The Behavior Education Connection

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The Behavior Education Connection dives into the evolving world of behavior analysis in the public schools. Join us as practitioners in the field share insights on topics of interest to other practitioners and those who support them. Created with support from the Virginia Department of Education.

  1. 6D AGO

    BEST OF THE BEC- Leadership and Teaming

    Welcome to this BEST OF episode of The Behavior Education Connection! In this episode, we talk about cultivating leadership skills through a behavior analytic lens, with special consideration of the possible role of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Our guest for this episode is Dr. Jodie Soracco, Director of the Virginia Tiered System of Supports Research and Implementation Center. We'll discuss: -Reflections on leadership and how it impacts school-based behavior analysts -Ways to reflect on and grow from leadership experiences as they show up -Getting started on exploring the connection between ACT and leadership development And more! For more information, check out the Virginia Public Schools Behavior Analyst Website: ⁠https://sites.google.com/odu.edu/vapsban/home⁠ Guest Speaker: Dr. Jodie Soracco is the Director of the Virginia Tiered System of Supports, Research and Implementation Center. In her role, she helps build state and division-level capacity to support the sustained and broad-scale implementation of MTSS (Multi-Tiered System of Supports) across the Commonwealth of Virginia. With 18 years of experience in education, Dr. Soracco has dedicated 16 years to PBS/MTSS work, acquiring expertise in various MTSS applications such as home, school, community, mental health integration, rural communities, and interdisciplinary interests. Her professional background includes teaching experience in both general and special education, and furthermore, Dr. Soracco is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst and a licensed behavior analyst in Virginia. Host: Selena J. Layden, Ph.D., BCBA-D, LBA is an Associate Professor in the Department of Human Movement Studies and Special Education at Old Dominion University. Dr. Layden earned her doctorate degree from the College of William & Mary in Education Policy, Planning, and Leadership with an emphasis in Special Education Administration and her master’s degree in Applied Behavior Analysis from St. Cloud State University in Minnesota. Prior to joining the faculty at ODU, Dr. Layden worked in multiple school divisions focusing on challenging behavior and children with autism spectrum disorder. She was also the Assistant Director of Training at the Autism Center for Excellence at Virginia Commonwealth University. Dr. Layden’s research interests focus on providing effective professional development for school personnel, improving the implementation of evidence-based practices in schools, particularly for students with autism spectrum disorder, and school-based behavior analysts. Music: Finding Peace by Remember the Future, from Shutterstock Music

    23 min
  2. EP 46 Disseminating Behavior Analysis in Public Schools

    12/15/2025

    EP 46 Disseminating Behavior Analysis in Public Schools

    Welcome to the Behavior Education Connection!In this episode, we talk about strategies for disseminating behavior analysis in public school settings to a variety of stakeholders. Our guest for this episode is Jennifer Carpenter, Coordinator in the Office of Special Education with the West Virginia Department of Education. We'll discuss: -Needs of various school personnel when it comes to supporting behavior -Strategies for effective collaboration -Resources to further support that collaboration And more! Grab your own copy of the Behavior Blueprint: Crafting Strategies for Supporting Your Classroom here: https://wvde.us/sites/default/files/2025-10/Behavior%20Blueprint%202025-acc.pdf For more information, check out the Virginia Public Schools Behavior Analyst Website: ⁠https://sites.google.com/odu.edu/vapsban/home⁠ Guest Speaker: Jennifer Carpenter is a Coordinator in the Office of Special Education at the West Virginia Department of Education and a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA). She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and a Master of Science in Psychology with a specialization in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). Jennifer brings extensive experience in mental health and behavioral support for children, educators and families. Host: Selena J. Layden, Ph.D., BCBA-D, LBA is an Associate Professor in the Department of Human Movement Studies and Special Education at Old Dominion University. Dr. Layden earned her doctorate degree from the College of William & Mary in Education Policy, Planning, and Leadership with an emphasis in Special Education Administration and her master’s degree in Applied Behavior Analysis from St. Cloud State University in Minnesota. Prior to joining the faculty at ODU, Dr. Layden worked in multiple school divisions focusing on challenging behavior and children with autism spectrum disorder. She was also the Assistant Director of Training at the Autism Center for Excellence at Virginia Commonwealth University. Dr. Layden’s research interests focus on providing effective professional development for school personnel, improving the implementation of evidence-based practices in schools, particularly for students with autism spectrum disorder, and school-based behavior analysts.

    42 min
  3. EP 45 Aligning Science and Practice

    12/01/2025

    EP 45 Aligning Science and Practice

    Welcome to the Behavior Education Connection!In this episode, we talk about connecting and aligning the science of behavior and behavior analytic practice in school settings.Our guest for this episode is Kira Austin, Behavior Analyst with Richmond City Public SchoolsWe'll discuss:-The need to stay grounded in science as a behavior analyst-How to translate that science effectively for varied stakeholders-The critical role of humilityAnd more!For more information, check out the Virginia Public Schools Behavior Analyst Website: ⁠https://sites.google.com/odu.edu/vapsban/home⁠Guest Speaker:Kira is a Behavior Analyst with Richmond Public Schools and has previously worked in a variety of settings, including clinical and university settings. Host:Selena J. Layden, Ph.D., BCBA-D, LBA is an Associate Professor in the Department of Human Movement Studies and Special Education at Old Dominion University. Dr. Layden earned her doctorate degree from the College of William & Mary in Education Policy, Planning, and Leadership with an emphasis in Special Education Administration and her master’s degree in Applied Behavior Analysis from St. Cloud State University in Minnesota. Prior to joining the faculty at ODU, Dr. Layden worked in multiple school divisions focusing on challenging behavior and children with autism spectrum disorder. She was also the Assistant Director of Training at the Autism Center for Excellence at Virginia Commonwealth University. Dr. Layden’s research interests focus on providing effective professional development for school personnel, improving the implementation of evidence-based practices in schools, particularly for students with autism spectrum disorder, and school-based behavior analysts.

    32 min
  4. EP 44 Enhancing Self-Determination Through Leadership

    11/17/2025

    EP 44 Enhancing Self-Determination Through Leadership

    Welcome to the Behavior Education Connection! In this episode, we take a look at the I'm Determined framework and a system-wide effort to implement it to increase student self-determination, as well as how behavior analysts can use their leadership to enhance outcomes for self determination for students. Our guest for this episode is Hayley Mullins from Winchester Public Schools. For more information, check out the Virginia Public Schools Behavior Analyst Website: ⁠https://sites.google.com/odu.edu/vapsban/home⁠ Music: Finding Peace by Remember the Future, from Shutterstock Music

    18 min
  5. EP 43 Top 10 Considerations For Becoming a School-Based BCBA

    11/03/2025

    EP 43 Top 10 Considerations For Becoming a School-Based BCBA

    Welcome to the Behavior Education Connection!In this episode, we talk about special considerations for behavior analysts considering a career working in or in support of public schools.Our guest for this episode is none other than our own Selena Layden, Executive Director of VAPSBAN! We'll discuss:-What makes a school setting unique -Important skills for successful practice -Benefits of working in a school settingAnd more!For more information, check out the Virginia Public Schools Behavior Analyst Website: ⁠https://sites.google.com/odu.edu/vapsban/home⁠Guest Speaker and Host:Selena J. Layden, Ph.D., BCBA-D, LBA is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Human Movement Studies and Special Education at Old Dominion University. Dr. Layden earned her doctorate degree from the College of William & Mary in Education Policy, Planning, and Leadership with an emphasis in Special Education Administration and her master’s degree in Applied Behavior Analysis from St. Cloud State University in Minnesota. Prior to joining the faculty at ODU, Dr. Layden worked in multiple school divisions focusing on challenging behavior and children with autism spectrum disorder. She was also the Assistant Director of Training at the Autism Center for Excellence at Virginia Commonwealth University. Dr. Layden’s research interests focus on providing effective professional development for school personnel, improving the implementation of evidence-based practices in schools, particularly for students with autism spectrum disorder, and school-based behavior analysts.Music:Finding Peace by Remember the Future, from Shutterstock Music

    11 min

  6. 10/20/2025

    BEST OF THE BEC - Repairing Relationships

    Welcome to the BEST OF the Behavior Education Connection!In this classic episode, we get down to business to address an all-too-common situation for behavior analysts practicing in public schools- the need to repair relationships and make plans to move forward in the interest of collaboration.Our guest for this episode is Lauren Vetere from the VCU Autism Center for Education (VCU-ACE).We'll discuss:-Strategies to gather facts and prepare for future collaboration;-Ways to deal with difficult scenarios where an immediate resolution may not be possible;-Real talk ways to ensure communication efforts are better received; And more!For more information, check out the Virginia Public Schools Behavior Analyst Website: ⁠https://sites.google.com/odu.edu/vapsban/homeGuest Speaker:Lauren Vetere, M.Ed., BCBA, LBA Lauren is a Training and Technical Assistance Associate at Virginia Commonwealth University’s Autism Center for Excellence (VCU-ACE). She is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst and holds a graduate certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis from George Mason University. Lauren earned her master’s degree in Special Education from the University of Pittsburgh. Mrs. Vetere also received her Educational Leadership endorsement from the University of Mary Washington. She has worked previously as a division-wide Autism and Behavior Specialist, Special Education Teacher, and Training Coordinator. Mrs. Vetere has experience working with individuals with disabilities from preschool to adulthood in both public and private settings.Host:Selena J. Layden, Ph.D., BCBA-D, LBA is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Communication Disorders and Special Education at Old Dominion University. Dr. Layden earned her doctorate degree from the College of William & Mary in Education Policy, Planning, and Leadership with an emphasis in Special Education Administration and her master’s degree in Applied Behavior Analysis from St. Cloud State University in Minnesota. Prior to joining the faculty at ODU, Dr. Layden worked in multiple school divisions focusing on challenging behavior and children with autism spectrum disorder. She was also the Assistant Director of Training at the Autism Center for Excellence at Virginia Commonwealth University. Dr. Layden’s research interests focus on autism spectrum disorder, providing effective professional development for school personnel, and improving the implementation of evidence-based practices in schools.Music:Finding Peace by Remember the Future, from Shutterstock Music

    17 min
  7. EP 42 The Four Pillars

    10/06/2025

    EP 42 The Four Pillars

    Welcome to the Behavior Education Connection! In this episode, we talk about the Four Pillars and how they form the foundation of strong relationships, leading to benefits for students, staff, and beyond! Our guest for this episode is Erin McCormack, Behavior Specialist with Fluvanna County Public Schools. We'll discuss: -Each of the Four Pillars -The roles they play in relationship building -Strategies for living into each Pillar And more! For more information, check out the Virginia Public Schools Behavior Analyst Website: https://sites.google.com/odu.edu/vapsban/home Guest Speaker: Erin McCormack is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst with Fluvanna County Public Schools. She’s been working in public education since 2006 — first as a special education teacher, then as a behavior specialist, and now as the division’s BCBA. Erin supports students from kindergarten through high school, focusing on practical behavior systems, collaboration, and staff coaching. She loves living and working in a small rural community, where she feels her work has a big impact, and she’s passionate about using behavior analysis to make people’s lives better.   Host: Selena J. Layden, Ph.D., BCBA-D, LBA is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Human Movement Studies and Special Education at Old Dominion University. Dr. Layden earned her doctorate degree from the College of William & Mary in Education Policy, Planning, and Leadership with an emphasis in Special Education Administration and her master’s degree in Applied Behavior Analysis from St. Cloud State University in Minnesota. Prior to joining the faculty at ODU, Dr. Layden worked in multiple school divisions focusing on challenging behavior and children with autism spectrum disorder. She was also the Assistant Director of Training at the Autism Center for Excellence at Virginia Commonwealth University. Dr. Layden’s research interests focus on providing effective professional development for school personnel, improving the implementation of evidence-based practices in schools, particularly for students with autism spectrum disorder, and school-based behavior analysts. Music: Finding Peace by Remember the Future, from Shutterstock Music

    23 min
  8. EP 41 Social Skills Instruction

    09/22/2025

    EP 41 Social Skills Instruction

    Welcome to the Behavior Education Connection! In this episode, we talk about social skills instruction and considerations for implementation in public school settings. We discuss how behavior analysts can support centering student voice and goals within the context of learning skills that are valuable within and beyond school settings. Our guest for this episode is Amanda Cash, Project Coordinator with Radford University TTAC. We'll discuss: -Considerations for identifying social skills targets; -The role of student goals and experiences in effective teaching and learning; -Resources to support social skills instruction; And more! Articles discussed in this episode: Stichter, J. P., Malugen, E. C., & Davenport, M. A. (2018). A Six-Step Decision-Making Process to Guide Social Skills Instruction. Intervention in School and Clinic, 54(3), 149-159. https://doi.org/10.1177/1053451218767901 (Original work published 2019)Walker, Jennifer & Barry, Colleen. (2018). Assessing and Supporting Social-Skill Needs for Students With High-Incidence Disabilities. Teaching Exceptional Children. 51. 18-30. 10.1177/0040059918790219. For more information, check out the Virginia Public Schools Behavior Analyst Website: https://sites.google.com/odu.edu/vapsban/home Guest Speaker: Amanda currently lives in Roanoke, VA where she works with the Department of Education's Training and Technical Assistance Center (T/TAC) at Radford University. She has a Ph.D. in applied behavior analysis from The Chicago School where her research focused on effective and efficientinstructional practices for children and adults. Previously, Amanda has served as a special education teacher, a school-based behavior analyst, and a behavior consultant in adult service settings. In her spare time, Amanda enjoys hiking with her husband and playing with her dog. Host: Selena J. Layden, Ph.D., BCBA-D, LBA is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Human Movement Studies and Special Education at Old Dominion University. Dr. Layden earned her doctorate degree from the College of William & Mary in Education Policy, Planning, and Leadership with an emphasis in Special Education Administration and her master’s degree in Applied Behavior Analysis from St. Cloud State University in Minnesota. Prior to joining the faculty at ODU, Dr. Layden worked in multiple school divisions focusing on challenging behavior and children with autism spectrum disorder. She was also the Assistant Director of Training at the Autism Center for Excellence at Virginia Commonwealth University. Dr. Layden’s research interests focus on providing effective professional development for school personnel, improving the implementation of evidence-based practices in schools, particularly for students with autism spectrum disorder, and school-based behavior analysts. Music: Finding Peace by Remember the Future, from Shutterstock Music

    14 min
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The Behavior Education Connection dives into the evolving world of behavior analysis in the public schools. Join us as practitioners in the field share insights on topics of interest to other practitioners and those who support them. Created with support from the Virginia Department of Education.

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