Puma Pawd

In this episode of the Puma Pawd, Paul interviews Jon Pepper, a school board member and active parent in the Loudoun County education system and Pinebrook Elementary. They discuss Jon's journey in education, the importance of community involvement, the challenges teachers face today, and his vision for public education. Jon emphasizes the need for critical thinking skills, the role of AI in ed...

In this engaging conversation, Dr. Sumera Rashid, a school board member, shares her journey from a challenging upbringing in New Jersey to becoming a prominent figure in the education system in Virginia. The discussion covers her motivations for joining the school board, the importance of collective bargaining, and the realities of policy-making in education. Dr. Rashid emphasizes the need for div...

The conversation revolves around the importance of parent engagement in education, specifically through a parent walkthrough experience at Pinebrook Elementary. The discussion highlights the goals of the walkthrough, insights from parents and teachers, and the overall impact of family involvement on student learning. Participants reflect on their experiences, emphasizing the need for collaboration...

Paul, Turner, Latoya, Brittany, and Dana discuss the process and findings of the ongoing efforts to enhance family engagement within the Pinebrook community. They address the importance of involving parents in their children's education, share insights from research on family engagement, and reflect on survey feedback from parents. They highlight various strategies to foster connections betwee...

Paul and Leesburg School Board Representative, Lauren Shernoff, talk about her journey in education and what she wants for all of us in LCPS. Takeaways Lauren Shernoff emphasizes the importance of understanding the unique needs of each school. The role of the school board is to support student achievement through informed decision-making. Engaging with the community is crucial for effective school...

In this episode, the Puma Pawd delves into the topic of Pinebrook's school data, examining the testing environment, what our data is, and what it means. The conversation features insights from various educators, including teachers and an executive principal, who discuss the classroom environment, the impact of testing on students, and the importance of collaboration among staff. They highlight suc...

In this episode, Dr. Varona, Educational Diagnostician Marie Burkholder, and Paul discuss the themes presented in the book 'The Anxious Generation' by Jonathan Haidt, focusing on the impact of technology on childhood development, the role of educational diagnosticians, and the influence of social media on self-esteem. They explore the transition from a play-based childhood to a phone-based...

Paul, Turner, and Dana Varona talk Avani, Usman, Shania, and Aeydh about their experiences with the 7 Habits of Happy kids. They share what they thought, insights as to how the program helped them, and what the future should be for the 7 Habits at Pinebrook.

Principals Mr. Shawn Lyons and Dr. Tim Sparbanie offer insight, wisdom, and perspective on interviewing. They share stories, experiences, and tips on how to be successful in the hot seat. Paul and Turner host.

Turner, Dr. Kurtz, and Paul had a great conversation with Special Education Supervisor Thomas Chelgren. He shared insight about the special education process and what parents should do if they are new to it or are long-time veterans. He has a wealth of knowledge with a legacy of helping parents in this process as part of multiple education roles in three different divisions. On the podcast: Thomas...

We talked with LCPS Fine Arts Supervisor Michael Pierson about his experiences, insights about education, what he's learned, and what matters most. Featured in this episode are Mr. Michael Pierson, Dr. Dana Varona, Mr. Andrew Foote, Mrs. Turner McAllister, and Mr. Paul Thiessen

Paul and Turner talk with the Instructional Facilitator in Reading for Pinebrook, Beth Rhodes. Beth shares what she's learned and how implementation is going and has messages for teachers and parents about the work.

Paul, Turner, and 5th Grade Counselor Lisa Morales talk about the overview, essential things to think about, and guidance to helping parents with moving students on to 6th grade. See Puma Paw, the Pinebrook website for Rising 6th Grade Info, or an email with a newsletter about current information for parents!

Paul, Turner, and 5th Grade Teacher Susan Fulop talk with LCPS Elementary Education Director Elaine Layman about her position, her vision, and how she helps our school.

Paul and Turner talk with LCPS Early Literacy and Elementary Reading and Writing Specialist Kathryn Neal about the reading program that the teacher will use and why it matters to our teachers, parents, and students. Questions asked: Begin with Kathryn's background Question 1: Tell us a little about HMH, why you like it, and why we chose it. Question 2: Why is this the best program for kids?  Q 3:...

Ms. Boyd, Paul, Ms. Yamoah, and fifth-grade students Geet, Manasvi, and Kendall talk about Pinebrook memories, favorite things, and their lasting messages for the community.

Paul and Turner talk to the PE Dream Team at Pinebrook, which includes Kara Hallet, Laura Manduzio, Amy Worrest, and Katie Rainier. They share their insights on developing a PE program that emphasizes motivation and community connections as a path for students and families. Resources for parents - click here!

Paul, Turner and a few Puma students talk with Superintendent Dr. Aaron Spence

Latoya and Paul talk with our fifth-grade Student Ambassadors and Patrols about being student leaders.

Paul and Turner talk with Reading Specialist Jeannie Baier and 4th-grade teachers Brittany Harris and Amy Jo Bollinger about the power of Word Study.

Paul and Turner welcome perspectives from three Pinebrook teachers at three different points in their careers to offer insights into education.

Paul and Latoya talk to our music teachers, Dr. Varona, Mr. Foote, and Ms. Yoo, about the authentic learning experience that is the 5th-grade student musical that is written, produced, and performed all by 5th-graders.

Puma Pawd: Paul talks with new Assistant Principal Turner Donaldson and Student Dean Latoya Davenport about how they got to the Admin seat and they what they want for the Pinebrook community

Paul, Leigh, and Turner talk with LCPS Director of Student Services Jen Evans and PNB 4th Grade Teacher Brianna Davis about why it's important not to miss school, who misses, and the impact.

Liberty ES Principal, Paul Pack, joins the Pinebrook Team to discuss cultivating teachers as leaders and empowering students.