Puma Pawd

Paul Thiessen Jr
  • 5.0 (6)
  • Education
  • Biweekly

Thoughts, events, musings about school for the Pinebrook and education community

  1. 10h ago

    No Tears About Tiers. The MTSS Process For Your Child

    This conversation explores how Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) help schools meet individual student needs through targeted academic, behavioral, and mental health interventions. The panel discusses the importance of assessments, data-driven decisions, progress monitoring, and collaboration among educators and families to establish goals, tailor support, and promote student success. Guests: Laura Smith, Reading SpecialistLindsey Devore, Reading SpecialistBeth Dickson, Behavior Resource TeacherLisa Morales, School Counselor Host: Paul Thiessen Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to MTSS Plans02:52 Understanding the MTSS Framework06:12 Data-Driven Decision Making in MTSS08:57 Literacy Assessment and Screening12:02 Behavioral and Mental Health Support14:52 Setting Goals and Monitoring Progress21:26 Targeted Strategies for Individual Student Needs24:36 Progress Monitoring: Tracking Student Goals27:12 Mental Health Interventions: Individualized Support31:04 Managing Plans and Resources for Student Success35:08 The Role of Parents in the Support Process MTSS Process For ParentsTakeaways: MTSS stands for multi-tiered system of support.Tier one is universal support for all students.Data-driven decision-making is crucial in MTSS.VALLS is a key screener for literacy assessment.Collaboration among educators is essential in MTSS.Behavioral and mental health support are integral to MTSS.Specific interventions are tailored to student needs.Goals are set based on data and monitored regularly.Parent involvement is important for student success.The MTSS framework is fluid and adaptable. Some students might still need to start with letter sounds.Behavior plans are fluid documents that can be adjusted.Goals are targeted based on individual student needs.Progress monitoring occurs biweekly for literacy and weekly for behavior.Interventions are tailored to the most basic area of need first.Mental health interventions have a clear start, middle, and end.Collaboration between educators is crucial for student support.Relationships with students and families are foundational for success.Parents play a vital role in supporting their child's learning.Reading at home is essential for literacy development.

  2. Nov 3

    Everyone Can Be Good At Math - Authenticity And The Active Playful Learning Program

    Pinebrook Elementary teachers and Active Playful Learning (APL) team members explain how guided, playful learning is being integrated into K-4 classrooms, especially math. They share classroom examples, the coaching partnership behind the work, early research findings, and practical ways families can bring math into everyday routines. Guest name Carol HerschelroathHolly MartinsonTara HopkinsKarime Cameron Host Paul Thiessen Chapters 00:00 Meet Pinebrook’s teachers and APL partners03:24 Who funds APL, and why it is not a LEGO curriculum04:45 Guided play gives students agency across subjects09:01 Why teacher-coach partnership matters12:30 From active learning landscapes to classrooms16:06 Fourth-grade math: shopping, interviews, and feedback21:10 Planning APL around curriculum and classroom needs23:33 First-grade turtles make story problems hands-on27:45 Early findings across four states29:28 Turning hikes and daily routines into math at home32:10 What APL means for families and teachers Resources APL Parent Page: This page includes multiple ideas for how to bring learning at home during everyday family interactions, such as cooking (sample questions), walking and even house chores. We also list in there some community events we think have a close alignment with active playful learning, many of them lead by the local libraries. APL Brookings Paper (Teaching in the way human brains learn Part 2):

  3. Sep 25

    Coaching from our Instructional Coaches

    This episode explores the vital role of coaching in schools, highlighting how instructional and behavior coaches support teachers and students to improve outcomes. Featuring Pinebrook Elementary's coaching team, it emphasizes the power of collaboration, data-driven decisions, and relationship-building in education. Speakers: Amalia Medina-Glover, Instructional CoachElizabeth Dickson, Behavior ResourceKerri Cahill, English Language Arts Facilitator Turner McAllister, Assistant Principal/HostPaul Thiessen, Principal/HostKey Topics The impact of coaching on student achievementDifferent coaching roles: instructional, behavior, literacyThe coaching cycle and collaboration among staffUse of data and incentives to promote positive behaviorBuilding relationships and capacity with teachersThe importance of a unified coaching approachStrategies for supporting diverse student needsThe role of coaching in professional developmentCreating a positive school culture through coachingChapters 00:00: Introduction to the episode and guest overview02:06: The significance of coaching in education and sports analogies04:03: Statistics on coaching in US public schools05:01: Research findings on coaching's impact on student achievement07:00: Meet the Pinebrook coaching team: Amolia Glover, Beth Dixon, Carrie Cahill10:08: Roles and responsibilities of instructional and behavior coaches11:57:A day in the life of a Pinebrook coach15:10: Building relationships and supporting teachers through coaching17:54: Using data and incentives to promote positive behavior21:56: Supporting classroom management and student engagement26:00: Coaching cycles and collaborative planning27:55: Aligning coaching strategies across roles for maximum impact29:56: The ultimate goal: student success and growth32:48: Future goals and ongoing professional development34:46: The importance of team and relationship building in coaching36:09: Closing remarks and appreciation for the coaching team

  4. Apr 5

    Don't Stop Believin' - One Man's Journey

    In this episode of the Puma Pawd, Paul interviews Jon Pepper, a school board member and active parent in the Loudoun County education system and Pinebrook Elementary. They discuss Jon's journey in education, the importance of community involvement, the challenges teachers face today, and his vision for public education. Jon emphasizes the need for critical thinking skills, the role of AI in education, and the importance of teacher recruitment and retention. They also touch on student safety and the role of School Resource Officers (SROs) in elementary schools. The conversation highlights the commitment to providing quality education and support for all students in Loudoun County. Jon Pepper, LCPS School Board, Pinebrook ParentPaul Thiessen, Principal Pinebrook ElementaryTakeaways John Pepper emphasizes that he is a dad first, not a politician.Community involvement is crucial for effective education.Teachers face increasing challenges with diverse student needs.Education should focus on critical thinking and life skills.AI is a tool that can enhance learning but should be used wisely.Teacher recruitment and retention are vital for maintaining quality education.Student mental health is a growing concern in schools.SROs play a complex role in ensuring student safety.Building strong feeder patterns can enhance student well-being.Engagement with the community is essential for educational success.Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Jon Pepper and His Role02:59 Jon's Journey in Education05:51 The Importance of Community in Education08:54 Challenges Facing Teachers Today12:00 Vision for Education in Loudoun County15:05 The Role of AI in Education17:53 Teacher Recruitment and Retention20:45 Student Safety and SROs24:10 Final Thoughts and Community Engagement

  5. Mar 8

    From Jersey to Brambleton and the Success For All

    In this engaging conversation, Dr. Sumera Rashid, a school board member, shares her journey from a challenging upbringing in New Jersey to becoming a prominent figure in the education system in Virginia. The discussion covers her motivations for joining the school board, the importance of collective bargaining, and the realities of policy-making in education. Dr. Rashid emphasizes the need for diverse opportunities in schools and the significance of listening to community feedback. The conversation highlights the complexities of being a school board member and the impact of personal experiences on educational policies. In this conversation, the speaker discusses the importance of gathering feedback through surveys, the motivation derived from interacting with students and staff, and the vision for creating opportunities for students. They emphasize the need for success and cohesion in education, the multifaceted role of teachers, and the importance of community engagement. The speaker encourages students to voice their opinions and highlights the ongoing efforts to improve the educational experience. Dr. Sumera Rashid, Little River School Board RepresentativePaul Thiessen, Principal Takeaways Dr. Rashid emphasizes the importance of personal connections in education.She believes the principal sets the tone for the school community.Her upbringing in New Jersey shaped her views on education.Dr. Rashid aims to create more opportunities for students.She is passionate about collective bargaining for educators.Her motivation to run for the school board stemmed from wanting to be involved in her children's education.Dr. Rashid acknowledges the challenges of navigating politics in education.She highlights the importance of listening to community feedback.The real work of a school board member happens behind the scenes.Dr. Rashid believes that the loudest voice isn't always the majority opinion. Surveys are a crucial tool for gathering feedback.Listening to constituents is essential for decision-making.Human interaction motivates and inspires educational leaders.Creating opportunities for students is a top priority.Success in education encompasses various forms.Teachers play a vital role in shaping student experiences.Community engagement is key to a successful educational environment.Students should feel empowered to voice their opinions.Continuous improvement is necessary in education.Pride in the progress of LCPS. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Personal Connections 02:52 Understanding the Role of a School Board Member 05:48 Dr. Rashid's Background and Education Journey 09:05 The Importance of Collective Bargaining 11:50 Motivation to Run for School Board 14:45 Surprises in School Board Work 18:00 The Reality of Policy Making 19:43 Gathering Feedback: The Power of Surveys 22:19 Staying Motivated: The Importance of Interaction 23:08 Creating Opportunities: A Vision for Students 28:28 Long-Term Vision: Success and Cohesion in Education 37:28 The Role of Teachers: More Than Just Educators 42:32 Community Engagement: The Importance of Family and Student Voices

  6. Jan 24

    Walking Through The Parent Walkthrough

    The conversation revolves around the importance of parent engagement in education, specifically through a parent walkthrough experience at Pinebrook Elementary. The discussion highlights the goals of the walkthrough, insights from parents and teachers, and the overall impact of family involvement on student learning. Participants reflect on their experiences, emphasizing the need for collaboration between parents and educators to enhance the educational environment for students. Round Table Features Ms. Brianna Davis, Pinebrook 4th Grade TeacherMs. Jennifer Martinson, Pinebrook 5th Grade TeacherMs. Brenda Quezada, Pinebrook ParentSarah Ocampo, LCPS Supervisor, Family & Community EngagementMs. Turner McAllister, Pinebrook Assistant PrincipalMr. Paul Thiessen, Pinebrook PrincipalTakeaways The parent walkthrough provided valuable insights into the classroom environment.Parents gained a deeper understanding of teaching strategies and classroom dynamics.Teachers appreciated the opportunity to showcase their teaching methods to parents.Family engagement is crucial for student success and community building.The experience highlighted the complexity of a teacher's role in the classroom.Parents felt reassured about their children's learning environment.Open communication between parents and teachers fosters a supportive community.The walkthrough helped bridge the gap between home and school learning.Parents expressed a desire for more opportunities to engage with the school.The event was a win-win for both parents and teachers, enhancing collaboration. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Parent Walkthrough Experience07:01 Goals of the Parent Walkthrough14:50 Parent Insights from the Walkthrough21:58 Teacher Perspectives on Parent Engagement30:10 The Importance of Family Engagement36:46 Reflections and Takeaways from the Experience

  7. Jan 10

    Being Intentional About Family Engagement

    Paul, Turner, Latoya, Brittany, and Dana discuss the process and findings of the ongoing efforts to enhance family engagement within the Pinebrook community. They address the importance of involving parents in their children's education, share insights from research on family engagement, and reflect on survey feedback from parents. They highlight various strategies to foster connections between parents and the school, such as celebrating student achievements and organizing events that invite parents into the school environment. The discussion emphasizes the need for continuous improvement and the value of community collaboration in supporting student success. Dr. Dana Varona, Music TeacherMs. Brittany Harris, General Education TeacherMs. Latoya Davenport, DeanMs. Turner McAllister, Assistant PrincipalMr. Paul Thiessen, PrincipalTakeaways Family engagement is crucial for student success.Research shows that strong family involvement leads to better academic outcomes.Simple actions at home can significantly impact children's learning.Surveys help identify barriers to parent engagement.Celebrating student achievements fosters a positive school culture.Building relationships with parents enhances communication.Parent walkthroughs provide insight into classroom dynamics.Feedback from parents is essential for continuous improvement.Engagement efforts should be ongoing, not one-time events.Community collaboration is key to supporting students.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Family Engagement Efforts02:51 Understanding the Need for Family Engagement05:54 Research Insights on Family Engagement09:00 Surveying Parent Perspectives11:45 Identifying Barriers to Engagement15:03 Celebrating Student Achievements17:49 Building Connections with Parents21:07 Implementing New Strategies for Engagement23:57 Parent Walkthrough Experience26:49 Feedback and Reflection on Engagement Efforts30:04 Continuous Improvement and Future Steps32:52 Closing Thoughts and Community Appreciation Resources Used: Review of Family Engagement ResourcesSurvey Results Initial SurveyMid-Year SurveyParent Walkthrough Feedback Survey Summary

  8. 11/16/2025

    What Lauren Shernoff wants for all of us.

    Paul and Leesburg School Board Representative, Lauren Shernoff, talk about her journey in education and what she wants for all of us in LCPS. Takeaways Lauren Shernoff emphasizes the importance of understanding the unique needs of each school.The role of the school board is to support student achievement through informed decision-making.Engaging with the community is crucial for effective school governance.Safety measures in schools include both physical security and emotional safety for students.Curriculum updates are driven by feedback from teachers and parents.The school board prioritizes pathways for students to explore career options early on.Parent involvement in school activities enhances the sense of belonging for students.The school board is accessible and encourages community feedback.Educational policies should focus on meeting the needs of all students, especially those underserved.Building relationships within the community is essential for fostering a supportive educational environment. Summary In this episode, Lauren Shernoff, a school board member representing Leesburg, shares her journey into education and her role in Loudoun County Public Schools. She discusses her passion for student success, the importance of community engagement, and the various initiatives the school board is undertaking to enhance educational outcomes. Key topics include the need for personalized learning, the significance of school safety, and the vital role parents play in fostering a sense of belonging within schools. Shernoff emphasizes the accessibility of the school board and the importance of feedback from the community in shaping educational policies. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the School Board Member 06:51 Inspiration to Run for School Board 12:20 Priorities for Loudoun County Public Schools 19:21 Focus on Student Success 24:12 Ensuring School Safety 30:30 Strengthening Community Engagement 34:12 Understanding School Board Operations 37:36 Meaningful Moments on the School Board

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About

Thoughts, events, musings about school for the Pinebrook and education community

Information

  • Creator
    Paul Thiessen Jr
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    35
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Paul Thiessen Jr
  • Show Website
    Puma Pawd