3ps In A Pod

Emmett Burnton and Ryan Donovan are two teachers both working in the social studies department at Boulder Creek High School in Deer Valley Unified School District. Not only colleagues, Emmett and Ryan have become mentors and coaches for each other. In today’s episode, 3Ps in a Pod hosts Kathleen Paulsen, NBCT, and Marlys Weaver talk with these outstanding educators about how they mentor each other to be their professional best and continue to evolve their practice. Both teachers were also recognized for their teaching practice by the Arizona Educational Foundation. Emmett is the 2025 AEF Teacher of the Year, while Ryan is a 2025 AEF Ambassador for Excellence. Emmett and Ryan share with Kathleen and Marlys how they connected at Boulder Creek and how their strengths differ and compliment each other. They also reflect on other educators and moments that guided their teacher development. Both teachers explore in depth how they work to develop intentional and thoughtful lessons and assessments. They discuss their