Episode 34 | Live from ISTE: Mindfulness in the Classroom with Erica Sandstrom

Summary

Erica Sandstrom, also known as the Green Screen Gal, shares her journey in education and her passion for using green screens and digital media in the classroom. She discusses the power of mindfulness and how she incorporates it into her teaching through breathing bubbles. Erica emphasizes the importance of social-emotional learning and leveraging technology to enhance the learning experience. She also talks about her vision for the future, including creating online courses and expanding her brand as a content creator.

Takeaways

- Incorporating green screens and digital media in the classroom can enhance the learning experience and engage students.
- Mindfulness, including breathing techniques, can help students manage anxiety and improve focus.
- Social-emotional learning is crucial for students' well-being and academic success.
- Leveraging technology, such as AI and social media, can support teaching and learning.
- Finding your niche and building a network of like-minded individuals can help promote your brand and accelerate your career.

Sound Bites

"The power of [breathing bubble]... brings you back to the present moment and it can take you out of fight or flight in one minute."
"If teachers aren't calm, kids can't learn. If kids aren't calm, they can't learn. It's just a vicious cycle."
"I found the green screen... I was just fascinated... I was hooked... I've never felt joy like that in my life."

Chapters

00:41 Introduction and Erica's Background
02:20 The Power of Mindfulness and Breathing Bubbles
08:03 Erica's Journey with Green Screens and Digital Media
11:46 The Importance of Social-Emotional Learning
14:24 Leveraging Technology for Teaching and Learning

About Erika

Erica Sandstrom has been an educator for 30 years, teaching grades 3-8 in various subjects. Currently, she serves as a Digital Media Teacher for grades 6-8 in Peabody Public Schools, where she is also a member of the Technology Team and works as a Mindfulness Coach, launching the district-wide Mindful Super Hero Club. Additionally, Erica is a Green Screen and Video Production PD instructor for MASSCUE and Salem State Collaborative, providing professional development for educators across 160 school districts. Outside of teaching, she leads student trips with People to People International and is a Yoga/Pilates instructor and owner of The Painter's Pub.

Connect with Erika

LinkedIn: @erikaleeasandstrom
Twitter: @GreenScreenGal
Instagram: @greenscreengal44
Youtube: @ErikaSandstrom
Website: www.greenscreengal.com
Linktree: linktr.ee/greenscreengal44