Controlled Chaos: How One Award-Winning Teacher Connects With Students Before Teaching the Curriculum

From Teacher Stories by Teacher Stories

June 13, 2025 · 25 min

About this episode

Eric Hall shares his experiences as a teacher and the importance of building connections with students.

Eric Hall, an award-winning elementary school teacher from Northern Michigan, shares a touching story about a fishing trip he took in the dark of night with one of his students. “That night,” he writes, “we didn't catch a single smelt, but we caught something better, a connection. And honestly, I'd wear that ridiculous headlamp again in a heartbeat, just maybe not next weekend." “Jerky, Headlamps, and One Loyal Teacher” is a story that reminds us of the importance of building connections with students and being present for them, even in unconventional or unexpected situations. In his conversation with host Ken Futernick, Mr. Hall says he encourages his students to take risks, step out of their comfort zones, and not be afraid of failure. He says cultivating curiosity and a willingness to try new things is crucial for students to become engaged and successful learners. Eric Hall and his students have been featured on several national outlets, including The Ellen DeGeneres Show. While the accolades are nice, Eric will tell you his greatest rewards come in the form of high-fives in the hallway, students who finally “get it,” and the joy of watching kids realize they are capable of…

People in this episode

Guest: Eric Hall

Topics covered

education
student connection
teaching methods
risk-taking

Keywords

fishing trip
headlamp
curiosity
engagement

Mentioned in this episode

Books & works: Controlled Chaos:, Jerky, Headlamps, and One Loyal Teacher, The Ellen DeGeneres Show

Places: Northern Michigan