In this episode, hosts Trina and Amanda delve into the teacher shortage crisis through the lens of canned curriculum and its oppressive impact on teachers and students. They interview two anonymous teachers who share harrowing personal experiences of being forced to use rigid, formulaic, and dense teaching materials. The episode provides a comprehensive breakdown of key educational acronyms and frameworks such as ELPAC, EL, ELD, and SDIAE, and discusses the systemic issues exacerbated by canned curricula. Additionally, it highlights how these practices affect new teachers and marginalized student groups, proposing a shift towards trusting teachers' expertise and forming meaningful student relationships.

00:00 Introduction to the Teacher Shortage Crisis
01:09 Background on Canned Curriculum
02:51 Understanding ELPAC and Teaching Terms
07:48 Introduction to the Podcast and Guests
10:05 Teacher A's Journey and Challenges
28:20 Teacher B's Perspective and Training
29:23 Struggles with ELD Canned Curriculum
30:30 Observing Other Teachers
31:18 Lack of Support and Feedback
32:19 Political and Systemic Issues
33:18 Questioning the Curriculum's Effectiveness
36:38 The Reality of Long-Term English Learners
43:24 Personal Experiences and Final Thoughts

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