Brighter Together

Episode Description What if the key to transforming virtual special education outcomes wasn't another technology—but a person? In this powerful conversation, we uncover how one Ohio virtual academy achieved remarkable student success by reframing the role of the learning coach as the "missing puzzle piece" in distance learning. Discover the strategies that are keeping struggling students engaged,...

The Grace Gap: Why Your Best Teachers Are Leaving (And How to Stop It) America's classrooms are hemorrhaging experienced educators—and the reasons might surprise you. In this eye-opening episode, we dive deep into the teacher retention crisis with an expert who's actively reversing the trend in Georgia's schools. About Your Guest Dr. Damita James serves as Director of the Georgia Learning Resource...

Episode Description: Why Top Districts Stop 'Fixing' Dysregulated Students What if everything we've been taught about supporting struggling students is fundamentally backwards? In this eye-opening episode, education strategist Cheala Herrera challenges traditional approaches to student behavioral intervention, revealing why top-performing districts are reimagining support strategies. Cheala Herrer...

In this episode of Brighter Together, I chat with Dr. Ashley Ace, the Alternative Education Coordinator at Montello School District in Wisconsin. We explore the collaboration shift that 90% of educators crave, emphasizing the importance of teamwork in educational settings to benefit all students. Ashley shares her insights on supporting diverse learning needs, from students excelling in traditiona...

In a profession where burnout is all too common, what if you could create a workplace that not only retains special education teachers but makes them thrive? The Neenah Joint School District has cracked the code, and they're ready to share their transformative approach. Join us as we welcome two extraordinary educational leaders: Dr. Ashley Kolb, Director of Pupil Services, and Dr. Valerie Hurm, D...

In this episode of Brighter Together, I sit down with Sam Wakefield, the executive director of AFSA Charter School in Minnesota. Sam shares his journey from a physical education teacher to an inspiring leader in education. He emphasizes the incredible potential within every student, regardless of their background or challenges. We explore the unique approach AFSA takes in blending agriculture and...

In an era where digital distractions and screen time dominate young lives, one educational leader is transforming how schools approach technology. What if the solution to student digital wellness isn't about restricting technology, but empowering students to use it wisely? Join host Janet Courtney for an illuminating conversation with Dr. Kim Gorr, Director of Professional Learning at the National...

In a landscape where educators are drowning in mandates and endless curriculum revisions, what if we could reimagine learning design as an art form of empowerment and innovation? Assistant Superintendent Taryn Miley is about to challenge everything you thought you knew about curriculum development. Join us for a transformative conversation with Taryn Miley, Assistant Superintendent of Academic Aff...

In this episode of Brighter Together, I sit down with Emily Jeninga, the Student Support Director at Rehoboth Christian School in New Mexico, to explore the transformative impact of inclusive learning in Christian education. Emily shares insights into the SALT program, designed to ensure that all students, particularly those with special needs, are celebrated and supported in their classrooms. We...

In this episode of Brighter Together, I sit down with Dr. Bill Wilson, superintendent of Fremont School District RE-2 in Florence, Colorado. Dr. Wilson shares his insights on the unique challenges and innovative solutions in rural education funding, highlighting a critical topic often overlooked. We explore how community collaboration and a comprehensive approach to education—encompassing not just...

In this episode of Brighter Together, I sit down with Tom Anderson, CEO and superintendent of Great Valley Academy District in California. We explore the critical importance of building strong relationships before diving into lesson plans. Tom shares insights on how a focus on social-emotional learning and a growth mindset can transform educational environments. He discusses the innovative program...

In this enlightening episode of Brighter Together, I sit down with Dr. Jessica Werner, founder and CEO of North Shore Learning Center. Together, we tackle the pressing issue of teacher retention in our schools. Dr. Werner shares her insights on why great teachers are leaving the profession and how schools can cultivate a supportive environment that encourages them to stay. We explore the factors c...

What the Top 1% of Special Ed Leaders Know About Inclusion In the complex world of special education, some leaders stand out not just for their expertise, but for their transformative approach to inclusion. What if you could unlock the strategies that turn challenging classroom dynamics into powerful learning experiences for ALL students? Join us for an inspiring conversation with Megan Surso, Spe...

In this episode of Brighter Together, I sit down with Nancy Popp, the superintendent of Granton Area School District in Wisconsin, a small rural school that boasts remarkable achievements despite its modest size of just 250 students. Nancy shares insights into how this tight-knit community collaborates to support education, from dedicated local volunteers to innovative programs that keep the arts...

🎧 Breaking Barriers: Transforming Special Education Team Dynamics Are your team meetings draining energy instead of driving student success? What if there was a way to reimagine collaboration that truly centers neurodiversity and student outcomes? Join host Janet Courtney as we welcome Kelly Rogers, Special Education Coordinator from Charlevoix Emmett Intermediate School District, for a groundbre...

In this episode of Brighter Together, I sit down with Stoney Winston, the superintendent of Fruitland School District in Idaho, to discuss the pressing challenges rural districts face when it comes to funding. With Idaho ranking 50th in per-student funding, Stoney highlights the innovative strategies his district employs to thrive despite financial constraints. We delve into the implications of ne...

In this episode of Brighter Together, I sit down with Rob Effa, the superintendent and principal of North Cow Creek Elementary School District, who shares an inspiring success story about drastically reducing behavior referrals by over 60% in just one year. Rob explains how implementing a comprehensive behavior support model empowered educators to proactively address student needs and foster a pos...

In this episode of Brighter Together, I sit down with Dr. Jason LeMay, the district administrator of the School District of Ladysmith in Wisconsin. We delve into the critical topic of rural education and the often-overlooked potential of rural students. Dr. LeMay shares his insights on the importance of stability for students and families, discussing how factors like food and financial security si...

Rural Schools Are Dying - Unless You Do This Now In rural America, schools are more than just buildings—they're the heartbeat of entire communities. But with declining enrollment and mounting challenges, many districts are fighting for survival. What if there was a blueprint for not just saving rural schools, but transforming them into vibrant, innovative learning centers? Join host Janet Courtney...

📢 Breaking the Silence: How One School District Transformed Student Mental Health What if preventing youth suicide didn't require massive budgets or complicated interventions? In this powerful episode, John Humphries, Director of New Lisbon School District, reveals a groundbreaking approach that dramatically reduced suicide risk by 40% - without adding a single staff member. Guest Expert: John Hu...

In this enlightening episode of Brighter Together, I sit down with Joe Fagnant, the superintendent of Region School Unit Twenty-Nine in Houlton, Maine. Joe shares his innovative vision for education, emphasizing the importance of personalized pathways for students that align with their passions, whether it’s flying or other careers. He discusses the challenges faced by small communities in educati...

In this episode of Brighter Together, I have an insightful conversation with Enrique Lopez, the director of special education at San Joaquin County Office of Education. We delve into why many special education leaders struggle to implement love-first education and how they can succeed in creating nurturing environments for students with emotional disabilities. Enrique shares real-life experiences...

Join me on this episode of Brighter Together as I sit down with Greg Eding, the superintendent of Lake Shore Public Schools in Michigan. Greg shares invaluable insights into crisis-proofing schools, highlighting how a supportive approach can transform school culture. He discusses the importance of not just protecting staff and students but actively supporting them through challenges. We delve into...

In this episode of Brighter Together, I sit down with Jennifer Sessa, the Director of Student Services at Island Village Montessori School in Venice, Florida. Jennifer shares her insights on why top special education directors are moving away from traditional paperwork to better support teachers and students. We explore the challenges educators face in balancing compliance with the need for meanin...

The Rural School Revolution: How Small Districts Are Winning Big In a world where small rural schools are often counted out, one superintendent is proving that size doesn't determine success. Josh Tarrell, leader of Highland Schools, is rewriting the narrative of rural education through innovation, passion, and an unwavering commitment to student opportunity. Meet Josh Tarrell, a visionary superin...