In this episode, we had a candid conversation with Ivra Warren, an amazing teacher who transformed his teaching methodology from “horrible” to highly effective. Ivra improved so much that he wrote a book about his inspiring journey to help new and experienced teachers navigate the pitfalls of education, titled “S.P.A.C.E (Specialized Plans to Accelerate Classroom Effectiveness).

Join us as we take a deep dive into Ivra’s experiences at Kashmere High School, in Houston, Texas, where he initially struggled because student behavior differed from behavior in his previous schools. Then he met Mr. Frazier, a mentor who introduced him to new techniques and resources that would forever change his approach to teaching.

Ivra’s story is a testament to the power of simplicity in teaching. He shares how breaking down complex concepts into relatable ideas can significantly improve student understanding. Furthermore, he emphasizes the critical role of a positive and thriving classroom environment in engaging students and improving their behavior. He also explains how he embraced technology and digital education, “flipping” his classroom by creating short videos for students to learn at their own pace, thus fostering a sense of ownership over their learning. 

Throughout his journey, Ivra received support from mentors, colleagues, and administrative staff. His story serves as a reminder to all educators that growth and improvement are always possible with a willingness to learn, adapt, and create positive classroom environments. 

Ivra’s journey underscores the importance of collaboration and support systems in teachers’ professional development. We hope his story inspires you to explore new methods, embrace mentorship, and continually strive to create engaging classroom environments.

—William Jeffery is curating Flipboard EDU Podcast

William “Coach” Jeffery is an award-winning digital learning educator and director of assistant principals leadership academies at Houston ISD in Texas. His tech pedagogy continues to drive him to curate educational content on Flipboard that highlights teaching strategies, edtech, and ways to improve student success. He hosts the “Flipboard EDU Podcast” as yet another way to share resources with peers.