This episode of Shift Everything is about how Illinois schools can best support newcomer students, including many from Venezuela who have recently arrived in Chicago. Dr. Rebecca Vonderlack-Navarro of Latino Policy Forum and former Illinois State Board of Education State Superintendent Dr. Carmen Ayala join the conversation.

School district administrators across the country are facing serious staffing challenges. The fact is, it’s getting more difficult to find teachers, paraprofessionals, and school staff members to hire. But it can be done! Matt Kane, HR Generalist for West40, is our guest on this episode of Shift Everything. Matt shares his experiences with the hiring process and offers tips to help others find new employees and retain current employees.

Shift Everything host Chris Coffey speaks to Pleasantdale District 107 superintendent Dr. Dave Palzet about Pleasantdale Elementary receiving a National Blue Ribbon School recognition from the U.S. Department of Education.

What does it mean to be innovative in the classroom and how can that impact the student learning experience? Shift Everything explores how innovation and technology can be difference makers in education. Special thanks to the West40 innovation team for being guests on this episode.

Sometimes students need a safety net at their school to get the support they need to improve their behavior, attendance, and academics. Student advocates can be that support system. This episode of Shift Everything is a discussion with two West40 student advocates, who share what it's like to help make a difference in the lives of students.

Social media is one of the most important ways that a school can communicate with families and their communities. On this episode of Shift Everything, we talk to Andrea Gribble, author and owner of #SocialSchool4EDU, to learn what types of social media posts can help boost "likes" and build strong community connections.

What will be different about education as the learning experience evolves? Shift Everything explores this topic in a conversation with West40 Executive Director Dr. Mark Klaisner. Dr. Klaisner shares his thoughts on the steps that are being taken now to improve the overall education experience and what it could lead to in the future.

Shift Everything explores the importance of early childhood education and care. Illinois recently approved big investments in initiatives for young learners and their families, early intervention, and the creation of new preschool opportunities. Vivian Palicki, a professional learning specialist at West40 with experience as an education and health and well-being liaison and advocate for children in Illinois' child welfare system, is our guest.

The events of the past several years have taken a toll on the mental health of many people, including teenagers. Supporting their mental health journey is a priority for many families and schools. Shift Everything talks to Adrian Cardenas, coordinator of The Loft, a new program in the Chicago suburbs that has a team of support specialists and mental health professionals that encourages teen voices to empower and advocate for their own services and family support.

We talk to communications professionals who explain what goes into effective school messaging, whether it is positive news updates or responding to crisis situations.