In this episode of Spark Joy in EDU, we talk with Mallory Mbalia, Director of Learning and Education at Fred Rogers Productions, about joy integration as an equitable practice and the power of educational media. Mallory brings such heart to the show and shares insights about the importance of early childhood and how educators are the root waterers, nurturing the roots that can provide sustained support to children throughout the years. Mallory reminds us that families send us their best- the best of their best. And, as educators, every learner deserves our best!

About Mallory Mbalia:
Mallory Mbalia holds a B.S. in human development from Howard University. She has taught 3-year-olds and kindergarten and was an elementary assistant principal. She holds her M.A.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction. She also holds her M.S.A., Masters of School Administration, from NC State University. She was an education outreach trainer for PBS NC. Next, she was the Director of Education at PBS NC. She has a passion for early childhood education, child development, literacy, STEM, equity, art integration, and joy integration. She is now the Director of Learning and Education at Fred Rogers Productions.

Website: fredrogers.org

Connect with Mallory Mbalia:
Twitter: @MbaliaM
LinkedIn: Mallory Mbalia

In this episode of Spark Joy in EDU we talk with Tara Martin about how it's essential to Be R.E.A.L. and the benefits of cannonballing in. Tara discusses how we can create a ripple effect of impact, the importance of boundaries, and how we can remain true to ourselves to foster joy.

About Tara Martin:
Tara Martin is an enthusiastic educator, national speaker, and author who thrives on change and refuses to settle for the status quo. She has served as a classroom teacher, an instructional coach for several years, and most recently, a district administrator. As the founder of #BookSnaps, the latest reading comprehension strategy currently implemented in seventeen countries, she is always seeking unique ways to make learning fun, relevant, and meaningful. Tara is the author of the inspirational book, Be REAL: Educate from the Heart and Cannonball In, a motivating children’s book illustrated by Genesis Kohler. Tara firmly believes machines and artificial intelligence will never replicate an individual’s REAL identity–the unique strengths, talents, and life experiences of every human. Tara’s passion for education and love of writing led her to a new role where she coaches and serves educational authors as the Director of Public Relations and Communication for DBC, Inc.

Tara’s ambition is to lead a culture of innovative change, keep social-emotional learning at the heart of our work, and encourage others to Cannonball In and fulfill their true potential!

Website: tarammartin.com

Connect with Tara Martin:
Twitter: @TaraMartinEDU
Instagram @tarammartin.real

In this episode of Spark Joy in EDU we talk with Dr. Joy about Joy Work EDU and how we can all take ownership of our joy. Dr. Joy shares about how we can be purposeful when it comes to creating joy in our lives and what it means to get 'back to zero.'

About Dr. Joy:
Dr. Joy is an Educator, Author, and Owner of Joy Work EDU, LLC. She is passionate about the presence of joy in organizations that serve children and empowers educators to tap into their own joy. Dr. Joy earned a Master of Arts in Teaching degree and a Doctorate in K-12 Educational Administration and Supervision. Throughout her career, she has served as a classroom teacher, professional learning facilitator, instructional coach, school administrator, college instructor, and educational consultant. Dr. Joy facilitates her work through the lens of joy focusing on important topics related to social and emotional growth. Dr. Joy is the author of two books, Back to Zero, and Joy Works: 8 Lessons for Educators. Currently, Dr. Joy is a Course Instructor at a teacher’s college and embraces the opportunity to help grow future educators. Her company, Joy Work EDU has provided personalized support to organizations throughout the country. On a personal note, Dr. Joy loves family, travel, walks, and music. You can follow her on social media @joyworkedu.

Website: joyworkedu.com

Connect with Dr. Joy:
Twitter: @joyworkedu
Instagram: @joyworkedu