Darri Stephens, Author at Nearpod Blog

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.
- Leadership
- Thought leadership
10 Ideas for redesigning a new teacher orientation

May 5, 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.
Back to school icebreakers and first week of school activities with Nearpod

May 5, 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.
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.
10 End of year celebration ideas and activities for students

April 7, 2025 Darri Stephens

Explore end of year celebration party ideas and awards for students. Keep them engaged and interested with our end of school year 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.
27 Engaging books for beginner readers

April 3, 2025 Darri Stephens

Explore the best, most engaging books for beginner readers to teach reading and foundational literacy skills 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 Teaching strategies: How to improve students’ reading skills

April 3, 2025 Darri Stephens

What makes a good reader? Learn how to improve reading skills and teach students foundational reading skills using these teaching strategies.

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 Steps to implement school climate surveys effectively

February 18, 2025 Darri Stephens

Explore the best practices for planning an effective school climate survey. Use these tips to improve school climate and culture.

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.