In this episode of  "10 Talks: with Raj and Kristen", we welcome Sonja Radmilovic, a District Behavior Specialist with the Surrey School District. 

Sonja shares expert strategies for supporting students with challenging behaviors and/or ADHD and offers valuable insights into brain development and the power of neuroplasticity. She discusses the importance of staying within your professional scope, managing burnout, and fostering resilience as an educator. 

This insightful conversation also delves into the practice of self-reflection, the significance of connecting and collecting before directing, and the impact of recognizing “glimmers” throughout the day. 

Tune in for an enlightening discussion packed with actionable takeaways for educators and beyond! 

In this heartwarming and inspiring episode of "10 Talks: Conversations with Raj and Kristen", we sit down with Leena, an extraordinary 11th-grade student who shares her remarkable journey of resilience, self-acceptance, and advocacy. Born with a benign brain tumor that led to her blindness at a young age, Leena opens up about the challenges and lessons she has faced growing up as a blind student in her school. Throughout the conversation, Leena offers valuable insights into what teachers, classmates, and community members can do to create a more inclusive and understanding environment for individuals with disabilities. Tune in for a thoughtful and uplifting discussion with one of Surrey’s brightest and most inspiring students.  

Leena Sansoa - Youtube 

In this episode of "10 Talks: Conversations with Raj and Kristen", hosts Raj and Kristen tackle frequently asked questions about student support processes with a mix of practical insights and humour. They explore topics such as specific designations, submitting collaboration requests for additional support, navigating parent rights when discussing assessments, and best practices for Elementary LST and CYCW reports. With reflections on personal feedback and a commitment to delivering quick, actionable advice, this episode is a helpful resource for educators and student support teams alike. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share to help build a stronger student support community, and feel free to email Raj or Kristen with questions or suggestions for future episodes! 

In this episode of "10 Talks: Conversations with Raj and Kristen", we explore the principles and practices of low arousal training, a crisis intervention approach aimed at supporting students with diverse abilities and behavioral challenges. In this episode, veteran educators Sharon and Heather share insights from nearly three decades of teaching experience across various countries, school districts, and specialized programs. They discuss the importance of maintaining a calm, non-confrontational approach, the role of sensory management, and why building positive, cooperative relationships with students is essential. From practical de-escalation techniques to the significance of consistency and teamwork, this conversation is packed with real-life examples, expert tips, and thoughtful reflections on creating safe, supportive learning environments for all students.


 Low Arousal Approach - Memo Updated.pdf

In this episode of "10 Talks: Conversations with Raj and Kristen", we sit down with Diana DiCesare, District Principal (Inclusive Education & Student Support), to discuss the role of nursing support in schools. Diana provides insights into when and why nursing services are involved, how care plans are developed, and the process for ensuring student health needs are met in the school environment. She explains the difference between delegated and non-delegated care, the training and role of IESWs (Inclusive Education Support Workers), and how schools can support students with medical needs like diabetes, seizure disorders, and G-tube feeding. Diana also offers advice for new teachers and administrators on navigating these systems and ensuring student well-being. For additional resources, we’ve included a link to relevant information in the episode notes.

BC Children's Hospital - Nursing Support Services 

"10 Talks with Raj and Kristen" offers insightful and concise discussions on educational topics. In this insightful episode the hosts welcome Kinza Pirzada, an Inclusive Learning Helping Teacher, to discuss the challenges and strategies involved in supporting students on the autism spectrum, particularly in developing social skills. From her journey teaching in diverse environments such as the South Bronx and North Vancouver to her current role in Surrey, Kinza shares her unique perspective on the differences between teaching in the U.S. and Canada. The episode covers how autism impacts social interactions, the importance of recognizing the spectrum's diversity, and practical strategies for teachers to create inclusive classrooms. Tune in for valuable advice on navigating group work, transitions, and fostering social skills in both elementary and secondary settings.

Educator Portal - POPARD

"10 Talks: Conversations with Raj and Kristen" offers insightful and concise discussions on educational topics. In this episode, we chat with with Karla Braber, a retired District Behavior Specialist, and explore trauma-informed practice in education. Karla shares insights from her extensive career (including her work with youth in detention centres) and the importance of understanding emotional injuries in the classroom. Tune in to learn how educators can better support students by recognizing the signs of trauma and foster healing through consistent and compassionate relationships.


Strategies for Navigating Complex Student Behaviours Through a Trauma Informed Lens

"10 Talks: Conversations with Raj and Kristen" offers insightful and concise discussions on educational topics. In our inaugural episode, we chat with Greg England, a dedicated helping teacher who supports inclusive education and B.A.S.E.S programs in high schools. Greg shares his journey into teaching, the challenges and rewards of working with students with diverse needs or disabilities, and offers practical advice for new teachers. Join us for this engaging and informative episode, where we explore the heart of teaching in B.A.S.E.S classrooms. 

BASES TEAMs Group - Secondary BASES & Intensive Support | General | Microsoft Teams

10 Talks podcast is designed for teachers by teachers. It aims to create a vibrant community where educators can share best practices, innovative teaching strategies, classroom management tips, and personal stories. This podcast will serve as a source of inspiration, professional development, and support for teachers at all stages of their careers.