Schoolin' Around

In this conversation, Larissa and Sandra discuss essential back-to-school strategies for educators and school leaders. They emphasize the excitement of a new school year, the importance of setting a positive tone, and the need for clear communication and visibility in leadership. They also highlight the importance of building relationships and support systems among staff, the necessity of meaningf...

Summer Replay: This conversation explores the implementation of Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) in secondary education, specifically at Medina City Schools in Ohio. The discussion highlights the challenges faced, the roles of educators, and the importance of data-driven decision-making. The speakers share their experiences with MTSS, emphasizing the need for systematic support, collaboratio...

In this episode, Larissa Napolitan talks with April Remfrey, international educational consultant, about building supportive school systems, effective classroom routines, and fostering trust and collaboration among educators. They explore practical strategies for leaders to enhance MTSS implementation and create sustainable, inclusive learning environments. Resources: https://www.remfrey.com/ Apri...

In this episode, we discuss the importance of setting intentions over goals, reflection, and how deliberate leadership can transform the upcoming school year. She offers practical strategies for educators to reflect, set intentions, and lead with purpose, especially in the context of MTSS. Resources: Leader Protocol Guide for Buy-In Summer Reflection Questions Article: Reflecting on Yourself as a...

The episode explores how deep district alignment transforms educational practices by embedding frameworks into daily routines in Person County, North Carolina. The guests, Kelly Kiser and Lyndsay Hubbard, highlight the importance of visibility in student progress to boost teacher buy-in and confidence. The discussion emphasizes hands-on support through coaching, which bridges the gap between polic...

In this interview, Dr. Kristen Panzerella from Lawrence UFSD in New York, shares her district's journey in implementing MTSS, emphasizing the importance of getting into the work quickly, building staff buy-in through consistency, and adapting practices to support diverse student populations. Discover practical strategies for overcoming analysis paralysis and fostering a culture of action in educat...

In this episode, Valerie Parsons, a Professional Learning Consultant at Branching Minds, school administrator, and author of the MTSS playbook series, shares her expert insights on leveraging end-of-year data to improve educational outcomes. She discusses key topics such as data analysis, universal screening, test preparation strategies, and effective planning for the upcoming school year. Resourc...

This episode explores the critical role of self-regulation and executive functions in early education, revealing how they underpin academic success. Authors Mitch Weathers and Sarah Oberle share practical strategies for creating classroom environments that nurture these skills. By focusing on routines and reducing distractions, educators can enhance students' ability to learn and behave effectivel...

This podcast episode features a deep dive into a decade-long journey of implementing and refining Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) in Mineola Union Free School District in New York. Sara Ortiz and Katie Shanahan share insights, challenges, and strategies for building a data-driven, proactive support system that enhances student outcomes and staff collaboration. Resources: The Superintendent’...

In this episode, Kristyn Jones and Heather Terry from Norris High School in Nebraska, explore how their implementation of a check-in, check-out intervention is fostering more proactive and relational support systems for students with behavioral needs. They share practical insights, data strategies, and team collaboration tips that can help other schools build effective Tier 2 behavior intervention...

This episode explores how education leaders can foster student engagement through practical strategies like student voice, choice, and empowerment, even with limited time. It emphasizes shifting from compliance to student-driven learning to improve achievement and motivation. Resources: Article: 6 Daily Engagement Practices for Every MTSS Tier Article: Student Engagement: Why It’s Important and Ho...

In this insightful interview, authors Tiffany Burns and Erica Bare discuss their new book, 'A School Leader's Playbook for Tough Conversations.' They share practical strategies for school leaders to navigate difficult dialogues with staff and students, emphasizing the importance of care, preparation, body language, and ongoing coaching to foster trust and positive school culture. Resources: Book:...

In this insightful interview, Patrick Hall and Laura Frederick from Wyoming Indian Schools share their journey of implementing MTSS, leveraging data, and fostering transparency with families to improve student outcomes. Discover how their strategic use of Branching Minds has transformed their approach to student support and community engagement. Resources: MTSS & Families Article Navigating Parent...

Beth Corkum, the MTSS coordinator at SAU 67 in New Hampshire, shares her journey of transforming data meetings at Bow Elementary through technology and strategic planning. Discover how streamlined processes, staff collaboration, and district support have enhanced student support and educator morale. Resources: MTSS Meetings Guide Effective Meetings Webinar Article: Ensure Efficiency with MTSS Team...

This episode explores the shift from reactive referral-based behavior support to proactive, universal screening methods in schools. Experts discuss the limitations of referral systems, the benefits of universal screening tools like the SSRS-IE, and practical strategies for implementation and staff training. Featuring Branching Minds Team members, Ashley Pennell, Rachel Butler, and Christina Soling...

In this insightful interview, Author and Educator, Katrina Huels discusses her book 'Transformational Tools for Special Educators' and explores practical strategies to combat educator burnout. The conversation emphasizes emotional intelligence, self-awareness, and resilience building to support educators' well-being and improve student outcomes. Resources: Administrators Guide to Supporting Teache...

This episode explores effective strategies for summer professional development, emphasizing adult learning principles, ongoing support, and building strong MTSS frameworks through targeted leadership coaching. Resources: School Leader Guide to PD Differentiating Your MTSS PD article Administrators Guide to Supporting Teachers Toolkit for Leading Adults in MTSS Learning Utilizing Adult Learning The...

In this episode, Cass McKay, a former testing coordinator and member of the Branching Minds team, shares practical tips, humorous stories, and insights to help educators navigate the stressful assessment season. From planning and team management to debunking myths, discover how to survive and thrive during testing time. Resources: 8th/9th Month MTSS Checklist School Leader Guide to PD Request a co...

In this conversation, Larissa interviews school leaders in Texas about what is going well in their districts. They share insights on how to foster a supportive environment for both educators and students, emphasizing the need for effective communication and shared leadership in schools. Resources: Administrators Guide to Supporting Teachers College and Career Readiness Webinar Leader Protocol Guid...

In this conversation, Larissa discusses the importance of teamwork in education with representatives from Springs Charter Schools, who have successfully implemented a holistic approach to student support through the MTSS framework. They share insights on the significance of data visibility, collaboration across departments, and the necessity of training for effective implementation. The discussion...

This conversation highlights the efforts of educators at Woodbury Hills Elementary and Danville Public Schools in Virginia, in fostering a positive school culture through various initiatives. The discussion covers the importance of celebrating successes, engaging students through social media, utilizing data-driven instruction, and recognizing both staff and student achievements. The collaborative...

This conversation explores the journey of Lee School in Norridge School District in Illinois, focusing on their successful implementation of the MTSS framework. The educators discuss the importance of collaboration, teacher development, and family engagement in fostering student success. They share insights on building a strong MTSS framework, the significance of knowing the 'why' behind their eff...

In this episode, we explore how Samuel Walker Houston Elementary in Huntsville ISD leverages PBIS and MTSS to create a positive and inclusive school environment. Assistant Principal Anthony Williams shares actionable strategies for systems, relationship building, and student engagement that are transforming their school community. Samuel Walker Houston Elementary was one of our Momentum Award winn...

In this episode, Larissa discusses the critical difference between reacting and responding in school leadership, emphasizing the importance of proactive strategies in behavior management. She explores the neuroscience behind these reactions, particularly the roles of the amygdala and prefrontal cortex, and provides practical strategies for shifting from a reactive to a responsive school environmen...

In this episode, Larissa interviews Makiri Pugh, Managing Director of Teaching, Learning, and Innovation at Maya Angelou Schools in DC, about the implementation of MTSS (Multi-Tiered System of Supports). They discuss the challenges and successes of integrating MTSS into the school's culture, emphasizing the importance of relationships, data-driven decisions, and the holistic support of students. R...