Brighter Together

Join me, Janet Courtney, on this episode of Brighter Together as I sit down with Janna Churchill, Director of Student Services at Northern United Charter Schools in Humboldt County, California. We delve into the innovative educational model of personalized learning that Northern United offers, blending independent study with satellite centers for a flexible, student-centered approach. Janna shares the unique challenges and rewards of reaching students in rural areas, emphasizing the importance of community and social-emotional learning. We also explore the school's ORB program, which encourages outdoor learning and resilience-building activities. Discover how Northern United is redefining education by integrating nature and technology to meet the diverse needs of its students. Whether you're an educator, parent, or lifelong learner, this episode offers valuable insights into the future of education.

In this episode of Brighter Together, titled "Ending School, Starting Life: A Seamless Transition—If Only," I sit down with Sharon Burke, the Interim Adult Transition Program Coordinator at Berkeley Schools in Michigan. We delve into the intricacies of their Adult Transition Program, designed for students aged 18 to 26, which focuses on bridging the gap between school and life. Sharon shares insights into their community-based initiatives, including a student-run micro business making dog treats in collaboration with local businesses. We also discuss the challenges of transportation and the need for more work opportunities for students. Sharon highlights the importance of preparing students for real-world experiences and the ongoing efforts to create seamless transitions from school to employment. Tune in to learn more about how Berkeley Schools is making a difference in the lives of young adults.

In this episode of Brighter Together, I sit down with Jason Wester, the superintendent of West Burlington ISD in Iowa, to explore how schools are redefining success beyond the traditional diploma. We discuss the district's innovative approach to education, which includes multiple pathways to success, such as apprenticeships and college credit opportunities. Jason shares insights into how the West Burlington Independent School District is preparing students not just academically, but also socially and emotionally, to lead purposeful lives. We delve into the development of their Portrait of a Graduate, which emphasizes skills like critical thinking, effective communication, and character building. Join us as we highlight the importance of community involvement and the ongoing efforts to support both students and educators in this transformative educational journey.

In this episode of Brighter Together, I sit down with Shannon Reasby, a literacy coach, and Jamon Finley, the principal at Quality Hill, part of Crossroads Charter Schools in Kansas City, Missouri. We explore their innovative literacy program funded by a grant from School Smart KC, which is transforming education by addressing literacy gaps with the MindPlay program and personalized tutoring. Shannon and Jamon share insights into their unique approach to education, including their community-based learning model and a "grow your own" initiative that nurtures future educators from their student body. We also discuss the challenges and successes of implementing these programs and the impact they have on students' lives. Join us as we delve into how Quality Hill is not only growing students but also future teachers, making a lasting impact on the Kansas City community.

In this episode of Brighter Together, I sit down with Allie Olin, the director of student services at Jersey City Community Charter School, to explore the transformative Ready, Set, Grow program. This innovative initiative was developed to address the challenges students faced post-COVID, particularly in social-emotional learning and academic readiness. Allie shares how the program has successfully reduced special education referrals by focusing on essential skills like fine motor development and social communication. We also discuss the importance of balancing technology use in education and the future plans for expanding support to gifted and talented students. Join us as we delve into the strategies that are rewriting the post-COVID playbook for schools and fostering a culture of kindness and growth.

In this episode of Brighter Together, titled "We Don’t Fix People. We Believe in Them," I sit down with Megan Press, the Assistant Director of Special Education at Austin Achieve Public Schools. We explore the challenges and triumphs of leading a special education department, from managing a diverse team to navigating shifting educational policies. Megan shares insightful advice for new educators stepping into leadership roles, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a student-centered focus. We discuss the critical need for empathy and active listening in conflict resolution and the power of seeing each individual as a solution rather than a problem. Join us as we delve into the heart of education and the unwavering belief in the potential of every student.

In this episode of Brighter Together, I sit down with Suzanne Kramer, the Exceptional Student Education Lead at Biltmore Elementary in Jacksonville, Florida. We delve into the complexities of special education, where nearly half of the student body has identified needs. Suzanne shares insights on building a resilient educational environment amidst challenges like staffing shortages and the lingering effects of the pandemic. We discuss the importance of addressing students' social-emotional needs before academic learning can take place, emphasizing the staggering 2,227 repetitions it often takes for students with profound disabilities to learn new skills. Suzanne also highlights the importance of having the right people in educational roles and the need for better funding. Join us for an enlightening conversation on how trauma, trust, and repetition shape learning experiences for both students and educators.

Join me, Janet Courtney, on this episode of Brighter Together as I sit down with Katie Wuori, the Garden and Nutrition Coordinator at Eustis RSU in Stratton, Maine. Discover why this passionate educator traded traditional lessons for hands-on gardening and nutrition programs. Katie shares her journey from teaching middle school to fostering a vibrant outdoor learning environment for Pre-K through 8th graders. Learn about the innovative ways she integrates project-based learning into the curriculum, from cooking and gardening to team-building and problem-solving. Katie also discusses the challenges and rewards of nurturing young minds and plants alike, and how the community's support has been pivotal in sustaining these initiatives. Tune in to hear how Katie’s efforts are cultivating not just gardens, but a thriving, healthy school culture.

In this episode of Brighter Together, Shar Mahoney—Director of Special Education at MSAD 11 in Maine—shares how her personal experiences with dyslexia and classroom struggle shaped the way she supports students, staff, and families today.

Shar discusses how to foster mutual respect in IEP meetings, how to navigate emotionally loaded parent conversations, and how to guide families through the often-unspoken grief of transition—when a child no longer qualifies for services.

Join me, Janet Courtney, on the Brighter Together podcast as I sit down with Rachel Bratter, Director of Special Services at Region School Unit 21 in Kennebunk, Maine. In this episode titled "How Early Is Early Enough? This Special Ed Leader Has an Answer," we explore the transformative power of early intervention in special education. Rachel shares her journey of implementing universal preschool for three- and four-year-olds, emphasizing the critical role early support plays in a child's development. We discuss the challenges and successes of integrating these young learners into the school system, the importance of inclusion, and the collaborative efforts needed to make a lasting impact. Rachel also offers valuable insights for parents on fostering learning at home. Tune in to discover how early educational interventions can shape brighter futures for all students.