What does the Department of Education actually do. And can an executive order really eliminate it?

In this Teacher Reality Check, Leah breaks down what the Trump administration’s executive order means for your classroom. Learn the truth about Title I and IDEA funding, DEI changes, and how much federal policy really affects your day-to-day as a teacher.

Perfect for educators who want clear, practical info, minus the panic.

About a month into the school year, routines can feel smooth and students may seem responsible, but that’s often when problems begin. In this episode of If Teachers Ruled the World, Leah Cleary shares common classroom management mistakes teachers make early in the year, why loosening structure too soon backfires, and practical strategies for maintaining classroom routines, preventing burnout, and strengthening relationships with students.

It’s the night before grades are due, and a flood of late work hits your inbox. You’re exhausted, but policy says you have to take it. Sound familiar?

In this episode, Leah shares how to protect your time without sacrificing professionalism. Or your sanity. You’ll hear real stories about saying no to administrators, turning down student requests (even good ones), and drawing the line so you can focus on what matters most: your classroom.

What you’ll learn:

• Simple scripts for saying no politely but firmly

• The difference between boundaries and professional courtesy

• Why protecting classroom time makes you a better team player

• How to handle last-minute work without losing sleep

If you’re already running on empty just weeks into the school year, this conversation is for you. Because if nobody else respects your time, you have to.