I Will Be Your Voice For Student Success

Center for Schools and Communities
  • 5.0 (5)
  • Education
  • Updated Monthly

A Podcast on Student Well-Being, Stability, and School Success Every student brings unique strengths and assets into the classroom. What does it take for every student to succeed – especially those facing the greatest challenges? Formerly I Will Be Your Voice: Stories of Homelessness and Hope, this podcast has expanded to explore a broader range of topics affecting students and families. Join Youth Development staff at the Center for Schools and Communities as they explore practices, programs, and partnerships shaping outcomes for students and their families. Featuring voices and stories from education, human services, community organizations, and advocates, this podcast examines topics including housing instability, foster care, out-of-school time, school mobility, higher education, career readiness, school climate, mental health, and access to opportunity.Each episode delivers practical insights, real-world strategies, and powerful stories that highlight how we can remove barriers and create pathways for student success. Subscribe and listen to learn more and help amplify solutions that support the whole child – and the systems that surround them. This monthly podcast is produced in partnership with The Pennsylvania Education for Children and Youth Experiencing Homelessness (PA ECYEH) Program.The Pennsylvania Education Stability for Children and Youth in Foster Care ProgramThe Pennsylvania Education Leading to Employment and Career Training (PA ELECT) ProgramThe Pennsylvania Migrant Education (PA MEP) ProgramThe Pennsylvania Refugee Education (PA REP) ProgramThe Nita M. Lowey 21st Century Community Learning Centers Grant #IWillBeYourVoice

  1. May 27

    Episode 21 - We’re Back - A New Chapter for I Will Be Your Voice Podcast

    The I Will Be Your Voice podcast is back! After a break, our team reconnects to share fresh insights, critical updates, and resources designed to support children, youth, and families. We highlight new and updated tools including a Human Trafficking Toolkit for Educators, supports for unaccompanied homeless youth, and tools to help school teams implement Act 1 of 2022 across Pennsylvania. Join us as we reflect on where we’ve been, share what’s new, and look ahead to the work that continues to move student support forward. Review the transcript (PDF) Meet Our Host and Guests Matt Butensky (Host), Youth Development Program Manager, Center for Schools and CommunitiesMeghan Dale, Special Projects Managing Coordinator, Center for Schools and CommunitiesTaylor Teichman, Youth Development Coordinator, Center for Schools and CommunitiesBen Simmons, Youth Development Specialist, Center for Schools and CommunitiesResources: Sign up for email updatesThe Pennsylvania Education for Children and Youth Experiencing Homelessness (PA ECYEH) Program.The Pennsylvania Education Stability for Children and Youth in Foster Care ProgramThe Pennsylvania Education Leading to Employment and Career Training (PA ELECT) ProgramThe Pennsylvania Migrant Education (PA MEP) ProgramThe Pennsylvania Refugee Education (PA REP) ProgramThe Nita M. Lowey 21st Century Community Learning Centers GrantCenter for Schools and Communities

    36 min

  2. May 27

    Episode 22 - Project Textile: How Students are Mobilizing School Communities to Support Families Experiencing Homelessness

    In this episode of I Will Be Your Voice, host Matt Butensky speaks with Anthony Bruno, a senior at Lower Dauphin High School and founder of Project Textile, a student-led organization dedicated to supporting families and individuals experiencing homelessness. Joined by Lower Dauphin Principal Justin Hanula and School Social Worker Denise Haas, Anthony shares how a simple idea grew into a multi-school initiative that collects clothing, hygiene products, food, and other essential resources for local shelters and community members in need.  Listeners will learn how Project Textile empowers students to lead service efforts in their schools, raises awareness about homelessness, and creates meaningful opportunities for young people to make a difference in their communities. Anthony also discusses his vision for expanding the organization across Pennsylvania and his belief that students have the power to create real change right now, not someday in the future. This inspiring conversation highlights the impact of youth leadership, community collaboration, and the importance of ensuring that every student and family has access to basic necessities and support. Meet Our Guests: Anthony Bruno, Senior, Lower Dauphin High School and Founder, Project TextileJustin Hanula, Principal, Lower Dauphin High School Denise Haas, Social Worker, Lower Dauphin High SchoolRead the transcript. Resources: Sign up for email updatesThe Pennsylvania Education for Children and Youth Experiencing Homelessness (PA ECYEH) Program.The Pennsylvania Education Stability for Children and Youth in Foster Care ProgramThe Pennsylvania Education Leading to Employment and Career Training (PA ELECT) ProgramThe Pennsylvania Migrant Education (PA MEP) ProgramThe Pennsylvania Refugee Education (PA REP) ProgramThe Nita M. Lowey 21st Century Community Learning Centers GrantCenter for Schools and Communities

    35 min

  3. 02/26/2025

    Episode 20 - Learn About Our 2025 Build Your Best School Year Summer Camp

    This episode was produced under our previous focus on students experiencing homelessness. Pennsylvania’s ECYEH Program summer camp, “Build Your Best School Year,” is returning this July! Learn about this year’s summer camp hosted at Camp Fowler in Orefield, Pennsylvania. This year’s camp for McKinney Vento eligible middle-school aged students will take place July 28 to August 1. Hear from Mike Brady, Camp Director, and Melissa Turnpaugh, Center for Schools and Communities, as they discuss this unique opportunity specifically for Pennsylvania McKinney-Vento eligible students.    Read the transcript (PDF). Links  Pennsylvania Education for Children and Youth Experiencing HomelessnessSign up for email updatesCenter for Schools and Communities Meet Our Guest Mike Brady, M.Ed., Director, Camp Fowler Mike Brady, M.Ed., is a passionate experiential learning facilitator with over 20 years of experience in education, adventure-based learning, and youth development. Now in his third year as director of Camp Fowler, Mike leads year-round programming that fosters personal growth, resilience, and community. Before joining Camp Fowler, Mike created and facilitated The Epiphany Project, an innovative experiential learning program for youth in an adolescent residential treatment facility. He also spent years as a dedicated social studies and alternative school teacher, earning recognition as Teacher of the Year for Chesapeake Public Schools in Virginia. Mike lives in the Lehigh Valley with his wife, three kids, three dogs, and two cats, bringing his passion for adventure, education, and the outdoors into both his personal and professional life.

    29 min

  4. 01/30/2025

    Episode 19 - Looking Back and Moving Forward with CSC’s PA ECYEH Team

    This episode was produced under our previous focus on students experiencing homelessness. Listen to the latest "I Will Be Your Voice" episode where we kick off 2025 and chat with the statewide Education for Children and Youth Experiencing Homelessness (ECYEH) program team at the Center for Schools and Communities. We'll reflect on unforgettable highlights from 2024 and unveil exciting initiatives on the horizon for 2025. Get an exclusive, behind-the-scenes look at our efforts with the ECYEH program and discover how our team collaborates to create lasting impact. Don't miss this engaging and insightful episode - it's packed with stories, teamwork, and inspiration! Read the transcript (PDF). Links  Pennsylvania Education for Children and Youth Experiencing HomelessnessSign up for email updatesCenter for Schools and Communities Meet Our Guests Matt Butensky, Youth Development Project ManagerTaylor Teichman, Youth Development CoordinatorBen Simmons, Youth Development SpecialistMelissa Turnpaugh, ARP-HCY Youth Development Coordinator

    42 min

  5. 12/19/2024

    Episode 18 – Voices of Advocates for Students Experiencing Homelessness

    This episode was produced under our previous focus on students experiencing homelessness. In this special episode, we’re stepping away from our usual format to bring you powerful messages of homelessness and hope, in recognition of Pennsylvania’s annual Education for Children and Youth Experiencing Homelessness (ECYEH) Student Homelessness Awareness Week. Observed each November—most recently from November 11-15, 2024—this week shines a light on the critical importance of the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act. It highlights the efforts to provide stability, consistency, and support to children and youth experiencing homelessness across Pennsylvania. You will hear recorded messages from some of Pennsylvania’s most dedicated advocates for students experiencing homelessness. Through their voices, we invite you to gain a deeper understanding of the challenges these students face, the life-changing resources they need, and the vital impact we can all make together. We hope these messages educate, inspire, and motivate you to take action. Each of us has the power to make a difference—and collectively, we can achieve even more. Read the transcript (PDF). Links  PA ECYEH Awareness Week ToolkitPennsylvania Education for Children and Youth Experiencing HomelessnessSign up for email updatesCenter for Schools and Communities Meet Our Guests Jada Guiste, Psychology Student, University of Pittsburgh, Former Homeless Youth  Doris Hagemann, Director of Student Services, Cumberland Valley School District  Lisette Rivera, Site Coordinator for Families in Transition, Foster Care Point of Contact, School District of Lancaster Patricia Maila, Site Coordinator for Families in Transition, School District or Lancaster Gwen Bailey, Vice President, Programs, HopePHL

    18 min

  6. 11/06/2024

    Episode 17 - The Significance of ECYEH Awareness Week, November 11-15

    This episode was produced under our previous focus on students experiencing homelessness. As we approach 2024, ECYEH Awareness Week, November 11-15, join us for an eye-opening discussion on ECYEH Awareness Week with special guest Sonia Pitzi, a dedicated regional coordinator with Pennsylvania's Education for Children and Youth Experiencing Homelessness (PA ECYEH) Program. Together, we explore the transformative power of the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act in providing stability and educational rights. Discover how the origins of ECYEH Awareness Week focus on the critical role of education amidst the daunting challenges faced by these students.  Our conversation delves into the tradition of Wear Red Day, showcasing how symbolic red attire sparks essential conversations about student homelessness. We also spotlight progress, emphasizing the small victories that contribute significantly to the educational journey of students experiencing homelessness. This episode serves as a potent reminder of the power of education, community, and advocacy in driving change. Read the transcript (PDF). Links  PA ECYEH Awareness Week ToolkitThe Bridge Project in PA PA ECYEH Learning SeriesECYEH Cell Phone ProjectFinding Your Way in PA AppPennsylvania Education for Children and Youth Experiencing HomelessnessSign up for email updatesCenter for Schools and Communities  Meet Our Guest Sonia Pitzi, Regional Coordinator, Education for Children and Youth Experiencing Homelessness, Lincoln Intermediate Unit Sonia has worked with students experiencing homelessness for 29 years, eliminating educational barriers for homeless students and unaccompanied teens through partnerships and coordination with school districts, shelters and other community agencies. Sonia obtained her bachelor's degree in Outdoor Education (Special Populations) from Northland College in Wisconsin. In 2015, she received the national Sandra Neese Lifetime Achievement Award, presented by the National Association for Education of Homeless Children and Youth. She connects with students through a shared love of pizza, firmly believes that chocolate can save both her life and the lives of others and maintains that red is the best color because it can showcase a myriad of emotions.

    41 min

  7. 08/26/2024

    Episode 16 - Introducing The Bridge Project in PA: Online Mental Health Services for Children and Youth Experiencing Homelessness

    This episode was produced under our previous focus on students experiencing homelessness. In partnership with Move Forward Counseling and eLuma, The Bridge Project in PA facilitates FREE access to mental health services for PA children and youth experiencing homelessness. Learn the benefits of teletherapy; how schools, students, and families access services; how the program is addressing technological challenges; and the impact of mental health on academic achievement.  We also tackle broader challenges school districts face, such as absenteeism and behavioral needs, and how virtual mental health support can enhance traditional in-person approaches. Discover the critical role of parents/guardians in the teletherapy process and the collaborative efforts between schools and teletherapy providers. Finally, we emphasize the importance of student engagement and self-advocacy, and highlight the seamless referral processes of The Bridge Project in PA and the ongoing mission to extend support to all students in need.  The Bridge Project in PA is part of Pennsylvania’s American Rescue Plan Homeless Children and Youth (ARP-HCY) Program and is available for a limited time. Read the transcript.  A referral for services through The Bridge Project in PA is required by the Homeless Liaison at the student’s school.   Links: The Bridge Project in PA  Pennsylvania Education for Children and Youth Experiencing HomelessnessSign up for email updates"I Will Be Your Voice" PodcastCenter for Schools and Communities Meet Our Guests Valerie McNicholl, Chief Operating Officer, Move Forward Counseling  Valerie McNicholl is a licensed clinical social worker in PA and chief operating officer of Move Forward Counseling, LLC.  Valerie has 20+ years of experience working with children, adults, and families to improve their lives in a variety of treatment settings. Valerie approaches therapy from a strengths-based perspective and uses a variety of interventions. Originally from Schenectady, New York, she firmly believes that people heal differently, and that therapy can be a means to finding your way.   Chris Niemeyer, Director of School Partnerships, eLuma Chris is a lifelong EdTech advocate and comes from a family of educators.  He has worked with schools in a range of roles, from implementing digital tools in classrooms to rolling out large-scale technology initiatives. Over the past 20+ years, he has worked with several influential EdTech companies and has the expertise required to successfully support educators and K-12 school districts. In that context, Chris joined eLuma with a shared mission to help all students achieve their potential.   Leslie Cole, Director of School Solutions, eLuma  Leslie is a dedicated and experienced educational professional with a passion for supporting students, staff, and promoting systemic positive change. As a school psychologist supporting districts in the surrounding Tampa Bay, Florida, region, she gained invaluable knowledge and led efforts to support schools with Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS), early intervention, and trauma-informed care. After the pandemic, Leslie made the decision to return to New York, where she became MTSS coordinator and later a district administrator. L

    54 min

  8. 07/23/2024

    Episode 15 - Building Stability: Family Promise's Collaborative Approach

    This episode was produced under our previous focus on students experiencing homelessness. Can a community rally together to keep families united during their toughest times? Join us for an in-depth conversation with Matt Wagner from Family Promise as we explore the often misunderstood realities of homelessness and how their community partnerships take a holistic approach to providing services. Discover their collaborative efforts with local churches for nightly accommodations and their impactful partnership with United Way of the Capital Region's Road to Success program, which has been transformative in improving employment rates, even for those with criminal histories. Hear about their approach with their partnerships for food distribution and job preparation resources, illustrating how tailored assistance can make all the difference in helping families move towards stability. You will also learn constructive ways that you can get involved and make an impact. From spreading the word on social media to volunteering for important roles like van driving or committee participation, your support can be transformative. Read the transcript (PDF). Meet Our Guest Matthew Wagner is the Executive Director for Family Promise Harrisburg, which means he has the best job in the world. He gets to help his community support families and individuals at risk of experiencing homelessness, currently experiencing homelessness, or transitioning out of experiencing homelessness on their path to permanent housing.  He believes in a collaborative approach that treats every person as an individual and works to help them, not just in the short-term, but also in the long-term to be able to prosper and achieve their goals. Matthew likes to think outside the box and problem-solve, which have been invaluable in the decade he’s worked in the nonprofit world, first as a consultant, then on the communications side, before getting into fundraising. Now he’s combined all those experiences for the last almost two years as Executive Director of Family Promise Harrisburg Capital Region.  In his time there he established an environment where the staff, board, and volunteers all take what they do seriously but don’t take themselves seriously leading to a team-oriented approach where we are all extended family looking out for each other and those we serve. Resources Pennsylvania Education for Children and Youth Experiencing HomelessnessSign up for email updates"I Will Be Your Voice" PodcastCenter for Schools and Communities

    34 min
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A Podcast on Student Well-Being, Stability, and School Success Every student brings unique strengths and assets into the classroom. What does it take for every student to succeed – especially those facing the greatest challenges? Formerly I Will Be Your Voice: Stories of Homelessness and Hope, this podcast has expanded to explore a broader range of topics affecting students and families. Join Youth Development staff at the Center for Schools and Communities as they explore practices, programs, and partnerships shaping outcomes for students and their families. Featuring voices and stories from education, human services, community organizations, and advocates, this podcast examines topics including housing instability, foster care, out-of-school time, school mobility, higher education, career readiness, school climate, mental health, and access to opportunity.Each episode delivers practical insights, real-world strategies, and powerful stories that highlight how we can remove barriers and create pathways for student success. Subscribe and listen to learn more and help amplify solutions that support the whole child – and the systems that surround them. This monthly podcast is produced in partnership with The Pennsylvania Education for Children and Youth Experiencing Homelessness (PA ECYEH) Program.The Pennsylvania Education Stability for Children and Youth in Foster Care ProgramThe Pennsylvania Education Leading to Employment and Career Training (PA ELECT) ProgramThe Pennsylvania Migrant Education (PA MEP) ProgramThe Pennsylvania Refugee Education (PA REP) ProgramThe Nita M. Lowey 21st Century Community Learning Centers Grant #IWillBeYourVoice

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