Just Education Podcast: Mentorships in Education

Tom Synan, Police Chief in the Cincinnati, Ohio, metropolitan area, is trying to change the approach when working with addiction.  Follow him through his insightful journey and his innovative, data driven approach to working with addicts.  Listen to him speak about his meeting in DC with Homeland Security; his involvement with President Clinton and his Foundation, his community development around engagement, his creation of the Hampden Country Addiction Response Coalition and his own Podcast: Hard Corners. BIO:I am a Marine Corps Veteran, where I served as an infantryman and weapons armorer for the 3/8th Marines Weapons Company (everything from M-16's, handguns, 81mm mortars, .50 cal, M60, M249 machine guns, Mark 19 and various high tech accessories). I have over 20 years law enforcement experience and hold the position as Police Chief for the Newtown Police Department. I am a Certified Ohio Peace Officer Training Commission Semi-Auto Handgun Firearms Instructor & Re-Qual Instructor.I have been serving on the Hamilton County Regional SWAT Team for 7 years and hold the position of Team Leader for Tactical Team #3. I am responsible for the Operational Planning and Execution of risk SWAT Ops. Along with leadership and training of the Tactical Team. I have attended Tactical team Leader School presented by the Ohio Tactical Officers Association. I am a testing member (test SWAT equipment and gear) for the National Tactical Officers Association. Certified/Qualified in the FBI 1911 Transition Course (course that all agents must pass to be on FBI SWAT and put on by FBI Swat Operations Unit).  I have a great deal of actual high risk operation experience such as high risk search warrants, hostage, barricade, suicidal incidents. I have trained, trained with and been trained by some of the top SWAT Operators/Military Operators in the country.I am a paid firearms expert for a ballistics company. Work with CCW courses. Developed and  trained tactical firearms courses, defensive firearms courses.  I teach not only how to shoot but when and when not to shoot, shooting under stress/fear, tactical thought and tactics. My classes are taught at the Operator level, teaching all how to think and perform at the high level of being an Operator.All of these experiences lead me to develop my own training and consulting group:Owner/Chief Instructor of CBA Training & Consulting. A multifaceted training & consulting company. Specializing in how the brain processes information under stress/fear. Teaching how to better utilize your brain whether it is during a safety issue such as workplace violence, general safety plans, self defense or getting your sales staff to perform at a higher level. I took what I learned from my own experience in high risk/life & death situations, having to make accurate and quick decisions, mistakes I made, training I have received and developed a training program that incorporates communication skills, teamwork, leadership skills, individual accountability, organizational accountability and how to make better decisions and actions. My background as a Marine Corps veteran, over 20 years law enforcement, Police Chief, Tactical Team Leader on SWAT has allowed me to develop a unique training concept that has been used on SWAT, Police Agencies, Churches and businesses. TEDx: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gkIpWNDgdgQNowThis News: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BHafy9kSgD0President Clinton, Senate Hearing and Washington Post: https://www.c-span.org/person/?108427/ThomasSynanCincinnati Enquirer profile:https://www.cincinnati.com/story/news/2018/08/15/ohio-police-chief-champions-heroin-epidemic-u-s-and-abroad/788901002/Linked Inhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/tom-synan-14b1ba6b/Face Bookhttps://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1564331890

Police are at the forefront of our news today.  And for good, well, not so good,  reasons.  We have a lot of work to do to address the cancer that has been left for so long to fester.  As I looked into supporting kids who are not in our educational system, or who may be there but are slipping by us, I became aware it is this very system I am so  critical of, that is doing some of the best and most effective and creative work in the community.Listen to Dr. Chief Ruben Quesada of the Swampscott, MA police department introduce my next series on Restorative Justice, Community engagement and Youth participation.Watch for my June podcast with Dr Joel Caplan, as he returns from Washington, DC and a meeting with the DOJ. He will introduce us to  Risk Terrain Modeling and DICE software that is changing the landscape of Policing in the US and around the world.Biography:Ruben Quesada was born and raised in Phoenix, Arizona. Ruben was an at-riskstudent whose interest in police work began at 16 years of age after his arrest andsubsequent involvement with the Police Activities League. Ruben began his career in law enforcement as a student intern with the Flagstaff,Arizona Police Department.  In 1993, just prior to graduating from college, Rubenbecame a reserve police officer with the Glendale, Arizona Police Department. In1995, Ruben was hired full-time with the Mesa, Arizona Police Department wherehe ascended to the rank of Police Commander. He retired from Mesa PoliceDepartment in August 2020 and became the Deputy Chief of Police at NorthernEssex Community College Police Department. Ruben was sworn in as the Chief ofPolice in Swampscott, MA on April 6, 2022.  As an officer, Ruben worked and supervised a variety of assignments to include:patrol officer, field training officer, undercover narcotics detective, mediarelations, Criminal Investigations Division, Family Advocacy Center, StreetCrimes Unit, Gang Unit, Internal Affairs, Operations, and Hiring/Recruiting. In2017, Ruben attained his Doctorate in Education from Grand Canyon University inPhoenix, Arizona. Ruben is a staunch advocate of community policing and ishonored to represent the incredible Town of Swampscott and the proud anddedicated men and women of the Swampscott Police Department.

Not every child who needs support has been identified with a label and a supporting plan.  Some kids find it difficult to assimilate into the predominantly white culture of school whether their schools are predominantly white or not.   We don't recognize why this is true and too often we brush it off saying we have done all we can or as the problem of the child or the family.I just read: Complex People by Daryl C Howard,PhD,  and in the comfort of my living room I felt uncomfortable.  Not because he is rude or disrespectful.  But because he made me think in a way no one has before.  Please listen to him speak about his BOND project,  his approach to working with black and Brown boys and his book. There will be more to come on this topic, with others doing similar work and also more with Dr. Howard.Biography:Daryl Howard, Ph.D is an equity specialist whose work and research interests include race and culturalproficiency, social emotional learning, and the triumphs & challenges of African American malestudents. As chair of MSDE’s Advisory Council on Black Boys, he researches and recommends policyand practice to decrease disproportionality and elevate achievement. Howard is co-director of TheBOND Project, an initiative focused on the recruitment, development & retention of male educators ofcolor, as well as empowerment of underserved male students. Howard is the author of the book,Complex People and he can be found across social media @darylhowardphd.More info & External Links:https://darylhowardphd.com/https://bondeducators.org/services/https://marylandpublicschools.org/stateboard/Documents/2021/0427/MSDETransformCultureforBlackBoy.pdf

Often we conflate a child to a diagnosis. We look at the characteristics of the diagnosis and we expect the child in question to resemble that summary. We forget that not only is each child unique, but each child has strengths that overflow the summary of the diagnosis and give us HOPE.Mentorships in Education is brought to you by Just Education, LLC and is hosted by Judith Epstein. Judi has a Master's degree in Education with a concentration in Language Acquisition. She is certified in special education with post-graduate coursework and professional development in Cognitive Behavior therapy (CBT), Social Thinking, Collaborative and Proactive Solutions (CPS), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Judi created Just Education, LLC and its podcast component, to compile a free resource library for mentors of students who struggle and address a wide variety of topics that are all related to education and student success.Connect With Dr. Shoshana Levin FoxWebsiteAn Autism Casebook for Parents and Practitioners Review of An Autism CasebookFacebookLinkedInAbout Dr. Shoshana Levin FoxDr. Shoshana Levin Fox is a Jerusalem-based child psychologist, play therapist, autism specialist and the author of the parent-friendly An Autism Casebook for Parents and Practitioners: The Child Behind the Symptoms. Between 1992 and 2017, she worked at the renowned Feuerstein Institute in Jerusalem, where she was responsible for the dynamic assessment and treatment of children who had been diagnosed as autistic.  She has shared her wealth of experience using play-based methods to assess and treat young autistic children at numerous worldwide conferences, in professional publications, and most recently in her book, An Autism Casebook.  (Her personal journey led from small town Ohio, to Boston, to Vancouver, B.C. to Jerusalem.)CONNECT WITH USConnect with Judi Our website and podcasts are available hereJudi on Linkedin

We always find someone who is willing to tell us what we are doing wrong with our kids. Often it is followed by what we need to do: build a relationship, open lines of communication, set boundaries. But few resources tell us HOW we are to do it. Listen to David C. Hall discuss his challenges, his awakening and his road map to working with our kids. As David says: Success leaves clues. Anyone who supports students, will benefit from his wisdom in teaching our kids that: Learning is a way of thinking. Listen and learn from his clarifications and and great reflective questions.Mentorships in Education is brought to you by Just Education, LLC and is hosted by Judith Epstein. Judi has a Master's degree in Education with a concentration in Language Acquisition. She is certified in special education with post-graduate coursework and professional development in Cognitive Behavior therapy (CBT), Social Thinking, Collaborative and Proactive Solutions (CPS), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Judi created Just Education, LLC and its podcast component, to compile a free resource library for mentors of students who struggle and address a wide variety of topics that are all related to education and student success.Connect With David C. HallDavid C. Hall - WebsiteLinkedInThe 'written off' dyslexic pupil who went on to become inspirational teacherPotential Unlocked in Birmingham5 Ways To Develop A Growth Mindset In Your KidsPotential UnlockedAbout David C. HallHello, I am David C. Hall Bestselling Author, Award Winning motivational speaker, learning coach and learning consultant. I have a passion to unlock potential in children, young people and professionals to discover their learning flow. I'm here to teach them HOW to learn to unlock the greatness that resides within them.Potential Unlocked Tuition ( Managing Director) was born out of a desire to see parents supported and to give children the benefits of a great education.We work with children aged from 4 – 16, developing core skills in English, Maths, Science, Exam Preparation and more.  We have a proven system that takes children from struggle and frustration, to a place of confidence and knowledge. They not only develop academic skills, but make new friends and abilities that will hold them in good stead for a lifetime.Birmingham, EnglandCONNECT WITH USConnect with Judi Our website and podcasts are available hereJudi on Linkedin

In the contentious society in which we live, our children need to be comfortable in their uniqueness. How can we help them feel secure, loved and accepted? Is telling them we love them going to be enough?Listen as we discuss this and continue in coming podcasts to explore our world and the challenges we face in supporting our children.Mentorships in Education is brought to you by Just Education, LLC and is hosted by Judith Epstein. Judi has a Master's degree in Education with a concentration in Language Acquisition. She is certified in special education with post-graduate coursework and professional development in Cognitive Behavior therapy (CBT), Social Thinking, Collaborative and Proactive Solutions (CPS), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Judi created Just Education, LLC and its podcast component, to compile a free resource library for mentors of students who struggle and address a wide variety of topics that are all related to education and student success.Connect With Juan LeeFacebook: JuanleeauthorInstagram: JuanleeauthorTwitter: Lovemadesimple LinkedIn: Juan LeeNonprofit: Clearjourney.orgJuanleetheauthor.comLove Made Simple BlogFree guideAbout Juan LeeJuan Lee is an author and teacher on the powerful principle of love. For over 30 years, he has studied organized religion to find the elements that unite humanity and share the message with those who need it. Raised within the Christian church, Juan has turned to teachings about love over the years to find strength, understanding and hope.As a child, Juan was the youngest of four children raised by a single father. Juan struggled with an undiagnosed learning disability that made school difficult. While being constantly compared to others, he was unable to identify his strengths. Juan’s low self-esteem and fear took away his hope for life. He joined the US Air Force out of high school in hopes just to survive.Juan received multiple merits during his time in the military, including the Air Force Commendation Medal, the Air Force Achievement Medal, the Air Force Good Conduct Medal, and the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award. He found new confidence in service but could not separate himself from his disability. During his time in the Air Force, Juan committed his life to Christianity and sought to utilize the principle of love in his life.Juan is a devoted husband and lives outside of Washington, DC. He has a desire to share what he has learned over the years with others and be an agent of love for humanity. Learn more at JuanLeetheAuthor.com.CONNECT WITH USConnect with Judi Our website and podcasts are available hereJudi on Linkedin

As parents and teachers, we are always trying to connect with our kids while trying to maintain an image of authority and confidence. Sometimes we vacillate as we try different approaches to see what works. Avigail's wisdom in working with kids with ADHD can be generalized to adults working with kids in many situations. I have read her book and really love the structure, specificity and research that she shares. I hope you will find some direction when you listen to the podcast and perhaps, peruse the book.Mentorships in Education is brought to you by Just Education, LLC and is hosted by Judith Epstein. Judi has a Master's degree in Education with a concentration in Language Acquisition. She is certified in special education with post-graduate coursework and professional development in Cognitive Behavior therapy (CBT), Social Thinking, Collaborative and Proactive Solutions (CPS), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Judi created Just Education, LLC and its podcast component, to compile a free resource library for mentors of students who struggle and address a wide variety of topics that are all related to education and student success.About Avigail GimpelAvigail was born in 1974, the 3rd of eight children.  She got her first teaching job in 1996, in a school for immigrant children in queens New York. That same year she ran a Sunday school for Jewish public-school children. She got her BA from Touro college and completed her graduate studies at Touro college graduate school for Special Education in Manhattan, New York.She married Daniel Gimpel in 1998 while teaching in an all-boys orthodox elementary school.  In this school, she developed an intervention program for students struggling with ADHD symptoms.  She and Daniel moved to Israel soon after their marriage.  Avigail continued her education there, earning advanced degrees in teaching reading to children with Dyslexia and cognitive education for children with ADHD symptoms.  In 2003, she and her husband, with three small children moved to Moscow, Russia.  There she taught in three different schools and headed up the English department in one of the schools.   Upon our return to Israel, she emersed herself in studying and developing treatment options for ADHD for her own six kids and many struggling students.  She collaborated with her father-in-law, Dr. Amnon Gimpel (psychiatrist and neurologist), and developing a parent training program.  She moved on to develop a teacher’s training program.  Avigail teaches in Hertzog college as well as lectures in Israeli schools and to parent groups all over Israel.  She works in private practice, training parents to become ADHD coaches to their children, and spouses to learn a new love language to communicate with respect.  She recently published her first book “HyperHealing”, based on many years of research and practice both as a mother of a good number of kids diagnosed with ADHD, as well as a classroom teacher of children struggling with ADHD symptoms.  Her second book HyperHealing, Show me the Science is expected to be published in the next few months.  CONNECT WITH USConnect with Judi Our website and podcasts are available hereJudi on Linkedin

Life is a matter of choices and every choice you make, makes you. This is a quote by John Maxwell and is the foundation of the book, The Power of Choice by Claude Larson. Learn how she builds connections with her students and develops their awareness of self, with her interactive format, so they can make productive choices along their journey. Claude's parents and teachers guide is a wonderful support for developing conversations in the classroom and around the diner table.Mentorships in Education is brought to you by Just Education, LLC and is hosted by Judith Epstein. Judi has a Master's degree in Education with a concentration in Language Acquisition. She is certified in special education with post-graduate coursework and professional development in Cognitive Behavior therapy (CBT), Social Thinking, Collaborative and Proactive Solutions (CPS), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Judi created Just Education, LLC and its podcast component, to compile a free resource library for mentors of students who struggle and address a wide variety of topics that are all related to education and student success.Connect With Claude LarsonClaude B LarsonThe Power of Choice: A Teen's Guide to Finding Personal SuccessBook for StudentsCompanion Journal to go with EBook Student Version Teacher's Edition BookTeacher's Edition Paperback InstagramEmailLinkedInAbout Claude LarsonClaude Larson is a 25-year veteran of teaching in New Jersey public schools, primarily middle school science. She maintains two core beliefs about education and life as guiding principles for decisions. First, education can give anyone, despite their circumstances, power to direct their future. And second, well developed life habits have the power to give each day more value. Her choices, both large and small, are made using the same practices presented in her books and workshops. They are vehicles to help you find your unique path and contribute your greatness to the world. You can follow Claude on Instagram @thepowerofchoiceforsuccess for more inspiration and ideas.CONNECT WITH USConnect with Judi Our website and podcasts are available hereJudi on Linkedin

Dyslexia is a diagnosis that often brings confusion, trepidation and in some cases, sadness, to parents and children. But, when we look further, we find that some of the most creative, successful and interesting people were/are Dyslexic.Mentorships in Education is brought to you by Just Education, LLC and is hosted by Judith Epstein. Judi has a Master's degree in Education with a concentration in Language Acquisition. She is certified in special education with post-graduate coursework and professional development in Cognitive Behavior therapy (CBT), Social Thinking, Collaborative and Proactive Solutions (CPS), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Judi created Just Education, LLC and its podcast component, to compile a free resource library for mentors of students who struggle and address a wide variety of topics that are all related to education and student success.Connect With Mike ThomasThe Successful DyslexicBook on AmazonAbout Mike ThomasAs a dyslexic child in the late 40’s and 50’s I was faced with trying to make sense of my disability. At that time there was no name for what I had, and even though no one knew what was wrong with me, I was still faced with the over whelming task of dealing with my problem with reading if I was ever to have a “normal” life.With the help of a loving family and support from teachers and friends, I was able to succeed in reaching a functional level of reading. As a result, in 1967, I earned a B.S. degree in Physiological Psychology. As a part of my studies in learning disorders, I taught in the Psychological Clinic School at UCLA. After graduation I took a job as a Psychological Social Worker in a training school for juvenile delinquent boys.Many of these boys had problems with reading and as a result had great difficulty functioning in a normal classroom environment. In the 1980’s, I taught in the public school system in Nashville, TN. In addition, I tutored a number of dyslexic children after school. I found that most of these kids struggled because they had never learned ways of compensating for their dyslexia. They lacked the kind of study skills needed by dyslexics to overcome their problems with reading and learning in general. I shared some of the techniques that I had developed for myself over the years and was amazed at their success. Most of the kids I worked with went from D’s and F’s to A’s and B’s in less than a semester. Here are some of the positive qualities around being dyslexic: - Dyslexics often enjoy and excel at solving puzzles. - Dyslexics have an excellent comprehension of the stories read or told them. - Most dyslexics often have a better sense of spatial relationships and better use of their right brain. - Dyslexics have excellent thinking skills in the areas of conceptualization, reason, imagination, and abstraction. - Dyslexics have a strong ability to see concepts with a "big picture" perspective. - Dyslexics are adept to excellence in areas not dependent on reading. - Dyslexics typically have a large spoken vocabulary for their age. - Dyslexics tend to be more curious, creative, and intuitive than average. - Dyslexics’ special mode of thought easily produces the gift of mastery. - Dyslexia is not related to low intelligence.CONNECT WITH USConnect with Judi Our website and podcasts are available hereJudi on Linkedin

Join me in a discussion with J. David Hall when we introduce his globally recognized Neuro Guides and their approach to coaching neuro-divergent youth and corporations as they intersect in the workforce.Mentorships in Education is brought to you by Just Education, LLC and is hosted by Judith Epstein. Judi has a Master's degree in Education with a concentration in Language Acquisition. She is certified in special education with post-graduate coursework and professional development in Cognitive Behavior therapy (CBT), Social Thinking, Collaborative and Proactive Solutions (CPS), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Judi created Just Education, LLC and its podcast component, to compile a free resource library for mentors of students who struggle and address a wide variety of topics that are all related to education and student success.Connect With J David HallNeuro GuidesLinkedInTwitterAbout J David HallCorporate neurodiversity consultant, Doctoral student at Seattle University, Founder and CEO of NeuroGuides.org, keynote speaker, autistic life coach for autistic persons, anti-racist, relationship purist, cultural bridge-builder, and writer.  Passionately focused on guiding autistic and other neurodivergent persons to discover their strengths, gifts and enjoy meaningful lives. A relentless optimist, an encourager who is out to build up individuals, to better communities one great relationship at a time.  Recent and upcoming appearances include:  Recent visits and upcoming appearances include: Different Brains, Spectrum Lights Inclusion Summit, Southwest Washington Autism Conference, Bellingham SHRM, Microsoft, Seattle Aspiring Youth/Delphi Programs/Ryther, Stanford University Neurodiversity Summit, Elijah Winfrey Show, North Carolina University, Neuroguides Parent Webinars, corporate leadership trainings with Fortune 500 companies and government agencies in neurodiversity hiring and inclusivity and more. David Hall is the founder of the Foundation for LifeGuides for Autistics (LGFA) / NeuroGuides, a 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization established in 2017. His organization provides business consultations and life coaching for autistic people and other neurodivergent persons worldwide. His team of Neuroguides (life and job coaches) works closely with autistic individuals in helping them to succeed socially, occupationally, and relationally. A father to three autistic persons and on the autism spectrum (ASD) himself, David is passionately focused on guiding neurodivergent persons to discover their strengths and to enjoy meaningful lives. Known as a relentless optimist and encourager, David speaks at various national events and is a sought-after consultant for corporations. LGFA / Neuroguides is partnered with Neoclastic.com, a not-for-profit writers’ platform that documents the autistic experience through the lens and work of autistic individuals. David is a doctoral student in Educational and Organizational Learning and Leadership at Seattle University.CONNECT WITH USConnect with Judi Our website and podcasts are available hereJudi on Linkedin

We hope to be here to support our kids for a long time; but, we won't be here for all of their lifetime.Mentorships in Education is brought to you by Just Education, LLC and is hosted by Judith Epstein. Judi has a Master's degree in Education with a concentration in Language Acquisition. She is certified in special education with post-graduate coursework and professional development in Cognitive Behavior therapy (CBT), Social Thinking, Collaborative and Proactive Solutions (CPS), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Judi created Just Education, LLC and its podcast component, to compile a free resource library for mentors of students who struggle and address a wide variety of topics that are all related to education and student success.Connect With Annette M. HinesAddress: 20 Speen Street, Ste 101, Framingham, MA 01701   Telephone Number: 508-861-3453Special Needs CompaniesSpecial Needs Law Group Secure Act WebinarCircle of Care Facebook GroupAutism Housing Pathways  Annette's Book: Butterflies and Second Chances: A Mom's Memoir of Love and LossFederation for Children with Special Needs About Annette M. HinesAnnette M. Hines is the founding partner of Special Needs Law Group of Massachusetts, PC and has been practicing in the areas of Special Needs, Elder Law and Estate Planning for over twenty years. Her clients include individuals and families of children with special needs, the elderly and others in the community. She received her BA for the University of Vermont, her MBA from Suffolk University, and her JD from Howard University School of Law. Ms. Hines brings personal experience with special needs to her practice, as the mother of two daughters, one of whom passed away from Mitochondrial disease in November 2013. This deep personal understanding of special needs fuels her passion for quality special needs planning and drives her dedication to the practice. In April 2019 she published Butterflies and Second Chances, a beautiful memoir about her life raising her disabled daughter, which was an Amazon best seller. Ms. Hines is the recipient of the 2021 NAELA (National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys) Theresa Award by the Theresa Foundation in recognition of her outstanding efforts and advocacy for individuals with special needs. She has been recognized as a Distinguished Citizen by ARC Massachusetts and cited for public service by both the Massachusetts State Senate and House of Representatives for her work on behalf of people with disabilities. She was designated a 2016 Top Women of Law from Massachusetts Lawyers Weekly, and has been designated a Massachusetts Super Lawyer every year since 2014.CONNECT WITH USConnect with Judi Our website and podcasts are available hereJudi on Linkedin

Believe in your heart the world is wrong, and your kid is right." What is 2e? What are its challenges and strengths?Mentorships in Education is brought to you by Just Education, LLC and is hosted by Judith Epstein. Judi has a Master's degree in Education with a concentration in Language Acquisition. She is certified in special education with post-graduate coursework and professional development in Cognitive Behavior therapy (CBT), Social Thinking, Collaborative and Proactive Solutions (CPS), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Judi created Just Education, LLC and its podcast component, to compile a free resource library for mentors of students who struggle and address a wide variety of topics that are all related to education and student success.Connect With Julie Skolnickwww.2eResources.com Subscribe for a monthly newsletterLearn more about conferences and parent series Facebook InstagramTwitter LinkedIn YouTubeAbout Julie SkolnickJulie Skolnick, M.A., J.D., Founder of With Understanding Comes Calm, LLC, passionately guides parents of gifted and distractible children, mentors 2e adults, trains educators and advises professionals on how to bring out the best and raise self-confidence in their 2e students and clients. Julie serves as Secretary to the Maryland Superintendent’s Gifted and Talented Advisory Council, is an advisor for the Masters of Education Program for the Bridges Graduate School of Cognitive Diversity, is the Maryland liaison for Supporting the Emotional Needs of the Gifted (SENG), is a Committee member for the National Association for Gifted Children (NAGC) and serves as an advisor to “The G Word” feature documentary currently in production. Julie produces Let’s Talk 2e! virtual conferences, hosts the Let’s Talk 2e! Parent Empowerment Series, maintains the free listing service, 2eResources.com, and publishes “Gifted & Distractible,” a free monthly newsletter.A frequent speaker and prolific writer, Julie is also the mother of three twice-exceptional children who keep her on her toes and uproariously laughing. CONNECT WITH USConnect with Judi Our website and podcasts are available hereJudi on Linkedin

Dr Mark Williams discusses his research on Neuro-diversity and addresses the blessings and cures of technology.Mentorships in Education is brought to you by Just Education, LLC and is hosted by Judith Epstein. Judi has a Master's degree in Education with a concentration in Language Acquisition. She is certified in special education with post-graduate coursework and professional development in Cognitive Behavior therapy (CBT), Social Thinking, Collaborative and Proactive Solutions (CPS), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Judi created Just Education, LLC and its podcast component, to compile a free resource library for mentors of students who struggle and address a wide variety of topics that are all related to education and student success.Connect With Dr Mark WilliamsDr Mark Williams WebsiteEmail: DrMark@DrMarkWilliams.comPhone:  + 61 2 9850 4438About Dr Mark  WilliamsMark is a Professor of Cognitive Neuroscience at Macquarie University with more than 20 years’ experience in research and teaching and 70+ publications. Mark has studied how we interact with each other, how we learn and how we think. He has studied these questions in average individuals as well as a range of disorders such as autism, prosopagnosia (face blindness), dementia, addiction and eating disorders. Mark was awarded the CJ Martin Fellowship from the National Health and Medical Research Council and the Queen Elisabeth II Fellowship from the Australian Research Council. His work has been highlighted in the media both locally [Catalyst (ABC), Making Australia Happy (ABC), SkyNews] and internationally [The Guardian (UK), New York Times (USA), Economist, New Scientist, Leading Edge, (BBC: UK), Science in Action (BBC; International)]. He is also an editorial board member of several international journals.  Mark was working as a Research Scientist at MIT in the McGovern Institute for Brain Research (USA) when the first Smartphone was released. He has watched in both fascination and apprehension at the rise of technology in our education systems. In addition to his teaching and research work at Macquarie University, Mark now runs programmes for schools, parents, businesses and individuals to address the many problems that technologies (like smartphones) are creating. Learning outcomes, resilience, curiosity, tolerance and emotional intelligence are all declining whilst stress, anxiety, depression and suicide are rising. Money and technology alone are not the answer to innovative practices in our schools, workplaces and society. CONNECT WITH USConnect with Judi Our website and podcasts are available hereJudi on Linkedin

If you have children with challenges, then school, job hunting and travelling can be a complicated journey. Learn from Nic. He is here to help you and your family traverse these highways and change the perspective from scary to amazing.Mentorships in Education is brought to you by Just Education, LLC and is hosted by Judith Epstein. Judi has a Master's degree in Education with a concentration in Language Acquisition. She is certified in special education with post-graduate coursework and professional development in Cognitive Behavior therapy (CBT), Social Thinking, Collaborative and Proactive Solutions (CPS), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Judi created Just Education, LLC and its podcast component, to compile a free resource library for mentors of students who struggle and address a wide variety of topics that are all related to education and student success.Connect With Nic LanderPhone: +44 207 112 5190Fax: +44 207 112 5172Mobile: +44 7977 139 388Member Spotlight: Willy Wonka TravelPressReaderKimel Foundation Kimel SolutionsTravelling With AutismAbout Nic LanderNic Lander is  father to 3 neurodivergent girls. After 35 years in the hospitality industry, he says he was made” redundant and my world came crashing down.” His love for his family and the constant search for acceptance for himself and his family became his no. 1 mission in life; that is why he started Kimelfoundation.com and Kimelsolutions.com.  These entities give people the tools and guidance they need to understand Neurodiversity.Please get in touch with Nic and he will answer any questions.CONNECT WITH USConnect with Judi Our website and podcasts are available hereJudi on Linkedin

In this episode, we end our mini-series on a more positive note. I explore the "Silver Lining" of this past year with Dr April Michaud-Willis as we put our journey of 2020 in perspective. Please join us. Mentorships in Education is brought to you by Just Education, LLC and is hosted by Judith Epstein. Judi has a Master's degree in Education with a concentration in Language Acquisition. She is certified in special education with post-graduate coursework and professional development in Cognitive Behavior therapy (CBT), Social Thinking, Collaborative and Proactive Solutions (CPS), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Judi created Just Education, LLC and its podcast component, to compile a free resource library for mentors of students who struggle and address a wide variety of topics that are all related to education and student success.Connect With Dr. Michaud-WillisNational Virtual Teacher Association (NVTA)LinkedInFacebookInstagramApril's BooksFree RubricsAbout Dr. Michaud-WillisDr. April Willis has spent her entire career in education, working at the campus, district, and state levels of education and holds certifications in the Superintendency, Principalship and eight teaching roles. She currently serves as the Director of Operations at The National Virtual Teaching Association (NVTA) , an organization which helps teachers transition from the brick-and-mortar classroom to the virtual classroom, with the goal of providing online instruction that’s even more engaging and effective than in-person learning. She is a contributing author to NVTA’s new book, Virtual Instruction Standards: Optimizing Teaching & Learning (October 2020), a comprehensive guide based on current research, proven best practices, and the expertise of virtual instructors across the country that addresses all learners and learning environments, as well as the evolving needs of students, educators, and schools. A former elementary school teacher, Dr. Willis taught kindergarten through third grade in a multilevel classroom for the University of Texas Charter school located at the SAFE Charter School, a school that provides educational and behavioral support services in an environment that promotes safety and healing for survivors of sexual and domestic violence and child abuse. While teaching, she also held the roles of ARD facilitator, TELPAS coordinator, volunteer coordinator, and campus testing coordinator. She has published two books on achieving academic & professional excellence, as well as founded a scholarship to invest in students who can prove they will make a difference in the world by leading with confidence and integrity. The National Virtual Teacher Association (NVTA) is on a mission to help teachers transition from the brick-and-mortar classroom to the virtual classroom, with the goal of providing online instruction that’s even more engaging and effective than in-person learning.CONNECT WITH USConnect with Judi Our website and podcasts are available hereJudi on Linkedin

The question on the table: How are we, as Educators, going to "measure up" and use Standardized Testing (or not) in a way that does not affect our kids for years to come and traumatize them even more then they have been already this year? Tests are standardized but kids aren't.Mentorships in Education is brought to you by Just Education, LLC and is hosted by Judith Epstein. Judi has a Master's degree in Education with a concentration in Language Acquisition. She is certified in special education with post-graduate coursework and professional development in Cognitive Behavior therapy (CBT), Social Thinking, Collaborative and Proactive Solutions (CPS), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Judi created Just Education, LLC and its podcast component, to compile a free resource library for mentors of students who struggle and address a wide variety of topics that are all related to education and student success.Connect With AprilSENIASPAN SchoolsApril's WebsiteLearn more about STEPAbout April J RemfreyApril J Remfrey, MS, is an educational consultant that focuses her time working with globally mobile families that have children with special needs when they are searching for a new school. April has also created an ILP/RTI goal documentation cloud-based program for international schools and serves on the board of directors for SENIA.She has a BA in special education and elementary education at Luther College in Decorah, Iowa, USA and received a Master’s Degree from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, USA in Exceptional Education. She has been a teacher for 20 years in three different countries and has experience in the public, private, and international school environments. Since 2013, April, her husband, and daughter have lived in the Zurich, Switzerland area. Never one to sit still, April likes to hike in the stunning Swiss Alps, cook gourmet food, and play clarinet in the local concert band.CONNECT WITH USConnect with Judi Our website and podcasts are available hereJudi on Linkedin

In this episode of Mentorships in Education, we welcome Julie Lythcott-Haims, New York Times best-selling author, contributor with CBS This Morning, Stanford Freshman Dean, Lawyer and so much more. Her TED Talk has over 5 million views. Join us as we explore how to find the "Silver Lining" during this time of Teaching in Covidland.Mentorships in Education is brought to you by Just Education, LLC and is hosted by Judith Epstein. Judi has a Master's degree in Education with a concentration in Language Acquisition. She is certified in special education with post-graduate coursework and professional development in Cognitive Behavior therapy (CBT), Social Thinking, Collaborative and Proactive Solutions (CPS), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Judi created Just Education, LLC and its podcast component, to compile a free resource library for mentors of students who struggle and address a wide variety of topics that are all related to education and student success.Julie's Contact InformationWebsiteFacebook TwitterInstagramPre-order Your Turn: How to Be an Adult About Julie Lythcott-HaimsJulie Lythcott-Haims believes in humans and is deeply interested in what gets in our way. She is the New York Times bestselling author of the anti-helicopter parenting manifesto How to Raise an Adult. Her TED Talk on the subject has more than 5 million views, and in 2020 she became a regular contributor with CBS This Morning on parenting. Her second book is the critically-acclaimed and award-winning prose poetry memoir Real American, which illustrates her experience as a Black and biracial person in white spaces. A third book, Your Turn: How to Be an Adult, will be out in April 2021.    Julie is a former corporate lawyer and Stanford dean, and she holds a BA from Stanford, a JD from Harvard, and an MFA in Writing from California College of the Arts. She serves on the board of Common Sense Media, and on the advisory board of LeanIn.Org, and she is a former board member at Foundation for a College Education, Global Citizen Year, The Writers Grotto, and Challenge Success. She volunteers with the hospital program No One Dies Alone.  She lives in the San Francisco Bay Area with her partner of over thirty years, their young adults, and her mother.  CONNECT WITH USConnect with Judi Our website and podcasts are available hereJudi on Linkedin

Join us for our very first panel discussion episode!In this episode of Mentorships in Education, we welcome a panel consisting of Atty Maureen Graves, Dr Sharon Saline, and Steve Waters CEO, Teach Well Alliance.  Mentorships in Education is brought to you by Just Education, LLC and is hosted by Judith Epstein. Judith has a Master's degree in Education with a concentration in Language Acquisition. She is certified in special education with post-graduate coursework and professional development in Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Social Thinking, and Collaborative & Proactive Solutions and Acceptance and Commitment therapy (ACT). Judith created Just Education, LLC to compile a free resource library for mentors of students who struggle on a wide variety of topics that are all related to education and student success.About Maureen GravesMaureen is an attorney representing people with disabilities and their families since 1994, primarily in disputes with school districts and regional centers. Maureen turned to special education law in 1994 when her own young children were diagnosed as having autism.  At the first IEP meeting she ever attended, she was stunned to hear that the “team” planned to document goals but would not explain how teaching would occur.  Ensuring that students have access to validated, effective interventions has been a key focus of Maureen’s practice from the beginning. Reach her at maureenrgraves@gmail.com or via Disability Voters. She is also on LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/maureen-graves/About Dr Sharon SalineSharon Saline, Psy.D., a licensed clinical psychologist in private practice, is a top expert in how ADHD, learning disabilities and mental health issues affect children, teens and families. Dr. Saline has worked extensively with schools on mental health issues in the classroom, interpreting psychological evaluations and improving teacher/parent communication. More information is available at www.drsharonsaline.com, Facebook @DrSharonSaline and Twitter @DrSharonSaline. Get Sharon's free downloadable handout about hybrid learning, her book and her card deck.About Steve WatersSteve Waters taught in high schools for 30 years, before spending 6 years as an educational consultant with the UK equivalent of a District. He is the founding CEO of the Teach Well Alliance which supports schools to implement a culture of staff wellbeing and mental health. Steve is a qualified counsellor and a First Aid for Mental Health Instructor. He is a founding fellow of the Chartered College of Teaching and an elected member of council. His book 'Cultures of Staff Wellbeing and Mental Health in Schools', is due to be released in May 2021. Steve has four grown-up children, one of whom is a teacher of Psychology. He lives in Manchester, UK.CONNECT WITH USEmail Judi: info@justeducationfirst.comOur Website: http://justeducationfirst.comJudi on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/judith-epstein-30936971

Join us for a special episode with guest, Chip ColquhounIn this episode of Mentorships in Education, we welcome Chip Colquhoun, an author, storyteller, and educator.  Mentorships in Education is brought to you by Just Education, LLC and is hosted by Judith Epstein. Judith has a Master's degree in Education with a concentration in Language Acquisition. She is certified in special education with post-graduate coursework and professional development in Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Social Thinking, and Collaborative & Proactive Solutions and Acceptance and Commitment therapy (ACT). Judith created Just Education, LLC to compile a free resource library for mentors of students who struggle on a wide variety of topics that are all related to education and student success.About Chip ColquhounChip is the author of "Something Bad Has to Happen: Storytelling Skills & Creativity in the Classroom for Enhancing Educational Development", the EU's guidance on using storytelling in the classroom. Chip has told stories and trained teachers in schools across 8 different countries. He's also written 5 family theatre performances that toured the UK, and have 3 children's books available in all good bookshops. In 2018 he represented the Roald Dahl Story Company for ITV. "The children were enthralled with your storytelling during the 5 days that you were in. I have seen great improvement in their work. I have never seen them so quiet (when they had to be) or so proactive when you gave them activities to work on. The staff also gave me great feedback on the staff meeting, they felt that it gave them ideas to work with." – Assistant Head, St Augustine's School, Solihull Message from ChipEvery school I visit, at least one teacher points out a child or more who "won't engage with storytelling." Then, shortly after, those same teachers ask how I managed to engage those same children. My answer? Done with insight and expertise, storytelling reaches everyone—no matter the age, no matter the background. Storytelling is intrinsic to all humanity. It naturally differentiates. It encapsulates every subject in the curriculum. And, using it with the insights I founded Epic Tales to share with you, your school could see improvements in attainment for every child—no matter what subject they're struggling in, or whether they're low ability, SEN, EAL, or "just plain obstinate". It's not just the teachers who notice: "Just that hour of storytelling from you and, when he got home, my boy picked up a book and started reading. First time he'd chosen to do that for himself ever." – Parent (& school receptionist), Soham Please email or DM me to open a discussion about how "Story-Led Learning" could address the challenges your school is facing.Follow Chip on Twitter: https://twitter.com/creatorchipCONNECT WITH USEmail Judi: info@justeducationfirst.comOur Website: http://justeducationfirst.comJudi on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/judith-epstein-30936971

Join us for a special episode with guest, Cheryl Galloway.In this episode of Mentorships in Education, we welcome Cheryl Galloway, a school administrator focusing on the core areas of school safety, crisis response, community and government relations, facilities use and sustainability.  Mentorships in Education is brought to you by Just Education, LLC and is hosted by Judith Epstein. Judith has a Master's degree in Education with a concentration in Language Acquisition. She is certified in special education with post-graduate coursework and professional development in Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Social Thinking, and Collaborative & Proactive Solutions and Acceptance and Commitment therapy (ACT). Judith created Just Education, LLC to compile a free resource library for mentors of students who struggle on a wide variety of topics that are all related to education and student success.About Cheryl GallowayCheryl Galloway has more than ten years experience in school administration focusing on the core areas of school safety, crisis response, community and government relations, facilities use and sustainability. Prior to joining Facilitron, she began a career in education teaching 8th grade English before serving as the Energy Ed Specialist, the Emergency Operations Center Director, and Safety and Security Coordinator for the Gilroy Unified School District (GUSD). Cheryl created and trained all staff on the district’s comprehensive school safety plan and coordinated multiple active shooter and disaster drills involving the district’s public safety partners. As coordinator of GUSD’s facility use program, Cheryl streamlined community use—successfully curbing abuse, updating facility use policies and increasing revenue.Cheryl's Linkedinhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/cheryl-galloway-642a8a17 Link to Attendee Management: https://www.facilitron.com/facility-owners/attendee-management/Cheryl's Contact Information Cheryl GallowayDirector of Education and Community Engagementphone: 800-272-2962; Ext.mobile: 669 271 6131email: cgalloway@facilitron.comCONNECT WITH USEmail Judi: info@justeducationfirst.comOur Website: http://justeducationfirst.comJudi on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/judith-epstein-30936971