Podcasts about characterstrong

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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 guests are Kate Nichols, and Jill Gleason, School Counselor & Intervention Director at Beaver Valley Elementary in Brush, Colorado. We talk to Kate and Jill about ways that they integrate their current PBIS system at Beaver Valley Elementary with curriculum like CharacterStrong. They share about the PBIS matrix that they use for their school and share how they are combining it with the traits “Be Well”, “Be Strong”, and “Be Kind” from the PurposeFull People curriculum along with other elements like morning meetings. Kate and Jill also talk about how they intentionally take the time to pre-correct expectations are as they interact in the different spaces of the school and how this can work for students of any age. Learn More About CharacterStrong:  Access FREE MTSS Curriculum Samples Attend our next live product preview Visit the CharacterStrong Website   Bio: Hi! We are Kate Nichols and Jill Gleason. Combined we have worked in education for forty years, with thirty-four of those years at our current school, Beaver Valley Elementary. Kate has taught 3rd, 4th, 5th, 6th, Intervention and is currently the school counselor. Jill was a third grade teacher for twenty years, has been an interventionist, and is currently the intervention director.

Today our guests are Ryan Breen, a sophomore at Chaminade High School and Adam Giardina, Guidance Counselor at Chaminade High School. We talk to Ryan & Adam about an article that Ryan wrote for the New York Post Scholars Contest that focuses on the mental health of of young men. Ryan shares why he wrote the article and the needs that he is seeing in the young men in his community. Adam shares about how they have started to implement CharacterStrong in this first year of adoption, and how it is helping the students at Chaminade focus on their mental health. Ryan & Adam also share a few tips for other schools & districts that are implementing CharacterStrong. To Read Ryan's NY Post Article Click Here Learn More About CharacterStrong:  Join us at the 2024 CharacterStrong National Conference Access FREE MTSS Curriculum Samples Attend our next live product preview Visit the CharacterStrong Website

Today our guest is Felisha Santiago, Director of School Supports at CharacterStrong. We talk to Felisha about the impact of Restorative Practices can have in our schools, with both students & staff. She discusses how restorative practices assist students who have committed an offense to reflect and rectify the situation. Felisha talks about how restorative practices can be implemented at various levels of school relationships: individual, classroom, and school-wide. She also shares that, when executed properly, Restorative Practices can help decrease behavioral issues. Click to download the Student behavior checklist: characterstrong.com/studentbehaviorchecklist Learn More About CharacterStrong:  Access FREE Curriculum Samples Attend our next live product preview Visit the CharacterStrong Website

Today our guest is Dr. Lori Lynass, Director of Tier 2 and Tier 3 at CharacterStrong. We talk with Dr. Lynass the impact of student behavior on educator burnout and possible solutions. She gives a current statistic that shows that teachers have the highest burnout rate among professionals right now. Dr. Lynass explains that student misbehavior often indicates they are deregulated, and emphasizes that connection is a crucial tool to meet students' needs. She also suggests some strategies educators can use to give students a break, pointing out that educators, too, also sometimes need step back and take a quick break.   Click to download the Student behavior checklist: characterstrong.com/studentbehaviorchecklist Learn More About CharacterStrong:  Access FREE Curriculum Samples Attend our next live product preview Visit the CharacterStrong Website

Today our guest is Dr. Clay Cook, the Chief development Officer at CharacterStrong. We talk to Clay about the importance of connectedness when it comes to Chronic Absenteeism. He first asks the question “What happens when people don't feel connected?” and shares about the SERVE model that helps educators intentionally connect at school. Dr. Cook also shares 3 ways that we can help students build value and purpose at school and ultimately be more connected: Promote positive educator-student relationships, Community-building relational activities, and School-wide opportunities that help students feel connected to school.   Click to download the Problem-Solving Blueprint for Chronic Absenteeism: characterstrong.com/chronicabsenteeism   Learn More About CharacterStrong:  Access FREE Curriculum Samples Attend our next live product preview Visit the CharacterStrong Website

Most people intuitively understand kindness, but defining what it means, how it impacts those around us, and how to practice it can be truly revealing. We're joined by Houston Kraft, co-founder of CharacterStrong, and Nikki Sparks, lead of the American Student Council Association (ASCA), to discuss the ways principals, staff, and students specifically can lead with empathy to create a kinder school and community. Houston Kraft is co-founder of CharacterStrong, an organization providing curriculum and training to help teach leadership, character, and social-emotional skills, and author of Deep Kindness, and Be Kind. Nikki Sparks is assistant executive director of executive services and recognition programs at NAESP, administering programs such as ASCA, the President's Education Awards, and the National Distinguished Principal® program. Donna McGuire is assistant principal at The Park Terrace School in New York City, a 2023 NAESP National Outstanding Assistant Principal, and moderates the NAESP Assistant Principal Community of Practice.

Today our guest is Dr. Clay Cook, Chief development Officer at CharacterStrong. We talk to Clay about ways that we can begin to solve for Chronic Absenteeism. Dr. Cook emphasizes the need for a process to identify the root causes of chronic absenteeism. He shares that merely defining the problem isn't sufficient. Instead, we should look to understand why students are consistently absent from school. He identifies six root causes of chronic absenteeism and outlines a process to create an evidence-based problem-solving plan to support students. Click to download the Problem-Solving Blueprint for Chronic Absenteeism: characterstrong.com/chronicabsenteeism   Learn More About CharacterStrong:  Access FREE Curriculum Samples Attend our next live product preview Visit the CharacterStrong Website

Today our guests our Jennifer Klauss, Executive Director of Secondary Teaching & Learning and Derek O'Konek, Executive Director of Elementary Teaching & Learning both in the Richland School District. We talk to Jen & Derek about the CharacterStrong partnership that the Richland School District has as they support students. They highlight the successful implementation strategies observed, the deliberate construction of the program adoption process, and the lessons learned. Jen & Derek detail how they involved parents, teachers, administrators, and school board members in the process. They also describe the success of the coaching system that has been created to assist and support each of their 21 schools. Learn more about how you can bring CharacterStrong to your district or school:  Access FREE Curriculum Samples Attend our next live product preview Visit the CharacterStrong Website

Today our guests are Caroline Oleson the Tier 2 SEL and Intensive Support Team for the Madison Metropolitan SD and Kelly Nelson the SEL Tier 2 Elementary Teacher Leader for the Madison Metropolitan School District We talk to Caroline & Kelly about their experience implementing CharacterStrong in their district. They share some implementation successes they have had, ways that CharacterStrong has helped to support the district, and lessons they have learned along the way. Caroline & Kelly also give some tips and strategies for others that implementing solutions in their school or district. Learn More About CharacterStrong:  Access FREE Curriculum Samples Attend our next live product preview Visit the CharacterStrong Website   About Caroline:  Hello, I'm Caroline Oleson, and with over twenty years in education, I've cultivated a deep commitment to the field. Earning dual master's degrees, one in education with certification in special education, and the other in school counseling, I've dedicated my career in the Madison Metropolitan School District to empowering teachers in the realms of behavior and social-emotional learning. Currently, I hold a pivotal role in supporting educators across both special and regular education. My specific areas of emphasis include Tier 2 SEL Systems of Support and Tier 3 interventions, including student-specific problem-solving, ensuring a comprehensive approach to student development. Fueled by a passion for creating supportive learning environments for both students and staff, I remain steadfast in my commitment to ongoing collaboration and professional growth in the areas I support and beyond. About Kelly: My name is Kelly Nelson, and I proudly serve as the SEL Tier 2 Elementary Teacher Leader for the Madison Metropolitan School District. My passion for children is the driving force behind my dedication to providing equitable and quality learning experiences for all students. In my role, I collaboratively support staff, working towards the development of systemic SEL practices that positively impact the district's culture. With a love for adventure and a knack for thriving in the face of challenges, I value teamwork and creativity in the educational journey. As an educator with over 17 years of experience, I bring a wealth of knowledge to the table. Holding a master's degree in education, a National Board's Certification, and having co-founded a children's museum, I am deeply committed to fostering engaging and innovative learning environments. My journey in education is marked by a profound love for lifelong learning, driven by compassion and determination.

Today our guest is Tyler Wolfe, the Director of Student Wellness at Dublin City Schools. We talk to Tyler about the increase in the mental health needs of students and how, to help meet these needs, they created a 2 year program that supports teachers in the district to go back to school to get their Masters degree. This is possible thru a partnership they have built with The Ohio State University. Tyler explains how the program will provide each school in the district with a mental health specialist on their campus and how the district sees the program as an important investment into the future. Learn More About CharacterStrong:  Access FREE Curriculum Samples Attend our next live product preview Visit the CharacterStrong Website   For the past 3 years, Tyler Wolfe has served as the Director of Student Wellness in Dublin City Schools where he oversees programming and personnel for all mental health, counseling and substance use disorder services.  Tyler has worked with building leadership teams to bring Hope Squad to every high school and middle school in the district, co-implement PBIS programming with fidelity at 24 schools, and onboard CharacterStrong as a Tier I and Tier II resource for all 14 elementary schools. In collaboration with The Ohio State University, Tyler has brought LiFEsports to Dublin City Schools, which is a positive youth development program for underserved and marginalized youth.  In addition, Tyler is currently engaged in a collaborative partnership with The Ohio State University to provide 25 internal staff credentialing to become school social workers in Dublin City Schools through a “Grow Your Own” initiative that began in 2023.  Tyler has spent over 30 years in education as a special education teacher, elementary principal and district level director. Tyler lives with his wife Laura in Columbus Ohio, both of which are Crossfit addicts.  They have 2 grown daughters and 2 Australian Shepherds named Carlos and Cinch.  

Have you ever thought about what it takes to be successful? Does ones character play into it? On this episode Monica shares with us somewhat of a dilemma she is having with a current team member. Pulling from an older episode, she revisits what it takes to be successful and her definition of strong character. Join the Become Your Own Boss Facebook Group --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/becomeyourownboss/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/becomeyourownboss/support

Today we talk with CharacterStrong's Chief Development Officer Dr. Clay Cook about what's needed for a full Tier 3 Solution. He lays out 4 critical parts when it comes to tier 3: a process, personalized interventions, good data tools, and professional development. Dr. Cook explains that Tier 3 isn't just interventions but it's a system of personalized, data-driven supports that are activated based on the student needs. He also emphasizes the need for strong, effective, professional development that support our teams and help them become confident as they work to provide Tier 3 supports. Learn More: Register for our next Tier 3 Product Preview Get the latest updates about CharacterStrong's Tier 3 Solution Register for our FREE Webinar: Why Schools Struggle with Tier 3 Supports

Today we talk with CharacterStrong's Chief Development Officer Dr. Clay Cook about why Schools Struggle with Tier 3 Supports. He outlines 3 basic reasons that schools and districts encounter roadblocks as they implement Tier 3. Dr. Cook dives into solutions to help overcome them such as increasing educator confidence, shifting the internal locus of control, and quality professional development. He also shares about the importance of teams coming together to consistently providing proactive, preventative Tier 3 supports, and how being proactive can positively impact a school system. Learn More: Register for our next Tier 3 Product Preview Get the latest updates about CharacterStrong's Tier 3 Solution Register for our FREE Webinar: Why Schools Struggle with Tier 3 Supports

Today we talk with CharacterStrong's Chief Development Officer, Dr. Clay Cook about what needs to happen when Tier 1 and 2 Supports aren't enough. He explains that when Tier 1 & 2 supports are lacking, a lot of students can look like they are in need of Tier 3 supports. As schools begin to work towards implementing Tier 3 supports, Dr. Cook emphasizes the need for clear responsibilities and streamlined decision making. He also stresses the importance of providing staff with low burden, high impact resources and quality professional development to effectively help students with greater needs.  Learn More About CharacterStrong:  Get the latest updates about CharacterStrong's Tier 3 Solution Register for our FREE Webinar: Why Schools Struggle with Tier 3 Supports Visit the CharacterStrong Website  

Today our guest is Liz Ritz the Director of Teaching and Learning, at Oak Harbor Public Schools. We talk to Liz about her experience infusing CharacterStrong throughout the Oak Harbor district, and she shares difference between implementing with fidelity and integrity. Liz highlights the importance of building relationships in meetings, professional development, and one-on-one sessions with staff.. She also explains how having a Tier 1 program has laid a strong foundation as they proactively support students and how this foundation has helped as they begin to roll out Tier 2 supports. Learn More About CharacterStrong:  Visit the CharacterStrong Website Access Curriculum Samples Attend a live product preview Liz Ritz is the Director of Teaching & Learning in Oak Harbor Public Schools located on beautiful Whidbey Island in Washington State.  This is Liz's fifth year in this role and her twenty-fourth year in education.  Prior to working in Oak Harbor, Liz served in the Bellevue School District as a paraeducator, teacher, instructional coach, principal, and Director of Curriculum and Instruction.  Liz recently earned her Superintendent credential and is actively working on completing the last two chapters of her Doctoral Dissertation.  Outside of her educational role, Liz is actively involved in the rugby community and enjoys spending time with her family, specifically watching both daughters, ages 17 and 12, compete on the rugby pitch.

Today our guest is Kiley Luckett the District Mental Health Coordinator with Lawrence Public Schools in Lawrence Kansas. We talk to Kiley about how they have planned, selected, and implemented the CharacterStrong curriculum over this last year. She shares about what they did as a district to make initial & ongoing implementation successful with both staff and students. Kiley also talks about the importance that clarity, competency, and consistency has been in helping the schools across the district collectively serve students better. Learn More About CharacterStrong:  Visit the CharacterStrong Website Access Curriculum Samples Attend a live product preview   Kiley Luckett is a dedicated social worker and mental health advocate with a proven track record in supporting students' well-being. With more than 10 years experience as a elementary school counselor, Kiley has recently transitioned into the role of District Mental Health Coordinator with Lawrence Public Schools in Lawrence Kansas. Kiley spearheads comprehensive mental health initiatives, acts as a community liaison, and works to enhance Social and Emotional Leaning district wide . She has a passion for fostering positive, inclusive, and connected environments within educational settings. Kiley holds a bachelor's and master's degree of Social Work from The University of Kansas, where she is also an adjunct lecturer. Her collaborative approach, empathy, and strategic mindset make her a valued team member in promoting mental health awareness and resilience throughout the district.

We're counting down the top 6 podcasts of 2023!  Today, our guest is Dr. Clay Cook, the Chief Development Officer at CharacterStrong. We speak with Clay about why Tier 1 and Tier 2 supports should run concurrently instead of waiting for Tier 1 to be fully in place before starting Tier 2. He identifies some of the necessary components for this approach and discusses the differences between Tier 1 and Tier 2. Clay also emphasizes the time required to support students with Tier 2 needs, and he talks about the impact that it can have when Tier 1 and Tier 2 are efficiently implemented together. Learn More:  Visit the CharacterStrong Website

This week CharacterStrong Co-Founder John Norlin overviews a weekly meeting process that has been a part of CharacterStrong from the beginning. He shares about the EOS process and talks about about the regular weekly meeting principles that anyone can use to help bring high accountability and high supports for us and our teams. Learn More:  Send us your thoughts/questions at info@characterstrong.com Visit the CharacterStrong Website

Today our guest is Cory Notestine the Executive Director of People at CharacterStrong. We talk with Cory about how implementing MTSS can often feel like the wild west as schools within districts each do their own things, making it difficult to track and support MTSS implementation. He shares how some of the pain points in implementation come from us not truly understanding the systems that we work in, how they operate, and who the decision makers are. Cory talks about how districts are often overflowing with implementation efforts, and when we start to zero in on just few of them with support, educators are more able to start implementing them well. Learn More:  Register for our FREE MTSS Summit Join us at our next MTSS Certification Training Visit the CharacterStrong Website

Today our guest is Melissa Rosario, Elementary Specialist at CharacterStrong. We talk to Melissa about ways that we can provide continuous, ongoing, and effective support for new teachers. Melissa highlights the concerning statistics regarding new teachers and the decline of teachers in schools today. She explains the 5 phases of first-year teachers and how we can use them to design support programs. Melissa suggests several intentional ways to support new teachers, including creating programs and partnerships, giving them a head start on the year, welcoming them into the school, and providing guidance as they set up their first classroom. Additionally, Melissa emphasizes the positive impact of mentorship from a veteran teacher can have during the first year of teaching. Learn More:  Visit the CharacterStrong Website

Today our guest is Brandon Bakke - Director of Secondary Education at CharacterStrong. We talk to Brandon about ways that we can work to support principals not only during National Principal's Month but also throughout the year. Brandon emphasizes the impact of simple acts of gratitude, such as sending a quick note, compliment, or video. He also shares a really creative idea to help principals build relationships in a way that they might not normally have the opportunity to do. In addition, Brandon emphasizes the importance of simplicity and specificity in expressing gratitude towards others. Learn More:  Visit the CharacterStrong Website

Today our guest is Megan Gruis the Executive Director of Implementation Supports & Tier 2 at CharacterStrong. We talk with Megan about the importance of coaching alongside professional development (PD), and the science behind it. She reminds us that it is not enough to simply introduce new ideas during implementation; consistent coaching of our teams is necessary to help them be more effective in their efforts to help students. Megan shares research and statistics that demonstrate the impact of coaching, and explains how it relates to confidence and retention. She also emphasizes the importance of establishing heart-to-heart relationships, and reminds us that change is a process that requires support as we move forward. Learn More:  Visit characterstrong.com Click here to get more info about CharacterStrong's Coaching Packages

Today our guest is Jana Clark, Assistant Principal, Hurst-Euless-Bedford Independent School District. We talk with Jana about the significance of planning professional development. She shares how she approaches professional development by considering what educators require and how administrators can support them through great PD. Jana explains how they intentionally connect teachers from various schools to remind them about the impact they have on students' lives. Additionally, she shares how they model campus expectations for educators during professional development, providing strategies that they can bring back to the classroom. Learn More:  Visit characterstrong.com Get more info about CharacterStrong's Professional Development options Jana Clark has served 15 years as an educator. Her teaching journey began as a coach, theatre, special education, and communications applications teacher. After spending seven years in the classroom, she transitioned into campus administration and has served eight years as an assistant principal for both high school and junior high. Currently, Jana is an Assistant Principal at Harwood Junior High in HEB ISD, an “A” rated campus that has been designated as a National Schools to Watch. Her commitment to excellence has been recognized, as she was awarded TASSP Assistant Principal of the Year in 2022 and HEB Assistant Principal of the Year in 2021 and 2023. Jana considers it her personal mission to educate, inspire, and challenge students and staff to reach their full potential!

Today our guest is Chris Layton the Executive Director of Partnerships at CharacterStrong. We talk to Chris about how we can be more intentional, relational, and transformational leaders. He breaks down each one of those focuses and gives us some examples of how we intentionally shape our school cultures every single day. Chris also reminds us that growth in these areas doesn't just happen, we have to have a plan, and he shares how he plans for personal growth throughout the year. Learn More:  Regional School Culture Trainings Visit characterstrong.com

Today our guest is Dr. Clay Cook the Chief Development Officer at CharacterStrong. We talk with Clay about the importance of focusing on Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS). He shares that MTSS is a framework that provides a continuum of supports that can be matched to the level of student needs. Clay also emphasizes the need for adult supports to ensure that educators are engaging in effective practices for all students. He he shares how CharacterStrong is supporting this work with an MTSS Certification and a Tier 2 Certification. Finally, Clay stresses the importance of ongoing professional learning as a key element in implementing MTSS systems. Learn More:  CharacterStrong MTSS Certification Training CharacterStrong Tier 2 Certification Training Visit characterstrong.com

Today our guest is Halli Roussell a Secondary Specialist at CharacterStrong. We talk to Halli about the importance of student voice and choice. She emphasizes that when we take the time to elevate student voice in the classroom, it increases engagement over the long term. Halli provides some practical examples of how she incorporated student voice during her time as a middle school teacher, and talks about the benefits that students experience as a result. Halli also highlights the importance of not only starting a unit with student voice, but also incorporating it as a way to end a unit.  To learn more about CharacterStrong visit characterstrong.com

Today our guest is Dr. Jeremy Koselak, the Director for Professional Learning in Academy District 20 in Colorado Springs. We talk with Dr. Koselak about the importance and critical aspects of Professional Learning Communities (PLCs) in relation to academic and social/emotional wellness for educators and students. He explains that while PLCs have traditionally focused on academics, they have recently become more holistic. Dr. Koselak emphasizes the need for structures to facilitate collaboration, but also the importance of being intentional about what topics are discussed during these meetings. He stresses the need for a more holistic, team-based approach to supporting students, and highlights the key role that data plays in driving PLC work. To learn more about CharacterStrong visit characterstrong.com Dr. Jeremy Koselak is an author, researcher, consultant, and the current Director for Professional Learning in Academy District 20. He is a former high school teacher, interventionist, and district coordinator for RTI, MTSS, PLC and school improvement. Dr. Koselak cofounded a highly successful tutoring center at a large, diverse urban high school, which was featured in several articles and books.

Today our guest is Chelsea Hinkle, 5th Grade School Counselor at Roosevelt Middle School in Oklahoma City Public Schools. We talk with Chelsea about Tier 1 supplements for classroom counseling lessons. She explains what Tier 1 is and how comprehensive counseling lessons can become more fun for students by incorporating Tier 1 elements. Chelsea discusses practical ways that she has involved the entire school in helping students implement Tier 1 lessons, which has helped build relationships school-wide. She also highlights the significance of structure and consistency, both of which have a significant impact on students. To learn more about CharacterStrong visit characterstrong.com Chelsea Hinkle is in her fifth year as a school counselor and currently works as a middle school counselor for Roosevelt Middle School in Oklahoma City Public Schools where she will support 5th grade students during the upcoming school year. She received her bachelor's degree from Oklahoma State University and holds a masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Mid-America Christian University. Chelsea is passionate about implementing a comprehensive school counseling program that collaborates with community partners and addresses solutions to data-driven student needs that supports each and every student in her building. Prior to her work as a school counselor, Chelsea worked for various mental health organizations where she co-facilitated therapeutic groups and instructed various mental health curricula to multiple students in a variety of educational settings. Outside of work, Chelsea can be found spending time in Oklahoma City where she lives with her partner and three dachshunds and is inevitably listening to Taylor Swift. 

Today our guests are Brooklyn Stevens & Kensie Daleske, School Counselor & Principal at Brookfield R3 Elementary in Brookfield, Missouri. Brooklyn and Kensie emphasize the positive impact of having weekly meetings at Brookfield and why it's worth it to make time for these check-ins. Kensie explains how prioritizing this time has established a solid foundation from the start of her time at Brookfield. They also provide examples of how this strong relationship has directly supported students and families. Episode Links: The Brookfield R3 Website: https://www.brookfieldr3.org To learn more about CharacterStrong visit: characterstrong.com   Kensie Daleske has been in education for 11 years, 10 of which were spent in the classroom or as a Title 1 reading teacher. She moved to the Brookfield R-III School District last summer and is wrapping up her first year as an administrator. Currently, she serves as the Kindergarten-4th Grade Elementary Principal. She describes herself as a servant leader and strives to build powerful relationships with her students and staff.  Brooklyn Stevens has served the field of education for 9 years with 7 of those years in counseling. She began her counseling journey after helping high school students apply for jobs and colleges during her student teaching experience. She has worked with high schoolers, middle schoolers and now elementary students. She currently serves as the Elementary School Counselor at Brookfield R3 Elementary going into her 5th year in this position.

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Today our guest is Meredith Lee, the Director of Professional Learning at CharacterStrong. We talk with Meredith about the key ingredients that make professional development great. She shares that PD should be engaging, effective, and lead to positive behavior changes on campus. According to Meredith, relevance, the introduction of practices that can be immediately applied, and opportunities for relational processing are all important aspects that we need to consider when facilitating professional development. Additionally, Meredith reminds us that great PD comes from a place of humility and should be clear and simple. Episode Links: Check out how you can bring a School Culture Training to your school Learn more about CharacterStrong's characterstrong.com

Today, our guest is Dr. Clay Cook, the Chief Development Officer at CharacterStrong. In this episode, we discuss CharacterStrong's new Tier 2 Solution, launching this spring. Dr. Cook shares his insights on the resources, tools, and interventions that come with CS Tier 2. He also talks about the included professional learning support that will help educators improve continuously over time. Additionally, Dr. Cook provides an overview of the small group skill-building curriculum and discusses its components. To learn more about the CharacterStrong Tier 2 Solution visit: https://characterstrong.com/tier2/

Today our guest is Meredith Lee, Director of Professional Learning at CharacterStrong. We talk to Meredith about how to effectively engage staff and maintain our commitment to Social and Emotional Learning in our classrooms. She reminds us of the importance of reminding staff of their purpose and not just staying there, but quickly transitioning to the "how". Meredith outlines the 3W Check-in, a tool we can use to reflect and evaluate with staff. Additionally, she shares a structured protocol that can be used as we move forward and take action with our staff.

Today, our guest is Dr. Clay Cook, the Chief Development Officer at CharacterStrong. We speak with Clay about why Tier 1 and Tier 2 supports should run concurrently instead of waiting for Tier 1 to be fully in place before starting Tier 2. He identifies some of the necessary components for this approach and discusses the differences between Tier 1 and Tier 2. Clay also emphasizes the time required to support students with Tier 2 needs, and he shares about the impact that it can have when Tier 1 and Tier 2 are efficiently implemented together.

Today our guest is Meredith Lee, Director of Professional Learning at CharacterStrong. On this episode we discuss with Meredith the importance of community agreements, what they are, and how we can use them with staff and students. She emphasizes the need for co-creation when creating community agreements and shares a four-step process to help us be successful in setting them up. Meredith also highlights the importance of revisiting these agreements regularly throughout the school year.

Today, our guest is Dr. Clay Cook, the Chief Development Officer at CharacterStrong. We discuss some of the common challenges that make Tier 2 work more challenging. Clay shares the two most important steps a school can take to ensure successful Tier 2 implementation: having a strong leadership team and having a coordinated problem-solving process. He also explains what it takes to match students to the right interventions. Dr. Clay Cook is the Chief Development Officer at CharacterStrong and is an implementation scientist, psychologist, and former paraprofessional and middle school math teacher. He has spent the past 15 years working in partnership with school systems across the country to support the implementation of effective practices that promote better and more equitable outcomes for students. He has been a professor and researcher at three universities (Louisiana State University, University of Washington and University of Minnesota) studying topics such as implementation of evidence-based practices, educator well-being and resilience, social-emotional learning, and youth mental health. He has obtained over 20 million dollars in grant funding for his research and published over 100 peer-reviewed scientific articles. For his work, he has been invited to the White House and served on expert panels with the Center for Disease Control and Prevention and the US Department of Education.