The Pixel Classroom Podcast

• Episode 218: The History of Happy Holiday

  In end of the year, musical history episode. Happy Holiday wasn’t created as a Christmas song. It debuted in 1942 in the film Holiday Inn, starring BingCrosby and Fred Astaire. It’s the same movie that launched “White Christmas.” The film’s concept: a country inn that opens only on holidays, each with its own Irving Berlin song. Among them was “Happy Holiday.” Bing sang it as a general greeting — wishing joy for all the holidays throughoutthe year. Irving Berlin’s songwriting was timeless: simple, warm, and instantly memorable. “Happy Holiday” fits thatperfectly. The lyrics are welcoming, and the message is essentially: enjoy every celebration ahead.

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• Episode 217 with Guest Paul Buckley

  I am joined by Paul Buckley who is the Founder and Managing Owner of Ratio Staffing, a groundbreaking platform reshaping how preschools connect with substitute teachers, enrichment educators, and speech pathologists. A former preschool teacher with nearly 20 years of hands-on experience, Paul’s mission is deeply personal: to help children thrive by supporting the educators who shape their early years.Before founding Ratio Staffing, Paul spent nearly a decade in biotech manufacturing leadership, where he trained global teams, revised over 300 SOPs, and earned a Six Sigma Green Belt. Today, he fuses that systems expertise with his passion for education to create a platform that offers true flexibility, transparency, and community impact.Ratio Staffing removes the predatory norms of traditional staffing agencies, allowing schools to choose their teachers and educators to negotiate fair rates. Paul’s vision is simple yet powerful: better classrooms, better care, and a better future—for everyone involved. You can reach out to Paul at [email protected]

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• Talking AI with Jeff Riley

  I am joined by Jeff C. Riley on the 215 episode of the Pixel Classroom Podcast. Jeffrey C. Riley (Jeff) is the former Massachusetts Commissioner of Elementary and Secondary Education, who co-founded and now leads the not-for-profit Day of AI organization in partnership with MIT RAISE..Mr. Riley was appointed Superintendent/Receiver of the Lawrence Public Schools, where, for over 6 years, he led a team that brought significant improvements by shifting resources and autonomy to the school level, expanding the school day, increasing enrichment opportunities, and ensuring all schools had great leaders and teachers. His previous experience spanned urban and suburban districts, including teaching in Baltimore, MD and serving as principal of Tyngsboro Middle School and Boston’s Edwards Middle School. Mr. Riley holds a bachelor’s degree in philosophy from Pomona College in California, a master’s degree in counseling from Johns Hopkins University in Maryland, and a master’s degree in school administration, planning, and social policy from Harvard University.You can reach out to Jeff through www.dayofaiusa.org and [email protected]

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• The Pixel Classroom Podcast Episode 214, special guest, Dr. Brandi Kelly

  Dr. Brandi Kelly brings more than 20 years of heart, hustle, and hands-on leadership experience. She is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Maxwell Certified Coach who has served as a school social worker, principal, and superintendent. A two-time Principal of the Year and the founder of Spark HOPE Edu, Brandi uses her H.O.P.E. System—Habits, Optimistic Outlook, Purpose, and Excellence—to share the good stuff: hope, love, and joy. Her mission is to equip leaders to build resilient schools and communities where every person feels seen, heard, and valued.Her first book - Lead with H.O.P.E.: Building a System of Self Efficacy is available on Amazon nowListen to my Podcast: Lead with HOPEFree Download Intro ChapterBuy the Book: Lead with H.O.P.E.Working on their second book - When Life Speaks - A 30 day devotional.Brandi's Podcast Lead with H.O.P.E. shares stories of H.O.P.E. Fueled LeadersShe is available for speaking, executive coaching and consultingYou can reach out by Website: https://sparkhopeedu.com/You can find all of their social media channels on her websiteEmail: [email protected]

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• Tribute to Beth Foose

  My friend, Mary “Beth” Foose, passed away this past weekend after a courageous two-year battle with cancer. She was the first in-studio teacher guest on The Pixel Classroom Podcast, appearing in Episode 86, which was recorded exactly four years ago today on November 18, 2021.Beth faced her diagnosis with incredible grace and strength. Her “Foose Fighters” stood with her every step of the way, lifting her spirits throughout the journey.A 2001 Sycamore High School graduate, Beth dedicated 13 years to District 427, teaching at Southeast Elementary, Sycamore Middle School, and South Prairie Elementary. Her impact on students and colleagues will be deeply missed.This episode revisits moments from our original conversation, celebrating her passion, humor, and the heart she brought to education. I will miss you Beth, fly free.

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