In this episode, we sit down with Wendy Moran, Director of Consultative Services, and Aimee Siravo, Assistant Director of Consultative Services at The Timothy School, to explore Structured Teaching for supporting students with autism. Wendy and Aimee break down what Structured Teaching is, how it aligns with the characteristics of autism, and why elements like physical structure, visual schedules, and work systems are essential for student success. They also share practical strategies for classroom setup, overcoming common implementation challenges, and building environments that promote independence, reduce anxiety, and increase engagement. Hear more about the upcoming hands-on training at The Timothy School this June.

Training Dates: June 17–20 or June 24–27
Learn more and register: learn.mciu.org/structuredteaching

Discover how Aevidum, meaning “I’ve got your back,” empowers students to lead the charge against mental health stigma. At Pottsgrove High School, this peer-driven movement has grown into the school’s largest student club by equipping teens with the tools to support one another without feeling overwhelmed. Hear how Aevidum’s student-led model, signature Talk Workshop, and school-wide culture campaigns are transforming communities across eastern Pennsylvania, with free programming, thanks to support from the Project AWARE grant.

Interested schools can contact Pia Houseal at [email protected] to learn more about bringing Aevidum to their district.

The Competent Learner Model (CLM) is revolutionizing autistic support classrooms by integrating behavioral analysis throughout the day instead of requiring separate intervention times. In this episode, teachers and behavior analysts from Pennsbury School District share their three-year implementation journey with MCIU Project Consultants Kari Kessler and Cassie Brusch, highlighting dramatic improvements in student communication skills and significant reductions in challenging behaviors.

To learn more about implementing the Competent Learner Model in your classroom or district, visit https://learn.mciu.org/CLM for resources and information about training opportunities.

Essential for Living (EFL) provides function-based assessment and curriculum for learners with autism and developmental disabilities, tracking small increments of progress while continuing to develop communication skills. Steve and Liz Maher share their journey from creating the VB-MAP app to developing the EFL app, explaining how their technology makes life easier for educators while positively transforming outcomes for learners.

Visit https://learn.mciu.org/EFL to learn more about Essential for Living, access this podcast episode, and find information about the EFL app and other educational resources.

In a world where the voices of youth are often unheard, this episode sheds light on how students in Montgomery County are stepping into leadership roles through the Dreaming Forward program. Join us as we engage with educational leaders and music artist Kate Yeager, who share their insights on the impact of storytelling and personal narratives in shaping young leaders. This heartfelt conversation explores the challenging yet empowering journey of students as they find their voices and foster a sense of belonging within their schools.

Dr. Tanya Lamar joins us to discuss the transformative power of data science in mathematics education, emphasizing the need for students to see math as relevant and engaging. Join us as we learn how integrating data science into high school curricula can shift perceptions of math and empower students to embrace their mathematical capabilities while preparing them for quantitative fields.

Join us as we feature the dynamic duo, Patrice Semicek and Andrew Kuhn, who are working with their colleague Tony Mirabito (CLIU) to creatively drive the messaging and way we approach STEELS standards, gifted education, and the latest trends like AI. Through this engaging episode, you'll understand how a podcast was born out of the desire to share rich educational conversations and provide educators with micro-professional development that seamlessly fits into their hectic schedules.

Learn more at https://Learn.mciu.org/ChangEd

Explore the secrets to transforming math education as we promise to shift your perspective from deficit-based thinking to asset-based empowerment. MCIU's Brandon Langer and Kirpa Chohan speak with Juliana Tapper, a dynamic math intervention teacher and author. Together, they discuss how fostering a belief in students' potential can dramatically enhance their motivation and performance in mathematics. Juliana shares her enlightening journey of teaching students previously considered behind and unveils strategies that challenge traditional labels, proving that every student can succeed when given the right support.

Links Mentioned

• Book: www.gatebreakerbook.com
• Just in Time Documents (6-Alg 1): https://www.collaboratedwithjuliana.com/jit 
• IG: https://www.instagram.com/collaborated.with.juliana/ 

Join us for an insightful conversation with MCIU project consultant Jesse Gluckman and the Martin Luther School, as they share how their innovative Teacher Apprenticeship Program (TAP) is reshaping teacher preparation. 

Learn how Martin Luther School integrates hands-on classroom experience with formal education, offering a competency-based learning model. By aligning with a university's vision for teaching, the program allows participants to take classes during the school day, breaking down financial barriers through innovative learning approaches.

Unlock the potential of every student in your classroom with insights from Ron Martiello and Jenna Rufo, the dynamic duo behind "Conquering Math Myths with Universal Design." With their combined expertise in math coaching and special education, Ron and Jenna share strategies that redefine what it means to be a "math person," helping students develop a positive math mindset and breaking down the barriers that discourage them from fully engaging with mathematics.

Opportunities included in this episode

• Register for Upcoming Text Talk: https://learn.mciu.org/mathmyths/
• Register for Meet the Author Day on April 3, 2025: https://mciu.gosignmeup.com/public/Course/browse?courseid=4532
• Article: https://ascd.org/blogs/everyone-can-be-a-math-person
• Book: https://ascd.org/books/conquering-math-myths-with-universal-design?variant=124004

Follow Ron and Jenna on Social Media

Jenna Social Media: @jennamrufo, Jenna Mancini Rufo on Facebook
Ron Social Media: Ron Martiello on LinkedIn