Welcome to The Classroom Commute Podcast!

I’ve basically had the idea of hosting a podcast called “The Classroom Commute” for 3 years now, but it never seemed like the right time to get started, until today!

I had the idea of this podcast being a way for me to virtually ride along with you to school, much like you would a friend.  I don’t know about you, but when I was teaching and would be driving in to school each day, my mind would start to wonder and racing about everything that needed to be done before the kids walked in that morning, and all that thinking just made me anxious for the day.  I would have LOVED to have someone to carpool with and chit chat with and talk about life in the classroom with.

And if you ever feel the same way, than I think we’ll be great riding-buddies!

No, I think we’ll be AMAZING riding buddies!

But first - you might want to know a few things about this stranger (me) sitting in the passenger seat.  So, let me introduce myself.

My name is Rachael Parlett and I’m a wife, a mom, and hopefully, a soon-to-be carpool buddy for you!  I’m the creator and curriculum developer for The Classroom Nook. I create resources and learning opportunities for upper elementary teachers.

I have a great husband named Jacob, and two kids Clara and Levi - all of which I adore, but if we’re being honest, can drive me a bit batty now and then.  Oh - and I have a black lab named Charlie who most DEFINITELY drives me batty - you may even hear him now and again in the background on our commute together.

As for how I got to where I am today, well, I’m sure my teaching career began much like many other teachers.  I always wanted to be a teacher, my mom was a teacher, my brother is a teacher, it’s a bit of a family business.

I started out teaching in an urban district teaching 4th grade for most of my time in the classroom.  I was that teacher that loved coming in over breaks and the summer to work in my classroom (I know, you’re likely rolling your eyes) - but it’s the truth - planning new curriculum, decorating my classroom, and all the behind-the-scenes stuff was kinda my jam - which I think was a sign that I would someday being doing what I am today - creating resources for other teachers. Luckily I had a great teaching friend, who loved to do the same.  When I was a new teacher, she took a chance on me, offered to plan with me, and we became instant friends.  

And that’s what I’m hoping you’ll do with me!  I’m newbie to podcasting, but I’d LOVE all things teaching and I’m pumped to ride along with you each week on your ride in to school.

Here’s what you can expect from me & The Classroom Commute Podcast.

Each week, I’ll be releasing new episodes that are just long enough to get you informed and inspired, but short enough that you can listen to them on your commute to school.  I hope that they’ll give you actionable tips and strategies that are simple, yet effective!

I want to share with you my best ideas, my favorite teaching resources, and my most effective tips and strategies to help you love your time in the classroom more!

And most of all I hope that you’ll look forward to each week as we ride together.  So, start the car, let’s swing through Starbucks, and head off on our commute.