The Educator's Blueprint: Recent Episodes
Dr. Lisa Powers and Ms. Jamie Grieshaber
Join us as we engage in meaningful conversations on topics currently impacting our school systems, behavior, and instructional practices. From the classroom to the boardroom, we welcome you to unpack, reflect, and learn with us.
Lynne DeSousa, MTSS Specialist and PBIS Coordinator for the Colorado Department of Education, shares the importance of "getting back to basics". Current school safety initiatives to prevent school violence has led to a re-emphasis on the foundational pieces of several educational initiatives, namely PBIS (Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports), RtI (Response to Intervention), and MTSS (Multi-Tiered Systems of Supports). The goal is to integrate these educational initiatives focusing on implementation, support, motivation, and sustainability. Take the complex and simplify so that all will reap the benefits!
RESOURCES
MTSS Multi-Tiered System of Supports
NIRN National Implementation Research Network
Summary of Horner's Cascading Logic Model by Morgan Solender
Kent McIntosh, University of Oregon--articles
Elena Agular: Transformational PD--What It Is and Why You Need It
Join Lisa and Jamie for a conversation with Mark Henderson, Director, Digital Initiatives, with the Missouri School Boards' Association. Mark, the "AI Guy", discusses using Artificial Intelligence for positive engagement with students and a resource to boost critical thinking skills. Although there are many AI platforms, Mark references several that educators may find valuable in an instructional setting. However, before incorporating AI, Mark emphasizes that school boards and districts need to adopt an AI policy. In the age of AI, this podcast is definitely worth your time!
Resources
Missouri School Boards' Association mobsa.org
MoBSA AI Policy
LinkedIn #AI or #AIinschools for discussions
Control Alt Achieve Eric Curts
AI Platforms
MagicSchool AI Assistant for Educators
SchoolAI AI Assistant for Educators
NotebookLM Research and Thinking Partner
Perplexity Academic Research with sources cited
Napkin AI from text to visuals
Jamie Grieshaber, MO-SWPBS Statewide Facilitator and Coach, is on the other side of the microphone in this episode of The Educator's Blueprint. Everyone needs a “Jamie” and her team in their school toolbox. Join Lisa for an interview with Jamie Grieshaber as she outlines her role as a valuable educational resource to districts who are serious about positive progress, not just about compliance with state objectives. The goal is to make data driven decisions to inform continuous improvement for all members of the educational community.
Resources
Tiered Fidelity Inventory
Self-Assessment Survey
District Systems Fidelity Inventory
Living the Sweet Life TJ Sweet podcast
It's Not Supposed to Be This Way Lysa TerKeurst
Listen in on Lisa Power's conversation with Dr. Mark Wheatley, the Assistant Commissioner of Special Education for DESE (MO). Discover how his office along with DESE support Local Education Agencies (LEA). He highlights the importance of general education and special education working together, with the help of many knowledgeable consultants as well as plentiful resources to provide the most inclusive educational communities. Through this conversation, both Lisa and Mark remind us that education is an "infinite game"--always growing and evolving.
Resources
https://dese.mo.gov
Heart of Missouri Regional Professional Development Center https://rpdc.missouri.edu
http://pbismissouri.org
https://www.pbis.org
Train to HOPE? or Train to MAINTAIN? That is the question . . . and we know the answer! Join Lisa and Jamie for an important conversation with accomplished educational researcher, Dr. Katie Meyer, about using the resources that are available to build strong systems in an educational community. Strong systems in the areas of coaching, training, and technical assistance yield effective educational practices. Start getting more out of professional development!
RESOURCES
https://www.pbis.org/resource/dsfi Access to District Systems Fidelity Inventory
Intentionally Intensify Classroom Practices to Support Students with DisabilitiesKatie's research summary
Student Achievement Through Staff Development Joyce and Showers
The Coaching Habit: Say Less, Ask More & Change the Way You Lead Michael Bungay Stanier
The Advice Trap: Be Humble, Stay Curious & Change the Way You Lead Michael Bungay Stanier
Ever wonder what PBIS looks like outside of the United States? Well, it's alive and progressing! Listen in on this fascinating conversation with Dr. Anna-Maria Hintz and Dr. Michael Paal of the University of Oldenberg. Find out about similarities to and differences between the U.S. and German education models as well as challenges faced as schools implement these new systems. Anna-Maria and Michael will open your eyes to the growing importance of PBIS in Europe, specifically Germany. While they have learned much from the PBIS movement in the U.S., we can learn so much from their educational experiences.
Resources
University of Oldenberg https://uol.de/en
7th Hybrid Research Symposium of the PBS-Europe Network https://uol.de/f/1/inst/sonderpaedagogik/bilder/PBIS-Hintz/7th_Research_Symposium/Call_for_Papers_-_7th_Research_Symposium.pdf?v=1747905589
It's already SEASON 5 of The Educator's Blueprint podcast. Join Lisa and Jamie as they review previous seasons as well as outline the upcoming 5th season with insights into guests and “just in time; just what’s needed” topics for all educators.
Struggling to implement Tier 2 interventions and graduate students? Feeling like you get the program off the ground but can't graduate students from CICO? Do you have perpetual "clipboard" kiddos? Join Lisa Powers and Jamie Grieshaber for a conversation with Hannah Wright. Believe me, Hannah and her school have shared similar frustrations! Although Hannah doesn't have answers for all the challenges and acknowledges that tweaks are necessary, Hannah provides guidance on how her school tackled the Check In, Check Out (CICO) process, used data to monitor progress and at-risk students are reaping the benefits.
RESOURCES
MTSS Overview
https://www.fergflor.org/domain/2384
PBIS Tier 2 Overview and Screeners
https://www.pbis.org/pbis/tier-2
In this episode, Lisa Powers conducts an enlightening, meaningful interview with Susan Barrett and Kimberly Yanek, longtime contributors to the National Center for PBIS. The interview focuses on wellness and its significance to everyone in the school community. The participants discuss practical ways as well as resources designed to create educational spaces where everyone feels both connected and a sense of belonging. To paraphrase a key point from Susan, wellness is the “oxygen in the room” and includes all the “micro moments” that take place between people. You may need to listen twice to take it all in!
Resources
MTSS Comprehensive Guide
PBIS.org
- Tiered Fidelity Inventory Resource
- Teaching Matrix
- Supporting and Responding
Article
- Moving Beyond Self-Care: What Happens if Your Oxygen Mask Isn’t Dropping? Barrett, Yanek, and others (US Dept of Education.gov) You will need an ERIC account to access this article.
Book Recommendations
- The Advice Trap by Michael Bungay Stanier
- The Myth of Normal: Trauma, Illness, and Healing in a Toxic Culture by Daniel Maté and Gabor Maté
- What Happened to You? Conversations on Trauma, Resilience, and Healing by Bruce D. Perry and Oprah Winfrey
- The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt
- The Gifts of Imperfection by Brené Brown
- Notes of a Native Son by James Baldwin
- Author Eckhart Tolle
Although the school year is coming to an end, educators are always looking for meaningful ways to prepare themselves and their students for what's next. Jody Baker, coordinator for the Missouri PBIS Summer Institute, provides very specific information regarding the professional learning opportunities provided as well as some of the fun you could have at this year's institute . Listen in on Jody's conversation with Lisa Powers and Jamie Grieshaber to find out more. Whether you are new to education or a seasoned veteran, the Summer Institute has something for you!
Resources:
Summer Institute Information and Registration
- https://pbismissouri.org/summer-training-institute/
MTSS
- https://www.fergflor.org/domain/2384
Recommendations:
- Brené Brown--research professor, author, and podcaster
- Ted Lasso--so many personal as well as professional life lessons
"Safety isn't the absence of a threat, but the presence of connection".
Join us as we explore the broad implications for School Safety with Michelle Kruse, the Academy Program Coordinator for MSBA's Center for Education Safety.
Resources:
MSIP 6
CES Site
School Safety Academy
MSBA/CES Calendar
Want to be a guest on the show? Submit here.
Today Dr. Powers chats with Dr. Higgins on how to inspire leaders using an MTSS framework to develop systems to support the entire students' academic, behavioral, and social-emotional health. As the coordinator of the District Leadership Team, Dr. Higgins has the task of motivating the team and leaders to problem solve using data identifying practical strategies to get positive outcomes.
Resources:
MTSS Comprehensive Guide
Furiously Happy by Jenny Lawson
Today's conversation is taken with great care and concern as we discuss how to navigate support to schools in recovery after a crisis, both short and long-term. Dr. Steve Goodman and Dr. Jen Freeman provide us, and listeners, with scaffolding, gathered from many fields of research, across social/emotional/behavioral and mental health needs.
Steve and Jen wish to acknowledge the leadership and contributions of Dr. Renee Bradley to school recovery work and the contents of this podcast.
Resources:
PBIS.org/crisis-recovery
National Threat Assessment Center
This website provides resources to create systems within school to identity threats and reduce the risk.
National Association of School Psychologist (NASP)
This webpage provide resources for families and educators in talking to children about violence.
Want to be a guest on the show? Submit here.
Today we chat with Dr. Hollins-Sims on how, with intention and a framework, we can create spaces where belonging is foundational so every students' agency can be amplified! Join is as she provides tangible analogies on equity and vulnerable decision points, scaffolding to navigate this work, and permission to dream out loud together.
Resources:
- PBIS.org/equity
- Community of Practice Equity Series 2025 Info
- Check out her co-authored book: Creating Equitable Practices in PBIS by Nikole Y. Hollins-Sims, Erica J. Kaurudar, and Timothy J. Runge
Want to be a guest on the show? Submit here.
Join us (just Lisa and me) as we unpack and explore connection and sense of belonging; from the science to implementation. We talk about why connection matters and what this work can look like in school systems. Lots of laughs, reflection and resources.
Huge shout out to Dr. Nanci Johnson and Jody Baker on my "new" team; they began studying this work ahead of me and I have gleaned rich learning from their efforts! -Jamie
Resources:
- Belonging: The Science of Creating Connection and Bridging Divides by Geoffery Cohen
- Atlas of the Heart: Mapping Meaningful Connection and the Language of the Human Experience by Dr. Brene Brown
- The Art of Gathering: How we meet and why it matters by Priya Parker
- National Strategy to Advance Social Connection
- Protecting Youth Mental Health
- Workplace Well-Being
- Nick Sirianni and the Eagle's Secret Weapon: The Power of Connection
Want to be a guest on the show? Submit here.
Join us as we explore what the role of a MTSS Coordinator means to Amber Smith, a Director of Academic Intervention. She offers the following for anyone new to the role:
Take some time to:
1) Resource map and explore what supports exists and where.
2) Define and align language.
3) Explore beliefs around MTSS as a framework and build from there.
Resources:
Embedded Formative Assessment by Dylan William
Behavior Academies: Targeted Interventions That Work! by John Hannigan
Want to be a guest on the show? Submit here.
Part 2:
Join us in a 2-part conversation, with Dr. Kathleen Lane, as we unpack the etiology of systematic screening (credit to Dr. Hill Walker), how it predicts needs and empowers teachers, and what it looks like to take an integrated approach to tiered-systems thinking with community and family voice.
"We need to do the little things really well so that we can do the big things".
- Dr. Lane
Recommendations:
Antisocial Behavior in School by Hill Walker
Want to be a guest on the show? Submit here.
Part 1:
Join us in a 2-part conversation, with Dr. Kathleen Lane, as we unpack the etiology of systematic screening (credit to Dr. Hill Walker), how it predicts needs and empowers teachers, and what it looks like to take an integrated approach to tiered-systems thinking with community and family voice.
"We need to do the little things really well so that we can do the big things".
- Dr. Lane
Recommendations:
Antisocial Behavior in School by Hill Walker
Want to be a guest on the show? Submit here.
Join us as we explore the strategies and systematic approach to embedding Restorative Practices (RP) within a PBIS/MTSS framework. The secret? 80% of this work is proactive! Lizzie Wiegert, a SEL Interventionist, paints a picture of what RP looks like, in practice, with staff, students and families.
Resources:
Restorative Practices within PBIS Webinar
The Prison Within- A 2020 Documentary
Anxious Generation (book) by Jonathan Haidt
Raising Daughters - Podcast By Dr. Tim Jordan
Want to be a guest on the show? Submit here.
Today's bonus episode is different! We are inviting you "behind the scenes" as we ask District Leaders questions relevant to Training/Coaching, Embedding Special Education within the MTSS framework, Funding, and Workforce Capacity.
The Leader's we are speaking with are as follows:
- Dr. Jessica Meisenheimer, Director of Special Programs, Kansas City Schools
- Dr. Casetta Brown, Culture & Climate Coordinator, St. Louis Public Schools
- Mrs. Lauren Weissler, MTSS Coordinator, Maplewood-Richmond Heights
- Mrs. Danielle Starkey, MTSS-B Supervisor, Omaha Public Schools
Join Dr. Lisa Powers as she unpacks the purpose, process and people at the annual PBIS IL Forum 2024 with Kelly Perales, Co-Director of the Midwest PBIS Network!
Join us as we converse with Elisha Nemens, and Assistant Principal, here in St. Louis. She nicely outlines systems and practices their building creates at the beginning of each year to build a strong sense of community, consistency and safety for students, staff and families.
Resource:
Top 10 Tips and Resources
Want to be a guest on the show? Submit here.
Welcome back, listeners and friends, to Season 4 of the Educator's Blueprint.
Join us as we highlight key topic areas we are diving into this season, including:
- Screening
- Trauma-Informed approach to unwanted behaviors
- School Safety
- Sped in MTSS
- Advanced Tiers
- PD Blueprint
- MTSS Network and more!
Want to be a guest on the show? Submit here.
Jump into this lively conversation with Dr. Angus Kittelman (again) as we explore how College and Career Readiness shifts the focus in priorities AND practice within a MTSS/PBIS framework in High Schools.
This conversation is resource rich, student-focused, and highly energizing!
Resources:
High School Think Tank Monthly Community of Practice
APBS 2024 Conference Highlights
Educator's Blueprint Podcast to check out regarding HS:
- Episode 60: Student Voice in High School PBIS/MTSS
- Episode 53: Dr. Angus Kittelman on T2/3 Systems, Science of Implementation, and Behavior at the High School Level
Want to be a guest on the show? Submit here.
Join Lisa as she explores Mental Health within MTSS with Mark Weist and Andy Garbacz as they challenge how we integrate Mental Health into the Tiered Systems framework.
The MTSS framework is a critical construct to organize programming and integration of MH in schools. Aligning programs across tiers provides many benefits:
-
Reduction in Stigma
-
Promotion of Health Seeking Behaviors
-
Can be therapeutic
Resources:
Revisiting the Percentage of K-12 Students in Need of Preventive Interventions in Schools in a "Peri-COVID" Era: Implications for the Implementation of Tiered Programming
School Mental Health Quality Framework and Tools Alignment Guide
Book:
The Power of Family School Partnering (FSP): A Practical Guide for School Mental Health Professionals and Educators
Join us as we explore MTSS/PBIS in an Early Childhood Setting with Ms. Tanisha Stanciel, Ed.S., from the Maplewood-Richmond Heights School District. She unpacks the Reggio method, including relationships, environment, and the power or Social Stories with Spot!
Resources:
MRH ECC Matrices
Spot
Social Story with Spot
Picture of Social Story with Spot
Join us as we have a lively conversation with Vince Estrada (Director of Student Services) and Lauren Weissler (MTSS Coordinator) for a Community District in St. Louis.
Some highlights of our conversation include how district priorities are reflected in classrooms, a values-based approach to building a true school community, and how MTSS is the work of schools.
Join us as we begin to thoughtfully unpack Mental Health in school systems with Kelcey Schmitz, Director of Training and TA at the UW SMART Center and Dr. Kurt Hatch, Director for the Education Administration Program at UW.
They truly take us from the boardroom to the classroom and back again. Reminding us of implementation science, principals as the most consequential roles, and how to begin proactively predicting and protecting students, staff, and families mental wellness.
“Not telling teachers to self-care their way out of a systems issue”
Resources:
US DOE Supporting Child and Student Social Emotional Behavioral and Mental Health NeedsNorthwest MHTTC (Website, newsletter - 5 years of resources 170+recordings)WSASP Mental Health Resources Other National TA Centers: National SMH Center, Center on PBIS, Newly US DOE funded Center at University of Wisconsin (METRICS)
Differences in Perceptions of School Climate Based on Students’ Identities: School Climate Evaluation Series
Want to be a guest on the show? Submit here.
Join us as we talk through wrapping up a semester with Celebrations, Reflections, Priorities and Planning for the New Year. Near the end, you can hear some family traditions we hold near and dear to our hearts!
Resources:
- Center on PBIS - Classroom PBIS
- Missouri School-wide Positive Behavior Support - Tier 1, Effective Classroom Practices
- Supporting and Responding to Educators' Classroom PBIS Implementation Neds: Guide to Classroom Systems and Data
- Effective Instruction as a Protective Factor
- Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) in the Classroom
- Screening Article
Want to be a guest on the show? Submit here.
Join Dr. Powers as she unpacks a statewide "Stone Soup" approach with Tina Lawson. Tina eloquently discusses how Pennsylvania has taken an integrated approach, connecting behavioral, mental and academic supports; built a diverse Community of Practice, and continues to grow in efficacy and efficiency in their state's MTSS framework, to include mental health.
"Nothing is ever perfect...everyone has something valuable to bring."
Resources:
- PaPBS website
- PA Community of Practice
- Annual Evaluation
- Equitable Practices Hub
- PaTTAN website
- Team Initiated Problem Solving (TIPS) District Readiness Checklist
- Team Initiated Problem Solving (TIPS) School Readiness Checklist
- Michigan MTSS
- The Educator's Blueprint Podcast Episode 44: Mental Health and Wellness with Kelly Perales
Want to be a guest on the show? Submit here.
Join us as we talk about highlights from the keynote, district-focused strategies from exemplars, and what we are watching for in PBIS 6!
Resources:
- Implementer's Blueprint
- District Systems Fidelity Inventory (DSFI)
- IES MTSS-B Trial: Key Takeaways for District and State Leaders
- DSFI Action Planning Tools: Features Summary, Quick Checks, Coaching Tips & Resources
Want to be a guest on the show? Submit here.
Join us as we get to FINALLY interview students from a HS in Nebraska as they share their experience with PBIS, developing student led processes and sense of belonging.
Resources:
High School PBIS Implementation: Student Voice
Spotlight on Youth Voices Video
Want to be a guest on the show? Submit here.
Join us for our first official guest in Season 3, Dr. Aaron Campbell!
She has many passion areas, to include early intervention normed on black and brown children, culturally responsive and adaptive supports, and how to consider equity through literacy. Some books she references in our conversation are:
Brown Boy Joy by Thomishia Booker
I am Enough by Grace Byers
What should Danny Do? by Adir Levy and Ganit Levy
Grab your pen and paper for this one as Dr. Campbell shares lots of strategies!
Want to be a guest on the show? Submit here.
Hello Educator Blueprint Podcast Listeners! We are so excited to be back for Season 3!
On this quick opening episode, we share some personal and professional accomplishments from summer, talk about what we are looking forward to, share some new "features" of the podcast, and highlight some topics for the year.
Please Listen, enjoy, and share! We can't wait to dive into more interesting topics with you again soon. -Jamie and Lisa
Want to be a guest on the show? Submit here.
Join us for Part 2 of this lively and informative conversation around the high leverage practice of effective feedback!
Resources (re-shared from Part 1):
Rila, A. &Estrapala S.(2023) Positive specific feedback for learning and behavior. In J. McLeskey, L. Maheady, B. Billingsley, M. T. Brownell, T. Lewis, and S. Alber-Morgan (Eds.) High Leverage Practices for Intensive Interventions. New York: Routledge.
Here is a video describing key components for effective feedback along with teachers using effective feedback with their students: https://highleveragepractices.org/hlps-8-and-22-provide-positive-and-constructive-feedback-guide-students-learning-and-behavior
Join us for this lively and informative conversation around intensifying the High Leverage Practices specifically, effective feedback! Learn the acronym T.O.P.I.C. and walk away with tangilbe tools and strategies. It was such an enlightening talk that we will be breaking it up in 2 parts!
Resources:
Rila, A. &Estrapala S.(2023) Positive specific feedback for learning and behavior. In J. McLeskey, L. Maheady, B. Billingsley, M. T. Brownell, T. Lewis, and S. Alber-Morgan (Eds.) High Leverage Practices for Intensive Interventions. New York: Routledge.
Here is a video describing key components for effective feedback along with teachers using effective feedback with their students: https://highleveragepractices.org/hlps-8-and-22-provide-positive-and-constructive-feedback-guide-students-learning-and-behavior
Join us as we chat with another rural district and explore how they systematically implement a tiered-systems framework with their eye on a uniformed approach while honoring context and pace!
Wisconsin RTI Center
Join us as we explore Function of Behavior: how it is defined and why it matters. Additionally, that when teachers consider and implement strategies at tier 1 and tier 2 (for all students), the need for indivudalized functional assessments at tier 3 decreases!
Join us as explore what the integration of MTSS and High-Leverage Practices (HLP's) could look like as a partnership between General Education and Special Education with experts: Dr. Kelsey Morris, Dr. Kathleen Cohen-Strickland, and Dr. Laura Kern.
One Call To Action this panel offers is to explore the truth of our context, fidelity of implementation, outcomes, and our work.
Where are we now, and, how can we take one step further?
Resources:
Providing Access to School-Wide Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports for Students with Significant Cognitive Disabilities
School-wide positive behavioral interventions and supports and students with extensive support needs: a scoping review
Join us as we chat with Lisa Lewis, a former special education teacher. Lisa shares her journey within many roles in Special Education, lessons learned, and where she hopes the field is going in the future!
“Inclusion is all about planning for the success of students and not just expecting if you put a learner with a disability in a general education classroom and hoping for the best.”
Join us as we explore what inclusion truly is, why it matters, what it takes to move towards more inclusive environments for all, and resources to support this work.
“The research shows learners with and without disabilities learn more, and teachers become better teachers”.
Resources:
Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education
Think Inclusive Blog
Think Inclusive Podcast
*Podcast: Inclusion Stories (available July/August 2023)
Beyond Access for Students with Significant Disabilities from the University of New Hampshire
School District’s Modeling Inclusive Schools: Cecil County Public Schools in Maryland and West Linn- Wilsonville near Portland, Oregon
Books:
Leading for All: How to Create Truly Inclusive and Excellent Schools by Jennifer Spencer-liams
Your Students, My Students, Our Students: Rethinking Equitable and Inclusive Classrooms by Lee Ann Jung, Nancy Frey, et al.
Reimagining Special Education: Using Inclusion as a Framework to Build Equity and Support All Students by Dr. Jenna Mancini Rufo and Julie Causton, Ph.D
Contact:
Tim Villegas, Director for Communications for the Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education
Email: tvillegas@mcie.org
Our guests, Christine Woodgeard and Brice Frasure, are from the small but mighty rural district of Logan-Hocking in Ohio. From hour long bus rides, one-way, to limited internet, join us as we discuss the strengths, challenges, and similarities of rural districts utilizing the PBIS/MTSS framework.
Links
Logan-Hocking School District
https://loganhocking.k12.oh.us/
West Virginia's Center for Children's Justice - Handle with Care
http://www.handlewithcarewv.org/handle-with-care.php
National Center on Safe and Supportive Learning Environments
Community and Youth Collaborative Institute (CAYCI) School Experiences Surveys
https://safesupportivelearning.ed.gov/survey/community-and-youth-collaborative-institute-cayci-school-experiences-surveys
Join us as we explore practical approaches to addressing inclusion of young children with behavior challenges in community settings with Principal Investigator, Dr. Lise Fox, from the University of South Florida.
Suggestions:
- Robust job-embedded professional development and coaching are a must!
- Explore practices that will nuture healthy relationships with teacher and peers.
- Responsive high-quality relationships with families correlated with less behavioral incidents.
- Social-emotional teaching is critical at this age/stage.
Resources:
National Center for Pyramid Model Innovations (NCPMI) Resource Modules
Join us as we explore early childhood with Dr. Charis Wahman. She unpacks student needs, shaping adult behavior and how human connection is the key to it all!
Below are links to recommended articles by Dr. Wahman:
Rates and Types of Teacher Praise by Jenkins et al, 2015
How teachers' perceptions of the parent–teacher relationship affect children's
risk for early childhood expulsion by Zulauf-McCurdy and Zinsser, 2020
A Qualitative Examination of the Parent–Teacher Relationship and Early Childhood Expulsion Capturing the Voices of Parents and Teachers by Zulauf-McCurdy and Zinsser, 2022
Join Dr. Lisa Power's and Kelly Perales as they explore Mental Health & Wellness in a Multi-Tiered System of Support and have listener's consider what opportunities exist to Align, Integrate, and Eliminate.
Join us as we explore the world of self-regulation. Dr. Sara Estrapala scratches the surface on a complex and fascinating topic in education: self-regulation. She also provides resource s for those listeners who may want to explore further. See below:
- The MO PBS website on self-monitoring
- The Iris Center module on self-regulation strategies
You may also find a self-directed self-regulation manuscript co-authored by Dr. Estrapala and Jamie Grieshaber in SAGE journals.
Happy New Year! Today we have the opportunity to learn from Dr. Renee Bradley, an amazing leader in the field of special eduction! Dr. Bradley focuses on her past and current experiences in the field, shares progress made, and her hope for the future. Please join us for this important conversation!
Join us as we explore how School Safety fits within the MTSS framework, from prevention to response. Mark Gengaro has played many roles in education, however, his passion is safety, ensuring every child and educators feels and is safe in his community. His advice is that we all learn everything we can about safety in schools to create communities in which everyone belongs. Mark provides the following resources for us all to consider:
- Read the Office of School Preparedness and Emergency Planning (OSPEP) from the NJDOE.
- “Keeping your school safe and secure, A practical guide" (any edition).
- "Trigger Points: Inside the mission to stop mass shootings in America" by Mark Follman (*Please note, much of the information provided came from this resource).
Please join us in this second episode of this two-part conversation with Dr. Jessica Meisenheimer. Jessica continues to share how her district planned, implemented, and evaluated MTSS. She also discusses their approach to supporting schools in this work, challenges, successes, and the districts vision for the future.
Please join us in this two-part conversation with Dr. Jessica Meisenheimer. Jessica shares how her district planned, implemented, and evaluated MTSS. She also discusses their approach to supporting schools in this work, challenges, successes, and the districts vision for the future. An episode you won't want to miss!
Ever wonder how PBIS got its name and became the go-to center for improving school climate, equity, and behavior management ? Join us for a two-part, illuminating conversation with Dr. George Sugai, one of the founding fathers of PBIS, as he shares stories from the creation of PBIS and the National Technical Assistance Center. (Part 2)
Ever wonder how PBIS got its name and became the go-to center for improving school climate, equity, and behavior management ? Join us for a two-part, illuminating conversation with Dr. George Sugai, one of the founding fathers of PBIS, as he shares stories from the creation of PBIS and the National Technical Assistance Center. (Part 1)
Part 2!
Join us in this two-part conversation with Dr. Lewis on the history and context of the PBIS Leadership Forum, how Professional Development started (and how it's going), and the value of building a culture of educator's who seek Performance Feedback!
"Educator's, You know how we educate. Use and apply the same principles to your own learning". - Dr. Lewis
Join us in this two-part conversation with Dr. Lewis on the history and context of the PBIS Leadership Forum, how Professional Development started (and how it's going), and the value of building a culture of educator's who seek Performance Feedback!
Join Dr. Lisa Power's as she explores supporting districts in a customer-service driven model with Dr. Paula Raigoza.
Dr. Raigoza's approach includes, but is not limited to, partnering thoughtfully with the Safety and Security teams to ensure alignment in the work as well as community partners and state resources. She underscores the importance of intention and thoughtfulness to build a collaborative and comprehensive network . Join Us!
In this episode, Lisa and Jamie reflect on the year and share some of their favorite episodes.
In this episode, Lisa and Jamie speak with Dr. Reesha Adamson, Associate Professor at Missouri State University, on innovative ways to prepare paraprofessionals to become special education teachers.
Show Notes
In this episode, Lisa and Jamie speak with Dr. Laura Kern, a Research Assistant Professor, at University of South Florida, on how to successfully engage and partner with families in the IEP process. Practical strategies and examples are shared.
Show Notes
In this episode, Lisa and Jamie continue the conversation with Dr. Cathy Thomas, Associate Professor of Special Education, Texas State University, to discuss special education and teacher preparation. This second session of a two part episode focuses on exploring innovative ways to attract and retain special education teachers.
In this episode, Lisa and Jamie speak with Dr. Cathy Thomas, Associate Professor of Special Education, Texas State University, to discuss special education and teacher preparation. This first of a two part episode focuses on describing and defining special teacher preparation compared to general educators pre-service.
Show notes
In this episode, Lisa and Jamie speak with Dr. Kathleen Cohen-Strickland, BCBA-D, Research Associate Professor, University of Oregon, to answer the question, how are children and youth at highest risk supported in a tiered system framework.
Show notes
Ms. Casetta Brown, School Culture and Climate Coordinator in St. Louis Public School District, discusses her experiences in urban education and provides practical strategies to address culture and climate in the classroom.
Show Notes
In this episode, Lisa and Jamie speak with Dr. Terry Houlton, Director of Special Education, in Millard Public Schools, regarding systems to support special education teachers as part of an MTSS framework.
Show Notes
In this episode, Lisa and Jamie speak with Dr. Laura Kern, a Research Assistant Professor, at University of South Florida, on how to successfully engage and partner with families of children with disabilities. Practical strategies and examples are shared.
Show Notes
In this episode we chat with Dr. Lisa Hazel, Assistant Superintendent of School Leadership in Ferguson-Florissant School District, regarding principal leadership and partnering with teachers. We also discuss how performance feedback is an essential tool for teachers, coaches, and leaders.
Show notes
Join us as we unpack the journey of SW-PBS in Missouri; everything from the evolution of language, materials, and the approach to training and coaching (stand and deliver, flipped learning, district systems, focus on performance feedback). Learn how materials are resources from MOSWPS are available for everyone at anytime.
Dr. Johnson takes us on an informative walk with deep insight and the advice to always have a friend who loves data.
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Join us as we unpack more Tier 1 classroom strategies with intentionality and learn to celebrate the small wins along the way. Dr. Brandi Simonsen is thoughtful, clear and supportive in exploring ways to contextualize frameworks and move the work forward one step at a time.
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In this episode, Lisa and Jamie speak with Dr. Ambra Green about ways to explore culturally responsive, equitable and relevant policies that impact the classroom. Dr. Green explains how the history of school discipline, its foundational roots, are still impacting how decisions are made for students today. Additionally, when educators understand their own learning histories, become intentionally aware and curious about policy, and thoughtfully engage families in the conversation, it will help all of us get one step closer to more equitable and culturally responsive policy making that supports the success of all students.
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In this episode you will meet the new co-host of the Educator's Blueprint, Jamie Grieshaber, reflect on past episodes, and learn what is coming this spring.
In this episode Lisa and Trisha speak with Dr. Kelsey Morris regarding strategies to wrap up the end of first semester and how to ensure a successful start to second semester.
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In this episode we chat with Danielle Starkey, Supervisor of MTSS-B in Omaha Public Schools, regarding the history of clip charts, what research says about clip charts, and what research-based practices exist.
Show Notes and Resources
There are a number of ways in which we can respond to student behavior. In this episode, Dr. Kelsey Morris shares a number of strategies and resources that can be utilized in the classroom.
Last week we spoke with two elementary teachers regarding their teaching experience last year, this year, how students, families, and colleagues are doing, and what is a wish they have for the future or what is a bright spot that they see. This week, we ask two secondary teachers those exact same questions.
In this episode we speak with two elementary teachers to learn more about their experience as a teacher during Covid and how things are now.
In this episode we continue our interview with Dr. Joseph Davis and Dr. Bonita Jameson with a focus on:
- the District Systems Fidelity Inventory (DSFI) and how that assessment led them to look at the policies within their district around student expectation codes codes. Can you talk a little bit about that
- what did the district learn during the 2020-2021 school year with Covid and how is that impacting the 2021-2022 school year
- identification of their proudest moments within the school district and what they are most excited about for the 21-22 school year
Show Notes
In this two-part episode Lisa interviews the Superintendent of the Ferguson-Florissant School District (MO), Dr. Joseph Davis, and the new Superintendent of Maplewood Richmond Heights School District (MO), Dr. Bonita E. Jamison, regarding their work around MTSS. In part one of Episode 18 they discuss:
- what MTSS/PBIS looks like in Ferguson-Florrisant and how does that work support the vision and mission of what is trying to be accomplished within the community,
- and how the District MTSS/PBIS Team uses data for decision making and how that work is driven by district goals
We speak with Dr. Lucille Eber, one of the organizers of the PBIS Leadership Forum, and learn about:
- the history of this technical assistance event,
- who should attend,
- how is the Forum organized,
- what are the benefits of the Forum being virtual this year,
- who are some of the presenters,
- what does it mean and why is it important that all the presenters are "invitation only" speakers
PBIS Leadership Forum website
As we start Series 4 regarding conferences, we discuss strategies for making the most out of each conference you attend in person and/or virtually. Our conversation is guided by questions such as:
- How do you pre-plan to get the most out of a conference?
- When there are multiple sessions that you want to attend happening at the same time, how do you decipher which one to attend?
- Fast forward in time to being at a conference. How do you go about networking and why is that important?
- The conference has concluded and you have tons of notes from all the sessions attended, what do you do with all that information?
- What strategies do you use to identify the first steps in implementation of new ideas
- What conference are you headed to next?
Show Notes
In this bonus episode we chat about our favorite podcasts, 18 to be exact, in the areas of:
- Leadership
- Wellness
- Education
- Equity
- Non-Educational
- Makes Me Laugh
- Keeps Me In The Know
Show Notes
In our last episode of Series 3, Maximizing Tier 2 Success, we chat with Dr. Allison Bruhn regarding the issues related to data, systems, and practices and how those items can be remedied. Some of our questions include:
- what are some of the common struggles related to Tier 2
- how do these struggles impact students, staff, and families
- what are ways in which these struggles can be addressed and/or avoided
Show Notes
Progress monitoring, fading, and implementation fidelity are HUGE components of any intervention. In Episode 13 we looked at these pieces when it came to common practices. In today's episode, #14, we look at these same components as it relates to Data and Systems. Dr. Heather Hatton joins us once again; this time, answering the same questions as Dr. Sara McDaniel (Episode 13) but from the lens of data and systems:
- can't you just tell if an intervention is working
- what's the point of intervention data
- how can we monitor intervention data so that it's not overwhelming and super time consuming
- what do we do if implementation fidelity isn't happening
- what do you do if a student isn't make progress but implementation fidelity is in place
- how do you know when it's time to fade and graduate a student from an intervention
Show Notes
As we continue our series on Maximizing Tier 2 Success, we chat with Dr. Sara McDaniel on common practices regarding progress monitoring, fading, and overall implementation fidelity. Some of the questions she answered included:
- can't you just tell if an intervention is working
- what's the point of intervention data
- how can we monitor intervention data so that it's not overwhelming and super time consuming
- what do we do if implementation fidelity isn't happening
- what do you do if a student isn't making progress but implementation fidelity is in place
- how do you know when it's time to fade and graduate a student from an intervention
Show Notes
We've discussed what is Tier 2, how we identify students who might need additional support, and now it's time to discuss interventions. As we continue our series on Maximizing Tier 2 Success, we speak with Dr. Deanna Maynard regarding:
- the difference between a support strategy and intervention
- how to determine if an intervention is "research-based" or "evidence-based" and why that is important
- methods to identify what interventions are needed for your school, district, or individual student
- if there is one intervention you should start with over others
- the role of support staff, classroom teachers, administrators, and district leaders in implementing interventions
- strategies to align academic and behavior intervention processes
Show Notes
This is the second episode within our third series, Maximizing Tier 2 Success. In this episode we speak with Dr. Stephen Kilgus regarding student identification. Dr. Kilgus answers questions such as:
- what are the most common methods used by schools and districts to identify students that may need Tier 2 support
- what is a "standardized identification process" and is it necessary
- what existing data might a team review as part of their identification process
- are standardized universal screening instruments necessary
- how does a district go about identifying a screener they need
Show Notes
As we start our third series, Maximizing Tier 2 Success, Dr. Kelsey Morris lays the foundation of Tier 2 while we discuss:
- what is Tier 2
- is Tier 1 really all that important when it comes to Tier 2
- how a school or district can identify the need and readiness to implement or scale Tier 2
- what does scaling look like
- challenges faced when planning or implementing Tier 2
- with more than a year of Covid, what do schools and districts need to pay attention to as students return
Show Notes
In this episode we speak with Mr. Ryan Deem, Data Quality Auditor in the Ferguson-Florissant School District, regarding assessment schedules. Ryan answers questions such as:
- Can an academic and behavior assessment schedule/calendar be combined into one?
- What are the different type of assessments to be included on an assessment schedule?
- What do we learn from the data we collect?
- How does data-based decision making impact the assessment schedule?
- What's the connection between the assessment schedule and an Action Plan?
- What's the difference between a school assessment schedule and a district one?
Show Notes
In this bonus episode we speak with Dr. Heather Hatton regarding data based decision making, also known as DBDM, and the start of the school year. Additionally, we discuss:
- What is DBDM
- What can data tell us and how often should we look at it
- What data do we look at those first few weeks of school
- What data should be considered in regards to Tier 1 and Tier 2
- In relation to the pandemic, do our data sources change or stay the same
- How does DBDM impact an Action Plan
- What's the role of building administrators and District Leadership Teams when it comes to DBDM
Show Notes
In this bonus episode we answer common questions related to the start of the school year. Some of these questions focus on:
- what school and district teams should be planning for right now,
- how to engage families and community members,
- recommendations on what behavior expectations to teach, and
- what conversations should be had with staff upon return.
Show Notes
In this bonus episode we conclude our conversation with Dr. Tim Lewis regarding the history of PBIS while discussing:
- the principles currently being focused on within PBIS,
- what makes schools, districts, states, countries, and organizations impactful when implementing PBIS,
- resources currently available, and
- what Dr. Lewis is most proud of and what he hopes to have accomplished in thirty years from now.
Show Notes
In this bonus episode we speak with Dr. Tim Lewis on the history of PBIS while discussing:
- how PBIS came about and what the purpose and intent was,
- what learning occurred in each phase of PBIS and how it has impacted education,
- the actual acronym..."is it PBS, PBIS, MTSS?",
- and the "framework", what does that mean and what does it look like.
The conversation was so rich that we split our interview into two episodes; this specific episode is Part 1 of Bonus 1.
Show Notes
In this episode we speak with Dr. Rhonda Nese on Mental Health and Wellness and the impact it has on climate and culture while discussing:
- strategies to ensure school culture reflects the community,
- the role of empathy in respecting others opinions,
- teaching students how to develop informed opinions,
- and ways to check ourselves for bias when teaching social and/or political content.
Show Notes
In this episode we speak with Mrs. Tricia Diebold, a district Coordinator of Planning and Development, regarding Social Media and its impact on Mental Health and Wellness . We discuss methods to be an informed social media user, learn strategies to ensure accessibility, and identify opportunities for social skill development.
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In this episode we chat with Mrs. Rio Corbin, a school psychologist, on strategies to support and partner with students and families during stressful events while also sharing methods leadership can take to aid in this process.
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Our second series focuses on Mental Health and Wellness. Mrs. Jamie Grieshaber defines these terms, their impact on students, staff and families, while sharing strategies to help us find "balance".
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In this episode we speak with Mr. Justin Colbert, a high school principal, on how a reinforcement system was developed through the commitment of staff members and its impact on the school community.
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In this episode we chat with Dr. Shanna Hirsch about what schedules of reinforcement can look like, how to set it up, why it's important, and methods to monitor the use of reinforcement.
Quote from Dr. Hirsch in this episode:
"Reinforcement is one of the most important tools teachers and adults can use to support students' behavior."
Show Notes
In this episode with speak with Mrs. LeDominique Rhodes, Teacher/Instructional Leader/Coach, regarding the importance of feedback and its impact on culture, climate, and relationships.
Show Notes
Dr. Tim Lewis, Co-Director from the Center on PBIS and Professor at the University of Missouri, discusses reinforcement and bribery as it relates to behavior.
Quotes from Dr. Lewis in this episode:
"I would live to take the term 'reward' and chuck it."
"The issue of reward and bribing is just misunderstood."
Show Notes