The CharacterStrong Podcast

On this episode we are sharing a conversation from the 2025 School Safety Summit. Frank DeAngelis, former longtime principal of Columbine High School, shares powerful lessons on prevention, resilience, and leadership. He highlights why real school safety is about relationships, readiness, and collective action—and reminds us why we must continue working together to protect and support every student. Learn More About CharacterStrong:  Access FREE MTSS Curriculum Samples Request a Quote Today! Learn more about CharacterStrong Implementation Support Visit the CharacterStrong Website

Today our guests are Sam Dusek & Jordan Seifert, School Counselors at Meyer Middle School and part of the team that was awarded the 2025 Wisconsin School Counseling Team of the Year. We talk to Sam & Jordan about how their school counseling program is leading the way in proactive, purpose-driven student support. They share how a clear mission focused on academic growth, character development, and student well-being—has helped them build a program where character education is intentionally taught and deeply integrated across campus. Their reminder for all of us: when in doubt, trust that every student can grow and that our intentional efforts matter. Learn More About CharacterStrong:  Access FREE MTSS Curriculum Samples Request a Quote Today! Learn more about CharacterStrong Implementation Support Visit the CharacterStrong Website Sam Dusek and Jordan Seifert are school counselors at Meyer Middle School in River Falls, Wisconsin. This is Sam's 13th year as a school counselor and Jordan's 12th year as a school counselor. They received the Wisconsin School Counseling Team of the year award at the annual Wisconsin School counseling Conference in 2024. Meyer Middle school is a State and National School of Character. Jordan and Sam serve on the Meyer Middle School character education committee.

Today our guest is Cory McCarthy, the Chief of Student Support for Boston Public Schools. We talk with Cory about what it means to take a truly holistic approach to student support. He explains the critical difference between technicaland adaptive progress monitoring—and why getting to the “third why” in conversations with students and staff is a game-changer. Cory also shares how Boston Public Schools opens its doors seven days a week to meet student needs and why relational work is at the heart of their approach. Learn More About CharacterStrong:  Access FREE MTSS Curriculum Samples Request a Quote Today! Learn more about CharacterStrong Implementation Support Visit the CharacterStrong Website

Today our guest is Dr. Vince Breunig, District Administrator at the School District of Lodi. We talk to Dr. Breunig about the power of consistently sharing the good happening in our schools. He shares practical strategies for celebrating small but meaningful moments, filling the community with positivity, and making space for authentic engagement—especially through social media. Dr. Breunig also highlights how involving students in storytelling and using creative, intentional branding can strengthen school culture and community trust. Learn More About CharacterStrong:  Access FREE MTSS Curriculum Samples Request a Quote Today! Learn more about CharacterStrong Implementation Support Visit the CharacterStrong Website   Dr. Vince Breunig has dedicated over 30 years to serving students, staff, and families in public education. He began his career as a school psychologist, a role he held for six years before transitioning into school administration. Over the past 24 years, Vince has served as an educational leader in two Wisconsin school districts. For the last 17 years, he has proudly served the School District of Lodi—as Director of Student Services, High School Principal, and currently as District Administrator, a position he has held since 2020. In recognition of his leadership and communication efforts, Vince was named a 2024–25 Superintendent to Watch by the National School Public Relations Association—one of just 25 superintendents nationwide to receive this honor. Vince has been married to his wife Melanie for 28 years. Her unwavering support has been a cornerstone of his journey in education. Together, they are the proud parents of four children.

Today our guest is Dr. Clay Cook the Chief Development Officer at CharacterStrong. We talk to Clay about one the most important parts of implementation: sustainability. From onboarding and monitoring fidelity to embedding new practices into the fabric of school culture, Clay shares the essential systems that help schools avoid implementation drift. He also highlights how CharacterStrong supports schools through a unique consultative approach focused on sustainable implementation. Learn More About CharacterStrong:  Access FREE MTSS Curriculum Samples Request a Quote Today! Learn more about CharacterStrong Implementation Support Visit the CharacterStrong Website  

Today our guest is John Hellwich, the Director of Secondary Teaching and Learning at the Peninsula School District in WA. We talk to John about the Gig Harbor/Key Peninsula community campaign inspired by the book The Anxious Generation. With anxiety rising and screen time out of control, this grassroots movement is bringing together schools, faith leaders, doctors, and local organizations to reimagine what healthy tech habits look like for students. From phone-free weekends and social media detoxes to reigniting the power of unstructured play, John shares how the community is taking bold, united action to protect youth mental health in the digital age. Learn More About CharacterStrong:  Access FREE MTSS Curriculum Samples Request a Quote Today! Visit the CharacterStrong Website

Today our guest is Alex Kajitani the 2009 California Teacher of the Year and also The Rappin' Mathematician. We talk to Alex about the foundational role that relationships play in education. He unpacks the three essential components every relationship must have and highlights the different types of relationships students navigate daily—with themselves, their peers, the adults on campus, and the content they're learning. Alex challenges the common belief that confidence leads to competence, offering a powerful reframe. He leaves us with a compelling reminder: the simple act of consistently showing up can make a profound difference in a student's life. Learn More About CharacterStrong:  Access FREE MTSS Curriculum Samples Request a Quote Today! Visit the CharacterStrong Website   Alex Kajitani is the 2009 California Teacher of the Year, and a Top-4 Finalist for National Teacher of the Year.  He is the author of several books, including Owning It, which **was named “Recommended Reading” by the U.S. Department of Education. He also has a new book out, for new teachers, titled “You're a Teacher Now! What's Next?” and it's getting rave reviews. Alex is known around the world as “The Rappin' Mathematician, has a popular TED Talk, and was honored at The White House. He was also featured on The CBS Evening News, where Katie Couric exclaimed, “I LOVE that guy!” (and you will too!). For more info, visit www.AlexKajitani.com

Today our guest is Julia Kennedy the SEL Coach at Meduxnekeag Consolidated School in Woodstock, NB. We talk with Julia about her school's CharacterStrong journey and the intentional steps they've taken to build a stronger culture. She shares how they've created meaningful opportunities for student engagement—like having 200 students sign up to greet their peers at school entrances—and how older students are taking on leadership roles to support younger ones. Julia highlights the power of starting small, staying consistent, and growing a movement that makes a lasting impact. Learn More About CharacterStrong:  Access FREE MTSS Curriculum Samples Request a Quote Today! Visit the CharacterStrong Website   Julia Kennedy is a French Immersion teacher with 20 years experience in different grade levels and she has taught in various provinces across Canada. She has been a CharacterStrong leader within her school for 4 years. Julia has held the supplementary role of responsibility as SEL coach for 2 years while being a middle school classroom teacher. Currently she lives with her family of 4 in Woodstock, New Brunswick and she loves hockey, yoga and the great outdoors!

Today our guest is Dr. Mark Chapin, Principal at Meyer Middle School. We talk to Dr. Chapin about how his district takes a purposeful approach to character development—from monthly character kickoff presentations to unifying yearly themes. He explains how each trait is clearly defined and modeled across all grade levels, K–12, and how community input plays a key role in shaping the work. Hear how this district-wide effort brings consistency, clarity, and connection to their character education approach. Learn More About CharacterStrong:  Access FREE MTSS Curriculum Samples Request a Quote Today! Visit the CharacterStrong Website   Mark Chapin is the principal of Meyer Middle School in River Falls, Wisconsin serving approximately 750 students in grades 6 - 8. Meyer Middle School was recognized as a National School of Character in 2016 and again in 2024.  Mark has served as a building administrator in the School District of River Falls for 16 years.   Prior to coming to River Falls, Mark taught for 12 years in the Ellsworth Community School District as a high school special education teacher and an 8th grade US History teacher. While in Ellsworth he also coached cross-country, track, tennis and basketball.  In 2008 Mark was recognized as the Teacher of the Year in the Ellsworth Community School District. In 2019 Mark earned his doctorate degree from Bethel University.  His dissertation focused on character education, leadership and the change process. Mark currently serves as a character education coach through Alverno College and on the Wisconsin Character Education Partnership Advisory Committee.   Mark works closely with the American Legion Post 121 in River Falls serving on their Veterans Memorial Committee. In 2014 he received the Post 121 Community Service Award. Finally, in 2023 Mark was the recipient of the Herb Kohl Educational Foundation Leadership award. His wife Cary proudly served in the Minnesota Air National Guard as a C-130 pilot and retired in 2011 after five deployments and 20 years of service. Mark and his wife Cary have four children together: Matthew, Christopher Erik and Emma. In his spare time Mark enjoys spending time with my family, fly fishing, and mountain biking.

Today our guest is Mariah Reed-Brown, School Counselor at Paradise Valley High School. We talk to Mariah about how she's customized the CharacterStrong curriculum to strengthen her school's PBIS framework. She shares how getting into classrooms and intentionally connecting Tier 1 practices to PBIS has helped foster a stronger sense of belonging for all students. Mariah offers practical examples, including how co-creating community agreements with students has shaped the culture on campus. She also reflects on the impact of giving students voice and choice—and the remarkable buy-in it's generated among her school community.

Today our guest is Jocelyn Pajimula the Social and Emotional Learning Coordinator & Restorative Practices Coach at Ewa Makai Middle School. We talk to Jocelyn about how her school have created a system to give students tools to repair and prevent broken broken relationships. She breaks down their two key strategies when conflict arises and introduces the PEACE strategy—a proactive tool that helps students navigate conflict before it escalates. Jocelyn also offers a powerful example of how they address peer pressure in a meaningful, memorable way. We dive into the importance of making systems easy to access and how that leads to better implementation—and offers an important reminder: don't forget to make it fun. Learn More About CharacterStrong:  Access FREE MTSS Curriculum Samples Request a Quote Today! Visit the CharacterStrong Website   Jocelyn is a proud graduate of the Hawaiʻi public education system, deeply influenced by its rich culture and vibrant community. With 12 years of dedicated teaching experience at the middle school level, she specializes in Social Studies, AVID Elective, and Health and Wellness classes. For the past three years, Jocelyn has served as her school's Social and Emotional Learning Coordinator; this year, she has taken on the role of Restorative Practices Coach. Jocelyn's commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive learning environment reflects her passion for education and the well-being of her students.

Today our guest is Taryne Dismuke, Culture Catalyst at DO EWE Coaching & Consulting. We talk to Taryne about the concept of living out your pillars of purpose. She unpacks how easy it is to get pulled away from our core purpose in education—and how that drift can lead to burnout. Taryne offers practical insights on staying grounded in our “why,” and how doing so not only sustains us but also creates a ripple effect that benefits students, families, and entire communities. This conversation is a powerful reminder that while purpose-driven work isn't always easy, it's deeply rewarding. Learn More About CharacterStrong:  Access FREE Tier 2 Curriculum Samples Request a Quote Today! Visit the CharacterStrong Website   Taryne Dismuke, founder of DO EWE Coaching, is passionate about helping individuals, teams and organizations to develop systems, practices, goals, and cultural norms that enhance effectiveness, improve performance and advance equity. She inspires teams to gain traction toward their goals by fostering accountability, strategy, and inclusion.  With over 19 years of experience in teaching, coaching, and leadership development. Taryne has consulted for leaders and organizations across industries, including K-12 and higher education, management consulting, community development, and faith-based groups. She has helped hundreds of campuses strengthen school culture, elevate teacher-leaders, and implement sustainable, equitable practices.  While serving as a regional strategist in education solutions, Taryne led a team of 20 leaders, facilitating professional learning communities, mentoring individuals, and designing and delivering both virtual and in-person training. Her expertise includes strategic planning, leadership development, and cultivating inclusive cultures that embrace equitable practices.  Taryne holds a Bachelor's degree from Prairie View A&M University, a Master's in Organizational Development and Leadership from Regent University with a coaching and mentoring certification, and an Executive Certification in Diversity Coaching from Howard University and CoachDiversity Institute. She is also a credentialed coach with the International Coaching Federation.  When she's not helping teams and organizations grow, Taryne enjoys traveling, reading, exploring new restaurants, and spending quality time with her husband and son. She is also passionate about mentoring youth, helping them develop character and leadership skills to positively impact their communities. 

Today our guest is Cara Newman a 4th grade educator in the Plainedge School District. We talk to Cara about how a simple yet powerful practice—having students set intentions throughout the day—can increase focus, presence, and ownership in the classroom. She explains how this strategy fosters student buy-in, supports self-regulation, and ultimately leads to meaningful returns in both behavior and learning. Learn More About CharacterStrong:  Access FREE Tier 2 Curriculum Samples Request a Quote Today! Visit the CharacterStrong Website   Cara Newman is an educator with over 20 years of teaching experience. Outside of the classroom, she is a life coach and mind-body practitioner. She's passionate about mindful and conscious teaching, empowering educators and students to create meaningful and balanced learning environments while cultivating creativity, connection, and presence.  

On this episode we are featuring content from our 2025 MTSS Summit!  Dr. Tinisha Parker, Executive Director of Student Services for Gwinnett County Public Schools, shares her expertise on integrating mental health within a Multi-Tiered System of Supports. With over two decades of experience as an educator, school counselor, and district leader, Dr. Parker discusses practical strategies for ensuring students receive the mental health supports they need to thrive. This conversation highlights how a well-structured MTSS framework can enhance student well-being, academic success, and long-term outcomes. Learn More About CharacterStrong:  Access FREE Tier 2 Curriculum Samples Request a Quote Today! Visit the CharacterStrong Website

On this episode we are featuring content from our 2025 MTSS Summit!  Dr. Sharon Hoover discusses the critical intersection of Multi-Tiered Systems of Support and mental health. As a leading expert in school mental health, Dr. Hoover shares insights on how schools can effectively integrate mental health prevention and intervention services within an MTSS framework. With schools being the primary access point for student mental health support, this conversation highlights strategies to improve student well-being, academic success, and long-term outcomes. Access all of the MTSS Summit content through Wednesday, March 19th! Visit: https://mtsssummit.com/ Learn More About CharacterStrong:  Access FREE Tier 2 Curriculum Samples Request a Quote Today! Visit the CharacterStrong Website

Today our guest is Charles MacGregor, a School Counselor at Penrose Elementary and emerging leader with the Colorado School Counselor Association Board of Directors. We talk to Charles about how his school has embraced community circles as part of their morning meetings, fostering stronger relationships and positively impacting student behavior. He discusses the importance of building time for connection, how even a simple “Would you rather?” question can spark engagement, and why having a structured system is key to long-term success. Plus, he shares some of the data on how community circles have improved student outcomes. Learn More About CharacterStrong:  Sign up for our FREE MTSS Summit Access FREE Tier 2 Curriculum Samples Request a Quote Today! Visit the CharacterStrong Website

Today our guest is Jordan Blevins, School Counselor at Pacific Law Academy & 2025 California School Counselor of the Year We talk to Jordan about the critical role school counselors play as student mental health professionals, often being the first point of contact for students in need. She discusses the importance of advocating for the counselor's role on campus, ensuring students receive the support they deserve. We also dive into strategies for advocating for student mental health, the power of active listening, and why mental health and well-being must be prioritized in schools. Learn More About CharacterStrong:  Sign up for our FREE MTSS Summit Access FREE Tier 2 Curriculum Samples Request a Quote Today! Visit the CharacterStrong Website

Today our guest is Dr. Clay Cook, Chief Development Officer at CharacterStrong. We talk with Clay about the importance of Tier 2 interventions in schools. The discussion highlights key improvements to CharacterStrong's Tier 2 solution, including reducing prep time for small group skill-building sessions, increasing engagement, and enhancing data tracking for better decision-making. The episode underscores the necessity of early intervention to support students before they require more intensive services and emphasizes the ongoing commitment to improving resources based on educator feedback. Learn More About CharacterStrong:  Sign up for our FREE MTSS Summit Access FREE Tier 2 Curriculum Samples Request a Quote Today! Visit the CharacterStrong Website

Today our guest is Carrie Woodard the Director Student Support Services - School Counselors at Pittsburgh Public Schools. We talk to Carrie about ways that school counselors can create a strong support system for first-generation students—offering personalized guidance on navigating the college application process, exploring financial aid options, and understanding campus resources. She emphasizes the power of regular student check-ins, building relationships with families, and the impact of positive phone calls home. Through active listening, trust-building, and resource-sharing, counselors can help first-generation students feel more prepared, confident, and supported as they embark on their postsecondary journey. Learn More About CharacterStrong:  Sign up for our FREE MTSS Summit Access FREE Tier 2 Curriculum Samples Request a Quote Today! Visit the CharacterStrong Website   Carrie Woodard's professional journey encompasses roles as a teacher, school counselor, college and career counselor, mental health project manager, and now an administrator with the Pittsburgh Public Schools. These diverse experiences have provided her with a comprehensive understanding of the unique needs of students and families. In her current role as Director of Student Support Services - School Counselors, she is deeply committed to advocacy and collaboration, working closely with school leadership and central office personnel to empower professional counselors with the resources needed to support the nearly 20,000 students in the district.   Drawing from her multicultural background and training, Carrie approaches her work with a focus on identifying and addressing barriers to ensure that every student has the opportunity to thrive. Her passion lies in advancing social justice within school counseling, fostering equitable experiences for all students, and nurturing a positive school culture and climate through district-wide initiatives that emphasize inclusivity.

Dr. Damien Sweeney shares his expertise on supporting students through strong relationships, collaboration, and culturally sustaining practices. Drawing from his diverse career in education, counseling, and leadership, Dr. Sweeney discusses the importance of student trust, multi-tiered systems of support, and integrating student voices into decision-making. His insights challenge school counselors to see themselves as leaders who can drive systemic change for the benefit of all students.   Learn More About CharacterStrong:  Access FREE Tier 2 Curriculum Samples Attend our next live product preview Visit the CharacterStrong Website

Today our guests are Principal Rebecca Thompson & Associate Principal Charlee Breeden at Tomahawk Creek Middle School in Midlothian, VA We talk to Rebecca & Charlee about how they create a safe, supportive environment in an overcrowded middle school. They highlight the power of knowing names, servant leadership, and safety. Rebecca emphasizes the importance of visibility in hallways, while both discuss how staff feedback has shaped Tomahawk Creek into a place where students and educators thrive. They also share practical strategies for improving the lunchroom, electronics policies, dismissal, and spirit weeks to build a stronger school culture. Learn More About CharacterStrong:  Register for the FREE 2025 School Counseling Summit Access FREE Tier 2 Curriculum Samples Attend our next live product preview Visit the CharacterStrong Website

Today our guest is Josh Holbrook, SEL Specialist at Rowan County Middle School in Kentucky . Josh dives into the transformative power of a simple warm welcome and shares about the fun way they partnered with student-athletes to build relationships by greeting students at the door for Fist Bump Friday. Josh also breaks down the four essential components of the warm welcome, the intention behind each step, and the profound impact it's had on students, staff, and the school community. Learn More About CharacterStrong:  Register for the FREE 2025 School Counseling Summit Access FREE Tier 2 Curriculum Samples Attend our next live product preview Visit the CharacterStrong Website     Josh Holbrook is a Social-Emotional Learning Coach at Rowan County Middle School in Morehead, Kentucky. Josh has worked with students for the past 11 years and held many different positions in the educational realm including residential youth worker, instructional assistant, special education teacher, district behavior support, and SEL coach. When students returned in person Spring 2021, Josh noted that internalizing and externalizing behaviors had seemingly spiked across settings. Increasingly he heard, “students don't know how to behave” and saw this as an opportunity. He thought to himself, “if they don't know math or reading, we teach math or reading,” and sought a way to intentionally teach behavior at a tier 1 level via implementation of social-emotional learning (SEL). Rowan County Schools accepted this proposal, and he became SEL Coach for the district in 2021. With the support of the district's Project AWARE Program Director, Tara Cornett, this structure has grown to dedicated SEL Coaches (shoutout Megan, Sarah, Emma, and Cody) in each school in Rowan County, and the team looks forward to seeing where they can positively impact school climate and culture from here. When he isn't working, Josh loves exercising, hiking, seeing live music, cooking, and relaxing at home with his wife, Lindsey, their daughter, Camryn, dog, Sugaree, and cat, Phyllis.

Today our guest is Dr. Cherina Betters - Chief of Equity and Access at San Bernardino County Superintendent of Schools. We talk to Dr. Cherina Betters about the importance of meeting people where they are and ensuring they have what they need when they need it. She highlights the power of building strong, connected communities and emphasizes that leadership isn't about a title—anyone who influences a student's life is a leader. With a focus on wisdom, joy, and gratitude, Dr. Betters offers inspiring perspectives on creating equitable opportunities and fostering meaningful relationships in education. Learn More About CharacterStrong:  Register for the FREE 2025 School Counseling Summit Access FREE Tier 2 Curriculum Samples Attend our next live product preview Visit the CharacterStrong Website   Cherina Betters is the Chief of Equity and Access for San Bernardino County Superintendent of Schools and Board Trustee for the San Bernardino Community College District (SBCCD). A lifelong learner, she has served in the field of PK-12 and higher education for over 20 years in the capacity of teacher, administrator, and professor serving the students, families and communities of San Bernardino and Riverside Counties in Southern California. Raised primarily in a single-parent home with severe economic challenges, Dr. Betters has always viewed education as the means to overcome. The first in her family to graduate from college, Dr. Betters has a deep appreciation for education and the educational process. She received her bachelor's degree in political science from California State University, Fullerton. She also earned her master's degree in educational technology from National University and her Doctorate in the field of Educational Leadership with an emphasis on Social Justice from California State University, San Bernardino where she also serves in the capacity of adjunct professor in both the Teacher Education & Foundations and Educational Leadership & Technology departments for the College of Education at California State University, San Bernardino.

Today our guest is Andrea Freile the Family Engagement and Communications Coordinator at Wayne County Public Schools. We talk to Andrea about Cultural Intelligence and she highlights the critical work around helping teachers and staff to engage with families empathetically. She emphasizes the importance of striving for greater understanding to better serve the diverse students in our classrooms. Andrea also reminds us that while educators may work locally, they are, in fact, global educators, shaping students for a connected world. Learn More About CharacterStrong:  Register for the FREE 2025 School Counseling Summit Access FREE Tier 2 Curriculum Samples Attend our next live product preview Visit the CharacterStrong Website   Andrea Freile is the Family Engagement and Communications Coordinator for Wayne County Public Schools and the founder of VivaCultura Consulting, a strategic communications and cultural intelligence firm. With years of experience in community engagement and strategic communications, she has cultivated a passion for helping organizations foster belonging and validate human worth. Her unique approach equips teams with the tools needed to bridge cultural gaps, drive engagement, and enhance communication, all while leveraging the dynamics of today's ever-evolving demographic landscape.

Today our guest is Jorge Torres the lead school counselor, at Foster High School in Tukwila, WA. Jorge shares heartfelt reflections on his own upbringing and the profound impact that a strong community of support can have on students' lives. He challenges us to ask, “Who else can I invite to the table?” when fostering relationships and creating meaningful connections with students. Jorge also provides practical strategies for intentionally involving students' families and communities to better serve and support their needs and reminds us of the difference we can make when we build a network of care around every student. Learn More About CharacterStrong:  Register for the FREE 2025 School Counseling Summit Access FREE Tier 2 Curriculum Samples Attend our next live product preview Visit the CharacterStrong Website Jorge Torres is the lead school counselor, at Foster High School in Tukwila, WA. Jorge was a finalist for the 2024 School Counselor of the Year awards program (#SCOY24) and has been a school counselor since 2000. Foster High School serves 865 students, grades 9–12. Jorge received his bachelor's degree from Eastern Washington University and a master's degree from Heritage University.

Learn More About CharacterStrong:  Access FREE MTSS Curriculum Samples Attend our next live product preview Visit the CharacterStrong Website

Learn More About CharacterStrong:  Access FREE MTSS Curriculum Samples Attend our next live product preview Visit the CharacterStrong Website

Learn More About CharacterStrong:  Access FREE MTSS Curriculum Samples Attend our next live product preview Visit the CharacterStrong Website

Learn More About CharacterStrong:  Access FREE MTSS Curriculum Samples Attend our next live product preview Visit the CharacterStrong Website

Learn More About CharacterStrong:  Access FREE MTSS Curriculum Samples Attend our next live product preview Visit the CharacterStrong Website

Learn More About CharacterStrong:  Access FREE MTSS Curriculum Samples Attend our next live product preview Visit the CharacterStrong Website

Today our guest is Rachelle Finck a Director of School Support at CharacterStrong. We talk to Rachelle about the powerful connection between proactive school safety and a positive school culture, emphasizing how these two must work hand in hand. She highlights the critical role teachers play in fostering connection and belonging for every student, which not only enhances school safety but also boosts academic outcomes. Rachelle also share practical, actionable ways to equip educators to create meaningful connections in the classroom and nurture a safe, supportive environment for all. Learn More About CharacterStrong:  Access FREE MTSS Curriculum Samples Attend our next live product preview Visit the CharacterStrong Website  

Today our guest is Dr. Christian D'Annibale - Principal at Pottstown High School. We talk to Dr. D'Annibale about how his school achieved a 60% reduction in suspensions and a 90% decrease in class skipping—not by changing disciplinary responses but by shifting the focus to students themselves. He shares how the creation of a student advisory council became the catalyst for meaningful change, empowering students to take the lead in improving school culture. Dr. D'Annibale also talks about the innovative strategies and creative solutions developed by this council, proving that when students are given a voice, they can drive extraordinary results. Learn More About CharacterStrong:  Learn more about the NEW Tier 3 Solution Access FREE MTSS Curriculum Samples Attend our next live product preview Visit the CharacterStrong Website Dr. Christian D'Annibale is in his third year as Principal of Pottstown High School in the Pottstown School District. He had previously led New Cumberland Middle School as the principal, was an assistant principal at Bermudian Springs Middle School and taught seventh-grade social studies at Mechanicsburg Middle School. Dr. D'Annibale attended Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania for his undergraduate studies and completed his doctorate in educational leadership at Shippensburg in August 2022. He and his family live in Pottstown, where they love the schools, the community and attending as many family-friendly events as possible.

Today our guest is Callie Robinson the Student Success Coordinator at Oak Ridge Schools. We talk to Callie about the transformative impact of grouping strategies in education. Callie shares her experiences with these strategies, highlighting how they've fostered meaningful connections among students and how teachers are integrating them into their classrooms. She also reveals how simple, well-structured grouping techniques save valuable time—whether in the classroom or during meetings with principals and administrators. Learn More About CharacterStrong:  Learn more about the NEW Tier 3 Solution Access FREE MTSS Curriculum Samples Attend our next live product preview Visit the CharacterStrong Website Callie Robinson is an experienced educator with 15 years of dedicated service in the field of education. Her career journey has included roles as a classroom teacher, gifted educator, and STEM Instructional Coach, where she developed a deep understanding of diverse learning styles and the importance of engaging all students. Now in her fourth year as the Student Success Coordinator for Oak Ridge Schools, Callie focuses on supporting school counselors across the district and enhancing school safety initiatives. She plays a key role in promoting social-emotional learning (SEL) and helping to create an environment where students feel safe, valued, and supported in their academic and personal growth. Callie is passionate about developing innovative programs that empower students, foster positive school climates, and address the unique needs of each student. Her commitment to student achievement, well-being, and holistic development has made her a trusted and valued member of the Oak Ridge community. Outside of work, Callie enjoys spending quality time with her husband, Bryce, and their close-knit circle of friends and family in Knoxville, TN. Whether they're hosting gatherings or just hanging out, Callie values the support and connection that comes from her community.

Today our guest is Jennifer Sack - Lead School Counselor, Booker T. Washington High School in Oklahoma. We talk to Jennifer about the student safe team, a student group that works to create and foster a positive school culture. She outlines why it started, the different focuses that the team has, and what it looks like during the different seasons of the school year. Jennifer shares how this group as really positively impacted student mental health across the campus as they work to create space where they can support others. She also gives some examples of how they have used some of the CharacterStrong resources to help lead the student safe team. Learn More About CharacterStrong:  Learn more about the NEW Tier 3 Solution Access FREE MTSS Curriculum Samples Attend our next live product preview Visit the CharacterStrong Website

Today our guest is Robert Mueller, Middle School Assistant Principal at Platte County R3 Schools. Robert shares his unique approach to implementing CharacterStrong at his school by personally leading an advisory class as an administrator. He highlights how this hands-on strategy fostered meaningful connections with staff and students, setting the stage for a successful second year of implementation. Robert also discusses his commitment to supporting his team by co-teaching lessons every Tuesday, offering valuable insights into creating a culture of collaboration and growth. Learn More About CharacterStrong:  Learn more about the NEW Tier 3 Solution Access FREE MTSS Curriculum Samples Attend our next live product preview Visit the CharacterStrong Website  

Today our guest is Ty Harris the Director of the Office for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at Virginia Beach City Public Schools. We talk with Ty about the powerful ‘why' behind his work and how his own high school experiences paved the way for what he does today. Ty shares insights on building a community of practice that fosters a genuine sense of belonging for students by amplifying their voices. He discusses how his team used survey data to identify student needs and, with intentionality, brought students into the conversation to create an environment where everyone feels they belong. Learn More About CharacterStrong:  Learn more about the NEW Tier 3 Solution Access FREE MTSS Curriculum Samples Attend our next live product preview Visit the CharacterStrong Website   Ty Harris is the Director of the Office for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) for Virginia Beach City Public Schools. He leads the implementation of the school division's educational equity plan, as well as efforts to increase cultural competencies for all stakeholders. Harris has a passion for leveraging student voice and increasing awareness and understanding of neurodiversity. Harris started his education journey as a high school social studies teacher in Greenville County, South Carolina. He also taught in Fairfax County, Virginia, before taking a specialist position with the U.S. Department of Education (DoED). While with the DoED, Harris worked with magnet and charter schools, and helped implement the Promise Neighborhoods program under then President Barack Obama. This program is modeled after the Harlem Children's Zone and seeks to end the cycle of poverty with schools as the focal point. After leaving the DoED, Harris moved into school administration where he spent five years as a middle school principal and two as a high school assistant principal. Harris holds a bachelor's degree from Clemson University, a master's degree from George Mason University, an education specialist degree from Old Dominion University and an advanced certification for DEI from Cornell University.

Today our guest is Colton Moore an amazing intern on our Secondary team! We talk with Colton about the importance gratitude and well-being. Colton shares how CharacterStrong integrates gratitude into lessons and highlights the transformative impact of being specific when expressing appreciation. He also discusses how embracing constraints can spark creativity. Together, Colton and Houston walk us through some engaging gratitude activities that can help us all explore thankfulness in fun, innovative ways. Learn More About CharacterStrong:  Learn more about the NEW Tier 3 Solution Access FREE MTSS Curriculum Samples Attend our next live product preview Visit the CharacterStrong Website

Today our guest are Justin Moorman & Katie Thornton from Centerville City Schools & the (Re)Education of Schools Podcast. We talk to Justin & Katie about how they have integrated the CharacterStrong curriculum with additional resources like on-demand professional development to foster trauma-informed, restorative, and inclusive school environments. Justin and Katie share why trauma-informed care is crucial and we explore what this approach looks like in a high school setting. Check out the (Re)Education of Schools Podcast Learn More About CharacterStrong:  Learn more about the NEW Tier 3 Solution Access FREE MTSS Curriculum Samples Attend our next live product preview Visit the CharacterStrong Website Justin Moorman and Katie Thornton are veteran educators who are well versed in Trauma Informed Practices with advanced training in the Neurose quential Model in Education, Applied Educational Neuroscience, Crisis Prevention Intervention, Restorative Practices, Treatment and Education of Autistic and related Communication Handicapped Children (TEACCH), and Advanced Collaborative and Proactive Solutions. They believe kids do well if they can, and problems should be solved WITH kids. They look forward to sharing their passion with others to continue to help reform educational practices based on current research. Katie and Justin have launched the (Re)Education of Schools Podcast to give voice, advocacy, support, and professional development to other educators.

Today our guest is Leandra Torra - Social Emotional Learning and Trauma Informed Care Manager at Jefferson County Public Schools. We talk to Leandra about best practices for using data to track and enhance social and emotional learning. Leandra discusses how data not only informs decision-making but also requires careful monitoring, prioritization, and streamlined processes. She shares how their district leverages systems, training, and data dashboards to identify trends, assess program effectiveness, and ensure fidelity, all in support of 93 schools across the district. Learn More About CharacterStrong:  Learn more about the NEW Tier 3 Solution Access FREE MTSS Curriculum Samples Attend our next live product preview Visit the CharacterStrong Website Leandra R. Torra is a Social Emotional Learning and Trauma-Informed Care Manager in the Culture and Climate Division at Jefferson County Public Schools. With over 21 years of experience in education, Leandra has served as both an elementary teacher and a middle school counselor. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education, along with Master's degrees in School Leadership and School Counseling, all from Western Kentucky University. Leandra is passionate about supporting students and believes that every child is just one caring adult away from success. She lives in Louisville, Kentucky, with her husband James and their two children.

Today our guest is Barbara Gruener a seasoned consultant, mentor, author, and coach. Barbara sheds light on the significance of names in fostering respectful and compassionate relationships, particularly in school settings. We explore how using names thoughtfully can help nurture a more inclusive and caring environment for both students and staff. Barbara also introduces her latest book, which delves into the power of understanding and respect in personal relationships, offering valuable insights for educators and beyond. Learn More About CharacterStrong:  Learn more about the NEW Tier 3 Solution Access FREE MTSS Curriculum Samples Attend our next live product preview Visit the CharacterStrong Website A nationally-recognized speaker, veteran counselor, and author of three Mom's Choice Gold Award books, Barbara Gruener thrives on positively influencing character change, passionately helping people stay in the moment to create caring connections, and intentionally improving school climate and culture. Her innovative, inspirational ideas are sparked by 40 years in education growing alongside learners from every age and stage on her home campus as well as in myriad schools where she is a mentor. Barbara's high energy growth sessions have captivated educators and encouraged them to connect by heart as they spread hope and joy in their character building. Though Barbara's farming roots will always be in Wisconsin, she and her husband raised their now-grown family in Friendswood, Texas. She was just promoted to Grammy, most certainly her best gig yet.

Today our guest is Cindy Bourget - Middle School Counselor, Elk Mound Area School District and also a 2024 ASCA School Counselor of the Year finalist. We talk to Cindy about how she integrates CharacterStrong as a Universal Tier 1 support, helping teachers effectively use it in their homeroom settings. Cindy emphasizes that Tier 1 is about the day-to-day functioning of a school community, and she explains how CharacterStrong aligns with the ASCA Student Standards for Student Success. She also shares her approach to using conversation circles, a powerful tool to encourage movement, foster dialogue, and keep students engaged. Learn More About CharacterStrong:  Learn more about the NEW Tier 3 Solution Access FREE MTSS Curriculum Samples Attend our next live product preview Visit the CharacterStrong Website Cindy Bourget is a school counselor of 10 years who believes that every student deserves a school counselor. As a first generation college graduate, she focuses on building systems that ensure all students are supported. She is the current Wisconsin School Counselor Association Data Director and a 2024 National School Counselor of the Year Finalist.

We talk with Dr. Clay Cook the Chief Development Officer at CharacterStrong about the brand new Tier 3 Solution. Clay shares valuable insights into how this tool is designed to provide targeted support for students with more intensive needs. He discussed the key features of the solution, how it aligns with CharacterStrong's overall mission, and the ways it can empower educators to effectively address challenges in schools. Learn More About CharacterStrong:  Learn more about the NEW Tier 3 Solution Access FREE MTSS Curriculum Samples Attend our next live product preview Visit the CharacterStrong Website

In today's episode, CharacterStrong Co-Founder John Norlin discusses the 'Law of the Lid,' reminding us that we are all leaders with more influence than we often realize. He also offers three powerful insights for educators, providing practical reminders that can inspire and elevate our leadership in and out of the classroom. Learn More About CharacterStrong:  Access FREE MTSS Curriculum Samples Learn more about the NEW Tier 3 Solution Attend our next live product preview Visit the CharacterStrong Website

Today our guest is Dr. Lillie Cox - Owner/Founder, WE Lead also the Executive Director of North Carolina Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development (NCASCD) and the Piedmont Triad Education Consortium (PTEC) We talk to Dr. Cox about how WE Lead supports women in educational leadership and how women can find their voice and develop a legacy as leaders in education. She shares about the need to have more women in leadership today and how she created WE Lead to help women in confidence & preparedness, career development, and wellness.   Learn More About CharacterStrong:  Access FREE MTSS Curriculum Samples Learn more about the NEW Tier 3 Solution Attend our next live product preview Visit the CharacterStrong Website   WE LEAD was created by Dr. Lillie Cox to provide an opportunity for women in educational leadership to find support and growth on their professional journeys. For her work with female leaders and for the creation of WE LEAD, Dr. Cox has been awarded the AASA 2021 Dr. Effie H. Jones Humanitarian Award. Those recognized have a commitment to the advancement and mentorship of women and minorities in positions of leadership. Dr. Cox is currently the Executive Director of North Carolina Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development (NCASCD) and the Piedmont Triad Education Consortium (PTEC). She is a former district superintendent, central office administrator, elementary, middle and high school principal and teacher in North Carolina.

In this episode, we kick off Season 7 with CharacterStrong Co-Founders John and Houston! They discuss the latest updates and exciting developments at CharacterStrong, including the recent CASEL SELect designation, new bullying prevention lessons, high school lesson updates, and a series of new videos. Plus, they introduce the brand-new Behavior Response Protocol and Attendance Toolkit. They also share how CharacterStrong is now a full MTSS solution, offering Tier 1, Tier 2, and the newly launched Tier 3 solutions, which became available on September 5th! Learn More About CharacterStrong:  Access FREE MTSS Curriculum Samples Learn more about the NEW Tier 3 Solution Attend our next live product preview Visit the CharacterStrong Website

CharacterStrong co-founder Houston Kraft and Stanford Psychologist Dr. Jamil Zaki talk about practical insights and strategies to provide hope and empathy in this new school year. They discuss hopeful skepticism and meaningful ways to support students (and adults) as we start the first few weeks of school.  Learn More About CharacterStrong:  Access FREE MTSS Curriculum Samples Attend our next live product preview Visit the CharacterStrong Website Dr. Jamil Zaki is a professor of psychology at Stanford University and the director of the Stanford Social Neuroscience Lab. Using tools from psychology and neuroscience, he and his colleagues examine how empathy works and how people can learn to empathize more effectively. His writing on these topics has appeared in the New York Times, the Washington Post, the New Yorker, and the Atlantic. He lives in San Francisco with his wife and their two daughters.

Today our guest is A.J. Howard the CEO and Co-Founder of Tracked Learning. We talk with A.J. about the importance of progress monitoring and data collection. A.J. highlights the common challenges special education teachers often face in collecting and tracking data while supporting students. He also shares how he helped develop a solution that addresses these challenges, ultimately giving teachers more time to focus on their students in the classroom Learn More About CharacterStrong:  Access FREE MTSS Curriculum Samples Attend our next live product preview Visit the CharacterStrong Website   A.J.'s Bio: My name is A.J. Howard and I am co-founder and a ceo of Tracked Learning. I have worked in special education for over a decade and have two masters degrees and my national board certification. I live in northeast Washington with my wife and 3 kids. We love spending as much time together and. Wing outdoors as much as we can. With high caseloads and being the only sped teacher in my building while overseeing multiple programs, I was starting to burn out quick and it transferred to my home life, something I was not okay with. I needed better quality data and to stop reinventing the wheel weekly, monthly, quarterly. I started compiling information, way to assess, meeting with special education teachers across the globe, along with other things and team up with Jeremy Korthuis to build what is now Tracked Learning. A software program designed to help streamline the special education action process and get teachers the quality data that they need to make informed decisions to best support their students. It gives others and myself the time to be intentional and effective and also the head space to be fully present with my family at home.

Today our guest is Dr. Jim Van Allen, President of The Energy Bus for Schools We talk to Dr. Van Allen about building a positive school culture. He talks about how culture isn't one thing, it's everything and it dictates all that schools want to accomplish. Dr. Van Allen reminds us that we need to focus on the roots of positive school culture as we work to serve students better, and talks about the relationship between school culture and data. Learn More About CharacterStrong:  Access FREE MTSS Curriculum Samples Attend our next live product preview Visit the CharacterStrong Website   Dr. Jim Van Allan is President of The Energy Bus for Schools. He runs The Energy Bus for Schools program which gives schools the blueprint and framework to create a positive school culture. He coaches school leaders and superintendents on mindset, teamwork, communication, and culture-building. Additionally, Jim speaks to schools and districts across the country with keynotes, trainings, workshops, and student assemblies. He is the co-author of the book, The Energy Bus for Schools, with Jon Gordon. Jim is also a Professor of Communication Studies and Lead Speech Instructor with Keiser University, which is based in Florida. He teaches Public Speaking, Interpersonal Communication, and Business Communication. Jim holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Public Relations from the University of Florida and a Master of Arts degree in Communication Studies from Florida Atlantic University. He also earned his Ph.D in Education Leadership from Keiser University. Jim studied the impact of an early version of The Energy Bus for Schools program on a model school in Ohio. Much of his research centered around the impact of sustainable professional development for schools. He lives in Palm City, Florida, with his wife and three children, Brady, Brenden, and Brinley.

Today our guest is Dr. Chris Clayton the Director of Education Services for the Educator Pipeline and Profession for the Pennsylvania State Education Association. We talk to Dr. Clayton about the importance of developing and supporting a robust educator pipeline. He highlights several of the opportunities available for building pipelines and shares insights on the initiatives already underway in Pennsylvania. Dr. Clayton also details the ways they offer year-round support to new and aspiring teachers—professionally, financially, and in the classroom. Learn More About CharacterStrong:  Access FREE MTSS Curriculum Samples Attend our next live product preview Visit the CharacterStrong Website In addition to his work with CharacterStrong as a Presenter and Consultant, Dr. Christopher M. Clayton serves as the Director of Education Services for the Educator Pipeline and Profession for the Pennsylvania State Education Association.  In this role with PSEA, he is responsible for providing support to over 178,000 educator members on issues involving teacher certification, student achievement, pedagogical best practices and research in teaching and learning and directs the Student PSEA Aspiring Educator Program, serves as the State Coordinator for the Pennsylvania Educators Rising (high school students) Program, and coordinates PSEA's New & Early Career Educator Platform. He earned a Ph.D. in Language and Literacy Education and an Ed. S. Degree in Education Leadership, Administration, & Policy at The University of Georgia along with a Master's Degree in Curriculum & Instruction from Regis University in Denver, CO.  He is a National Board-Certified Teacher (2008, renewed in 2018) who was named the Washington Puyallup Valley Teacher of the Year in 2011 prior to starting with PSEA where he served as a high school English and International Baccalaureate Theory of Knowledge teacher and coach for over ten years in Southern California and Washington state before becoming a district administrator and Director of Curriculum & Instruction in a large metro-Atlanta school district with 138 schools and over 100,000 students.  He moved to Hershey to begin his role with PSEA in 2014 and happily resides there with his wife, two daughters, son, and granddaughter.

Today our guest is Karissa Bachman, 3rd grade teacher at Maple Lawn Elementary, in the Sumner Bonney-Lake School District.  We talk to Karissa about creative strategies that enhance student learning and engagement in the classroom. She shares a variety of practical approaches, including setting up a "relaxation station" to help students manage stress and stay focused, incorporating students into classroom management roles, and using effective behavior management tools to maintain a positive and productive learning environment. Learn More About CharacterStrong:  Access FREE MTSS Curriculum Samples Attend our next live product preview Visit the CharacterStrong Website   Karissa Bachman is going into her seventh year of teaching 3rd grade. Currently, she works at Maple Lawn Elementary in the Sumner Bonney-Lake school district, having spent 2 years in the Issaquah school district before returning to the school district she grew up in. She received her bachelor's degree from Washington State University, in Elementary Education with an endorsement in English Language Learners. Her first year teaching was spent at a Title 1 school, and after that year she felt inspired to learn more about how to support her students' emotional and behavioral needs. She went back to school and received her master's from Bellarmine University in Trauma Informed Practices. This program has shifted Karissa's perspective and helps her better meet her student's emotional needs, which in turn has allowed her to more effectively meet her students' academic needs.