When I think about why I teach, one quote echoes in my mind: “Every child deserves a champion, an adult who will never give up on them, who understands the power of connection, and insists that they become the best that they can possibly be.” These words from Rita Pierson have been a guiding force throughout my career. I’ve seen firsthand how powerful connection and encouragement can be—whether it was working with adults with developmental disabilities at the Anne Grady Corporation in Ohio or teaching high school students social studies at Broken Arrow Freshman Academy in Oklahoma.
My passion for teaching was ignited during my junior year in Mr. Jewell’s class. Mr. Jewell taught social studies, but what I learned in his class was far more than dates and names. I witnessed a teacher who had empathy for students and coached them every step of the way. What began as a love for social studies evolved into something much greater: a calling to help others discover their potential, not just through facts and figures, but through the ability to express themselves clearly and confidently. This passion deepened after I was introduced to IEW’s methodology—an approach that doesn’t just teach writing but empowers communicators and thinkers.
One of the most rewarding aspects of my journey has been helping teachers unlock their full potential in the classroom. As an Educational Consultant and Implementation Coach, I’ve had the privilege of working with educators from all walks of life—new teachers eager to learn, seasoned professionals refining their craft, and everyone in between. Each connection reminds me why I love this work so much. It is about helping teachers with everything from curriculum choices to pathways, vertical alignment, and implementation as well as inspiring them to meet students where they are at and help them succeed. It is my privilege to come alongside educators and empower them to communicate to their students that they are unique, allowing them to express themselves clearly and confidently. By providing educators with the tools they need, IEW can help every student realize his or her full potential. Throughout the year I share IEW’s Structure and Style® methodology with teachers across the U.S. Each two-day session is a mix of teaching, practicum assignments, questions, and, of course, lots of laughter. I absolutely love to connect with teachers and administrators—whether they are just starting IEW’s method or coming back for a refresher.
This August I will host Virtual Teaching Writing: Structure and Style (VTWSS), a virtual three-day workshop guiding participants through IEW’s nine structural units and the stylistic techniques. The VTWSS gives me the opportunity to teach the same seminar that I teach in person to educators from many locations all while teaching from a single location. Numerous people across the nation and even around the world will attend.
One of the best parts of this virtual format is the live chat feature. IEW’s Educational Consultants answer questions in real time so that teachers can ask questions and receive instant responses while I am teaching. When I teach in a traditional school setting, time constraints mean all questions are answered at the end of each unit, but with the VTWSS, participants don’t have to wait. They get the help they need right away. By having their questions answered as they think of them, teachers can stay focused without getting stuck on details that might hinder their understanding of upcoming material. Remember, when teachers succeed, students succeed.
One of my favorite parts of the VTWSS is connecting with such a diverse group of teachers. Whether they are tutors, classroom teachers, hybrid instructors, or homeschool educators, each one brings something unique to the table. I love hearing their stories, learning about their students’ successes and challenges, and using that information to tailor my support to meet their needs. Relationships and connections are key in any school setting, not just for students, but for teachers too. A 2022 study by the College of Education and Human Development at the University of Missouri found that positive teacher-student relationships can improve student behavior and learning. We have found that building those positive relationships leads to better teaching as well. At IEW we believe that connecting with teachers is important because when they feel supported, it creates a positive ripple effect that reaches their students as well.
Because this is a three-day workshop, participants have the ability to learn the methodology with additional time to work on the seminar’s practicum assignments. Spending time with teachers as they complete their assignments allows me time to check for understanding and provide both personal and small group teaching. The practicum assignments are a valuable tool for teachers to complete because that is where the learning takes root. Having those one-on-one conversations ensures IEW will be taught with fidelity. When teachers understand the methodology correctly, they then can take that sense of empowerment into the classroom. Witnessing teachers get their hands “dirty” and experience what their students will learn is invaluable.
I enjoy learning why people are in education and hearing about their students. Recently, I had the opportunity to speak to an educator from Arizona regarding a young student who struggled with handwriting. The student felt he was behind his peers. Being able to have that time provided the opportunity for me to share advice on how to help that struggling student. Now I check in with him periodically to see how this young man is doing. Being able to support teachers ultimately supports students. Some hear the mantra, “Remember your why,” and in the realm of education that can fall on deaf ears. Truly reconnecting teachers with the reason they entered this profession—to help students succeed—ignites my passion.
Encouraging educators to set aside “laminated lesson plans” and train students to think critically, especially about their own thinking, transforms learning. IEW’s methodology has a proven track record of even getting the most reluctant writers to effectively communicate. Providing support and allowing teachers to learn the value and simplicity of Structure and Style as a means to a greater end for student success drives my dedication. When I was in the classroom, the more supported and confident I felt, the more it reflected in my teaching, and that confidence transferred directly to the students. That is why the support provided through VTWSS is remarkable. At IEW, we want teachers to feel empowered, supported, and confident when they instruct young minds.
This summer, don’t miss the chance to join educators from all over the world for an interactive, live learning experience—all from the convenience of your home! With the support, resources, and community the VTWSS provides, you will leave with the tools you need to teach writing, helping your students become confident and competent communicators and thinkers. Plus, the connections you make with fellow educators will continue to inspire you long after the seminar ends. I can’t wait to learn together!
For more information or to register for the virtual workshop, please visit IEW.com/Schools/vtwss
by Jeff Nease
