : Website: https://www.jerekhough.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stumblingthroughwork/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jerekhough/…

1
Preschool Blunders: Locked Babies and Naptime Dilemmas 29:10

38 weeks ago29:10

29:10

Send us a text In this episode of Stumbling Through Work, we unravel an incident in Philadelphia where three daycare workers face charges after leaving a seven-month-old baby locked inside a closed facility. Shifting gears, we examine how the underlying culture and climate of a school can drastically shape the educational experience. Finally, we tackle a policy of keeping lights on during naptime. Join me in considering these critical issues and share your thoughts. Follow me : Website: https://www.jerekhough.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stumblingthroughwork/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jerekhough/…

1
High Costs, Low Training... 38:11

49 weeks ago38:11

38:11

Send us a text Can you imagine entrusting your child to a daycare, only to discover that the teacher is abusive? This episode kicks off with a jaw-dropping account from Florida, where a 20-year-old teacher shockingly admitted to kicking, slapping, and flipping off a child. Ever wondered where all that tuition money goes? We break down the financial labyrinth of running high-quality educational programs. From soaring utility bills to the skyrocketing prices of food and essential supplies, maintaining a top-notch learning environment is no small feat. Tune in for an enlightening episode filled with candid stories, critical insights, and a touch of humor. Follow me : Website: https://www.jerekhough.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stumblingthroughwork/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jerekhough/…

1
Handling Crisis and Boosting Preschool Enrollments 40:22

1 year ago40:22

40:22

Send us a text This week on Stumbling Through Work, we confront the unsettling realities of child care center vandalism. Hear the details of a shocking incident that left a preschool in disarray, Switching gears from crisis management to proactive planning, I’ll share practical strategies to enhance your preschool, afterschool, and enrichment programs for the upcoming academic year. Whether it’s converting summer camp participants into year-long enrollments or tackling logistical nightmares like busing and drop-ins, I’ve got you covered. Learn the importance of hosting an open house right before the school year and how it can significantly boost your enrollments. Hear about a chaotic incident on the playground that highlights the necessity of professional behavior among staff and effective administrative intervention. Follow me : Website: https://www.jerekhough.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stumblingthroughwork/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jerekhough/…

1
School Threat: Unchecked Teacher Behavior and When to Let them Go 30:54

1 year ago30:54

30:54

Send us a text Unchecked teacher behavior? We critique the responses of those involved and emphasize the importance of confronting problematic behavior head-on, ensuring a safe and nurturing space for young learners. Reflecting on the unchecked teacher behavior story, we discuss the headaches of firing underperforming employees and the ripple effects it can have on a school's reputation. Join us for practical strategies and insights that aim to shape a brighter future in early childhood education. Follow me : Website: https://www.jerekhough.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stumblingthroughwork/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jerekhough/…

1
Babysitting: A Professional Dilemma 25:53

1 year ago25:53

25:53

Send us a text What happens when an early childhood teacher oversteps her boundaries and administers medication to infants without parental consent? Effective communication is the backbone of any educational setting, and in the second chapter, we break down six essential types of conversations that administrators should master. Is babysitting undermining the professionalism of early childhood educators? While acknowledging the financial pressures and low wages that lead many educators to seek side gigs, we discuss how informal babysitting arrangements can devalue our field. Join us in this episode as we explore these pressing issues and invite you to share your thoughts. Follow me : Website: https://www.jerekhough.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stumblingthroughwork/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jerekhough/…

1
Safe and Professional in Preschool 22:59

1 year ago22:59

22:59

Send us a text This shocking incident kicks off our latest episode, where we address the crucial topic of safety in early childhood education. While I sprinkle in a bit of humor to lighten the mood, the focus remains on practical strategies to enhance safety measures in schools, ensuring a secure environment for both staff and children. Switching gears, we discuss the importance of maintaining professional behavior and the pitfalls of cell phone use during work hours. We delve into classroom supervision policies, urging educators to review or establish guidelines that keep the focus on children's safety. Don't miss this episode packed with valuable insights and practical advice on fostering professionalism and security in educational settings. Follow me : Website: https://www.jerekhough.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stumblingthroughwork/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jerekhough/…

1
Evaluations: Not a Punishment & The Conflict of Interest 17:47

1 year ago17:47

17:47

Send us a text Ever had that moment where you walked out of a performance review feeling blindsided? We're going to explore the surprising realities of educator evaluations and how they can truly foster growth instead of dread. We're setting the stage for honest, impactful conversations that lead to tailored coaching plans, ensuring every educator not only meets but exceeds their potential. With a dash of personal stories and a pinch of cautionary tales, we'll examine the perils that come when educators take on side gigs that hit too close to home—like babysitting for student's families. Join me for a frank discussion on why setting firm boundaries is crucial for a drama-free workplace, and how maintaining a clear separation between our personal and professional lives safeguards our careers and the educational sanctity of our classrooms. Follow me : Website: https://www.jerekhough.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stumblingthroughwork/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jerekhough/…

1
Count Every Child: Face to Name 16:03

1 year ago16:03

16:03

Send us a text Think back to a time when a simple lapse in attention could have led to dire consequences. That's a scenario no one in childcare should ever face, yet it's what we tackle head-on in our latest episode, where the disturbing trend of children being neglected in educational settings is brought into the spotlight. We dissect the critical need for strict attendance and punctuality policies, a reflection of our unwavering commitment to discipline and respect within our ranks. I break down the nuts and bolts of how these policies are implemented and the uncompromising stance we take towards any infringements, sending a clear message about the non-negotiable priority of attendance Follow me : Website: https://www.jerekhough.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stumblingthroughwork/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jerekhough/…

1
The Teacher's Tango: Not Getting Along 14:40

2 years ago14:40

14:40

Send us a text Ever grappled with the tricky tango of workplace dynamics, especially in the world of education? In this episode, I share two educators who do not get along and how harmony in the workplace doesn't require friendship, but a collective commitment to the purpose of our school. Follow me : Website: https://www.jerekhough.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stumblingthroughwork/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jerekhough/…

1
I Guess the Grass isn't so Green 22:35

2 years ago22:35

22:35

Send us a text People get upset and leave... then try to come back. Nope, I'm not accepting you back with open arms. Follow me : Website: https://www.jerekhough.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stumblingthroughwork/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jerekhough/

1
Supervise or Mentor 18:17

2 years ago18:17

18:17

Send us a text We spend more time supervising than mentoring our staff. Are you guilty of this? Follow me : Website: https://www.jerekhough.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stumblingthroughwork/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jerekhough/

Stumbling Through Work

1
A Published Author 18:03

2 years ago18:03

18:03

Send us a text I wanted to share my experience as a director is what made me want to write a book. Is there too much focus on the wrong task in your classrooms and how does gender play a role in the class? Follow me : Website: https://www.jerekhough.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stumblingthroughwork/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jerekhough/…

Stumbling Through Work

1
Everything We Do is About the Building 16:11

2 years ago16:11

16:11

Send us a text Everyone should have a moral compass to assist in making decisions. Curriculum and Instruction are so closely intertwined in the classrooms and when one is off, the other will be too. Follow me : Website: https://www.jerekhough.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stumblingthroughwork/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jerekhough/…

Stumbling Through Work

1
Time to Evaluate Your Staff 21:25

2 years ago21:25

21:25

Send us a text How often do you evaluate your staff? What does that process look like for you? Follow me : Website: https://www.jerekhough.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stumblingthroughwork/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jerekhough/

Stumbling Through Work

1
Scheduling for the Unknown 24:19

2 years ago24:19

24:19

Send us a text Making a schedule isn't always easy. Lots of factors to consider. In 2023 we are rebuilding education as a workforce and isn't going to get any easier for the next year. Follow me : Website: https://www.jerekhough.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stumblingthroughwork/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jerekhough/…

Stumbling Through Work

1
Invisible Workload 21:57

2 years ago21:57

21:57

Send us a text Does it feel like your workload comprises of your job description and an "invisible" job description? Have you had to hear an awkward conversation between a family and staff member? Follow me : Website: https://www.jerekhough.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stumblingthroughwork/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jerekhough/…

Stumbling Through Work

1
Being a Director is Lonely 13:16

2 years ago13:16

13:16

Send us a text Being responsible and a leader can be lonely at times. While feeling lonely, you also have to model learning for your school. Sometimes it is a lot at times. Follow me : Website: https://www.jerekhough.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stumblingthroughwork/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jerekhough/…

Stumbling Through Work

1
What's in an Application Anyways? 24:43

2 years ago24:43

24:43

Send us a text What is in an applicants application or resume? What does it not say? What hats does a Director wear? Follow me : Website: https://www.jerekhough.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stumblingthroughwork/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jerekhough/

Stumbling Through Work

1
What was the Goal? 18:18

2 years ago18:18

18:18

Send us a text Make sure all actions have a goal or reason for them... a purpose. Being on the phone can be just as impactful as face-to-face. Follow me : Website: https://www.jerekhough.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stumblingthroughwork/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jerekhough/

Stumbling Through Work

1
Complaining Because You Can 20:18

3 years ago20:18

20:18

Send us a text There is a huge difference between complaints and concerns. Are there solutions to one or the other? Follow me : Website: https://www.jerekhough.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stumblingthroughwork/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jerekhough/

Stumbling Through Work

1
What Do You Have To Bring? 20:19

3 years ago20:19

20:19

Send us a text What do you bring to your school? What background makes you unique? Always welcome new faces to your school! Follow me : Website: https://www.jerekhough.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stumblingthroughwork/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jerekhough/

Stumbling Through Work

1
Learn Something New 19:34

3 years ago19:34

19:34

Send us a text Education is always growing, so are you growing too? What kind of families do you have? Follow me : Website: https://www.jerekhough.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stumblingthroughwork/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jerekhough/

Stumbling Through Work

1
Ask for Forgiveness or Ask for Permission? 15:48

3 years ago15:48

15:48

Send us a text I want a leader who makes a decision and asks for forgiveness than ask for permission! How do you navigate those families that want to be difficult? Follow me : Website: https://www.jerekhough.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stumblingthroughwork/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jerekhough/…

Stumbling Through Work

1
Toxic Personality? 22:19

3 years ago22:19

22:19

Send us a text Do you have a toxic work personality? We all do; take the test with me to see your level of toxicity. https://www.truity.com/test/toxic-traits-personality-quiz Follow me : Website: https://www.jerekhough.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stumblingthroughwork/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jerekhough/…

Stumbling Through Work

1
I'm Not Rude, Just Direct... 16:09

3 years ago16:09

16:09

Send us a text There is a line between being rude and being direct. Is asking questions just as important as listening to the questions? Follow me : Website: https://www.jerekhough.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stumblingthroughwork/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jerekhough/

Stumbling Through Work

1
Here Go Those Complaints... Again 16:49

3 years ago16:49

16:49

Send us a text The worse part of my job is getting complaints... especially when they are over foolishness. Through all of this, no matter what, say what you mean and mean what you say! Follow me : Website: https://www.jerekhough.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stumblingthroughwork/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jerekhough/…

Stumbling Through Work

1
Conflict Management Style 16:29

2 years ago16:29

16:29

Send us a text I've taken another online assessment quiz, this time for Conflict Management. To address any conflict in your school, you have to understand what your style is first. Here is a link to the quiz I took. http://www.thesmartworkplace.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/ConflictManagementStylesAssessment.pdf Follow me : Website: https://www.jerekhough.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stumblingthroughwork/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jerekhough/…

Stumbling Through Work

1
How to Act With Company 15:49

2 years ago15:49

15:49

Send us a text I thought everyone knew how to behave when you have company over... people don't care about that anymore, just listen... Follow me : Website: https://www.jerekhough.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stumblingthroughwork/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jerekhough/

Stumbling Through Work

1
You Don't Even Work Here... 15:28

2 years ago15:28

15:28

Send us a text How many times do people who don't even work with you ask about staff schedules? If you're confused, just listen... Follow me : Website: https://www.jerekhough.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stumblingthroughwork/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jerekhough/

Stumbling Through Work

1
Seasons Vs Holidays 16:49

2 years ago16:49

16:49

Send us a text Stop celebrating holidays and focus on seasons. How do holidays make all of your families feel? Follow me : Website: https://www.jerekhough.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stumblingthroughwork/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jerekhough/

Stumbling Through Work

1
After Hours... 16:25

2 years ago16:25

16:25

Send us a text How do you have a relationship with your staff outside of business hours? We can give our teachers too much information when they start. What do you let them know in the beginning? Follow me : Website: https://www.jerekhough.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stumblingthroughwork/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jerekhough/…

Stumbling Through Work

1
Organizational Chart 24:43

2 years ago24:43

24:43

Send us a text Who reports to you and who do you report to? What is the culture and climate of your school? Follow me : Website: https://www.jerekhough.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stumblingthroughwork/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jerekhough/

Stumbling Through Work

1
Your Nasty Attitude 25:35

2 years ago25:35

25:35

Send us a text One of the worse things is to work with someone with a nasty attitude. Do you dress professionally at work? Follow me : Website: https://www.jerekhough.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stumblingthroughwork/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jerekhough/

Stumbling Through Work

1
Don't Go Around Me 18:00

2 years ago18:00

18:00

Send us a text Staff and families, do not go around me because I always know. How do you have effective meetings? Follow me : Website: https://www.jerekhough.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stumblingthroughwork/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jerekhough/

Stumbling Through Work

1
Ready for Next School Year? 18:39

2 years ago18:39

18:39

Send us a text Then new school year is about to start! Get ready and hire good people! Follow me : Website: https://www.jerekhough.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stumblingthroughwork/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jerekhough/

Stumbling Through Work

1
What Happens With a References... (Featuring Danielle) 24:14

2 years ago24:14

24:14

Send us a text How important are references in 2023? What do your references say about you? What do you say about a reference? Follow me : Website: https://www.jerekhough.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stumblingthroughwork/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jerekhough/

Stumbling Through Work

1
How Cultural is Your School? 24:28

2 years ago24:28

24:28

Send us a text Does your school represent a multicultural environment in and out of the classrooms? Restraint is something all directors must have! Follow me : Website: https://www.jerekhough.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stumblingthroughwork/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jerekhough/…

Stumbling Through Work

1
Working On vs In Your School 18:28

2 years ago18:28

18:28

Send us a text Directors have to work both "on" and "in" their schools. To achieve this, how do you delegate tasks to yours staff? Follow me : Website: https://www.jerekhough.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stumblingthroughwork/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jerekhough/

Stumbling Through Work

1
Summertime is Here 23:42

2 years ago23:42

23:42

Send us a text Are you prepared for Summer... it's a lot a change to your normal schedule. Do you have the courage to be a leader? Follow me : Website: https://www.jerekhough.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stumblingthroughwork/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jerekhough/

Stumbling Through Work

1
6 Stress Management Strategies to Get Through Burnout 16:59

2 years ago16:59

16:59

Send us a text We have all experienced burnout. We have to get through it using stress management strategies. Which way is your favorite? Follow me : Website: https://www.jerekhough.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stumblingthroughwork/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jerekhough/

Stumbling Through Work

1
Don't Recommend People you Know 17:59

2 years ago17:59