Relationships, Belonging & Student Experience

Episode Summary In this episode, I talk about what it truly means to create a classroom where students feel safe to take risks. As Mr. Funky Teacher, Nicholas Kleve, I share why risk-taking is essential for learning and how teachers can intentionally shape environments where students feel supported, not judged. I begin by sharing gratitude

Episode Summary In this episode, I, Mr. Funky Teacher, Nicholas Kleve, talk about how to regain control of your classroom without losing relationships. I share what it feels like when the class energy shifts, things get loud, and you realize you’ve lost the room, and I walk through how to bring students back without damaging

Episode Summary As Mr. Funky Teacher, Nicholas Kleve, I walk through how to structure a group behavior meeting with parents and staff in a way that lowers tension and builds teamwork. I share why these meetings can feel intimidating, but also how they can become a powerful turning point when handled with care and clarity.

Episode Summary In this episode, I reflect as Mr. Funky Teacher, Nicholas Kleve on a question that was asked after my presentation at the National Teacher Leadership Conference about how we keep learning fun and why joy still belongs in the classroom. I share personal gratitude from my life right now, including grief therapy, meaningful

Episode Summary In this episode, I focus on the human side of teaching and why building classroom community by putting relationships before rigor matters more than anything else. As Mr. Funky Teacher, Nicholas Kleve, I reflect on how trust, connection, and belonging form the foundation for real learning to take place. I share personal stories

Episode Summary In this episode, I focus on building classroom community and why putting relationships before rigor is essential for meaningful learning. As Mr. Funky Teacher, Nicholas Kleve, I share why students learn best when they feel trusted, valued, and connected in the classroom. I begin by sharing gratitude for my microphone, new experiences, and

Episode Summary On the first day of school, I talk about the excitement, nerves, and anticipation that both teachers and students feel. As Mr. Funky Teacher, Nicholas Kleve, I share why the first day is less about perfect lessons and more about human connection. My goal is always to make students feel seen, safe, and

Episode Summary In this episode, I talk about how open house can shape the tone for the entire school year. As Mr. Funky Teacher, Nicholas Kleve, I share how welcoming families with presence, energy, and sincerity lays the groundwork for trust and belonging. I describe a powerful and unexpected experience at Winnebago’s back-to-school powwow, where

Episode Summary On this episode, I reflect on what it means to enter a new school after more than twenty years in my previous district. I share the emotions that come with beginning again—learning a new culture, meeting new teammates, and stepping into a space where no one yet knows my story. I talk about

Episode Summary In this episode, I share what it feels like to prepare for open house as I get ready to welcome a brand new group of fifth graders into my classroom. I talk about the anticipation, the gratitude, and the importance of showing up with presence as I step into a new school year