Episode Summary I talk about how most teachers do not stop being themselves all at once, but slowly edit who they are in order to survive, comply, or avoid standing out. That gradual self-editing often comes from caring deeply and wanting to do the right thing, but it takes a real toll over time. I
Permission to Be Yourself in the Classroom Read More »
Episode Summary This episode reflects on what it truly means to be a funky teacher beyond personality, performance, or style. Being funky is about how we show up on heavy days, uncertain days, and moments when teaching feels overwhelming. Early in my career, I thought there was a “right way” to teach, and without realizing
What It Means to Be a Funky Teacher Read More »
Episode Summary The first day back after a break carries more weight than many educators realize. I reflect on why what students feel when they walk through the door matters more than how much content is covered that day. I share small but meaningful moments of gratitude that highlight how adult relationships, support, and trust
The First Day Back Matters More Than the Lesson Plan Read More »
Episode Summary In this episode, I talk about why kids don’t learn when adults are out of sync and how our energy sets the emotional tone of the classroom before any lesson even begins. I explain how students absorb who we are in the moment, not just what we say, and why our presence matters
Kids Don’t Learn When Adults Are Out Of Sync: Why Your Energy Sets The Tone Read More »
Episode Summary In this Episode 100, I celebrate “100 lessons that changed my teaching journey and made me Mr. Funky Teacher.” As Mr. Funky Teacher, Nicholas Kleve, I share the truths that have shaped me across 20+ years in education through kids, colleagues, mistakes, breakthroughs, and the heart work of teaching. I reflect on why
100 Lessons That Changed My Teaching Journey And Made Me Mr. Funky Teacher Read More »
Episode Summary This episode explores the powerful role tone plays in teaching and how students learn more from how we speak than the words we use. As Mr. Funky Teacher, Nicholas Kleve, I reflect on how tone sets the emotional temperature of a classroom and shapes whether students feel safe, open, and ready to learn.
Your Tone Is A Teaching Tool: Why Kids Learn More From How You Say It Than What You Say Read More »
Episode Summary This episode centers on the reminder that kids are not miniature adults and should not be expected to think, feel, or regulate emotions like grown-ups. As Mr. Funky Teacher, Nicholas Kleve, I reflect on how unrealistic expectations increase frustration for both students and teachers, especially during chaotic stretches of the school year. Gratitude
Kids Are Not Mini Adults: Adjust Expectations, Not Compassion Read More »
Episode Summary This episode gets to the heart of how students actually learn and grow. As Mr. Funky Teacher, Nicholas Kleve, I share why classroom culture matters more than classroom control when it comes to trust, engagement, and long-term growth. The reflection begins with gratitude for everyday supports, including tripods that capture meaningful moments, extension
Why Classroom Culture Is More Important Than Classroom Control Read More »
Episode Summary In this episode, I talk about fall fun and funky celebrations and why classroom parties still matter. As Mr. Funky Teacher, Nicholas Kleve, I reflect on how celebration isn’t about candy or distractions, but about building connection, community, and memories that last. I share personal moments that filled my heart recently, like my
Fall Fun And Funky Celebrations: Why Classroom Parties Still Matter Read More »
Episode Summary In this episode, I explore how celebrating with students is not an extra, but an essential part of meaningful teaching. As Mr. Funky Teacher, Nicholas Kleve, I reflect on how joy, gratitude, and small moments of celebration shape the culture of a classroom. I share personal reflections connected to my birthday, appreciation for
Celebrating With Students: Finding Joy In The Moments That Matter Read More »