Podcasts about school psychologists

Listen to expert guest, Dr. Kathryn Page in this just released podcast on Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder and FASD-WISE Parenting for practical strategies to support your child with FASD, from hard places.Trauma and attachment experts share the latest information specifically related to adoptive, foster and kinship parenting. In every episode, you will find helpful insights and practical parenting tips.Bio of Guest: Kathryn Page earned a PhD from the Center for Psychological Studies in Berkeley and an internship in addiction recovery at Stanford, a few highlights of Kathryn Page's career include: Disabilities Specialist for the Santa Clara County Juvenile Drug Treatment Court; bilingual School Psychologist in San Lorenzo; 504 Coordinator in the Santa Clara Juvenile Hall; and teacher of social workers with UC Davis Extension.Dr. Page has been working on FASD for 30 years. She founded and directed the diagnostic clinic in Santa Clara County, CA, and is the co-chair of that county's 5-year plan. She provides the mandatory FASD training for Los Angeles County's mental health providers, and advocates for legislation at the state and federal levels. Kathryn consults, writes, teaches, and lives with this condition in her son as well as herself.

In this episode of the Prepared School Psych Podcast, host Jenny Ponzuric interviews Amanda Gamble, a dedicated school psychologist and yoga instructor. Amanda shares her journey from Kentucky to Indiana, emphasizing her passion for supporting students and educators. They discuss her involvement with the Indiana Association of School Psychologists, where she held various leadership roles, including president. Amanda highlights her efforts to combine yoga with school psychology, teaching mindfulness and breathing techniques to students. She also talks about her initiatives as state association president, focusing on professional development and membership engagement. Amanda offers valuable advice for new school psychologists on self-care, professional growth, and leadership. The episode provides insights into balancing personal passions with professional responsibilities.Resources:Website: https://iaosp.wildapricot.org/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inschoolpsych/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IASPonline**NEW** Try the Prepared School Psychologist Membership for FreeWe're offering a free 4-week trial of the Prepared School Psychologist Membership. Use the code PODCAST to explore our valuable resources, including 2 mini-courses designed to support your professional growth and development.Be prepared for whatever your role throws your way. The Prepared School Psychologist Membership gives you the resources and support you need to confidently serve students and navigate the challenges of school psychology.Start your free trial today: https://jennyponzuric.ac-page.com/the-prepared-school-psych-free-trial---------------------------------------------------------Follow us on social media for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and more:Instagram: @jennyponzuric https://www.instagram.com/jennyponzuric/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenny-ponzuric-1562a8119/Join my FREE LinkedIn Group "Resources for Special Education Professionals": https://www.linkedin.com/groups/14462888/Time stamps:00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction00:14 Amanda's Background and Journey01:06 Personal Interests and TV Shows02:16 Professional Insights and Experiences02:49 Leadership and Association Involvement05:45 Combining Yoga and School Psychology08:56 Key Initiatives and Accomplishments14:40 Advice for New School Psychologists18:33 Leadership Advice and Time Management21:54 State Association Highlights28:04 Final Thoughts and ConclusionThe information and advice provided are for guidance purposes only, and all participants are required to follow federal and state law and their school district guidelines and policies.

Tune into our Take Care Tuesday Podcast to discuss why in an increasingly complex world, understanding and managing behavioral threats is more critical than ever. Dr. Shannon Devlin, School Psychologist and Certified Threat Manager will demystify the vital process of behavioral threat assessment and case management. Dr. Devlin is a strong believer in the threat assessment process. She consistently reminds us that the “Process is guaranteed but the outcome is not.…” Our goal is to highlight the strategies, tools and real-world applications that can prevent violence and safeguard communities. 

We're doing something a little special for Episode 159...In continued celebration of Women's History Month, we're revisiting Episode 90, when Tressa sat down to talk about the Girls Supporting Girls Club with Carlynton School District's School Psychologist, Dr. Tricia Serdy, Carlynton 2nd Grade Teacher/Co-Founder of Freestore 15106 & Free Fridge 15106, Don Alexander, and Carlynton High School students and Club members, Alexis & Talia. Then in its first year, this Club was already changing students' lives by connecting them with each other, providing counseling and guidance, and encouraging them to mentor and support each other. This multi-generational conversation is a must-listen :)www.yinzaregood.comHave a story of gratitude or kindness to share? Want to request a Kindness Crate drop off at your business or school? Know someone who would make a great guest?Email us: yinzaregood@gmail.comInstagram: @yinzaregoodFacebook: @YinzAreGoodOriginal Air Date: June 3rd, 2023

Welcome back to another episode of the Empower LEP podcast. This episode was such a fun and insightful conversation with Tim McIvor, the founder of schoolpsych.com. As a fellow school psychologist, I was genuinely inspired by his entrepreneurial journey and impact on our field.You won't want to miss this episode—here's why:

In this episode of the Prepared School Psych Podcast, host Jenny Ponzuric interviews Dr. Amy Smith, a distinguished school psychologist and President of the Ventura County Association of School Psychologists (VCASP). Dr. Smith shares insights into her role, the importance of community involvement, and the value of professional development within the association. She discusses her journey with VCASP, emphasizing the benefits of networking with colleagues and the numerous workshops and trainings offered by the affiliate. Dr. Smith also offers advice for new school psychologists, highlighting the importance of joining local professional communities to advance knowledge and leadership skills. This episode underscores the significance of ongoing education and the role of supportive networks in the field of school psychology.Resources:VCASP Website: https://www.vcasp.org/VCASP Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/VCASP**NEW** Try the Prepared School Psychologist Membership for FreeWe're offering a free 4-week trial of the Prepared School Psychologist Membership. Use the code PODCAST to explore our valuable resources, including 2 mini-courses designed to support your professional growth and development.Join today to see how the membership can help you enhance your skills and make a greater impact in the field of school psychology. Try the Prepared School Psychologist Membership for FreeWe're offering a free 4-week trial of the Prepared School Psychologist Membership. Use the code PODCAST to explore our valuable resources, including 2 mini-courses designed to support your professional growth and development.Join today to see how the membership can help you enhance your skills and make a greater impact in the field of school psychology. https://jennyponzuric.ac-page.com/the-prepared-school-psych-free-trial---------------------------------------------------------Follow us on social media for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and more:Instagram: @jennyponzuric https://www.instagram.com/jennyponzuric/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenny-ponzuric-1562a8119/Join my FREE LinkedIn Group "Resources for Special Education Professionals": https://www.linkedin.com/groups/14462888/Timestamps:00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:38 Getting to Know Dr. Amy Smith01:16 Role and Impact of VCASP01:44 Amy's Journey with VCASP03:36 Balancing Volunteering and Career04:18 Importance of Affiliates05:27 Professional Development and Workshops06:54 Advice for New School Psychologists07:59 Encouraging Leadership and Involvement09:04 Final Thoughts and ConclusionThe information and advice provided are for guidance purposes only, and all participants are required to follow federal and state law and their school district guidelines and policies.

Discover the essential role of Seneca Valley's Student Services Department in supporting students' academic, social, emotional and physical well-being. This episode highlights the wide range of special education programs and resources available to ensure every student receives the support they need to thrive.IN THIS EPISODE, WE WILL REVIEWA general overview of SV's Student Services DepartmentTypes of special education programs that are offeredStudent counseling services across the districtTransition programing and community partnershipsHow students and parents can access resources and support provided by the Student Services Department SPECIAL GUESTSDr. Cassandra Doggrell, Director of Student Services; Dr. Mallory Eyles, Assistant Director of Student Services and Ms. Ashley Pattison, Special Education SupervisorDr. Cassandra Doggrell began her career at Seneca Valley in 2010 as an Autism and Emotional Support Teacher at Rowan Elementary. She has held various administrative positions, including Principal of Haine Middle School and Assistant Principal at Evans City and Haine Middle. Before returning to Seneca Valley, she spent five years at Upper St. Clair School District as Director of Student Support Services and Special Education. Her research and practice interests include comprehensive mental health systems in schools, students with autism, students with emotional/behavioral disorders, and inclusionary service delivery models. Dr. Doggrell holds multiple degrees, including a doctorate in Educational Leadership from the University of Pittsburgh.Dr. Mallory Eyles has been working in the Seneca Valley School District since 2011.  She has filled a variety of roles within the district including School Psychologist, Assistant Principal at Rowan and Evans City Elementary, Assistant Director of Special Education and currently, Assistant Director of Student Services. Dr. Eyles received her Doctorate in Psychology from Duquesne University. Ms. Ashley Pattison began her career at Seneca Valley School District in 2008 as a learning support teacher and later developed the district's elementary life skills program. She has served as a special education teacher, behavior specialist, and currently works as the supervisor of special education, overseeing programs for students with exceptionalities. She holds a Bachelor's in Elementary Education from Elizabethtown College, a Master's in Education from the University of Pittsburgh, and a School Supervision Certification from Slippery Rock University.

In this episode of the Prepared School Psych Podcast, I speak with Annalise Puentes, a licensed educational psychologist in private practice focused on psychoeducational assessments, behavior support, and staff training. Annalise shares her journey, contributions to the Sonoma County Association of School Psychologists, and the invaluable impact of collaboration and professional development. Additionally, she offers advice for aspiring school psychologists and highlights the importance of connecting with local affiliates. Upcoming professional training opportunities in 2025 are also discussed, emphasizing practical skills for immediate application. Join us for an in-depth conversation on fostering growth and support within the school psychology community.Resources:SCASP Website: https://www.scasp.org/SCASP Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SoCoPsychsSCASP Instagram: @scaspreg1-------------------------------------------------------------Follow Jenny for updates and resources:Instagram: ⁠⁠@jennyponzuric⁠⁠LinkedIn: ⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenny-ponzuric-1562a8119/⁠⁠⁠Join our LinkedIn Group:⁠⁠⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/groups/14462888/⁠⁠⁠Timestamps:00:00 Introduction to the Podcast00:08 Meet Annalise Puentes00:22 Annalise's Journey in School Psychology01:20 Favorite TV Shows and Personal Interests01:54 Role and Impact of the Sonoma County Association03:06 Leadership Roles and Experiences06:53 Balancing Volunteering and Professional Life12:09 Upcoming Trainings and Events13:53 Advice for Aspiring School Psychologists19:31 Final Thoughts and FarewellThe information and advice provided are for guidance purposes only. All participants must adhere to federal and state law, along with their school district guidelines and policies.

In this episode of the Journey of My Mother's Son podcast, I talk with Joe Engler. Joe played for our organization back in 2003.  He was on our Atlantic Collegiate Baseball League (ACBL) team between his sophomore and junior seasons at Minot State University in North Dakota.  I refer to him as one of my old players, but he never actually played a game for me, he just played in our organization.  He was one of the players who I really connected with while he was with us. Joe and I talk about the life lessons that the game of baseball taught him and how he is using them today in both his work and personal life.  Joe is now an Associate Professor and Director of School Psychology at Gonzaga University. Dr. Engler received his BA in psychology at Minot State University in Minot, ND and his Ph.D. in school psychology at The University of South Dakota in Vermillion, SD. Dr. Engler began his professional career as a school psychologist in Tooele, UT and remains active in the profession through advocacy and leadership at the local, state, and national level. Dr. Engler holds the Nationally Certified School Psychologist credential through the National Association of School Psychologists and is a diplomate in school neuropsychology through the American Board of School Neuropsychology. His research interests include preschool assessment, critical evaluation of psychometric tests, and parental involvement. Joe recently co-authored his second book titled, “Essentials of Addressing Infants, Toddlers, and Pre-schoolers.”  It will be released in early April of 2025. We wrap the conversation up by talking about Joe's recent love for playing music.  He, his wife, and a group of friends recently started the cover band, Close Enough, in which Joe plays lead guitar. Joe was also inducted into the Minot State University Hall of Fame in September of 2024. If you're ever in the Spokane area and want to see the band play somewhere, check them out on social media on either Instagram or Facebook.

In this episode Tanya and her guest Dr. Gigi discuss the importance of advocating for your child and using additional services for their education. About my guest: About my guest: Over the course of her career, Dr. Gallup Larsen has worked in public and private school settings, outpatient clinics, and residential settings. In all settings, Dr. Gallup Larsen collaborates with interdisciplinary teams to provide school-based services, outpatient therapy, and/or interventions to children, adolescents, and their families. Dr. Gallup Larsen is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist (LCP), a Nationally Certified School Psychologist (NCSP), and has a Diplomate credential in School Neuropsychology (ABSNP). Dr. Gallup Larsen earned a Doctorate in Clinical and School Psychology from James Madison University's Combined-Integrated Doctoral Program, an American Psychological Association (APA) accredited program. Prior to returning to school for her doctorate, she also obtained her Master's and Certificate of Advanced Graduate Study (CAGS) in School Psychology from George Mason University, a National Association of School Psychologists (NASP) accredited program. Dr. Gallup Larsen has served as a school psychologist in Alexandria, Virginia, and Loudoun County, Virginia. She was recognized as the School Psychologist of the Year for 2013 by the Virginia Academy of Schools Psychologists (VASP). Clinically, she also currently works as a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with Metropolitan Psychological Services, PLLC. Offices are located in McLean and Arlington, Virginia. Dr. Gallup Larsen completed an APA-accredited Pre-Doctoral internship in the Psychiatric Mental Health Clinic (PMHP) and the Center for Child and Family Traumatic Stress (CCFTS) with Kennedy Krieger Institute/Johns Hopkins Medicine in Baltimore, Maryland. The PMHP at Kennedy Krieger Institute provides diagnostic evaluation and treatment services for children and adolescents who are having difficulty with mood, behavior, or relationships at home, within the family, at school, and with peers. The CCFTS provides mental health evaluation and treatment services to children, adolescents, and families who have experienced or may be at risk for trauma. Dr. Gallup Larsen specializes in treating children, adolescents, young adults, and their families. Her specific areas of interest include anxiety, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), tic disorders, depression, relationship issues, trauma, and adjustment-related distress. In addition, she provides parent/caregiver therapy, and has received specialized training in the Chicago Parent Program (CPP) and Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions (SPACE). In therapy, Dr. Gallup Larsen uses an assimilative-integrative approach to best meet the unique needs of her individual clients and their families. This approach emphasizes a client-centered, systemic approach that is also informed by cognitive-behavioral, developmental, and relational or attachment-based evidence-based treatments. Dr. Gallup Larsen approaches her work with each client and family using an open and warm therapeutic style which puts her clients at ease. Dr. Gallup Larsen greatly values diversity and culture and views therapy as a collaborative process meant to foster positive change as clients and families develop more compassion for themselves and one another. Personally, Dr. Gallup Larsen has two young adult children, a bonus teen son, a bonus adult daughter, and a bonus grandson. She and her partner enjoy spending time with their diverse family, as well as traveling. Virginia "GiGi" Gallup Larsen, PsyD, LCP, NCSP Licensed Clinical Psychologist (VA Lic # 0810007625) Nationally Certified School Psychologist Metropolitan Psychological Services, PLLC - Tyson's Corner Office 8401 Greensboro Drive Suite 550 McLean, VA 22102 2000 N 15th Street, Suite 200 Arlington, VA 22201 |(ph)| 703.831.6008, ext. 512 |(e)| drgalluplarsen@mpspllc.com |(w)| www.mpspllc.com

In this episode we discuss how to help your child deal with anxiety. Ages & Stages Information: https://agesandstages.com/ About my guest: Over the course of her career, Dr. Gallup Larsen has worked in public and private school settings, outpatient clinics, and residential settings. In all settings, Dr. Gallup Larsen collaborates with interdisciplinary teams to provide school-based services, outpatient therapy, and/or interventions to children, adolescents, and their families. Dr. Gallup Larsen is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist (LCP), a Nationally Certified School Psychologist (NCSP), and has a Diplomate credential in School Neuropsychology (ABSNP). Dr. Gallup Larsen earned a Doctorate in Clinical and School Psychology from James Madison University's Combined-Integrated Doctoral Program, an American Psychological Association (APA) accredited program. Prior to returning to school for her doctorate, she also obtained her Master's and Certificate of Advanced Graduate Study (CAGS) in School Psychology from George Mason University, a National Association of School Psychologists (NASP) accredited program. Dr. Gallup Larsen has served as a school psychologist in Alexandria, Virginia, and Loudoun County, Virginia. She was recognized as the School Psychologist of the Year for 2013 by the Virginia Academy of Schools Psychologists (VASP). Clinically, she also currently works as a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with Metropolitan Psychological Services, PLLC. Offices are located in McLean and Arlington, Virginia. Dr. Gallup Larsen completed an APA-accredited Pre-Doctoral internship in the Psychiatric Mental Health Clinic (PMHP) and the Center for Child and Family Traumatic Stress (CCFTS) with Kennedy Krieger Institute/Johns Hopkins Medicine in Baltimore, Maryland. The PMHP at Kennedy Krieger Institute provides diagnostic evaluation and treatment services for children and adolescents who are having difficulty with mood, behavior, or relationships at home, within the family, at school, and with peers. The CCFTS provides mental health evaluation and treatment services to children, adolescents, and families who have experienced or may be at risk for trauma. Dr. Gallup Larsen specializes in treating children, adolescents, young adults, and their families. Her specific areas of interest include anxiety, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), tic disorders, depression, relationship issues, trauma, and adjustment-related distress. In addition, she provides parent/caregiver therapy, and has received specialized training in the Chicago Parent Program (CPP) and Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions (SPACE). In therapy, Dr. Gallup Larsen uses an assimilative-integrative approach to best meet the unique needs of her individual clients and their families. This approach emphasizes a client-centered, systemic approach that is also informed by cognitive-behavioral, developmental, and relational or attachment-based evidence-based treatments. Dr. Gallup Larsen approaches her work with each client and family using an open and warm therapeutic style which puts her clients at ease. Dr. Gallup Larsen greatly values diversity and culture and views therapy as a collaborative process meant to foster positive change as clients and families develop more compassion for themselves and one another. Personally, Dr. Gallup Larsen has two young adult children, a bonus teen son, a bonus adult daughter, and a bonus grandson. She and her partner enjoy spending time with their diverse family, as well as traveling.

Welcome back to another Episode of Empower LEP Podcast!I am beyond excited  because I got to sit down with the incredible Misty Bonta from Get Psyched! If you've been listening for a while, you might remember Misty from about a year ago when she was just starting her private practice. Well, let me tell you—she's been absolutely crushing it!In this episode, Misty takes us through her journey—the highs, the lows, and everything in between. She opens up about her past, including some really tough experiences in high school that ignited her passion for mental health. She knew even back then that she wanted to be the supportive, understanding adult that she wished she had during those years.Fast forward to today, and Misty is running a thriving private practice, diving into Independent Educational Evaluations (IEEs), collaborating with parents, and expanding her reach through workshops and trainings. And get this—she's even working toward becoming a Non-Public Agency (NPA) so she can support school districts in a bigger way! She's a little nervous about the leap, but honestly, I have zero doubt that she's going to make it happen.Oh, and here's something so cool—Misty is writing a children's book about mental health, told through the eyes of her beloved dog!

In the season opener of the Prepared School Psych Podcast, host Jenny interviews Ashley Schwenn, a seasoned school neuropsychologist and licensed educational psychologist. Ashley shares her journey in the field and her roles in various school psychology associations across different states, focusing on leadership and advocacy. She discusses her leadership roles in the South Bay Association of School Psychologists, her strategies for professional development, and the importance of local and state-level involvement for systemic change. Ashley also provides practical advice for new school psychologists, emphasizing work-life balance and self-care. Resources: https://casponline.org/resources-for-school-psychologists/ January 16, 2025 PD Flyer SBASP Membership Form Interested in becoming a member or have questions for our executive board?  Please email us at southbayasp@gmail.com! Instagram for the Affiliate: https://www.instagram.com/_sbasp_⁠ ------------------------------------------------------------- Follow Jenny for updates and resources: Instagram: ⁠@jennyponzuric⁠ LinkedIn:  ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenny-ponzuric-1562a8119/⁠⁠ Join our LinkedIn Group: ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/groups/14462888/⁠⁠ Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction 01:22 Getting to Know Ashley Schwenn 02:25 Role and Impact of the South Bay Association 04:27 Journey to Leadership 13:05 Balancing Work and Volunteerism 14:27 Professional Development and Support 16:34 Advice for New School Psychologists 18:22 Encouragement for Aspiring Leaders 19:19 Final Thoughts and Conclusion The information and advice provided are for guidance purposes only. All participants must adhere to federal and state law, along with their school district guidelines and policies.

We live in a society where success is often defined by external markers like prestigious jobs, academic achievements, or traditional milestones. But as parents of neurodivergent kids, we know our children's paths and timelines often look different. And while their journeys may not align with conventional notions of success, that doesn't mean they're any less meaningful or valuable. So, how can we redefine what success means—for our kids and for our families? That's one of the big questions I explore with today's guest, child psychologist Dr. Emily King. In our conversation, Dr. Emily and I dive into redefining success for neurodivergent students, emphasizing the importance of joy, self-discovery, and effectiveness in their learning journeys. We explore how cultural definitions of success can be limiting, what's happening in American public schools regarding neurodivergence, and the actionable steps we can take to help shift the paradigm. Most importantly, we talk about how to reframe “success” in our families in ways that empower our children to build autonomous, self-actualized lives on their terms.   About Dr. Emily King Dr. Emily King is a Child Psychologist and former School Psychologist who has worked with neurodivergent children and teens for over 20 years. She received a Ph.D. in School Psychology from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill where she worked at Frank Porter Graham Child Development Institute and the Carolina Institute for Developmental Disabilities. She spent five years as a School Psychologist in Houston, Texas specializing in providing school-based mental health services in K-12 public schools. Dr. Emily now works in private practice in North Carolina supporting the mental health needs of neurodivergent youth, their families, and their teachers. Dr. Emily hosts the Learn with Dr. Emily Substack where you can find her blogs and monthly parent workshops. She is also the creator of The Neurodiverse Classroom, a professional development curriculum for elementary and middle school educators. Dr. Emily has been featured on MSNBC's Morning Joe, quoted in The New York Times and The Washington Post, and has written for Parents.com. You can learn more with Dr. Emily by listening to her podcast or following her on Substack.   Things you'll learn from this episode Why the 2 key ingredients for success for neurodivergent students are joy coupled with effectiveness How cultural definitions of success can be limiting for neurodivergent kids, and what we can do about it What is the state of neurodivergence understanding in American public schools and what we can all do to shift the paradigm forward How we can redefine “success” in our families and for our children in ways that empower them to create autonomous, self-actualized adult lives   Resources mentioned Dr. Emily King's website Learn with Dr. Emily (Emily's Substack) Learn with Dr. Emily Podcast Dr. Mona Delahooke's website Brain-Body Parenting: How to Stop Managing Behavior and Start Raising Joyful, Resilient Kids by Dr. Mona Delahooke Beyond Behaviors: Using Brain Science and Compassion to Understand and Solve Children's Behavioral Challenges by Dr. Mona Delahooke Dr. Mona Delahooke on the Power of Brain-Body Parenting (Tilt Parenting podcast) Dr. Mona Delahooke on Looking Beyond Kids Challenging Behaviors (Tilt Parenting podcast) Dr. Dan Siegel & the Window of Tolerance Stephen Porgess & Polyvagal Theory Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Host: Dana Jonson Guest: April Rehrig Title: Founder, Rise Educational Advocacy and Consulting Bio: April Rehrig is a distinguished advocate in special education with over two decades of experience as a school psychologist, teacher, and parent within the public school setting. As the founder of Rise Educational Advocacy and Consulting, April focuses on training parents to be effective advocates for their children. Her strength-based approach emphasizes collaboration, communication, and empowering families to navigate the IEP process successfully.   Episode Summary In this episode, Dana Jonson is joined by April Rehrig to discuss the power of parent advocacy in special education. April shares her journey from being a teacher and school psychologist to becoming an advocate and consultant. Together, they dive into: The importance of strength-based IEPs and reforming deficit-based processes. How parents can become equal participants in the IEP process and proactively address their concerns. Strategies for connecting assessment data to meaningful IEP goals and objectives. Training parents and students to advocate for their needs, especially in preparation for post-secondary transitions. The role of parent reports, accommodations, and self-advocacy in fostering better collaboration between families and schools. Listeners will leave with actionable insights into how they can champion their child's unique needs and strengths at the IEP table.   Resources Mentioned Rise Educational Advocacy and Consulting Website Free Consultation Contact Form COPAA (Council of Parent Attorneys and Advocates): copaa.org   Engagement and Sharing Share this Episode: If you found this episode helpful, share it with friends or family who might benefit from learning about parent advocacy in special education. Leave a Review: Help us reach more listeners by leaving a review on your favorite podcast platform! Follow April on Social Media Instagram | LinkedIn | Youtube | FacebookFollow Dana on Social Media Website | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn   Related Episodes and Content Parent Advocacy Insights from School Psychologist and Special Education Director Diana Fannon Visit SpecialEd.fm for more episodes and transcripts.   Shortly after publication, a transcript of this episode will be available at SpecialEd.fm. Thank you for listening! 

Lewis & Clark received federal funds for training a pipeline of school psychologists to meet growing needs among kids of color in Oregon.

In this episode of the Prepared School Psych Podcast, host Jenny Ponzuric shares key takeaways from her recent dyslexia training. The five main takeaways include the importance of phonemic awareness, the need for collaboration among professionals, utilizing diverse state guidelines and handbooks, improving visuals for IEP meetings, and the impact of educational videos on understanding dyslexia. Additional resources and ways to access the training replay are provided in the show notes. Resources: Sold a Story Podcast - https://features.apmreports.org/sold-a-story/ Join the Prepared School Psychologist Community - https://jennyponzuric.com/prepared-school-psychologist/ On-Demand Dyslexia Training - https://jennyponzuric.com/dyslexia-evaluations-training/ Join my FREE LinkedIn Group "Resources for Special Education Professionals": https://www.linkedin.com/groups/14462888/ --------------------------------------------------------- Follow us on social media for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and more: Instagram: @jennyponzuric https://www.instagram.com/jennyponzuric/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenny-ponzuric-1562a8119/ 00:00 Introduction and Overview 00:35 Takeaway 1: Importance of Phonemic Awareness 01:59 Takeaway 2: Collaboration in Assessments 03:22 Takeaway 3: Utilizing State Resources 04:06 Takeaway 4: Effective Visuals for IEP Meetings 05:06 Takeaway 5: Valuable Dyslexia Videos 06:24 Accessing the Training Replay 07:08 Conclusion and Call to Action The information and advice provided are for guidance purposes only, and all participants are required to follow federal and state law and their school district guidelines and policies.

In this episode of School Safety Today by Raptor Technologies, host Dr. Amy speaks with Benjamin S. Fernandez, MS. Ed., School Psychologist about the crucial role of crisis teams in schools. The discussion emphasizes the importance of preparedness, prevention, and relationship-building to effectively manage crises and ensure student wellbeing.KEY POINTS:Crisis teams play a crucial role in prevention, psychological recovery, and long-term support to promote student wellbeing.Building trust with students, staff, and families before a crisis occurs is foundationalCrisis teams focus on addressing mental health and psychological recovery post-crisis, whereas threat assessment teams proactively evaluate and manage potential threats.Our guest, Benjamin S. Fernandez, MS. Ed., is a seasoned school psychologist with over 28 years of experience in Pennsylvania and Virginia. Currently serving as a crisis intervention specialist in Northern Virginia, he leads and coordinates crisis intervention services. Benjamin has a rich background in providing mental health services, including assessments, suicide screenings, threat assessments, consultation, and counseling. He is a Lead PREPaRE Trainer and has presented on youth suicide, school mental health, and crisis intervention. He has testified before various government bodies and contributed to the Virginia Department of Education's Suicide Prevention Guidelines. Recognized for his significant contributions, he has received multiple awards, including School Psychologist of the Year by both the Virginia Academy of School Psychologists and the National Association of School Psychologists.

Shortly after publication, a transcript of this episode will be published on SpecialEd.fm. Host: Dana Jonson Guest: Ilona Phillips Founder of Lotus Consulting, Psychotherapist specializing in eating disorders Guest Bio: Ilona Phillips is the founder of a psychotherapy group practice specializing in treating eating disorders. With over two decades of experience, she evolved from working solo to leading a team of 30 clinicians. Her work emphasizes helping individuals navigate recovery from eating and anxiety disorders while equipping parents and guardians with the tools and resources necessary to support loved ones. Ilona passionately advocates for mental health, mindfulness, and holistic well-being.     Episode Summary In this episode, Dana Jonson speaks with Ilona Phillips about the intersection of academic pressures, societal expectations, and the rise of eating disorders among students. Ilona shares insights into how underlying learning disabilities, anxiety, and perfectionism contribute to these challenges. They discuss the importance of early detection, comprehensive evaluation, and creating a robust support system for recovery. Key topics include: The role of academic demands and societal pressures in shaping mental health. How eating disorders manifest and the warning signs parents and educators should watch for. The connection between eating disorders and other mental health or learning challenges, such as anxiety and ADHD. The critical role of parents, educators, and clinicians in addressing eating disorders. Practical strategies to promote mental wellness, resilience, and healthy relationships with food.     Resources Mentioned Ilona Phillips Website: For information about Ilona's work and resources on eating disorder recovery. Lotus Consulting: Psychotherapy group specializing in eating disorders and mental health. YouTube video by Ilona on warning signs of eating disorders.     Engagement and Sharing Share the Episode with a Friend: Know someone who might benefit from this discussion? Share this episode to spread awareness about eating disorders and mental health in the academic setting. Leave a Review: Help us grow by leaving a review on your favorite podcast platform. Your feedback supports the mission to destigmatize mental health and reach more listeners. Follow Ilona on Social Media Instagram | Website | Youtube Follow Dana on Social Media: Website | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn Related Episodes or Content: Parent Advocacy Insights from School Psychologist and Special Education Director Diana Fannon   Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

Toxic foods can affect children's behavioral and academic performance. Healthy plant-based diets can have amazing effects including lower rates of disordered eating, better academic performance, higher self-esteem, lower risk of substance abuse and suicidal ideation. By Courtney Rasby at NutritionStudies.org  #vegan #plantbased #plantbasedbriefing #wfpb #healthydiet #toxicfood #adhd #mentalhealth #nutritionandlearning   Original post: https://nutritionstudies.org/school-psychologist-uses-nutrition-to-improve-learning/  The T. Colin Campbell Center for Nutrition Studies was established to extend the impact of Dr. Campbell's life changing research findings. For decades, T. Colin Campbell, PhD, has been at the forefront of nutrition education and research. He is the coauthor of the bestselling book, The China Study, and his legacy, the China Project, is one of the most comprehensive studies of health and nutrition ever conducted. Their mission is to promote optimal nutrition through science-based education, advocacy, and research. By empowering individuals and health professionals, we aim to improve personal, public, and environmental health. FOLLOW THE SHOW ON: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@plantbasedbriefing     Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2GONW0q2EDJMzqhuwuxdCF?si=2a20c247461d4ad7 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/plant-based-briefing/id1562925866 Your podcast app of choice: https://pod.link/1562925866 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PlantBasedBriefing   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/plant-based-briefing/   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/plantbasedbriefing/    #vegan #plantbased #plantbasedbriefing #wfpb #healthydiet #toxicfood #adhd #mentalhealth #nutritionandlearning  

Jennifer Strong is the founder of Cognitive Diagnostic Associates (CDA), the largest special education company in the United States. An accomplished School Psychologist with specialized expertise in School Neuropsychological Assessment. Boasting an illustrious background in the field, Jennifer has embraced the role of Board Member and Region 9 (IX) Representative for Orange County within the California Association of School Psychologists (CASP). Furthermore, she actively mentors aspiring School Psychologists through the National Association of School Psychologists (NASP) mentorship program. She has pursued advanced post-graduate training in school neuropsychology, garnering the Diplomate distinction from the American Board of School Neuropsychology. Raised in the diverse landscape of Alaska, Jennifer's unique perspective is enriched by her upbringing alongside her father, Dr. Larry Reynolds, a distinguished Physician in the state of Alaska who earned legislative recognition for his remarkable contributions. Her extensive experience in educational settings includes her recent leadership involvement in shaping policies and procedures for Special Circumstances Instructional Assistance (SCIA) at her previous district. She possesses a profound passion for Special Education Case Law and adeptly provides clients with expert guidance concerning their children's Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). Jennifer has exceptional expertise in ADHD/ADD, behavioral disorders, autism spectrum disorder, traumatic brain injuries, 504 plans, manifestation determinations, as well as comprehensive assessments of memory, attention, and learning. Beyond her professional pursuits, Jennifer finds joy in skiing, gardening, and culinary exploration. A devoted mother and former athlete, she actively contributes to philanthropic initiatives, including her engagement with the Newport Beach Chamber of Commerce, membership/involvement with the 11-99 Foundation, and developing “Cans 2 the Curb” with her sons—a meaningful endeavor dedicated to giving back to the Special Education Department of their local school. Jennifer also participates in the Boy Scouts of America's Wreaths for Veterans program with her sons. Furthermore, as the Chair/Head of the Scholarship Program for School Psychology in Graduate Schools, Jennifer is deeply committed to empowering and supporting aspiring school psychologists in their educational endeavors, through a focus on health, wellness, and balance. -- Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi, business partner at REF Orange County. Learn more about Ric at www.ricfranzi.com. 

In this episode of the Prepared School Psych podcast, host Jenny Ponzuric interviews Emily Bersaglia, a nationally certified school psychologist and past president of the Santa Clara County Association of School Psychologists. With a career spanning since 2008 across four states, Emily discusses her focus on equity in education and her founding of the School Psychology Support Network. The conversation touches on Emily's journey in joining and eventually leading the Santa Clara County affiliate, the importance of professional networks, and strategies for maintaining work-life balance as a school psychologist. Emily also shares advice for new professionals and details upcoming workshops offered by her affiliate. The episode underscores the critical role school psychologists play and how professional associations can provide vital support and resources. RESOURCES: https://www.sccasp.org/ Two-week Free Trial Inside the Prepared School Psychologist Community: ⁠⁠⁠https://jennyponzuric.activehosted.com/f/159⁠⁠ Use code: PODCAST Experience the Prepared School Psychologist Community with a 2-Week Free Trial! Join over 300 school psychologists who are equipped with the knowledge and resources they need to excel in their roles. What You'll Get with Your Free Trial: Over 35 Mini-Courses: Access a wide range of topics designed to provide the essential knowledge and skills you need. Monthly Live Q&A Calls: Engage directly with Jenny Ponzuric and a team of veteran school psychologists to get your questions answered and gain insights. Community Forum & Remind App Access: Connect with a network of peers to exchange ideas and get support in real-time. Comprehensive Resources: Explore tools and strategies covering behavior management, executive functioning, counseling, and more. Ready to Equip Yourself with Essential Knowledge and Resources? Click here and use code PODCAST at checkout to start your 2-week free trial. ⁠⁠⁠https://jennyponzuric.activehosted.com/f/159⁠⁠ --------------------------------------------------------- Follow us on social media for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and more: Instagram: @jennyponzuric https://www.instagram.com/jennyponzuric/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenny-ponzuric-1562a8119/ 00:00 Introduction to Emily Bersaglia 01:03 Favorite TV Shows 01:30 Role of Affiliates in California 02:27 Emily's Journey in School Psychology 03:51 Impact of Affiliate Involvement 05:17 Balancing Work and Volunteering 06:31 Encouraging Affiliate Membership 08:02 Determining Workshop Topics 10:49 Upcoming Trainings and Workshops 14:02 Advice for New School Psychologists 16:06 Becoming a Leader in Affiliates 17:36 Networking and Collaboration 20:28 Final Thoughts and Upcoming Events 21:32 Conclusion and Farewell The information and advice provided are for guidance purposes only, and all participants are required to follow federal and state law and their school district guidelines and policies.

In this episode of the Prepared School Psych Podcast, host Jenny Ponzuric addresses a listener's question about the type of content added to the Prepared School Psych community. Jenny discusses her approach to reading and reviewing books each month for the 2024-25 school year, including sharing video summaries and hosting discussion calls. She delves into her key takeaways from 'The Essentials of WRAML3 and EMS Assessment,' focusing on memory evaluation. The podcast highlights important considerations, such as differentiating between memory and attention problems, understanding environmental factors, and the application of neuropsychological insights. Listeners are encouraged to make use of the resources provided through the Prepared School Psych community. RESOURCES: JOIN PSW MONTHLY FOR FREE SIX WEEK TRIAL (USE CODE PODCAST): ⁠https://jennyponzuric.activehosted.com/f/134⁠ ACCESS BASIC PSYCHOLOGICAL PROCESSES: BUY THE BOOK: The Essentials of the WRAML3 and EMS Assessment:⁠ https://www.amazon.com/Essentials-WRAML3-EMS-Assessment-Psychological/dp/1119987814⁠ JOIN THE PREPARED SCHOOL PSYCHOLOGIST COMMUNITY FOR A FREE TWO WEEK TRIAL (USE CODE PODCAST): ⁠https://jennyponzuric.activehosted.com/f/159⁠ School Neuropsychology Institute: ⁠https://www.schoolneuropsych.com/⁠ Best Practices In School Neuropsychology: ⁠https://www.amazon.com/Best-Practices-School-Neuropsychology-Evidence-Based/dp/1119790530⁠ Essentials of Working Memory Assessment and Intervention By Dr. Milton Dehn: ⁠https://www.amazon.com/Essentials-Working-Memory-Psychological-Assessment/dp/1118638131⁠ Long-Term Memory Problems in Children and Adolescents: Assessment, Intervention, and Effective Instruction: ⁠https://www.amazon.com/Long-Term-Memory-Problems-Children-Adolescents/dp/0470438312⁠ Essentials of School Neuropsychological Assessment (Essentials of Psychological Assessment) 3rd Edition: ⁠https://www.amazon.com/Essentials-School-Neuropsychological-Assessment-Psychological/dp/1119533201⁠ ---------------------------------------------------------------- Subscribe to this podcast now and join our community of dedicated School Psychologists committed to creating inclusive, supportive, and empowering school environments for every child. Let's embark on this journey of professional growth and student-centered advocacy together! Follow us on social media for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and more: Instagram: @jennyponzuric ⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/jennyponzuric/⁠⁠⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenny-ponzuric-1562a8119/⁠⁠ 00:00 Introduction and Listener's Question 00:46 Overview of Monthly Book Readings 01:33 Key Learnings from WRAML3 Book 02:45 Memory Models and Their Importance 03:46 Challenges in Memory Testing 05:41 Case Study: ADHD and Memory 09:07 Common Causes of Memory Problems 14:55 Memory Testing and Ecological Validity 19:00 Additional Resources and Conclusion The information and advice provided are for guidance purposes only, and all participants are required to follow federal and state law and their school district guidelines and policies.

In this episode of School Safety Today by Raptor Technologies, host Dr. Amy Grosso speaks with Melissa Kree about fostering resilience in students. Kree shares insights from her role in student mental health and school safety. The discussion emphasizes the role of trusted adults in supporting students, exploring how resilience involves ongoing support from families, educators, and communities.KEY POINTS:Resilience Requires Intentional Support — Students benefit from consistent support.The Importance of Trusted Adult Relationships — Trusted adults play an essential role in helping students navigate difficult experiences and build resilience.Holistic Approach to School Safety — Fostering a supportive school culture and positive student well-being are essential for school safety.Our guest, Melissa Kree is a seasoned school psychologist with over a decade of experience at Oxford Community Schools in Michigan. Since joining the district in October 2012, Kree has worked across all educational levels, from pre-kindergarten through high school. She coordinates building-level Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) teams and oversees special education evaluations. Additionally, she serves as a district-level Individualized Education Program (IEP) coach. Kree is an active member of the district's crisis team and participates in building-level threat and suicide risk assessment teams, utilizing both Behavioral Threat Assessment and Management (BTAM) and PREPaRE models. She has been an ongoing part of Oxford's response to the tragedy on November 30th, 2021, and works closely with the Executive Director of School Safety, Operational Technology, and Student Services to regularly review and implement policies and procedures, as well as lead building level teams in the implementation as situations arise. She serves on the district mental health/SEL committee and participates in county-level PREPaRE community of practice groups. Beyond her district responsibilities, she serves on the mental health and SEL committee of the Michigan Association of School Psychologists, advocating for the integration of mental health considerations in all aspects of school safety. Residing in Oxford with her husband and two children, Kree is deeply committed to the well-being and safety of her community.

In this episode of the Prepared School Psych Podcast, Cara Newman, an experienced elementary school teacher and certified life coach, joins the discussion to share her insights on integrating mindfulness and mental health strategies into the classroom. With over 20 years in education, Cara emphasizes the importance of inner work, understanding children's needs, and creating a child-centered learning environment. She shares her personal journey with anxiety and how it inspired her to help students and adults alike. Cara's unique approach includes daily mindfulness practices, open communication, and empowering students to make mindful choices, aiming to enhance their emotional and academic well-being. Resources: Cara Newman Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/preciouspresence54/⁠ Cara Newman Website: ⁠https://preciouspresence.my.canva.site/⁠ Two-week Free Trial Inside the Prepared School Psychologist Community: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://jennyponzuric.activehosted.com/f/159⁠ ⁠⁠Use code: PODCAST Experience the Prepared School Psychologist Community with a 2-Week Free Trial! Join over 300 school psychologists who are equipped with the knowledge and resources they need to excel in their roles. What You'll Get with Your Free Trial: Over 35 Mini-Courses: Access a wide range of topics designed to provide the essential knowledge and skills you need. Monthly Live Q&A Calls: Engage directly with Jenny Ponzuric and a team of veteran school psychologists to get your questions answered and gain insights. Community Forum & Remind App Access: Connect with a network of peers to exchange ideas and get support in real-time. Comprehensive Resources: Explore tools and strategies covering behavior management, executive functioning, counseling, and more. Ready to Equip Yourself with Essential Knowledge and Resources? Click here and use code PODCAST at checkout to start your 2-week free trial. ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://jennyponzuric.activehosted.com/f/159⁠⁠⁠ ---------------------------------------------------------------- Subscribe to this podcast now and join our community of dedicated School Psychologists committed to creating inclusive, supportive, and empowering school environments for every child. Let's embark on this journey of professional growth and student-centered advocacy together! Follow us on social media for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and more: Instagram: @jennyponzuric ⁠https://www.instagram.com/jennyponzuric/⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenny-ponzuric-1562a8119/⁠ ⁠⁠ 00:00 Introduction to Today's Guest: Cara Newman 01:16 Cara's Personal Journey and Philosophy 02:48 Mindfulness and Mental Health in Education 10:22 Impact of COVID and Technology on Students 16:18 Mindfulness Strategies in the Classroom 24:07 Addressing Individual Needs in the Classroom 25:29 Building a Sense of Community 26:46 Promoting Self-Care and Kindness 28:41 Challenges of Empowering Students 32:54 Adapting to Different Teaching Styles 36:42 Measuring Effectiveness and Gathering Feedback 40:18 Advice for New Educators 42:50 The Importance of Self-Care for Teachers 44:15 Conclusion and Final Thoughts The information and advice provided are for guidance purposes only, and all participants are required to follow federal and state law and their school district guidelines and policies.

Join host Jenny Ponzuric on The Prepared School Psychologist Podcast as she delves into the intricacies of motivation, emotion, stress, and performance in education with Dr. Joel Goodin, a leading expert in educational psychology. Explore the balance between intrinsic and extrinsic motivation, the role of future time perspectives, goal setting, and resilience. Discover insightful discussions on the integration of AI and personalized learning, systemic changes for revitalizing graduate programs, and fostering long-term engagement. Gain practical strategies such as self-reflection, mindfulness, and automating tasks to enhance efficiency. This episode provides valuable advice and actionable steps for school psychologists to elevate education and personal growth. FREE TWO-WEEK TRIAL INSIDE THE PREPARED SCHOOL PSYCHOLOGIST COMMUNITY: Experience the Prepared School Psychologist Community with a 2-Week Free Trial! Join over 300 school psychologists who are equipped with the knowledge and resources they need to excel in their roles. What You'll Get with Your Free Trial: Over 35 Mini-Courses: Access a wide range of topics designed to provide the essential knowledge and skills you need. Monthly Live Q&A Calls: Engage directly with Jenny Ponzuric and a team of veteran school psychologists to get your questions answered and gain insights. Community Forum & Remind App Access: Connect with a network of peers to exchange ideas and get support in real-time. Comprehensive Resources: Explore tools and strategies covering behavior management, executive functioning, counseling, and more. Ready to Equip Yourself with Essential Knowledge and Resources? Click here and use code PODCAST at checkout to start your 2-week free trial. ⁠⁠⁠https://jennyponzuric.activehosted.com/f/159⁠⁠ ---------------------------------------------------------------- Subscribe to this podcast now and join our community of dedicated School Psychologists committed to creating inclusive, supportive, and empowering school environments for every child. Let's embark on this journey of professional growth and student-centered advocacy together! Follow us on social media for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and more: Instagram: @jennyponzuric https://www.instagram.com/jennyponzuric/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenny-ponzuric-1562a8119/ 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest 00:06 Dr. Joel Gooden's Background and Expertise 01:30 Casual Conversation: TV Shows and Songwriting 02:46 The Impact of Politics and Media on Cognitive and Emotional Load 04:13 Dr. Gooden's Approach to Motivation and Self-Reflection 05:24 Intersection of Cognition, Emotion, Stress, and Performance 06:37 Key Takeaways for Students and Educators 11:42 Challenges in Graduate Programs and Systemic Shifts 15:10 Real-World Applications of Math 15:52 Supporting School Psychologists 17:08 Mindfulness and Learning Techniques 19:09 Future of Education: AI and Online Learning 22:00 Actionable Steps for Students 26:05 Being Prepared in Your Role 29:26 Conclusion and Final Thoughts The information and advice provided are for guidance purposes only, and all participants are required to follow federal and state law and their school district guidelines and policies.

In this conversation Troy brings his younger brother on to the podcast to have an in depth conversation about what it was like struggling through school as a kid with ADHD all the way through the process of learning how to succeed and even use ADHD as the fuel that powers their success. Both Troy and Cody are DSM-5 diagnosable with ADHD. Troy is a certified School Psychologist, Board Certified Behavior Analyst, and works as a Program Director of Special Education in a school district. Cody is an MRI Technician, Chicken Farmer, and successful cyclist and Triathlete among many other things. Both men are fathers and husbands. This podcast was truly a blast for me (Troy) to record. This is a conversation that I've been excited to have with Cody for a long time. Do not miss this conversation. There is a great deal of fact and recourses that are shared from the perspective of a school psychologist and from both men who have learned, through experience, how to manage and thrive through ADHD. Resources talked about in the conversation: Article- Riding is my Ritalin: https://www.bicycling.com/news/a20010881/riding-is-my-ritalin-how-one-cyclist-gained-control-over-his-adhd/Amazon Movie "The Disrupters": https://www.amazon.com/gp/video/detail/B09W37NXSM/ref=atv_dp_share_cu_rHost: Troy BeyerGuest: Cody Beyer

In this episode of the Prepared School Psych podcast, host Jenny Ponzuric discusses writing effective impact of disability statements in Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). She provides tips for school psychologists, who often lack specific training in this area, on how to clearly articulate how a student's disability affects their educational experience. Jenny emphasizes understanding the nuances of disabilities, avoiding vague language, and translating professional jargon into parent-friendly terms. Well-written statements are vital for setting the foundation of the IEP process, leading to better goal-setting and support services for students. Jenny also offers a handout with example statements for listeners. Resources: Examples of Impact of Disability Statements https://jennyponzuric.ac-page.com/impact-of-disability FREE 2-Week ACCESS INSIDE THE PREPARED SCHOOL PSYCHOLOGIST COMMUNITY: Experience the Prepared School Psychologist Community with a 2-Week Free Trial! Join over 300 school psychologists who are equipped with the knowledge and resources they need to excel in their roles. What You'll Get with Your Free Trial: Over 35 Mini-Courses: Access a wide range of topics designed to provide the essential knowledge and skills you need. Monthly Live Q&A Calls: Engage directly with Jenny Ponzuric and a team of veteran school psychologists to get your questions answered and gain insights. Community Forum & Remind App Access: Connect with a network of peers to exchange ideas and get support in real-time. Comprehensive Resources: Explore tools and strategies covering behavior management, executive functioning, counseling, and more. Ready to Equip Yourself with Essential Knowledge and Resources? Click here and use code PODCAST at checkout to start your 2-week free trial. ⁠⁠⁠https://jennyponzuric.activehosted.com/f/159⁠⁠ ---------------------------------------------------------------- Subscribe to this podcast now and join our community of dedicated School Psychologists committed to creating inclusive, supportive, and empowering school environments for every child. Let's embark on this journey of professional growth and student-centered advocacy together! Follow us on social media for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and more: Instagram: @jennyponzuric https://www.instagram.com/jennyponzuric/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenny-ponzuric-1562a8119/ 00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview 00:05 Understanding the Impact of Disability Statements 00:51 Common Mistakes and Personal Insights01:10 Tip 1: Understanding Educational Impact 01:54 Tip 2: Avoiding Vague Terminology 02:47 Tip 3: Simplifying Jargon 03:53 Conclusion and Additional Resources The information and advice provided are for guidance purposes only, and all participants are required to follow federal and state law and their school district guidelines and policies.

In this episode of the Prepared School Psych podcast, host Jenny interviews Dan Brown, president of K 12 Consulting and co-founder of Evalulogix, and John Brockman, a California-based school psychologist, about their product Evalulogix. Evalulogix is designed to support the report writing process for special education assessments by using technology to save time, improve data usage, and enhance report collaboration among multidisciplinary teams. The guests discuss how Evalulogix addresses challenges faced by school psychologists, such as organizing data and creating clear, concise reports. They also highlight the product's ability to facilitate collaboration among assessment team members and the potential of AI to further improve efficiency and effectiveness in report writing. The episode concludes with advice for new school psychologists and insights into what makes Dan and John feel prepared in their roles. Resources: https://k-12consulting.com/school-psychology FREE 2-Week ACCESS INSIDE THE PREPARED SCHOOL PSYCHOLOGIST COMMUNITY: Experience the Prepared School Psychologist Community with a 2-Week Free Trial! Join over 300 school psychologists who are equipped with the knowledge and resources they need to excel in their roles. What You'll Get with Your Free Trial: Over 35 Mini-Courses: Access a wide range of topics designed to provide the essential knowledge and skills you need. Monthly Live Q&A Calls: Engage directly with Jenny Ponzuric and a team of veteran school psychologists to get your questions answered and gain insights. Community Forum & Remind App Access: Connect with a network of peers to exchange ideas and get support in real-time. Comprehensive Resources: Explore tools and strategies covering behavior management, executive functioning, counseling, and more. Ready to Equip Yourself with Essential Knowledge and Resources? Click here and use code PODCAST at checkout to start your 2-week free trial. ⁠⁠⁠https://jennyponzuric.activehosted.com/f/159⁠⁠ ---------------------------------------------------------------- Subscribe to this podcast now and join our community of dedicated School Psychologists committed to creating inclusive, supportive, and empowering school environments for every child. Let's embark on this journey of professional growth and student-centered advocacy together! Follow us on social media for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and more: Instagram: @jennyponzuric https://www.instagram.com/jennyponzuric/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenny-ponzuric-1562a8119/ 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcom 00:04 Meet Dan Brown and John Brockman 01:30 Icebreaker Questions 04:04 The Role of Technology in School Psychology 08:36 Introducing EvaluLogix 08:48 Custom Implementation and Features 13:10 Challenges in Report Writing 20:40 Feedback from Users 23:28 How to Learn More About EvaluLogix 24:24 Personal Investment and Final Thoughts 25:28 Advice for New School Psychologists 26:30 What It Means to Be Prepared 27:44 Conclusion and Farewell The information and advice provided are for guidance purposes only, and all participants are required to follow federal and state law and their school district guidelines and policies.

OFS Lafayette Program Director Alexandra Dutton talks with teacher Rachel Turtledove about something we have to think about much too often: when, if, and how to talk about difficult news events with young children. Whether we are worried about a recent school shooting or a fire that's burning too close to home, we are sending signals to our children about their world. Join them to hear about how to talk about these events in developmentally appropriate ways. Much of our advice comes from the helpful websites Common Sense Media and National Association of School Psychologists. For more resources, please check them out. (Apologies for the sound quality -- we are competing with our AC!)

In this episode of the Empower LEP podcast, host Jana Parker sits down with Dr. Rebecca Branstetter, a school psychologist, author, and entrepreneur who's dedicated to helping educators not just survive but truly thrive in their careers. Rebecca opens up about her early days as a school psychologist in the Bay Area, where she was determined to change the world—but quickly found herself overwhelmed by massive caseloads, pressure from advocates and attorneys, and the never-ending grind.Rebecca shares a powerful turning point in her career when pregnant with her first child, she found herself hiding under a desk during a school lockdown. That intense moment forced her to rethink everything—her priorities, her work, and the toll it was taking on her mental health. From there, she began a journey to figure out how school psychologists can do meaningful work without burning out. This eventually led to her creating The Thriving School Psychologist platform, which has now helped thousands of school psychs reclaim their passion and build sustainable, balanced careers.But her path wasn't always straightforward. Rebecca talks about her leap into private practice, hoping it would offer more freedom but finding a new set of challenges—like isolation and figuring things out on her own. Through it all, Rebecca kept pushing forward, eventually expanding her impact by creating online courses and a thriving community of educators who are all committed to doing great work without sacrificing their own well-being.This episode is full of relatable stories, personal insights, and real-life advice for anyone feeling overwhelmed by the demands of their work. Dr. Branstetter's story is a reminder that it's possible to create a fulfilling career without burning out—and that sometimes, the hardest moments can lead to the biggest breakthroughs.Be sure to grab a copy of Dr. Bransetter's new book, “Small Habits Create Big Change: Strategies to Avoid Burnout and Thrive in Your Education Career,” which is available on October 1st. Catch Episode 39 of the Empower LEP Podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube, and be sure to subscribe, rate, and leave a review to help us reach more LEPs and educators!Connect with Dr. Rebecca Branstetter:Email: beckibee@mac.comWebsite: thrivingstudents.comBook: AmazonFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThrivingSchoolPsych/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thrivingschoolpsychLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drrebeccabranstetter/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thrivingstudents

In this episode of the Prepared School Psych Podcast, host Jenny interviews Katie Peterson, a nationally certified school psychologist with extensive experience in special education and mental health. Katie discusses her advocacy for LGBTQ+ students, the importance of supporting these students, and shares actionable steps for school psychologists to create inclusive environments. She highlights the effectiveness of GSA clubs, using affirming pronouns, and staying informed on evolving laws. Katie also shares personal anecdotes and resources to help school psychologists navigate and implement supportive strategies. Resources: GSA Network: Creating/running GSA Clubs 10 Steps to Starting a GSA Club Advisor Handbook GLSEN Safe Space Kit  Model Policies to protect trans/gender non-binary students National School Climate Survey Rainbow Library 24-25 School Year Calendar Ready, Set, Respect! Elementary Toolkit Trevor Project Trevor Research Briefs Creating Safer Spaces in Schools for LGBTQ Young People How to Signal You are an Ally in Hostile Environment Gender Spectrum  Gender Inclusive Schools Gender-related resources for families and educators, including the Gender Support Plan HRC's Welcoming Schools Lessons that are tied to Common Core curriculum standards Welcoming Schools Annual Report Book lists Advocates 4 Trans Equality Model District Policy on Transgender and Gender Nonconforming Students Trans 101 Know Your Rights at School (student-facing) LGBTMap & Anti-Trans Bill Tracker: Places to check your state for laws that protect (or threaten) LGBTQ+ folks Safe Zone Project Fantastic glossary of terms NASP LGBTQ+ Resources [some resources require NASP membership to access] Supporting LGBTQ+ Youth When Policies Mandate Discrimination (PDF) Transgender and Gender Diverse Readiness Assessment (PDF) Other helpful resources not mentioned specifically on the podcast: ACLU Schools in Transition: A Guide for Supporting Transgender Students in K-12 Schools Trans Student Educational Resources: Great Gender Unicorn graphics that are a fun activity for students (and adults!) Lambda Legal : Students Rights SFSU Family Acceptance Project Somos Familia ---------------------------------------------------------------- Subscribe to this podcast now and join our community of dedicated School Psychologists committed to creating inclusive, supportive, and empowering school environments for every child. Let's embark on this journey of professional growth and student-centered advocacy together! Follow us on social media for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and more: Instagram: @jennyponzuric https://www.instagram.com/jennyponzuric/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenny-ponzuric-1562a8119/

In this episode of the Prepared School Psych podcast, host Jenny Ponzuric discusses the importance and utilities of autism rating scales in educational settings. She highlights their role in providing a comprehensive view of a student's behavior across different environments and their usefulness in monitoring and re-evaluations. However, she cautions that these scales do not provide complete answers, such as the onset and reasons behind behaviors. Jenny emphasizes the significance of understanding the norming sample and criteria differences between states, and shares practical tips like early scoring, knowing state criteria, and getting familiar with the student before choosing rating scales.  FREE RESOURCES: This or That? Autism Rating Scales https://jennyponzuric.activehosted.com/f/164 FREE 2-Week ACCESS INSIDE THE PREPARED SCHOOL PSYCHOLOGIST COMMUNITY: Experience the Prepared School Psychologist Community with a 2-Week Free Trial! Join over 300 school psychologists who are equipped with the knowledge and resources they need to excel in their roles. What You'll Get with Your Free Trial: Over 35 Mini-Courses: Access a wide range of topics designed to provide the essential knowledge and skills you need. Monthly Live Q&A Calls: Engage directly with Jenny Ponzuric and a team of veteran school psychologists to get your questions answered and gain insights. Community Forum & Remind App Access: Connect with a network of peers to exchange ideas and get support in real-time. Comprehensive Resources: Explore tools and strategies covering behavior management, executive functioning, counseling, and more. Ready to Equip Yourself with Essential Knowledge and Resources? Click here and use code PODCAST at checkout to start your 2-week free trial. ⁠⁠⁠https://jennyponzuric.activehosted.com/f/159⁠⁠ ---------------------------------------------------------------- Subscribe to this podcast now and join our community of dedicated School Psychologists committed to creating inclusive, supportive, and empowering school environments for every child. Let's embark on this journey of professional growth and student-centered advocacy together! Follow us on social media for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and more: Instagram: @jennyponzuric https://www.instagram.com/jennyponzuric/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenny-ponzuric-1562a8119/

In the final part of a six-part series on the IEP process, Jenny Ponzuric discusses the considerations and steps for adjusting a student's placement on the Least Restrictive Environment (LRE) continuum. Jenny highlights the importance of ensuring that IEPs are implemented with fidelity and that accommodations and goals match the student's needs. She provides guidance on documenting attempts to meet those needs and stresses the value of supporting decisions with data and observations. Jenny also touches on the significance of district-specific guidelines and provides a handout summarizing the information for further reference. FREE RESOURCE: https://jennyponzuric.ac-page.com/moving-up-down-the-LRE-continuum ---------------------------------------------------------------- Subscribe to this podcast now and join our community of dedicated School Psychologists committed to creating inclusive, supportive, and empowering school environments for every child. Let's embark on this journey of professional growth and student-centered advocacy together! Follow us on social media for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and more: Instagram: @jennyponzuric ⁠https://www.instagram.com/jennyponzuric/⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenny-ponzuric-1562a8119/⁠

In this episode of the Prepared School Psych podcast, Jenny Ponzuric discusses the concept of executive functioning, focusing on various rating scales used to evaluate these skills in students. She highlights the importance of examining executive functioning in cases of traumatic brain injury, attention difficulties, and lack of progress on goals. Jenny outlines multiple methods for assessing these skills, including observations, interviews, and standardized tests, with a particular emphasis on the use of rating scales. She explains the significance of determining whether a student's issue is a skill deficit or a performance deficit and stresses the necessity of selecting the appropriate scale based on specific concerns expressed by parents and teachers. Resources for further learning and future discussions on the topic are also mentioned. FREE RESOURCES: Behavior Rating Scales Encompassing Executive Function: This or That? https://jennyponzuric.ac-page.com/behavior-rating-scales-this-or-thatJoin my newsletter: https://jennyponzuric.activehosted.com/f/69 ---------------------------------------------------------------- Subscribe to this podcast now and join our community of dedicated School Psychologists committed to creating inclusive, supportive, and empowering school environments for every child. Let's embark on this journey of professional growth and student-centered advocacy together! Follow us on social media for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and more: Instagram: @jennyponzuric ⁠https://www.instagram.com/jennyponzuric/⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenny-ponzuric-1562a8119/⁠

On today's episode, Lyndsey is joined by Dr. Alaina Puff of Flow State Coaching and Consulting, to chat about her journey and experiences as a School Psychologist turned Intuitive Coach.   In this episode we cover: Dr Puff's experience as a School Psychologist - how the public school foundation is not built to support our children properly Dr Puff's schooling journey for her Psychology Doctorate - and the highly sensitive/intuitive children who showed her the gaps & limitations of modern mental health in addressing their needs Forging her own path as a trailblazer by creating her own business, that blends traditional therapy with intuitive practices Dr Puff's phenomenal tips, tricks, & strategies for empowering parents of empath children  Characteristics of the highly sensitive & intuitive new earth kids The power of community & the many resources that Dr Puff is currently offering to assist families --- The Meditation Mama's latest: WOMB HEALING MEDITATION If you have never had a womb healing, are preparing to conceive, have experienced trauma, or feel like you have some energetic or creative blocks, then this latest meditation is for you!  This is a POWERFUL womb healing & clearing with Goddess Isis and Hathor. Shop here: https://www.themeditationmama.com/shop/p/goddess-womb-healing-meditation-16-minutes --- *Receive TWO FREE guided meditations from The Meditation Mama: https://www.themeditationmama.com/free-meditations Visit www.themeditationmama.com to shop meditations, 1:1 work, & event bookings. These guided meditations raise your frequency, open your heart, connect your soul, & soothe your nervous system unlike any other.  Every transmission is a potent journey inward, lovingly channeled from the Divine.  At the end of your session, you'll be amazed at how calm, empowered, and high vibe you feel.  As you listen consistently, you'll notice your thoughts, emotions, and reality reflecting these positive shifts too! Themes include:  Clarity + Empowerment  Energy + Heart Healing  Motherhood Prenatal + Postnatal Relaxation  Releasing + Clearing  Spiritual + Woo Woo --- $10 off my absolute favorite, most potent organic CBD & Functional Mushrooms:  https://tmm.greencompassglobal.com/share/586591 --- Connect with Lyndsey:  IG: the_meditationmama Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@The_MeditationMama Substack: https://substack.com/@themeditationmama Email: Lyndsey@themeditationmama.com If you loved this episode, please rate, review and subscribe.

50th Episode Special: Your Top 5 Picks and Exclusive Celebration Giveaways! In the celebratory 50th episode of the Prepared School Psych Podcast, host Jenny Ponzuric offers free resources to her listeners. She reflects on popular topics such as understanding special education requirements and effectively communicating evaluation results. The episode includes insights on diagnosing dysgraphia and dyscalculia and provides free access to a replay of a comprehensive training session. Listeners are encouraged to stay tuned for an exciting surprise at the end of the episode. FREE RESOURCES: #1: Writing a Good Summary Training: ⁠https://jennyponzuric.activehosted.com/f/174⁠ #2: Questions to Ask When Examining “Requires Special Education”: ⁠https://jennyponzuric.activehosted.com/f/212⁠ #3: Responding to Evaluation Requests for Dyslexia, Dyscalculia, and Dysgraphia Training (FREE FOR THE FIRST 50 TO USE CODE: CELEBRATE) : ⁠https://jennyponzuric.com/responding-to-evaluation-requests-for-dyslexia-dysgraphia-and-dyscalculia/⁠ Our top 5 Episodes Mentioned in this Episode: #1: Decoding Special Education Eligibility: Demystifying the 'Requires' Prong with Jenny Ponzuric ⁠https://spotifyanchor-web.app.link/e/npNkLMtb7Lb⁠ #2: Mastering Succinct Result Explanations with Jenny Ponzuric Part 1 ⁠https://spotifyanchor-web.app.link/e/Gb574tqb7Lb⁠ #3: Mastering Succinct Result Explanations with Jenny Ponzuric Part 2 ⁠https://spotifyanchor-web.app.link/e/C2A1Ctqb7Lb⁠ #4: Exploring Dysgraphia: Tips and Insights with Jenny Ponzuric ⁠⁠https://spotifyanchor-web.app.link/e/f7F64Itb7Lb⁠⁠ #5: Dyscalculia: What Parents and Educators Need to Know by Jenny Ponzuric ⁠https://spotifyanchor-web.app.link/e/Y1w8DItb7Lb⁠ ---------------------------------------------------------------- Subscribe to this podcast now and join our community of dedicated School Psychologists committed to creating inclusive, supportive, and empowering school environments for every child. Let's embark on this journey of professional growth and student-centered advocacy together! Follow us on social media for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and more: Instagram: @jennyponzuric ⁠https://www.instagram.com/jennyponzuric/⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenny-ponzuric-1562a8119/⁠

In this episode, Jenny Ponzuric discusses Independent Educational Evaluations (IEEs) and provides detailed guidelines for school psychologists on how to review and consider them. She emphasizes the importance of assessing multiple data sources, understanding the conditions under which assessments were conducted, validating the tests used, and thoroughly documenting similarities and differences with the school's assessments. Ponzuric also highlights the importance of team discussions and thorough note-taking to ensure all aspects of the IEE are appropriately considered during IEP meetings. FREE RESOURCE:⁠ ⁠https://jennyponzuric.ac-page.com/how-i-consider-an-iee⁠ FREE WORKSHOP "Writing a Good Summary": Access Now: ⁠⁠https://jennyponzuric.activehosted.com/f/174⁠⁠

In Part 5 of this series, Jenny Ponzuic provides practical tips for explaining Individualized Education Program (IEP) pages, emphasizing the importance of using family-friendly language. She advises reducing jargon, sharing draft language with someone outside of special education for feedback, and starting small with one section of the IEP document. These strategies aim to make IEP meetings less stressful and more understandable for parents. FREE RESOURCE:⁠https://jennyponzuric.ac-page.com/3-Tips-for-Using-Parent-Friendly-Language-in-IEP-Documents⁠ FREE WORKSHOP "Writing a Good Summary": Access Now: ⁠https://jennyponzuric.activehosted.com/f/174⁠

In this episode of the Prepared School Psych Podcast, hosts Lina and Tyler Kitson, co-founders of Copy Paste Report, share their journey of creating a tool designed to streamline report writing and data management for school psychologists. Both Nationally Certified School Psychologists themselves, Tyler and Lina discuss their professional backgrounds, the conception and evolution of Copy Paste Report, and the challenges they faced as non-business professionals in developing a software product. They delve into the features of the tool, which offer customizable, efficient solutions for behavioral data collection, FBA, caseload management, and more. The episode highlights user feedback, future developments, and the importance of balancing professional workload with personal well-being. This comprehensive discussion aims to provide valuable insights for school psychologists seeking to enhance their practice and overall effectiveness. RESOURCES FROM THIS EPISODE Website: ⁠https://www.copypastereport.com/⁠ IG: copy_paste_report FB: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/copypastereport⁠ Jenny Ponzuric FREE WORKSHOP "WRITING A GOOD SUMMARY" Access Here: ⁠https://jennyponzuric.activehosted.com/f/174⁠

In the fourth part of the IEP process series, host Jenny Ponzuric discusses the importance of understanding and determining service minutes during IEP meetings. She challenges the notion that there's only one way to provide services, encouraging the team to focus on what the student needs to achieve their goals in a year. Jenny highlights the experience of service providers, the student's learning rate, and other impacting factors like motivation and behavioral concerns. She also introduces a handout with tips for discussing service minutes and emphasizes indirect supports and accommodations. FREE RESOURCE https://jennyponzuric.ac-page.com/four-quick-tips-when-discussing-direct-service-minutes

In this episode of Prepared School Psych podcast, host Jenny Ponzuirc delves into the various roles within an Individualized Education Program (IEP) meeting based on her extensive experience of over 25 years in school psychology. Jenny explains the evolution of the roles, highlighting responsibilities such as facilitator, note taker, and timekeeper. She also offers practical tips on helping colleagues improve their roles, including permission-based feedback, concrete examples, role modeling, and positive reinforcement. For listeners seeking additional resources, show notes and handouts are available. FREE RESOURCE:https://jennyponzuric.ac-page.com/which-roles-do-you-take-on-in-an-iep-meeting

In part three of a six-part series on the IEP process, Jenny Ponzuric discusses the importance of accurately presenting current levels of functioning in an IEP document. Drawing from her 25 years of experience in special education, she highlights the shift from summarizing assessment results with jargon and test scores to providing detailed, understandable descriptions of a student's abilities. Jenny emphasizes the need for present levels that can serve as baselines for setting goals, urging assessors to go beyond standardized tests and gather comprehensive information about a student's academic, communication, social, emotional, and behavioral performance. FREE RESOURCE: Scores or no Scores in Present Levels?: ⁠https://jennyponzuric.ac-page.com/scores-or-no-scores⁠ FREE TRAINING:

Maximizing Efficiency in School Psych Evaluations with Dr. Dan Miller In this episode of the Prepared School Psych podcast, Dr. Dan Miller discusses his new venture, Psych Writer Pro, a virtual report writing assistant aimed at streamlining school neuropsychology evaluations. With a vast background in school neuropsychology, including leadership roles at the Woodcock Institute for Neurocognitive Research and Applied Practice and the Kids Inc. School Neuropsychology Postgraduate Certification Program, Dr. Miller shares his insights on the software's development, its unique features, and how it supports clinicians to save time while minimizing errors. He also offers advice for new school psychologists on staying cognitively flexible and committing to lifelong learning. Dr. Miller emphasizes the importance of integrating qualitative and quantitative data for comprehensive evaluations. Resources: PsychWriter Pro: https://www.psychwriterpro.com/ Experience the Prepared School Psychologist Community with a 2-Week Free Trial!Join over 300 school psychologists who are equipped with the knowledge and resources they need to excel in their roles. What You'll Get with Your Free Trial: Over 35 Mini-Courses: Access a wide range of topics designed to provide the essential knowledge and skills you need. Monthly Live Q&A Calls: Engage directly with Jenny Ponzuric and a team of veteran school psychologists to get your questions answered and gain insights. Community Forum & Remind App Access: Connect with a network of peers to exchange ideas and get support in real-time. Comprehensive Resources: Explore tools and strategies covering behavior management, executive functioning, counseling, and more. Ready to Equip Yourself with Essential Knowledge and Resources? Click here and use code PODCAST at checkout to start your 2-week free trial. ⁠⁠⁠https://jennyponzuric.activehosted.com/f/159⁠⁠ ---------------------------------------------------------------- Subscribe to this podcast now and join our community of dedicated School Psychologists committed to creating inclusive, supportive, and empowering school environments for every child. Let's embark on this journey of professional growth and student-centered advocacy together! Follow us on social media for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and more: Instagram: @jennyponzuric https://www.instagram.com/jennyponzuric/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenny-ponzuric-1562a8119/

Welcome to another episode of the Prepared School Psych podcast! In today's episode, Jenny Ponzuric delves into the ins and outs of the pre-referral process in schools. Whether your process is running smoothly or in need of an overhaul, Jenny's insights and tips will guide you through making meaningful improvements. Key Topics Covered: Defining the Pre-Referral Process: Jenny explains the various names for pre-referral meetings, such as SSTs, CSTs, and MTSS teams. Understanding these terms helps in grasping how your school's process aligns with others. Evaluating Your Current Process: Timeframe: How long does it take from initial referral to the first meeting? Jenny discusses the importance of timely responses. Data Collection: What type of data is being gathered? Are you receiving useful information to support concerns? Data Needs: What additional data might be helpful for monitoring student progress and deciding on evaluations? Referral Forms: Are the forms effective and completed correctly? Common Complaints: What are the main issues people face with the current process? Actionable Tips for Improvement: Collect Data: Gather information on current complaints and process effectiveness to drive improvements. Communicate with Decision Makers: Share your observations and data with those who can influence change, such as principals or administrators. Offer Assistance: Provide support rather than taking on all responsibilities yourself to foster collaborative improvement. Resources Mentioned: 5 Reflection Questions for Your Pre-Referral Process: Download this handout to get a summary of the reflection questions and tips discussed in this episode. Experience the Prepared School Psychologist Community with a 2-Week Free Trial!Join over 300 school psychologists who are equipped with the knowledge and resources they need to excel in their roles. What You'll Get with Your Free Trial: Over 35 Mini-Courses: Access a wide range of topics designed to provide the essential knowledge and skills you need. Monthly Live Q&A Calls: Engage directly with Jenny Ponzuric and a team of veteran school psychologists to get your questions answered and gain insights. Community Forum & Remind App Access: Connect with a network of peers to exchange ideas and get support in real-time. Comprehensive Resources: Explore tools and strategies covering behavior management, executive functioning, counseling, and more. Ready to Equip Yourself with Essential Knowledge and Resources? Click here and use code PODCAST at checkout to start your 2-week free trial. ⁠⁠⁠https://jennyponzuric.activehosted.com/f/159⁠⁠ ---------------------------------------------------------------- Subscribe to this podcast now and join our community of dedicated School Psychologists committed to creating inclusive, supportive, and empowering school environments for every child. Let's embark on this journey of professional growth and student-centered advocacy together! Follow us on social media for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and more: Instagram: @jennyponzuric https://www.instagram.com/jennyponzuric/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenny-ponzuric-1562a8119/

Send us a Text Message.In this episode, Rylie Heck speaks with Andrea Mancuso about parental well-being and how that can connect to their children's mental health. Andrea was a School Psychologist for the New York City Public Schools for over 14 years. She served the NYC school system and supported thousands of children and their families during that time. Much of Andrea's work emphasizes awareness and acceptance, proactive self-care and effective communication between parent and child. Throughout her years working with parents, she has found it to be exceptionally important for parents to open up to the possibility of locking arms with trusted professionals to best support their children. Andrea also works hard to empower parents to take care of themselves to the best of their ability. It takes a village; And the village must be healthy to be impactful with the care of vulnerable children. Andrea is a highly skilled consultant and dynamic facilitator. As an Associate Certified Coach (ACC), Andrea is experienced with both development and high-performance coaching. She is certified in Emotional Intelligence (EI) assessment and is currently the host of The V Spot Podcast. Andrea attained Advanced Certification in Mental Health Counseling in 2022, a Master of Science in Education (M.S. Ed.) in Therapeutic Interventions and a Professional Diploma in School Psychology from Fordham University in 2007.GUEST INFORMATION/LINKS:Website: www.iamandreamancuso.comInstagram: @iamandreamancusoYouTube: Intentional Healing & Wellness

Ever wondered why some school counseling programs deliver long-lasting results while others fall flat? In this episode of the School for School Counselors podcast, host Steph Johnson addresses the critical need for evidence-based practices in the field of school counseling. Though counselor-created resources are popular, Johnson emphasizes the importance of moving beyond these kinds of resources commonly found online. She discusses the insufficiency of peer-reviewed research in current school counseling interventions and offers reliable alternatives such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based interventions, and established curriculums like Second Step and MindUP. Additionally, Johnson highlights the potential harm of inadequately researched resources found on platforms like Teachers Pay Teachers. She provides practical advice on where to find validated interventions and underscores the value of collecting long-term data to assess their effectiveness.If you truly want to be a better school counselor, listen in for actionable insights to elevate your school counseling practices, backed by the power of evidence-based approaches that truly make a difference in students' lives.Mentioned in This Episode:School for School Counselors MastermindResources:American School Counselor Association (2019). ASCA schoolcounselor professional standards & competencies. Alexandria,VA: Author. Retrieved from https://www.schoolcounselor.org/getmedia/a8d59c2c-51de-4ec3-a565-a3235f3b93c3/SC-Competencies.pdfAmerican School Counselor Association. (2021). ASCA student standards: Mindsets & behaviors for student success. Retrieved from https://www.schoolcounselor.org/getmedia/7428a787-a452-4abb-afec-d78ec77870cd/mindsets-behaviors.pdfCollaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning (CASEL). (n.d.). Retrieved from https://casel.org/Committee for Children. (n.d.). Second Step program. Retrieved from https://www.secondstep.org/Gallagher, C., Swalwell, K., & Bellows, L. (2019). Editorial processes and quality control in educational materials. Educational Studies, 48(1), 112-128.Kendall, P. C. (1990). Coping Cat program for anxiety disorders. Journal of Clinical Child Psychology, 19(2), 99-107.MacArthur, J., Harris, L., Archonbald, N., & Shelton, K. (2021). Findings on the quality of activities in educational resources. Journal of Educational Research, 54(3), 245-262.National Association of School Psychologists. (n.d.). Professional development. Retrieved from https://www.nasponline.org/professional-developmentSawyer, R., Dick, M., & Sutherland, J. (2020). The correlation between resource aesthetics and cognitive demand. Mathematics Education Review, 62(4), 301-318.The Goldie Hawn Foundation. (n.d.). MindUP curriculum. Retrieved from https://mindup.org/U.S. Department of Education. (n.d.). What Works Clearinghouse. Retrieved from https://ies.ed.gov/ncee/wwc/

When was the last time you took your inner child to the park?In today's episode, I'm joined by Jonna Watson, School Psychologist, Momma bear of four, Podcaster, and children's book Author. Despite her innate love for crafting stories and participating in countless writing competitions as a child, Jonna sank into the endless to-do lists of adulthood and simply stopped writing. After much self-development and healing, Jonna brought back her old self, unearthed her writing habits, and reconnected with her inner child.Throughout this episode, you'll hear about Jonna's healing journey, her work to reconnect with her inner child, and her passion for teaching social concepts to kids through her books. You'll also hear Jonna's thoughts on the power of creative expression as a teaching tool, the intentional use of our time, and the importance of being mindful of our limits and boundaries.Additionally, Jonna talks about her books, the stories in her personal life that inspired them, connecting with our five senses to disconnect from stressors, the importance of giving ourselves permission to fail and be messy, and much more.Tune in to Episode 163 of the Joy Found Here and learn why allowing your inner child to come out and dictate the pace sometimes is all you need.In This Episode, You Will Learn:About Jonna's healing journey (4:50)Why Jonna stopped writing and what made her get back to it (8:20)Connecting with your 5 senses to disconnect from stressors (13:30)The fascinating story that inspired Ruby the Rubberband (21:00)Jonna talks about the birth of "5 Minute Inner Child," her podcast (32:20)Jonna shares her thoughts on being intentional with our time (34:40)Connect with Jonna Watson:InstagramListen to the 5 Minute Inner Child podcastBook: Jonna Watson - Ruby the Rubberband Learns Her Limits: A Case of Being Too StretchyBook: Jonna Watson - A Great Lake's Tale: Superior Learns She's Part of the FlowLet's Connect:WebsiteInstagram Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Studies show that every school year almost 3 million public school students receive one or more out-of-school suspensions, while more than 100,000 students are expelled.  Along with doing little to reduce children's misconduct, one out-of-school suspension increases a child's chance of dropping out of school and increases their chances of entering the juvenile justice system.  How can we keep students out of the school-to-prison pipeline? How can trauma-informed teaching benefit students and schools? And what can we do to help schools address the needs of youth? In this episode, Dr. Tammy Hughes joins Kevin to discuss what teachers and school leaders can do to combat the school-to-prison pipeline. Meet Tammy Dr. Tammy Hughes is a school psychologist and professor. She has devoted her life's work to keeping kids in school and out of jail.  This is, What I Want to Know.