Darri Stephens, Author at Nearpod Blog

Icebreakers for high school students that will actually engage them

July 16, 2025 Darri Stephens

Explore effective ice breakers for high schoolers that build classroom community and boost student engagement throughout the school year.

Darri Stephens
Darri Stephens is a dedicated LX (learning experience) designer, passionate about creating quality content and programs for kids, families, and educators. With MAs in Education from both Harvard and Stanford, and work experience at best-in-class ed tech organizations including Wonder Workshop, Nickelodeon, and Common Sense Education, she is steeped in the design thinking process and committed to agile and iterative project management, which has resulted in multi-award-winning programs and products.
How to boost student motivation in the classroom for academic excellence

July 15, 2025 Darri Stephens

Boosting student motivation is crucial for academic success. Learn how to motivate students in the classroom with these tips and activities.

Darri Stephens
Darri Stephens is a dedicated LX (learning experience) designer, passionate about creating quality content and programs for kids, families, and educators. With MAs in Education from both Harvard and Stanford, and work experience at best-in-class ed tech organizations including Wonder Workshop, Nickelodeon, and Common Sense Education, she is steeped in the design thinking process and committed to agile and iterative project management, which has resulted in multi-award-winning programs and products.
8 Engaging Back-to-School Night ideas to connect with parents

July 10, 2025 Darri Stephens

Explore Back-to-School Night ideas to connect with students’ parents and build classroom community for a successful school year.

Darri Stephens
Darri Stephens is a dedicated LX (learning experience) designer, passionate about creating quality content and programs for kids, families, and educators. With MAs in Education from both Harvard and Stanford, and work experience at best-in-class ed tech organizations including Wonder Workshop, Nickelodeon, and Common Sense Education, she is steeped in the design thinking process and committed to agile and iterative project management, which has resulted in multi-award-winning programs and products.
Back to school icebreakers and first week of school activities with Nearpod

June 24, 2025 Darri Stephens

Planning for back to school? Explore these first week of school activities and icebreakers to use with your students.

Darri Stephens
Darri Stephens is a dedicated LX (learning experience) designer, passionate about creating quality content and programs for kids, families, and educators. With MAs in Education from both Harvard and Stanford, and work experience at best-in-class ed tech organizations including Wonder Workshop, Nickelodeon, and Common Sense Education, she is steeped in the design thinking process and committed to agile and iterative project management, which has resulted in multi-award-winning programs and products.
- Leadership
- Thought leadership
10 Ideas for redesigning a new teacher orientation

June 23, 2025 Darri Stephens

Facing a teaching shortage crisis, school and district administrators are redesigning their new teacher orientations. Use these Nearpod tips!

Darri Stephens
Darri Stephens is a dedicated LX (learning experience) designer, passionate about creating quality content and programs for kids, families, and educators. With MAs in Education from both Harvard and Stanford, and work experience at best-in-class ed tech organizations including Wonder Workshop, Nickelodeon, and Common Sense Education, she is steeped in the design thinking process and committed to agile and iterative project management, which has resulted in multi-award-winning programs and products.
- Leadership
- Thought leadership
How to design fun teacher in-service days that support school goals

May 23, 2025 Darri Stephens

Transform your teacher in-service days with engaging ideas. Discover strong professional development strategies that support school goals.

Darri Stephens
Darri Stephens is a dedicated LX (learning experience) designer, passionate about creating quality content and programs for kids, families, and educators. With MAs in Education from both Harvard and Stanford, and work experience at best-in-class ed tech organizations including Wonder Workshop, Nickelodeon, and Common Sense Education, she is steeped in the design thinking process and committed to agile and iterative project management, which has resulted in multi-award-winning programs and products.
22 Tips I wish I’d known as a first year teacher

May 16, 2025 Darri Stephens

Experienced educators share what they wish they would have known as a first year teacher. Explore tips in this cheat sheet for new teachers.

Darri Stephens
Darri Stephens is a dedicated LX (learning experience) designer, passionate about creating quality content and programs for kids, families, and educators. With MAs in Education from both Harvard and Stanford, and work experience at best-in-class ed tech organizations including Wonder Workshop, Nickelodeon, and Common Sense Education, she is steeped in the design thinking process and committed to agile and iterative project management, which has resulted in multi-award-winning programs and products.
7 Essential strategies for designing effective instruction

May 13, 2025 Darri Stephens

Planning and designing effective instruction is crucial for student learning. Explore effective instructional strategies and resources.

Darri Stephens
Darri Stephens is a dedicated LX (learning experience) designer, passionate about creating quality content and programs for kids, families, and educators. With MAs in Education from both Harvard and Stanford, and work experience at best-in-class ed tech organizations including Wonder Workshop, Nickelodeon, and Common Sense Education, she is steeped in the design thinking process and committed to agile and iterative project management, which has resulted in multi-award-winning programs and products.
5 Essential lesson planning tips using instructional design

May 1, 2025 Darri Stephens

Learn how to write a lesson plan using instructional design strategies to create engaging learning experiences in your classroom.

Darri Stephens
Darri Stephens is a dedicated LX (learning experience) designer, passionate about creating quality content and programs for kids, families, and educators. With MAs in Education from both Harvard and Stanford, and work experience at best-in-class ed tech organizations including Wonder Workshop, Nickelodeon, and Common Sense Education, she is steeped in the design thinking process and committed to agile and iterative project management, which has resulted in multi-award-winning programs and products.
10 Thoughtful Teacher Appreciation Week ideas and gifts

April 15, 2025 Darri Stephens

Use these thoughtful and unique Teacher Appreciation Week ideas and gifts to celebrate educators and show your gratitude.

Darri Stephens
Darri Stephens is a dedicated LX (learning experience) designer, passionate about creating quality content and programs for kids, families, and educators. With MAs in Education from both Harvard and Stanford, and work experience at best-in-class ed tech organizations including Wonder Workshop, Nickelodeon, and Common Sense Education, she is steeped in the design thinking process and committed to agile and iterative project management, which has resulted in multi-award-winning programs and products.