Edufaith Essentials Educational Podcast

Dr. Nakia Simmons Cotton-Smith
  • 5.0 (1)
  • SELF-IMPROVEMENT

Edufaith Essentials is an educational podcast dedicated to providing essential tips and knowledge about diverse learners: students with disabilities, Section 504, ESOL, MTSS/Response to Interventions, teaching, leadership, and current information. Edufaith Essentials' mission is to bring awareness, tips, and information to impact and promote inclusion in education positively. Edufaith Essentials aims to Restore Faith in Education, One Student at a Time.

  1. 13H AGO

    Behind the Behavior: The Role of the Behavior Support Specialist

    Send us a text This February, we’re diving Behind the Behavior with a powerful and timely conversation on inclusion, advocacy, and behavioral support. Join us as we welcome Dr. Melvin Middleton Jr., Behavioral Interventionist, author, and educational consultant, for an episode designed to inform, inspire, and equip educators, families, and leaders supporting individuals with disabilities. From real-world behavior strategies to policy updates and insights, this episode brings together essential knowledge and heart-centered impact. Episode Details: 1:25 – Inspirational Story An inclusive organization creating belonging for families and individuals with disabilities—proof that inclusion transforms lives and communities. 3:47 – Dates to Remember (February) Important awareness days, advocacy moments, and reminders connected to disability, education, and inclusion. Here are a few: Happy Valentine's DayHappy Chinese New YearBlack History Month6:21 – Essential News Update February highlights from: Office for Civil Rights (OCR)PBS disability and inclusion coverageIDEA and special education policy updates  📌 All Essential News links available at: www.edufaithconsulting.com 11:40 – Essential Knowledge with Dr. Melvin Middleton Jr. A deep dive into the role of a Behavior Support Specialist, including: Supporting students with complex needsCollaboration with educators and familiesCreating sustainable, inclusive behavior systems Words of Wisdom – 1:20 A powerful closing message from Dr. Nakia on purpose, persistence, and impact. Featured Guest: Dr. Melvin Middleton Jr. Behavioral Interventionist | Author | Educational Consultant 📧 Email: mel_middletonjr@hotmail.com 🌐 Website: www.drmelvinmiddletonjr.com 🔗 LinkedIn: Melvin Middleton Jr., Ed.D. 📚 Books: https://a.co/d/ivWTLBV Dr. Middleton’s resources are available on the Announcements Page at Edufaith: Contact & Professional Information This month’s Edufaith Essentials Podcast is a reminder that advocacy is love in action. Through stories that inspire, news that informs, and expertise that empowers, we continue building spaces where every learner is valued and supported. Subscribe, share, and join the conversation. Visit www.edufaithconsulting.com for links, resources, and updates. Support the show www.edufaithconsulting.com #getEssential #educational #educationpodcast #specialeducation #education

    1h 26m

  2. JAN 5

    Happy New Year. New Norms. Reset. Reboot & Refocus in 2026

    Send us a text Happy New Year!!! Kick off 2026 with purpose, possibility, and impact on the Edufaith Essentials Podcast—where inspiration meets essential knowledge for parents, educators, and school leaders.  1:33 🎙️ Edufaith Inspirational Story – January Feature  We’re kicking off the year with an inspiring highlight from the Special Needs Christmas Formal, where everyone celebrates through dance, joy, dignity, and a true sense of belonging.  3:04 📅 January Dates to Remember Let’s celebrate January: MLK Day – Honoring service, leadership, and justiceNational Mentoring Month – Elevating the power of guidance and supportThank You Month – Celebrating educators, families, and community partnersShape Up U.S. Month – Promoting healthy habits for mind and body  4:36 📰 Inclusive News Highlights!  We will spotlight essential stories, including the celebration of 50 years of the IDEA. We'll also feature a state's strategy to support our dedicated special education teachers, along with other uplifting news from December! Stay tuned!   11:47📘 Essential Knowledge: New Year, New Behaviors As we embrace the start of 2026, we will refresh our approach to behavior! In our ongoing commitment to fostering a Positive School Culture and village mindset, we’ll explore the vital role of Positive Behavior Supports. Join us as we journey through the history of Behavior Supports, its connection to IDEA and Section 504, and the significance of Functional Behavior Assessments.  We can’t wait to share valuable insights with parents, educators, and school leaders to enhance our learning environment together! Join the Movement in 2026! Stream the Edufaith Essentials Podcast on all major platforms and watch on the Edufaith Essentials YouTube Channel: https://youtube.com/@edufaithessentialsandknowledge?si=2hwxRytTzlPjKpE0. 👉 Like, subscribe, and share as we #GetEssential in 2026 New year. New behaviors. New possibilities.  Support the show www.edufaithconsulting.com #getEssential #educational #educationpodcast #specialeducation #education

    51 min

  3. 12/05/2025

    Closing Out 2025: A December Deep Dive

    Send us a text Get ready for a meaningful, empowering, and joy-filled December episode of Edufaith Essentials—your monthly source for inspiration, advocacy, and essential knowledge for educators, families, and leaders committed to inclusion. ✨ 1:46 — Edufaith Inspirational Message: “Spreading Holiday Hope: Sensory Santa Brings Joy to Children With Autism.” We begin with a powerful story of hope and belonging as Sensory Santa events across the nation create calm, inclusive, sensory-friendly spaces so children with autism can fully experience the magic of the holidays. 📅 4:32 — Dates to Remember in December (See more at www.edufaithconsulting.com). This month is full of celebrations, awareness days, and cultural observances that uplift community, inclusion, and human dignity: December 2 — Special Education DayDecember 10 — Human Rights DayDecember 25 — Christmas DayDecember 14–22, 2025 — HanukkahDecember 26, 2025 – January 1, 2026 — KwanzaaThese observances center on the values of inclusion, cultural awareness, and shared humanity. 📰 5:58 — Essential News: November/December Special Edition (Find the Links at www.edufaithconsulting.com) on the News and Announcements Page. Stay informed with critical updates shaping the future of special education and disability rights: Special Education Services at Risk Under Federal CutsAdvocates Urge Parents to Keep Filing Disability-Rights ComplaintsDepartment of Education Restructuring Spares Special-Ed Office (OCR & OSEP)Plus additional key briefings from the U.S. Department of Education and Office for Civil Rights on IDEA, civil rights protections, and compliance.These stories highlight both the challenges and the advocacy needed during a time of change. 📚 10:26 — Essential Knowledge: Rewinding 2025 & Looking Ahead (Story Links are located at www.edufaithconsulting.com) Announcements and News Page. We close the year by reflecting on the Top Inclusive News Stories of 2025, spotlighting significant advancements, challenges, and celebrations impacting individuals with disabilities. Then we shift to the future with 4 Trends to Watch in 2026, including: The evolution of AI in schools and accessibility Expansion of Transition Services and postsecondary pathways Growth in Accessible Technology and Universal Design Shifts in inclusive practices and educational leadership 🎙️ Join Dr. Nakia Anywhere You Listen! Stream the December episode of Edufaith Essentials on all major podcast platforms or watch on the Edufaith Essentials YouTube Page. Inspiration. Inclusion. Essential Understanding. Tune in and close out the year empowered, informed, and ready for what’s ahead! Essential Tips and Knowledge:Essential Tips for Educators: http://bit.ly/3wMlMNnEssential Tips for Parents: https://bit.ly/3G7LqkdEssential Tips for Special Education Leaders: https://amzn.to/3yCVufGEmail: Edufaith4all@gmail.com www.edufaithconsulting.com   Support the show www.edufaithconsulting.com #getEssential #educational #educationpodcast #specialeducation #education

    32 min

  4. 11/05/2025

    Noteworthy November: Thankful for the Village the School Psychologist

    Send us a text Thankful for the Village on the November Edufaith Essentials Podcast. November is a month of gratitude, connection, and collaboration at Edufaith Educational Services! As we move into this season of thankfulness, we celebrate the collective effort that helps every child thrive.   1:56 Edufaith Inspirational Story: This month, we are spotlighting a vibrant Atlanta institution where innovation, education, and intentionality converge. Here, students meet high expectations with joy and pride, driven by a strong sense of community.  4:00--Inclusive Dates: This month, we celebrate milestones that recognize the power of education and community:  •          📚 American Education Week (November 17–21)  •          🦃 Happy Thanksgiving (November 28)  •          🫶 Inclusive Celebrations — Recognizing Native American Heritage Month, National School Psychology Week, and Family Engagement Month.   7:08 Essential News In this month's education updates, we're monitoring key national developments impacting schools and leadership:  •          The U.S. Department of Education continues to face staffing changes and layoffs.  •          New data trends for Students with Disabilities (SWDs)  11:01 Essential Knowledge: It Takes a Village — The Role of a School Psychologist  In this special November episode of Positive School Culture: It Takes a Village, we celebrate the spirit of gratitude and collaboration by spotlighting the essential role of the school psychologist. Our guest, Dr. Millicent Phinizy, a clinical psychology postdoctoral fellow and certified school psychologist, joins us to discuss how school psychologists support students' emotional, academic, and social well-being every day.  57:00 Contact Dr. Phinizy: mphinizy@coraleeinstitute.com    59:00 Words of Wisdom  Promo and Links:  Essential Tips and Knowledge:  •          Essential Tips for Educators: http://bit.ly/3wMlMNn  •          Essential Tips for Parents: https://bit.ly/3G7Lqkd  •          Essential Tips for Special Education Leaders: https://amzn.to/3yCVufG  •          Email: Edufaith4all@gmail.com  www.edufaithconsulting.com  YouTube Episode: https://youtu.be/pwePqxjS3zk  Support the show www.edufaithconsulting.com #getEssential #educational #educationpodcast #specialeducation #education

    1h 5m

  5. 10/02/2025

    Overcoming Obstacles in October

    Send us a text Welcome to the October edition of Edufaith Essentials!  🌟 Inspirational Story 1:24 This month, we celebrate Angel Paez, who was born blind but found his gift in music. With no formal training, he mastered six instruments by ear—proving that passion and perseverance can turn obstacles into opportunities.  📅 Dates to Celebrate 3:13 October brings important observances: Hispanic Heritage Month, Breast Cancer Awareness Month, National Principals Month, ADHD Awareness Month, and, of course, Happy Halloween! 🎃  📰 Essential News 7:05 We’ll share updates on: August and September Stories  ·         TPSID grants expanding inclusive college programs  ·         OCR findings addressing disability discrimination  ·         And more disability news shaping education today.  📖 Essential Knowledge 12:33 Our focus this month is building positive school culture—because it takes a village for students to thrive, and unity in our schools is essential for success and achievement.  34:16 Words of Wisdom  ✨ Listen now on all streaming platforms and on the Edufaith Essentials YouTube page https://youtube.com/@edufaithessentialsandknowledge?si=gxDMMRMklbz7Elb2.  #getessential #positveschoolculture #bettertogether #unityinthecommunity #podcast   Support the show www.edufaithconsulting.com #getEssential #educational #educationpodcast #specialeducation #education

    41 min

  6. 09/06/2025

    Success in September – Parent-School Partnerships, It Takes a Village

    Send us a text The September episode of the Edufaith Essentials Podcast is LIVE, and you don’t want to miss it! This month, we’re celebrating change, culture, and community while tackling some of the most pressing issues in education today.  1:28 Inspirational Story: Hear the inspirational story of a teenage inventor who designed the Move-D Brace—a true reminder that young people can lead the way in innovation and impact. 3:20 Dates to Remember: We’re also honoring Hispanic Heritage Month, Grandparents Day, and yes—Dr. Nakia’s birthday! 🎉 6:11 Essential News: In Essential News, we’ll dive into important topics such as the slowdown in civil rights enforcement, the impact of federal funding cuts on students with disabilities, and updates on DMS 2.0. 14:11 Essential Knowledge, Don't miss the segment titled "It Takes a Village: The Power of Home-School Partnerships," which provides practical strategies for parents to build stronger connections with schools. 45:19 Words of Wisdom 🔥 Tune in now on all streaming platforms, and watch the complete experience on our Edufaith Essentials YouTube page. Remember to like, subscribe, and share—it’s more than just a podcast; it’s a movement for equity, leadership, and hope in education. The Power of Home-School Partnerships, with practical strategies for parents to build stronger connections with schools.  All News Links are on the Edufaith Essential Website and YouTube Page. #getessential Support the show www.edufaithconsulting.com #getEssential #educational #educationpodcast #specialeducation #education

    51 min

  7. 08/01/2025

    Raising Kids That Succeed

    Send us a text We’re kicking off a powerful new season of the Edufaith Essentials Podcast—just in time for Back to School!   Inspirational Story: In our "Reading with Heart" segment, we celebrate a passionate educator who is empowering his students by teaching them the Braille alphabet. This approach enables them to read not just with their fingers but with their hearts, embodying the profound impact of inclusive instruction.  Dates to Remember: Join us in celebrating Inclusive August as we highlight meaningful dates that recognize and support students with diverse needs during this critical back-to-school season.  Essential News: Catch up on the most crucial education news you may have missed. We’ll break down key stories, including:  Supreme Court rulings impacting educationNew IDEA Personnel GrantsOCR resolutions on student restraint practicesAnd other significant inclusion-focused stories Essential Knowledge: Dive into the inspiring wisdom of Dr. Lynn Wicker’s book, Raising Kids that Succeed. This transformative guide empowers listeners with strategies to nurture children who thrive in any environment. It provides essential insights for parents and educators alike on fostering confident and responsible individuals who are ready to excel in today's world.  Join us for this enriching conversation brimming with practical tools and life-changing perspectives!   Subscribe, follow, and listen to the Edufaith Essentials Podcast on YouTube, Pandora, iTunes, Spotify, iHeartRadio, and your favorite podcast platforms. All show links are available on our https://youtube.com/@edufaithessentialsandknowledge?si=31ql_vOg1mt2W-bP. Stay inspired. Stay informed. Stay essential. #EdufaithEssentials #BackToSchool #RaisingKidsThatSucceed   Support the show www.edufaithconsulting.com #getEssential #educational #educationpodcast #specialeducation #education

    56 min

  8. 05/03/2025

    Momentum in May: Inclusion, Innovation, and Impact

    Send us a text This month on the Edufaith Essentials Educational Podcast, we're diving into May with a bang! Join us for a two-in-one episode filled with powerful stories, exciting updates, and expert insights to uplift and empower educators, leaders, and families as we conclude Season Three! 🌟 Edufaith Inspirational Story Spotlight: 1:25 Prepare to be inspired as we spotlight the amazing Philadelphia Eagles and their groundbreaking initiative for autism inclusion! This game-changing effort showcases the magic that happens when community and advocacy unite both on and off the field.  📅 Mark Your Calendars: 3:30 May is bursting with celebrations and reflections! From National Principals Day and Teacher Appreciation Week to Mother’s Day and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, this month is packed with moments that honor our schools and communities' vibrant diversity and dedication.  📰 Essential News You Can’t Miss: 6:07 Stay in the loop with the latest buzz on Supreme Court decisions that could shape the future of education, cutting-edge AI innovations transforming classrooms, and fantastic grant opportunities tailored for educators and school leaders alike! 📘 May Essential Knowledge: 12:15 We're keeping momentum from the 2025 CEC Conference as we dive deep into Dyslexia Legislation and Sensemaking Strategies for policymakers and educators. Don’t miss our special guests, 14:06 Elizabeth Zagata and 34:05 Randi Stone, who will share invaluable insights from our collaborative session—it’s knowledge you’ll want to absorb! 59:26 Collective Summary of Essential Knowledge Conclusion  1:31 Words of Wisdom 🎧 Tune in Now! Join us on the Edufaith Essentials YouTube page and all major streaming platforms! Let’s inspire, inform, and make a lasting impact on the future of inclusive education together! Season Three Finale: New Episodes in August! YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@edufaithessentialsandknowledge  Essential Tips and Knowledge:  Essential Tips for Educators: http://bit.ly/3wMlMNnEssential Tips for Parents: https://bit.ly/3G7LqkdEssential Tips for Special Education Leaders: https://amzn.to/3yCVufGEmail: Edufaith4all@gmail.com  www.edufaithconsulting.com   #EduFaithEssentials #MayMomentum #AutismInclusion #CelebrateEducators #DyslexiaAwareness #CEC2025 #EducationalEquity  Support the show www.edufaithconsulting.com #getEssential #educational #educationpodcast #specialeducation #education

    1h 11m
See All (39)

About

Edufaith Essentials is an educational podcast dedicated to providing essential tips and knowledge about diverse learners: students with disabilities, Section 504, ESOL, MTSS/Response to Interventions, teaching, leadership, and current information. Edufaith Essentials' mission is to bring awareness, tips, and information to impact and promote inclusion in education positively. Edufaith Essentials aims to Restore Faith in Education, One Student at a Time.

Information