26. Up Your ‘Back-to-School’ Game with Michelle Young

Hey TFC Listener! Until August 30, you can contribute to Project GIVE BACKpacks with The Michelle Young Foundation!

Michelle Young – inspiring educator, TV personality, speaker, and founder of The Michelle Young Foundation – shares her stories of teaching, television, and transitions in this special Back to School TFC episode!

While managing the demands classroom teaching, Michelle took an exciting opportunity and represented educators with thoughtfulness and compassion as the star of season 18 of The Bachelorette. Prior to teaching, Michelle made a name for herself as a Division I basketball player; she now shares this passion by partnering with school districts to provide an after-school program called “Homework and Hoops.”

In this episode, Michelle shares the importance of prioritizing well-being during major transitions (ranging from the classroom to TV, and from summer to school!), and practical strategies for easing the shift from summer-mode to school-mode. Relatable tip for all teachers – new stationery helps! Michelle shares her own strategies for recharging and routines for getting “back in the game.”

Michelle and Dana explore Jane Dutton’s research and important message from her TFC episode: First. Moments. Matter. Michelle discusses her go-to practices for acing those first days back and creating a strong sense of community in the classroom. Michelle shares her inspiration for starting The Michelle Young Foundation, which offers customized scholarships, educator partnerships, and distinctive programming so underserved students can access growth opportunities. Her Foundation values community, educators, opportunity, inclusion, and accessibility.

Beyond “Back to School” – this candid conversation also explores the identity dynamics at play when you’re a teacher – from the pressure and responsibility to be “on” and serve as a role model, to staying in the profession even when you may be ready for new horizons. Whether you’re a fan of Michelle from her time on The Bachelorette, or a new fan of her inspiring Foundation, you will enjoy listening to her stories and wisdom on navigating life and transitions as an educator.

“Once an educator, always an educator” – Michelle Young, TFC Episode 26

Key Messages in Episode 26:

• Take time to recharge and create a back-to-school routine that includes both fun and productive tasks.
• Greet students at the door to create connections and make them feel valued.
• Embrace discomfort and take calculated risks for personal growth.
• Don’t let guilt or societal expectations limit your career choices.
• Recognize the multiple facets of your identity and embrace the journey of self-discovery.
• Pronouncing students’ names correctly and creating a sense of community in the classroom is crucial for students’ sense of value and belonging.
• After-school programs play a significant role in supporting the well-being and growth of students, providing opportunities for learning, sports, and social-emotional development.
• The Michelle Young Foundation aims to address the accessibility gap in education by providing academic and sports opportunities for underserved students.
• Teachers everywhere face many challenges and there is a need for more resources.
• Practicing self-care, setting boundaries (*ahem, saying no!), and finding moments of joy and laughter are essential for teachers’ mental health and well-being.
• Students’ resilience, kindness, and ability to find joy in difficult circumstances give hope for the future of education.

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Show Notes

• The Michelle Young Foundation website: https://www.themichelleyoungfoundation.org/

• Donate to TMYF Project GIVE BACKpack Campaign – providing students with a backpack and supporting a Homework and Hoops program.

• Dr. Jane Dutton’s Teacher Fan Club Episode (first moments matter): Episode 16 – The Power of Compassion & High Quality Connections

• Research on the importance and benefits of greeting students at the door