The Prepared School Psych Jenny Ponzuric

Welcome, everyone! We're thrilled to have Dr. Katie Raher, founder and CEO of Constant Love and Learning, with us today. An award-winning teacher turned school psychologist, Dr. Raher helps educators and change-makers foster well-being and social-emotional learning (SEL). After a health crisis in 2016, she discovered the critical importance of well-being practices for educators and founded Constant Love and Learning in 2019.



The Role of School Psychologists

School psychologists are uniquely equipped for advocacy and support in educational settings. Shifting from traditional models to prevention-focused approaches (Tier 1) enhances effectiveness, providing comprehensive support for all students and reducing the need for advocacy through IEPs. Prevention, SEL, and consultative roles yield the greatest benefits.



Transition to Constant Love and Learning

The journey to creating Constant Love and Learning stemmed from integrating adult SEL more deeply into my work. Initially, the term "self-care" became overused and misconstrued. I emphasize holistic wellness, encompassing awareness, physical health, and spiritual well-being. Schools and organizations must foster environments where everyone feels supported, mirroring the team-based support structure of IEPs.



Constant Love and Learning arose from a need to support educators on a broader scale. Our mission is to nurture healthy, empowered educators who can inspire resilience and potential in every child. We envision a world where educators feel well, connected, and impactful. We offer heart-centered experiences and workshops to support educators in achieving their best selves, one step at a time.



Impact and Strategies for Well-Being

Educators report significant improvements in their classrooms and personal lives through our programs. SEL tools benefit both their students and their own children. Feeling regulated and supported increases job satisfaction and compassion for themselves and their students.



Simple strategies for well-being include having a variety of approaches for different situations. For instance, taking a walk while discussing something with a colleague or interacting with preschoolers for a quick reset. Productivity is about evaluating what truly matters and setting boundaries to create a healthier, more sustainable work environment.



Setting Boundaries and Embracing Growth

Setting boundaries, like requesting breaks and honoring your needs, is crucial. It’s okay not to know everything; maintaining a beginner’s mindset fosters a culture of growth and support. Advocate for what you love in your role and be open to learning. Regulating your nervous system helps handle various challenges, allowing for creative problem-solving.



Conclusion

Thank you for everything you do to support students, families, and educators. For more information on Dr. Raher's work, check out the Constant Love and Learning website. Thank you for joining us, Katie!



See you next time!

The information and advice provided are for guidance purposes only, and all participants are required to follow federal and state law and their school district guidelines and policies.



Welcome, everyone, to this episode of our podcast. Today, we're honored to introduce Jessica Shearin, a nationally certified school psychologist currently serving in the Clark County School District. With a diverse background from the University of Missouri Columbia, Jessica's professional interests span social and racial justice, neurodiversity affirming practices, interdisciplinary collaboration, and more.



Jessica's journey in Clark County has seen her take on various roles, from mentor and practicum supervisor to the current president of the Nevada Association of School Psychologists. In our conversation, Jessica shares insights into her experiences and offers valuable advice for fellow school psychologists.



Passion for Advocacy and Education

Jessica's dedication to advocacy shines through as she discusses her involvement in creating pathways for aspiring school psychologists. From advocating for funding in higher education to promoting awareness and interest in the field, Jessica emphasizes the importance of investing in the community's future.



Leadership and Building Relationships

Reflecting on her leadership role, Jessica stresses the significance of leading by example and fostering genuine connections. Whether it's leading an RTI team or serving as state president, she highlights the power of empathy and action in gaining trust and cooperation.



Navigating Time Management and Self-Care

Balancing professional commitments can be daunting, but Jessica's approach to time management offers practical insights. By scheduling tasks, prioritizing, and allowing time for self-care, she ensures effectiveness while preventing burnout—a lesson valuable for all school psychologists.



A Call for Collaboration and Growth

Jessica's vision for the future involves collaboration and growth, both within and beyond state borders. Through professional development initiatives and social media engagement, she aims to create inclusive spaces where school psychologists can thrive and learn from each other.



Preparedness through Strategic Thinking

When it comes to feeling prepared, Jessica advocates for breaking tasks into manageable steps and trusting in one's abilities. By embracing strategic thinking and leveraging to-do lists, school psychologists can navigate challenges with confidence and resilience.



Closing Thoughts

As our conversation comes to a close, Jessica leaves us with a sense of inspiration and purpose. Her journey exemplifies the transformative impact school psychologists can have when they combine passion with action, advocacy with empathy.



In the world of school psychology, leadership and advocacy play vital roles in shaping the educational landscape. Through Jessica's story, we're reminded of the power of collaboration, the importance of self-care, and the value of perseverance in the pursuit of meaningful change. Thank you, Jessica, for sharing your wisdom and insights with us today.

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Subscribe now and join our community of dedicated School Psychologists committed to creating inclusive, supportive, and empowering school environments for every child. Let's embark on this journey of professional growth and student-centered advocacy together!

Follow us on social media for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and more:

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#ThePreparedSchoolPsych #SchoolPsychology #StudentSupport #ProfessionalDevelopment #EducationPodcast #JennyPonzuric

The information and advice provided are for guidance purposes only, and all participants are required to follow federal and state law and their school district guidelines and policies.



Welcome, everyone! Today is an exciting day as we dive into a conversation with
Michele Custer is a Licensed Educational Psychologist in Northern CA. She is the current CASP Legislative Chair and is the NECASP President. Michele has worked with CA Assembly Members to introduce legislation related to school violence prevention and intervention. She recently was selected to train with the FBI's Behavior Analysis Unit in Quantico, VA as a mental health consultant for the Sacramento Field Office. She has been practicing school psychology for 19 years and has worked in IN, MD, PA, and CA. 


Michele's professional interests encompass ethically sound practices, social and emotional learning, multidisciplinary collaboration, and legislative advocacy. Currently serving as the chair of the California Association of School Psychologists Legislative Committee, Michele is deeply committed to enhancing school safety and student well-being through proactive measures.



In our conversation, Michele shares her passion for her work and offers valuable insights into threat assessment in school settings. Drawing from her extensive experience, she highlights the importance of comprehensive safety protocols and multidisciplinary collaboration in identifying and addressing potential risks.



Michele's journey into legislative advocacy stemmed from a desire to bridge the gap between best practices and implementation at the ground level. Through grassroots efforts and collaboration with policymakers, she aims to advocate for policies that prioritize student safety and mental health support in schools.



Reflecting on her experiences, Michele encourages school psychologists to embrace opportunities for growth and innovation. She emphasizes the importance of staying informed, networking with peers, and remaining open to new challenges.



As we conclude our conversation, Michele leaves us with invaluable advice for aspiring school psychologists. She encourages them to break free from conventional roles, embrace new opportunities, and stay actively engaged in professional communities.



In closing, Michele's dedication to advancing school safety serves as a beacon of inspiration for educators and policymakers alike. Through her advocacy and commitment to excellence, she continues to shape the future of school psychology and student well-being.

Thank you, Michele, for sharing your expertise and passion with us today. Your contributions to the field are truly invaluable, and we look forward to seeing the positive impact of your work in schools across the nation.

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Subscribe now and join our community of dedicated School Psychologists committed to creating inclusive, supportive, and empowering school environments for every child. Let's embark on this journey of professional growth and student-centered advocacy together!

Follow us on social media for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and more:

Instagram: @jennyponzuric

🔗 jennyponzuric.com

✉️ thepreparedschoolpsych@gmail.com

#ThePreparedSchoolPsych #SchoolPsychology #StudentSupport #ProfessionalDevelopment #EducationPodcast #JennyPonzuric

The information and advice provided are for guidance purposes only, and all participants are required to follow federal and state law and their school district guidelines and policies.



In the ever-evolving landscape of education and mental health, the role of school psychologists stands as a crucial pillar of support for students and educators alike. Dr. Lisa Peterson, an esteemed figure in the field, brings a wealth of experience and insights to the table. As an assistant professor, training director, and president of the New Mexico Association of School Psychologists, Dr. Peterson's journey is a testament to the multifaceted nature of the profession. In this conversation, we delve into her perspectives on various aspects of school psychology, leadership, and the importance of staying prepared in an ever-changing environment.



The conversation begins with an introduction to Dr. Lisa Peterson, highlighting her diverse roles as an educator, researcher, and leader in the field of school psychology. With a focus on supporting underserved groups and addressing professional issues, Dr. Peterson's dedication to mental health advocacy shines through.





Dr. Peterson shares her affinity for reality TV, particularly Survivor, as a means of relaxation amidst her demanding schedule. However, she emphasizes the importance of balance, both personally and professionally, acknowledging the need for flexibility and adaptability in navigating the challenges of the field.



Transitioning into her role as a faculty member, Dr. Peterson reflects on her approach to training future school psychologists. With an emphasis on soft skills like flexibility and empathy, she strives to prepare students for the complexities of real-world practice. From risk assessment to mandated reporting, Dr. Peterson ensures that her students are equipped with the knowledge and skills to advocate for their students effectively.



As the president of the New Mexico Association of School Psychologists, Dr. Peterson is passionate about building connections and advocating for the profession. From addressing issues like reciprocity to increasing visibility in policy conversations, she remains committed to driving positive change within the field.



Throughout the conversation, Dr. Peterson emphasizes the importance of empowerment and collaboration. Whether it's encouraging students to reach out for support or providing opportunities for leadership development, she believes in the power of collective action to effect meaningful change.



For Dr. Peterson, staying prepared means staying informed and engaged with the latest developments in the field. From attending conferences to networking with colleagues, she emphasizes the importance of lifelong learning and adaptability in meeting the evolving needs of students and schools.



In a profession where every day brings new challenges and opportunities, Dr. Lisa Peterson's journey serves as an inspiring example of leadership and dedication. Through her roles as an educator, researcher, and advocate, she continues to make a lasting impact on the field of school psychology, ensuring that students receive the support they need to thrive. As we navigate the complexities of education and mental health, Dr. Peterson's insights remind us of the importance of staying prepared, staying connected, and staying committed to our shared mission of student success.

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Subscribe now and join our community of dedicated School Psychologists committed to creating inclusive, supportive, and empowering school environments for every child. Let's embark on this journey of professional growth and student-centered advocacy together!

Follow us on social media for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and more:

Instagram: @jennyponzuric

🔗 jennyponzuric.com

✉️ thepreparedschoolpsych@gmail.com

#ThePreparedSchoolPsych #SchoolPsychology #StudentSupport #ProfessionalDevelopment #EducationPodcast #JennyPonzuric

The information and advice provided are for guidance purposes only, and all participants are required to follow federal and state law and their school district guidelines and policies.



Welcome to The Prepared School Psych, where we delve into the world of school psychology and education, exploring the insights and experiences of esteemed professionals like Eric Elias.

In today's episode, we have the privilege of hosting Eric Elias, a distinguished school psychologist based in central Connecticut. With an illustrious career spanning 34 years, Eric has made significant contributions to the field and garnered recognition for his outstanding achievements.

Meet Eric Elias: A Seasoned Professional

Eric Elias is no stranger to accolades, having been named Connecticut's School Psychologist of the Year in 2018. His wealth of experience and dedication to the profession make him a highly respected figure in the field. Beyond his practice, Eric is actively engaged in various professional activities, including serving as the president of the Connecticut Association of School Psychologists.

A Passion for Social and Emotional Learning

Eric's passion for social and emotional learning, social justice, and evidence-based interventions shines through in his work. He brings a holistic approach to his practice, advocating for the well-being of students and promoting equity and inclusion in education. Eric's commitment to these principles is evident in his involvement with national organizations like the National Association of School Psychologists (NASP).

Insights from Eric's Journey

During our conversation, Eric shares insights from his journey, reflecting on his involvement in state associations and leadership roles. He discusses key initiatives aimed at addressing critical issues within the field, such as the shortage of school psychologists and the importance of diversity and equity. Eric also offers valuable advice for early-career professionals and aspiring leaders, emphasizing the importance of continuous learning, self-care, and effective time management.

Addressing School Refusal: A Collaborative Approach

One of the highlights of our discussion is Eric's expertise in addressing school refusal issues. He emphasizes the importance of collaboration among educators, psychologists, and parents in understanding the underlying causes and implementing tailored interventions. By conducting Functional Behavior Assessments (FBAs) and utilizing evidence-based strategies, Eric has achieved remarkable success in reintegrating students into the school environment.

Conclusion: Empowering the Future of School Psychology

As we conclude our conversation with Eric Elias, it's evident that his dedication, leadership, and advocacy have had a profound impact on the field of school psychology. Through his tireless efforts, Eric continues to empower professionals, support students, and promote positive change in education. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Eric for sharing his insights and inspiring us with his passion for making a difference in the lives of others.

Thank you for joining us on this enlightening journey with Eric Elias, brought to you by The Prepared School Psych. Stay tuned for more inspiring conversations and insights from leaders in the field of education and psychology.

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Resources:

E. Elias Notes on School Refusal https://drive.google.com/file/d/1k382FujKx_N7LySAZ7DZGrv5Hdl4MCG8/view?usp=sharing

Subscribe now and join our community of dedicated School Psychologists committed to creating inclusive, supportive, and empowering school environments for every child. Let's embark on this journey of professional growth and student-centered advocacy together!

Follow us on social media for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and more:

Instagram: @jennyponzuric

🔗 jennyponzuric.com

✉️ thepreparedschoolpsych@gmail.com

#ThePreparedSchoolPsych #SchoolPsychology #StudentSupport #ProfessionalDevelopment #EducationPodcas

Hey there, it's Jenny Ponzuric back with another insightful episode and a listener's query that hits close to home for many of us. Today, let's tackle the perplexing issue of declining cognitive scores during student reevaluations.

As educators, we're keen on comparisons, especially when scoring evaluations. We anticipate seeing progress, but what happens when the scores seem to regress? Let's explore three fundamental considerations I rely on when confronted with this challenge.

1. Developmental Factors: It's essential to recognize that not all skills progress linearly. Some skills plateau early on, while others continue to evolve over time. For instance, fluid reasoning skills often show continued growth as students age. However, if these skills appear to decline, it might not signify a loss but rather a shift in the developmental trajectory. Understanding the nuances of cognitive development can provide valuable insights into interpreting assessment results.

2. Social-Emotional Influences: The impact of social and emotional factors on cognitive performance cannot be overstated. Anxiety, mood fluctuations, or external stressors can significantly affect a student's ability to concentrate and perform during assessments. Just like adults, students may struggle to focus under pressure, leading to suboptimal test results. Exploring the emotional context surrounding the assessment can shed light on potential influences on cognitive scores.

3. External Factors: Beyond internal factors, external variables such as sleep patterns, medication usage, or substance intake can also influence cognitive function. It's essential to consider the holistic well-being of the student and inquire about relevant external factors that might impact their performance. By asking targeted questions and gathering comprehensive information, educators can gain a deeper understanding of the circumstances surrounding the assessment results.

Incorporating these considerations into the evaluation process can enrich our interpretation of cognitive scores and guide us in making informed decisions. Remember, it's not just about the numbers; it's about understanding the context in which they arise.

If you found these insights valuable and have more questions or topics you'd like me to explore in future episodes, head over to my website and share your ideas. Your input drives the conversation, and I'm here to address the topics that matter most to you.

Thanks for tuning in, and until next time, keep questioning, keep learning, and keep making a difference in the lives of your students. Together, we'll navigate the complexities of education with empathy and insight.

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Subscribe now and join our community of dedicated School Psychologists committed to creating inclusive, supportive, and empowering school environments for every child. Let's embark on this journey of professional growth and student-centered advocacy together!

Follow us on social media for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and more:

Instagram: @jennyponzuric

🔗 jennyponzuric.com

✉️ thepreparedschoolpsych@gmail.com

#ThePreparedSchoolPsych #SchoolPsychology #StudentSupport #ProfessionalDevelopment #EducationPodcast #JennyPonzuric