Episode 19: When Graduation Is the Goal (and Learning Isn’t)

Episode Intro

In this episode of The Confident Chemistry Teacher Podcast, I’m sharing a real and honest reflection about what happens when graduation rates take priority over student learning.

You’ll hear the behind-the-scenes challenges of adjusting to a new school environment, supporting struggling students, and finding your balance between accountability and empathy.

You’ll walk away with practical classroom management strategies, structure ideas, and tools that help you refocus your students on learning — even when motivation feels low.

Key Takeaways

By the end of this episode, you’ll learn how to:

Identify the subtle system pressures that can shift focus from learning to passing.

Add structure and consistency through visual reminders and predictable routines.

Support unmotivated or transient students with simple, proactive communication systems.

Track behavior and engagement data to strengthen parent communication and accountability.

🎁 Free Resource

Behavior Posters

https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1q6jykZf0FlE7Qcsr4Q0Oih_SAuNO4EoJ?usp=sharing

Behavior Tracker

https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1-vahPQdnSUDNV9i8nbAAMgqJHdm6dMaZAN8MjwCnTu4/copy

The Lab Day Starter Kit – Make your lab days run smoother with this free set of teacher-tested tools: sign-up sheets, joke cards, and a pre-lab prep checklist that helps you stay organized and confident. 👉 https://learn.chemschemistryclassroom.com/lab-day-starter-kit