Practical tools. Powerful mindsets. Purposeful Growth. Real results—for educators striving for progress not perfection, even on the hardest days.
“At Small Shifts, Big Impact, I believe meaningful change doesn’t require massive overhauls. My mission is to support educators and leaders in reconnecting with their purpose, joy, and impact—through small, sustainable shifts in mindset, practice, and leadership. With real stories, expert insights, and actionable strategies, this community is here to meet you where you are, help you move forward with intention, and remind you the that smallest shifts often unlock the most powerful outcomes.”
Driven by Purpose
Dedicated to empowering learners and leading with purpose in a changing educational landscape.
The Newsletter
with Erin V. Doak
Small, intentional shifts for teaching, leading, and living well.
Each issue delivers quick, powerful insights straight to your inbox.
From The Field
Thought leadership and research-backed insights on educational transformation and intentional practice.
Erin Doak is spotlighted for her innovative approach to student engagement, helping shape how AI tools like ChatGPT are thoughtfully introduced into the classroom to support critical thinking and curiosity.
As a passionate educator at Ottawa’s Sacred Heart High School, Erin Doak is leading the charge in using AI tools like Gemini to foster critical thinking, personalize learning, and empower students to engage with technology in meaningful, responsible ways.
Featured in Forbes, Erin Doak shares how she’s transforming her classroom by using AI as a “thought partner”—encouraging students to think critically and engage more deeply, rather than relying on technology for quick answers.
Inspiring Stories
Real experiences from thriving educators
I highly recommend Erin Doak, a truly exceptional educator. Her innovative approaches to teaching and learning, and genuine care for her students make her an impactful educator.
If I am thankful of a particular personal gift in education, it is to identify people who are able to make me think, push me toward further learning, encourage me to question the status quo, and most of all to be kind and supportive to those around us. This is Erin Doak.
Erin is one of the most passionate and authentic individuals I’ve had the privilege to work with. She approaches her work with a deep sense of purpose, rooted in a genuine belief in our shared humanity and the importance of seeing and valuing every person. Erin’s commitment reminds us all of the power of representation and the responsibility we have to create spaces where everyone belongs.
One day, I might bridge the sciences and the arts, and Mrs. Doak laid the foundation. Her teaching shaped me, and I will always look up to her. Her class was invaluable to my personal and professional journey, and I am forever grateful.
In my 25 years as a teacher, I’ve been blessed to have worked with many creative, committed, and engaging educators. But Erin Doak stands out as one of the most exceptional. If Erin is running a one-hour workshop, a one-to-one mentoring meet up, or six-week series it’s going to be informative, but it’s also sure to be relevant, practical, and fun.
She has a gift, a way of bringing out the light in each of us. She reminds us of the good we do. The difference we make.
What sets Erin apart from others is her extraordinary ability to build strong relationships with teachers while leading with innovation. Staff and students are drawn to her because of her compassion, empathy and sense of humour. She is not afraid to make mistakes and will attest to the fact that learning can be messy. Erin models the core values of education - connection, adaptability, and courage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Explore common questions about thriving in education—and how small, intentional shifts can lead to lasting impact. Discover practical strategies, fresh insights, and real-world tools to help you move forward with purpose.
Sign up for my newsletter, The Weekly Shift, to receive the latest tips, stories, and strategies directly in your inbox.
Start small. You don’t need complex solutions to tackle big challenges. Often, it’s the smallest, most intentional shifts that lead to the biggest breakthroughs. Begin by identifying one area that’s draining your energy or pulling you away from your purpose. Then, set a small, achievable goal—something that feels doable, not overwhelming.
Reclaiming your joy isn't about fixing everything at once. It’s about finding one thing you can shift—and building from there. With time, those small steps lead to real, lasting change.
I love hearing from educators, leaders, and experts related to the field of education. Share your story with me and inspire others in the community.
I believe educators are each other’s greatest resource. Explore expert insights, leadership experiences, and real classroom stories that offer practical strategies to support your growth as a teacher and leader.
Small Shifts, Big Impact with Erin V. Doak empowers educators and leaders to make simple, strategic changes that drive meaningful improvements in teaching, learning, well-being, and school culture. It's about creating lasting impact through manageable, high-leverage actions.
The Weekly Shift newsletter will include resources that educators can use right away.
Stay tuned for Small Shifts, Big Impact podcast launching in 2025.
Get in Touch
Whether you have a question, collaboration idea, or just want to say hello—I’d love to hear from you.
