The Behavior Education Connection

CEBIS

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. Jul 27

    BEST OF THE BEC- EP 38 - Leadership Panel

    Welcome to this best-of episode from the archives of The Behavior Education Connection! In this episode, we revisit a fantastic panel discussion with school leaders who are also behavior analysts from across Virginia, and we're glad to have you join the conversation! Our guests for this episode are: Jennifer O'Berry, Virginia Department of Education Courtney Wolfson, Fairfax County Public Schools Jessica Olesevich, Stafford County Public Schools For more information, check out the Virginia Public Schools Behavior Analyst Website: https://sites.google.com/odu.edu/vapsban/home As an added resource, check out the Professional Standards for School-Based Behavior Analysts at https://digitalcommons.odu.edu/cdse_pubs/66/ Guest Speakers: Jennifer O’Berry is the Autism, Intellectual Disabilities, and Assistive Technology Specialist for the Virginia Department of Education. She is a Board Certified and Licensed Behavior Analyst with over 27 years of experience supporting students with disabilities in both public schools and private day school programs. She is passionate about systems change, staff development, and making evidence-based practices accessible for educators and families. Courtney Wolfson began her career as a dedicated Autism teacher, working with Kindergarten through 4th-grade students. This foundational experience led her to her current role as an ABA coach, where she supports the adults teaching in the Autism programs in utilizing Applied Behavior Analysis teaching techniques, classroom management, curriculum development, and data collection skills. She just completed her Educational Administration and Supervision endorsement, and finds immense joy in leveraging her ABA expertise to lead initiatives that drive impactful program changes, while always prioritizing meaningful instruction and student success. Jessica Olesevich is an Assistant Principal at Conway Elementary School in south Stafford, VA. She has spent over 15 years in public education, from teaching in the classroom, to supporting from central office, to school administration. In each role, she has used the science of human behavior to guide her vision and mission. 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

  2. Jul 13

    EP 58- Professional Standards for SBBAs- Version 2.0

    Welcome to the Behavior Education Connection! In this episode, Selena is flying solo and doing a deep dive into the newest edition of the Professional Standards for School-Based Behavior Analysts! Grab your copy here: https://digitalcommons.odu.edu/hms_fac_pubs/222/ For more information, check out the Virginia Public Schools Behavior Analyst Website: ⁠https://sites.google.com/odu.edu/vapsban/home⁠Guest 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

    EP 58- Professional Standards for SBBAs- Version 2.0

  3. Jun 29

    EP 57 Creating a Network- Kansas Style

    Welcome to the Behavior Education Connection! In this episode, we talk about problem solving models, and how they can benefit school teams supporting students and teachers in public school settings. Our guests for this episode are Dr. Pam Scharping and Nichole Hitchcock, both from TASN ATBS and KAPSBAN in Kansas! For more information, check out the Virginia Public Schools Behavior Analyst Website: ⁠https://sites.google.com/odu.edu/vapsban/home⁠Guest Speakers: Pam Scharping has a PhD from Capella University in Psychology specializing in Applied Behavior Analysis. She is a BCBA and LBA in the state of Kansas and currently works for TASN ATBS. Prior to that, she worked at a private residential school for over 20 years in a variety of positions, such as staff trainer, assistant director, and behavior analyst for the school and outpatient services. Her passion is training and coaching educators within the classroom environment. Nichole Hitchcock has been a state trainer with TASN Autism and Tertiary Behavior Supports since 2018. She has a dual bachelor’s degree in K-6 general education/K-12 adaptive special education and a master’s degree in curriculum & instruction. She is also a Board Certified Behavior Analyst and a Licensed Behavior Analyst in Kansas and has experience in public and private residential schools and alternative schools. She has been a resource teacher, life skills teacher, emotional disturbance teacher, behavior specialist, teacher mentor, and CPI trainer. She is passionate about supporting teams with gaining more positive outcomes for students with complex behavioral needs and building district capacity with implementing evidence-based practices. 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

    EP 57 Creating a Network- Kansas Style

  4. Jun 15

    EP 56 Behavior Analysis and Reading Instruction

    Welcome to the Behavior Education Connection! In this episode, we talk about problem solving models, and how they can benefit school teams supporting students and teachers in public school settings. Our guest for this episode is Dr. Michelle Hickman, Clinical Assistant Professor at Daemen University and Co-Founder of BRIDGE Learning. For more information, check out the Virginia Public Schools Behavior Analyst Website: ⁠https://sites.google.com/odu.edu/vapsban/home⁠Guest Speaker: Dr. Michelle Hickman is a Clinical Assistant Professor in the Behavioral Science Department at Daemen University, where she teaches in the graduate Applied Behavior Analysis program. She joined Daemen in 2018 after serving as an adjunct faculty member and as the Director of Curriculum, Instruction, and Training at The Summit Center. She holds a doctorate and master’s degree in special education from The Ohio State University and a bachelor’s degree from SUNY Cortland. She is a BCBA-D and a Licensed Behavior Analyst in New York. In addition to her work at Daemen, Michelle is a co-founder of BRIDGE Learning, a consulting and professional development organization that partners with schools and professionals to provide evidence-based training, coaching, and online learning opportunities. 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

    EP 56 Behavior Analysis and Reading Instruction

  5. Jun 1

    BEST OF THE BEC- Behavior Analysis in Schools Past and Future

    Welcome to this best-of episode from The Behavior Education Connection!In this episode, we're diving into the history of school-based behavior analysts and their work in public schools, and talking about the future and what is yet to be accomplished.Our guest for this episode is Wendi Jenkins from VCU'S Virginia Tiered Systems of Support Research & Implementation Center (VTSS-RIC).We'll discuss:-Early opportunities for behavior analysts to work in public schools-Future opportunities to enhance their impact-Strategies for overcoming barriers within public school settingsAnd more!For more information, check out the Virginia Public Schools Behavior Analyst Website: https://sites.google.com/odu.edu/vaps...Guest Speaker:Wendi is a Systems Coach at the Virginia Commonwealth University Research & Implementation Center. She works directly with school divisions implementing the Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) framework. She has worked as a school psychologist in a state facility, in the public schools, and in the home setting.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 MusicExplore the podcast

  6. May 18

    EP 55 Collaboration Between SLPs and BCBAs

    Welcome to the Behavior Education Connection! In this episode, we talk about collaboration and building relationships between SLPs and BCBAs to support student success. Our guest for this episode is Rose Griffin from ABA SPEECH! Learn more at https://abaspeech.org/ For more information, check out the Virginia Public Schools Behavior Analyst Website: ⁠https://sites.google.com/odu.edu/vapsban/home⁠Guest Speaker: Rose Griffin, MA, CCC-SLP, BCBA, is a certified Speech-Language Pathologist and Board Certified Behavior Analyst with a passion for helping SLPs, BCBAs, and RBTs work together to support all autistic learners. She is the founder of ABA SPEECH, an organization dedicated to professional development that unites your team—and transforms communication through customized consultations, engaging trainings, and the ABA SPEECH Connection CEU Membership. Rosemarie is also the host of the popular ABA SPEECH Podcast, where she shares practical strategies. A highly sought-after speaker, she enjoys connecting with professionals at the local, state, and national levels. Her book "Say It With Me" is scheduled to come out in July of 2026. She can't wait to share easy to use strategies to encourage communication with professionals and parents alike! At the heart of Rosemarie’s work is the mission of ABA SPEECH: Keeping therapy fun and functional and collaborating along the way. 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

    EP 55 Collaboration Between SLPs and BCBAs

  7. May 4

    EP 54 Supporting Connecticut School-Based Behavior Analysts

    Welcome to the Behavior Education Connection! In this episode, we talk about problem solving models, and how they can benefit school teams supporting students and teachers in public school settings. Our guest for this episode is Dr. Ravit Stein from EASTCONN ACCESS. Learn more at https://www.eastconn.org/access-team. For more information, check out the Virginia Public Schools Behavior Analyst Website: ⁠https://sites.google.com/odu.edu/vapsban/home⁠Guest Speaker: Dr. Ravit Stein, Ph.D., BCBA-D, LBA, NCSP, directs EASTCONN’s ACCESS (Advancing Consultation & Coaching to Empower Student Success) team. At EASTCONN, Dr. Stein leads a multidisciplinary team that partners with Connecticut schools through responsive consultation, coaching, and sustainable systems-building. ACCESS helps districts strengthen MTSS implementation, design high-leverage strategies, and build internal capacity through strategic planning, embedded professional learning, and habit-based coaching. Dr. Stein contributes to the field by publishing empirical research and presenting at regional and national conferences, translating evidence into practical tools that support real-world application. A licensed psychologist and nationally certified school psychologist, she also teaches graduate courses at UConn’s Neag School of Education and facilitates professional learning across the state. She is deeply committed to building collaborative, sustainable systems that give all learners equitable opportunities to thrive. 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

    EP 54 Supporting Connecticut School-Based Behavior Analysts

  8. Apr 20

    EP 53 Using the Competing Behavior Pathway

    Welcome to the Behavior Education Connection! In this episode, we talk about problem solving models, and how they can benefit school teams supporting students and teachers in public school settings. Our guest for this episode is Elizabeth Boynton with Stafford County Public Schools. For more information, check out the Virginia Public Schools Behavior Analyst Website: ⁠https://sites.google.com/odu.edu/vapsban/home⁠Guest For more information about the Competing Behavior Pathway and its use with the FBA/BIP process, check out www.https://basicfba.com/about-us/ For a downloadable copy of the Competing Behavior Pathway, visit: https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1gu6Mp9mgqJuXBPZ05yt_TSvwlPkNIUKy0AM4C18in0M/copy Speakers: Elizabeth Boynton, MEd, BCBA, LBA is an Applied Behavior Analyst in Stafford Country Public Schools. In her current role, Elizabeth supports both staff and students by coaching staff to implement evidence-based interventions and serving as the division’s subject matter expert on functional behavior assessments and behavior intervention. Additionally, Elizabeth has multiple years working in both an ABA clinic setting and as a middle school math teacher.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

    EP 53 Using the Competing Behavior Pathway
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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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