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(Re)Education of Schools Podcast

Justin Moorman and Katie Thornton

Join educators Justin Moorman and Katie Thornton as they have open, honest conversations about how to better understand social-emotional learning, trauma-informed care, the “why’s” behind student behavior, and how to help kids navigate it all as they go through school and life. Each episode they will strive to provide practical understanding and opportunities to grow for anyone who works with children, or has children in their life … all in about 30 minutes! 

  • 87 episodes
  • Updated May 25

Episodes87

  • May 25 · 31 min

    Emotional Resilience in Teachers

    "I’ve come to the frightening conclusion that I am the decisive element in the classroom. It’s my daily mood that makes the weather."** This powerful quote sets the stage for today’s deep dive into **Emotional Resilience**. As educators, we often focus on building resiliency in our students, but what happens when the adults in the building are running on empty? In this episode, we explore why emotional resilience isn't just a "nice-to-have"—it’s the foundation of a consistent, high-performing classroom. When teachers are regulated and resilient, students are calmer, learning increases, and school culture is transformed. In this episode, we discuss: * **Defining Resilience:** It’s not about avoiding pain; it’s about the ability to adapt, recover, and keep functioning after a crisis. * **The "Weather" of the Classroom:** Why a teacher’s emotional state is the decisive factor in student success and consistency. * **Practical Development:** Small, actionable shifts—from physical health (sleep and exercise) to practicing a growth mindset and focusing on what you can control. * **Systems of Support:** How administrators can move beyond "self-care" and move toward **Collective Care**, distributed leadership, and equipping staff to handle Tier 1 behaviors. * **The Current Crisis:** Why prioritizing the emotional security of educators is the key to retaining great teachers in an increasingly stressful field. **The Bottom Line:** We need to create systems that allow regulated adults to be a reality. Join us as we discuss how to walk alongside our staff and prioritize the human element of education. Connect with Us: Our Website Email justinmoorman@reeducationofschoolspodcast.com katiethornton@reeducationofschoolspodcast.com joshward@reeducationofschoolspodcast.com YouTube Facebook Instagram Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators! License code: 0WMLYW3GMFLMX8H7 If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a **5-star review** on your favorite podcast platform!. It helps us keep this conversation going and reach more educators who need to hear this message. **Listen on:** * **YouTube** (Subscribe for video versions of the show!) * **Buzzsprout** * **Apple Podcasts / Spotify** #Education #TeacherWellbeing #EmotionalResilience #SchoolLeadership #PLC #TeacherBurnout #CollectiveCare

  • May 11 · 47 min

    Building a Trauma-Informed MTSS for Behavioral Supports

    Episode 81 In this episode, Justin and Katie discuss the critical need for structured guidance when leading an educational organization through behavioral challenges. We break down the development of a Trauma-Informed Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) that is built on research, the law, and collaborative input from staff. Learn how to create a fluid, working document that drives decision-making and provides clear professional expectations while remaining adaptable to student needs. This Episode, We Cover: ***The MTSS Framework:** A deep dive into the tiered supports developed to manage mental health and behavior effectively. **Tier 1 - Universal Supports:** Implementing classroom community restorative practices, regulation strategies like building reset areas, and focused attention practices for all students. **Tier 2 - Targeted Intervention:** Matching students with specific supports such as trauma-informed therapy-based small groups, interest inventories, and counselor-led SEL lessons. **Tier 3 - Intensive Supports:** Navigating formal processes including functional behavior assessments (FBA), behavior intervention plans (BIP), and restorative conferences for significant needs. **Crisis Response:** Establishing clear protocols for emergency situations to ensure safety, proper documentation, and timely parent communication. Key Takeaways: **Rooted in Belief:** Building a successful system starts with a district or building understanding its core beliefs about students, as these beliefs drive every action. * **Collaborative Teams:** You cannot implement this work alone. It requires diverse teams of competent individuals from different grade levels and content areas who are trained in these specific areas. * **Continuous Revision:** This isn't a "one and done" project. An effective MTSS document should be revised bi-yearly to remain relevant and effective. Walk Away Knowing: Your MTSS should be a living document created *with* your people, not just for them. To make it work, leadership must commit to providing the extra planning time necessary for staff to follow up with students and communicate effectively with parents. If you found this episode helpful, please leave us a 5-star review! Your feedback helps us grow and reach more educators who are passionate about supporting their students. #SpecialEducation #MTSS #TraumaInformed #BehavioralSupports #SchoolLeadership #EdNeuroscience #TeacherSupport #schoolculture Our Website Email justinmoorman@reeducationofschoolspodcast.com katiethornton@reeducationofschoolspodcast.com joshward@reeducationofschoolspodcast.com YouTube Facebook Instagram Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators! License code: 0WMLYW3GMFLMX8H7

  • April 27 · 35 min

    Professional Learning Communities (PLCs) – The Secret to Transforming School Culture

    Are you looking for the single biggest return on investment for your school's culture? In this episode, we dive into the power of **Professional Learning Communities (PLCs)** and why they are the essential backbone of a successful **trauma-informed school**. Moving beyond standard curriculum planning, we explore how vertical, intentionally mixed teams can break down school "cliques" and foster a deep sense of **collective care** and **empathy** among staff[. When educators broaden their sphere of interaction, they increase their ability to empathize—making them better educators and people. **In this episode, we cover:** **Defining the PLC:** Why these monthly vertical teams are designed for professional dialogue, peer review, and shared reflection rather than just administrative tasks **The Trauma-Informed Connection:** Why PLCs are a "must-have" for staff wellness, providing a safe, confidential space to discuss the unique challenges of trauma-informed work. *Successful Structuring:** How to organize vertical teams (grades K-5, etc.) to strengthen school climate and ensure the "art of teaching" remains the focus. **Avoiding the Pitfalls:** Navigating common barriers like toxic group dynamics, lack of consistency, or failing to set professional boundaries. *A Roadmap for Success:** Practical next steps for principals and teacher leaders to launch PLCs, from choosing facilitators to incorporating "fun" elements like snacks and opener activities. If you want to move from a school that just "does" trauma-informed work to a school that *lives* it through a healthy, connected culture, this episode is for you. Our Website Email justinmoorman@reeducationofschoolspodcast.com katiethornton@reeducationofschoolspodcast.com joshward@reeducationofschoolspodcast.com YouTube Facebook Instagram Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators! License code: 0WMLYW3GMFLMX8H7 **Love the show?** Please leave us a **5-star review** on your favorite platform! It helps other educators find this content and keeps the conversation growing.

  • April 13 · 39 min

    Navigating Cognitive Dissonance in Trauma-Informed Schools

    Have you ever committed to a trauma-informed approach only to find yourself reacting with old, punitive habits in the heat of the moment? This uncomfortable tension between our values and our actions is known as cognitive dissonance, and it is one of the most significant yet unspoken hurdles in educational reform. In this episode, we dive deep into the psychological stress that occurs when new research on educational neuroscience and ACEs (Adverse Childhood Experiences) challenges our existing beliefs about discipline and accountability. When we realize that traditional methods—like zero tolerance or public shaming—can actually retraumatize students, it creates a "mental itch" that can lead to resistance or even rejection of the trauma-informed framework. In this episode, we discuss: Defining Cognitive Dissonance: Understanding the psychological discomfort created by conflicting beliefs, attitudes, or behaviors. The Identity Threat: Why shifting to trauma-informed care feels like a threat to our identities as "good educators". Common Defense Mechanisms: How we minimize trauma or defend old practices to reduce discomfort (e.g., "Kids are just more sensitive now"). The Belief-Action Gap: Why our practices often lag behind our shifting beliefs and how to bridge that gap. Strategies for Support: How to normalize discomfort in professional learning, use curiosity instead of shame, and embrace "both/and" thinking—combining accountability with compassion. Shifting to a trauma-informed mindset isn't just about adding new strategies; it’s a fundamental change in how we view student behavior. Join us as we explore how to move from asking "What’s wrong with this student?" to "What happened to this student?" while navigating the internal friction that comes with growth. Connect with Us: Our Website Email justinmoorman@reeducationofschoolspodcast.com katiethornton@reeducationofschoolspodcast.com joshward@reeducationofschoolspodcast.com YouTube Facebook Instagram Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators! License code: 0WMLYW3GMFLMX8H7

  • March 30 · 40 min

    Restorative Practices

    In this episode, Justin and Katie dive into Restorative Practices—a foundational pillar of Trauma-Informed Schools and a critical component of an effective, behaviorally aligned MTSS (Multi-Tiered System of Supports) process. We explore the shift from a punitive "rule-breaking" mindset to a restorative approach that focuses on healing relationships, accountability, and long-term growth. Instead of asking "What is the consequence?", we shift the conversation to "Who was affected, what do they need, and how do we make things right?" In This Episode, We Cover: Defining Restorative Practices: Moving beyond punishment to build healthy school communities. Tiered Implementation: What restorative work looks like across Tiers 1, 2, and 3—from daily relationship building to formal repair conversations after significant harm. Impact on School Culture: How shifting away from a punitive model reduces chaos in the front office and increases staff confidence in managing tough behavioral situations. Launching the Work: Essential steps for schools, including the importance of neuroscience training, finding internal leaders, and providing safe places for staff to practice and even disagree with the process. Key Takeaways: Long-term Gains: While the shift can feel "jarring" or harder for staff in the short term, the long-term result is a calmer, more empathetic building environment. Accountability vs. Punishment: Restorative practices don't ignore the harm; they provide a structured way for "offenders and victims" to reconcile and move forward. The Pillar of Trauma-Informed Care: You cannot truly be a trauma-informed school without being a restorative practice-trained staff. Walk Away Knowing: Restorative practice is the heart of Trauma-Informed Schools. It is a lens through which we should view all behavioral MTSS work to help scholars develop the skills they need to be effective, morally sound citizens. If you enjoyed this episode, please consider leaving us a 5-star review on your favorite podcast platform. It helps other educators find this content and keeps these important conversations going. #SpecialEducation #RestorativePractices #TraumaInformed #MTSS #SchoolCulture #EducationalNeuroscience #TeacherSupport #edchat Our Website Email justinmoorman@reeducationofschoolspodcast.com katiethornton@reeducationofschoolspodcast.com joshward@reeducationofschoolspodcast.com YouTube Facebook Instagram Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators! License code: 0WMLYW3GMFLMX8H7

  • March 16 · 42 min

    The Great IEP Debate

    Are you an Intervention Specialist or educator feeling buried under state mandates and data metrics? Join us for Episode 77 as we dive deep into the art of Individualizing Education Plans (IEPs) without losing sight of the student behind the paperwork.In this episode, we narrow our focus specifically to behavioral goals. We discuss how to move past the "clinical" feel of standardized documents to create holistic, accurate profiles that truly serve the student's needs. In This Episode, We Cover:The Power of the Profile: Why painting a clear picture of who a student is—both behaviorally and academically—is the most vital part of the IEP.Data vs. Reality: How focusing on a student’s nervous system and regulation leads to more accurate testing and better SDI (Specially Designed Instruction).Navigating Barriers: Tackling the challenges of district uniformity, state mandates, and the "plan-on-plan" fatigue (FBA, BIP, IEP goals, oh my!).Holistic Teamwork: Strategies for streamlining goals to build strong neuropathways and ensure behaviors don't overshadow educational instruction. Key Takeaways:"Sometimes, in the name of trying to make sure we check all of those boxes... we can write IEPs that sound a lot more clinical than like they are describing a kid." Accuracy Matters: Ensuring students are regulated is the only way to get a true representation of their skills.Prioritize Input: Lean on veteran teachers and district leadership to balance complex documentation with practical implementation.Streamline: Work in step with your team to create cohesive plans that actually work in a classroom setting.Enjoyed the show? Please leave us a 5-star review on your favorite podcast platform! It helps us reach more educators and keep these important conversations going.#SpecialEducation #IEP #BehavioralGoals #InterventionSpecialist #EdChat #Neuroscience #TeacherLife #specialeducation Our Website Email justinmoorman@reeducationofschoolspodcast.com katiethornton@reeducationofschoolspodcast.com joshward@reeducationofschoolspodcast.com YouTube Facebook Instagram Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators! License code: 0WMLYW3GMFLMX8H7

  • March 2 · 35 min

    Unwritten-Window of Tolerance & Regulation

    Are you feeling overwhelmed by classroom management, or noticing your students struggling to stay engaged? In this episode, Justin and Katie explore one of the most vital concepts for educators and students alike: The Window of Tolerance . Join us as we break down what it means to be in your optimal zone of emotional and mental stability, and what happens when you are pushed into Hyperarousal (fight-or-flight, anxiety, racing thoughts) or Hypoarousal (shutdown, emotional numbness, disconnection) . We discuss why everyone's window looks different based on genetics, trauma, and daily stress , and take a deep dive into how this specifically impacts neurodivergent learners, including those with ADHD, Autism, and chronic pain. We also look at the reality of being an educator. Discover how lack of sleep, lesson planning, and the daily grind can shrink your own window of tolerance, impacting your relationships with colleagues, parents, and students . Most importantly, learn how to shift toward trauma-informed classroom regulation, teach students "interoception" (noticing bodily sensations), and build a classroom of self-managing humans rather than relying on codependent teacher systems. If you enjoyed listening, we would so appreciate it if you left us a 5-star review! It helps other people find this content and keeps the conversation going. Our Website Email justinmoorman@reeducationofschoolspodcast.com katiethornton@reeducationofschoolspodcast.com joshward@reeducationofschoolspodcast.com YouTube Facebook Instagram Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators! License code: 0WMLYW3GMFLMX8H7

  • February 16 · 52 min

    Organizational Growth and Leadership with Pastor Charlie McMahan

    How do you take a small organization and scale it into a high-growth, mission-driven community? In this episode, we sit down with Charlie McMahan, Lead Pastor of Southbrook Christian Church and creator of the Leaderwise series, to bridge the gap between pastoral leadership and educational excellence. Whether you are a school administrator, a teacher leader, or a community builder, Charlie’s insights on "distributed leadership" and culture-building offer a masterclass in making every member of your team feel welcomed, valued, and seen. In this episode, we discuss: Intentional Growth: The story of Southbrook and the leadership practices that fueled its expansion. Distributed Leadership: How to ensure collective buy-in while keeping the core mission unchanged. Launching Large Initiatives: Charlie shares the origin of Playersbox and provides a roadmap for school leaders trying to get major projects off the ground. Culture & Climate: Why "taking them to church" matters in professional development and how to create an environment where people thrive. Resilience in Leadership: Practical strategies for re-centering your team and navigating the "hard days" of leadership. About Our Guest: Charlie McMahan is the Lead Pastor at Southbrook Christian Church and a passionate leadership coach. Through his Leaderwise series and involvement with the Global Leadership Summit, he helps leaders across all sectors develop the heart and the systems necessary for lasting impact. SouthBrook Christian Church Our Website Email justinmoorman@reeducationofschoolspodcast.com katiethornton@reeducationofschoolspodcast.com joshward@reeducationofschoolspodcast.com YouTube Facebook Instagram Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators! License code: 0WMLYW3GMFLMX8H7

  • February 2 · 35 min

    The Enneagram and Impacts on Developing and Sustaining a Team

    In this episode, "I Had some Help - The Enneagram and Impacts on Developing and Sustaining a Team," we dive deep into the power of the Enneagram personality typing tool, exploring how understanding yourself and your colleagues can transform your team and culture. Episode 74: The Enneagram and Team Development Host Katie interviews Justin about the Enneagram, which focuses not on what you do, but on the motivation behind your actions. In this discussion, you'll learn: What is the Enneagram? A personality tool with nine types that focuses on core motivations. Self-Knowledge & Trauma-Informed Work: How knowing your number is key to better self-regulation and, consequently, helps students stay regulated. It also builds empathy by allowing you to look past surface actions to understand motivations. Impact on Colleagues: Discover how sharing Enneagram types provides a common language, builds empathy, helps maximize individual strengths, guides effective feedback, and assists in delegating tasks for maximum impact. Crisis & Conflict: Learn how different Enneagram types react in the aftermath of a crisis or conflict (e.g., Fives needing time to process feelings, Ones focusing on right/wrong, Threes seeking affirmation). Leadership & Team Building: Ideas for how building leadership can utilize the Enneagram to better develop teams and culture, such as: Utilizing Ones for building systems and organization. Having Twos check in on others. Tapping into Threes for vision. Empowering Fours for creative tasks. Understanding the needs of types like Nines, who may prefer leaders to make certain decisions for them. The better you know your people, the more likely you are to place them in roles that suit their strengths and maximize their abilities. Enjoyed this episode? Please consider giving us a 5-star review on whatever platform you listen to podcasts on! It helps other educators and leaders find this content and keeps the important conversation going. Our Website Email justinmoorman@reeducationofschoolspodcast.com katiethornton@reeducationofschoolspodcast.com joshward@reeducationofschoolspodcast.com YouTube Facebook Instagram Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators! License code: 0WMLYW3GMFLMX8H7

  • January 19 · 42 min

    2025 Top Educational Research

    In this episode, special guest Josh Ward joins the conversation to dive deep into the most influential educational research of 2025. Based on Edutopia’s annual roundup of the year's most significant studies, we break down what the data says about the current state of our classrooms and where education is headed. From the undeniable impact of cell phone policies on academic performance and peer conflict to the surprising physiological benefits of extended recess, we explore the evidence-based practices that are moving the needle for students and teachers alike. Key topics discussed in this episode: The Power of the Pen: Why early handwriting remains a critical foundation for reading success. Cognitive Load & Math: How notes and annotations help students navigate complex word problems. The Science of Breaks: The dramatic impact of "microbreaks" on student test scores. Productive Struggle: Learning when to step back and allow students to build resilience. AI in Education: The role of ChatGPT and AI in streamlining special education paperwork and its effects on long-term recall. Relationships Over Rigor: Reaffirming why the human connection remains the most important factor in the classroom. We wrap up by sharing our thoughts on which of these findings made the biggest impact this year and making our predictions for the trends that will dominate the list in 2026. Check out the full Edutopia article here: The 10 Most Significant Education Studies of 2025 Our Website Email justinmoorman@reeducationofschoolspodcast.com katiethornton@reeducationofschoolspodcast.com joshward@reeducationofschoolspodcast.com YouTube Facebook Instagram Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators! License code: 0WMLYW3GMFLMX8H7

  • Nov 10, 2025 · 44 min

    Regulation.. How you doing?

    Before we dive in, if you’ve enjoyed listening to this podcast, we’d love for you to give us a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review on your favorite platform. Your support helps more educators find this content and keeps the conversation going! In this episode, we’re unpacking one of the most misunderstood areas in education — student regulation after crisis moments. Too often, we assume students are “ready” or “regulated” simply because the chaos has stopped. But rushing back to routines or avoiding potential triggers can actually lead to a cycle of continued dysregulation — for both students and staff. We’ll talk about: 💡 What regulation really means and what it looks like in practice 🧩 How to tell when a student is truly regulated and ready to return ⚡ Common misconceptions — like thinking “once they stop fighting, it’s over” 🚫 The hidden costs of avoiding dysregulation with students 💬 How to reduce staff anxiety and build confidence through modeling, support, and coaching You’ll hear stories, practical strategies, and real talk about what it takes to stay calm, connected, and effective in the moments that matter most. Our Website Email justinmoorman@reeducationofschoolspodcast.com katiethornton@reeducationofschoolspodcast.com joshward@reeducationofschoolspodcast.com YouTube Facebook Instagram Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators! License code: 0WMLYW3GMFLMX8H7

  • Oct 27, 2025 · 34 min

    Time Poverty

    Teachers are facing time poverty — a growing cause of burnout, stress, and teacher fatigue. In this episode, we explore how packed schedules, state mandates, and constant pressure impact teacher wellness, student behavior, and school culture. Join us as we discuss practical ways to restore balance, protect mental health, and bring joy back to teaching. TIME POVERTY In today’s episode, we’re tackling one of the biggest challenges educators face: time poverty — that overwhelming feeling of never having enough time for the things that matter most. With curriculum mandates, data requirements, and constant expectations, many teachers are left without time for the very practices that improve student well-being, critical thinking, and long-term learning. We unpack what time poverty really means in education and explore how it affects not just teachers, but students and families too. From the pressures of state mandates to the ripple effects of dysregulated adults and anxious kids, we take a closer look at how this imbalance shapes classroom culture and climate. Together, we discuss practical ways to push back — through intentional planning, clear boundaries, shared leadership, and creating space for what truly matters: connection, outdoor learning, creativity, and steadiness. Because when we slow down, we don’t lose momentum — we build sustainability. If you’ve ever felt like you’re racing through the day without enough time to breathe, this episode is for you. 👉 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and leave us a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ review — it helps more educators find these conversations and keep the dialogue going! Our Website Email justinmoorman@reeducationofschoolspodcast.com katiethornton@reeducationofschoolspodcast.com joshward@reeducationofschoolspodcast.com YouTube Facebook Instagram Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators! License code: 0WMLYW3GMFLMX8H7

  • Oct 13, 2025 · 40 min

    Chaos Continuum

    When supporting students with challenging behavior, it can sometimes feel like complete chaos — but what if we thought about chaos as a continuum instead of a constant? In this episode, we unpack what it means to move students forward along that continuum, from moments of total chaos to controlled chaos to managed calm. We explore what each stage looks and feels like — for both educators and students — and how our presence, predictability, and systems can restore safety and connection. Through real examples and honest reflection, we discuss how neuroscience and intentional practice help us regulate ourselves, set realistic goals, and build environments where every student can succeed. If you’ve ever felt like you’re just trying to survive the “end-of-times” moments in your classroom, this conversation offers perspective, compassion, and practical strategies for turning chaos into progress. Our Website Email justinmoorman@reeducationofschoolspodcast.com katiethornton@reeducationofschoolspodcast.com joshward@reeducationofschoolspodcast.com YouTube Facebook Instagram Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators! License code: 0WMLYW3GMFLMX8H7

  • Oct 12, 2025 · 1 min

    Oct 24th, 2025 - Responding To Kids in Crisis - Virtual Event

    Virtual Event on Friday, October 24th 8:30-4PM EST Zoom Link will be emailed to participants 24 hours prior to the event. Please Contact Us With Any Questions: reeducationofschoolspodcast@gmail.com www.reeducationofschoolspodcast.com For more information please visit: https://www.reeducationofschoolspodcast.com/ and select UPCOMING EVENTS Here is the link to REGISTER. TOPICS THAT WILL BE DISCUSSED: Prevention Initiatives Brain Science Support for Students with Autism Responding During a Crisis Post Crisis Plus MUCH More

  • Sep 29, 2025 · 40 min

    Behavioral Service Options

    When challenging student behaviors arise, it’s common to hear suggestions that a child “should go somewhere else.” While often said with the intent to help, these comments usually come without a full understanding of what those options truly mean for students. In this episode, we unpack the continuum of services available in public education and beyond. Katie shares insights on Tier I supports, inclusive special education practices, and resource or behavior programs within schools. Justin explores county-level services and residential placements, bringing perspective on when—and if—these more restrictive options are appropriate. Together, we reflect on what neuroscience tells us about behavior and learning, and offer cautions for how we consider placement decisions. Our Website Email justinmoorman@reeducationofschoolspodcast.com katiethornton@reeducationofschoolspodcast.com joshward@reeducationofschoolspodcast.com YouTube Facebook Instagram Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators! License code: 0WMLYW3GMFLMX8H7

  • Sep 15, 2025 · 36 min

    Simply The Best: Maintaining Academic Excellence

    Teachers, admin, superintendents…everyone is under enormous pressure to produce results. It can make us feel like the results have to come fast. Sometimes, the thing students need is time without pressure, so that they can process and learn. It sounds like something I’m saying just because it sounds good, but sometimes moving slow is the quickest way we can get to academic success. Don’t let the pressure get to you out there! Our Website Email justinmoorman@reeducationofschoolspodcast.com katiethornton@reeducationofschoolspodcast.com joshward@reeducationofschoolspodcast.com YouTube Facebook Instagram Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators! License code: 0WMLYW3GMFLMX8H7

  • Sep 1, 2025 · 43 min

    Honeymoon is over… Now what?

    We’re two weeks into the school year, and the honeymoon period is officially over—behaviors are starting to ramp up. So, how do we respond in ways that are effective, intentional, and relationship-centered? In this episode, Katie and Justin share their perspectives from both the intervention specialist and principal roles, offering concrete steps you can take when challenges arise. We’ll explore: Why starting with a tighter leash and clear boundaries sets the stage for growth How behind-the-scenes conversations can transform consequences into opportunities for connection Common mistakes educators make when handling behavior—and how to avoid them The importance of not giving up on students too quickly Strategies for asking for help at the right time, while still staying engaged with the student Whether you’re an educator, administrator, or support staff, this episode is packed with practical insights and encouragement to help you navigate behavior challenges with purpose and compassion. Our Website Email justinmoorman@reeducationofschoolspodcast.com katiethornton@reeducationofschoolspodcast.com joshward@reeducationofschoolspodcast.com YouTube Facebook Instagram Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators! License code: 0WMLYW3GMFLMX8H7

  • Aug 18, 2025 · 42 min

    Building Community

    Building culture can make or break trauma-informed schools. But if we know that, how do we actually build it? In this episode, Katie and Justin dive into intentional and practical strategies for shaping environments where students and staff can thrive. We explore: Environments that foster safety and connection Intentional “sneaky” training that highlights strengths and builds buy-in Distributed leadership and how it empowers everyone Unconditional positive regard as the foundation of relationships Collective care that sustains the work without losing sight of the mission Packed with stories, insights, and actionable takeaways, this conversation is about more than just theory—it’s about everyday practices that make a real difference in trauma-informed culture. Our Website Email justinmoorman@reeducationofschoolspodcast.com katiethornton@reeducationofschoolspodcast.com joshward@reeducationofschoolspodcast.com YouTube Facebook Instagram Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators! License code: 0WMLYW3GMFLMX8H7

  • Aug 4, 2025 · 42 min

    Reminders to Launch Your Year Right

    Join Katie, Justin, and Josh in the conversation as they talk about starting another school year. As the summer draws to a close, and another school year begins, hear what they have to say about what is crucial to start the year doing, what to avoid, and how to set yourself up for an effective year in the classroom. Our Website Email justinmoorman@reeducationofschoolspodcast.com katiethornton@reeducationofschoolspodcast.com joshward@reeducationofschoolspodcast.com YouTube Facebook Instagram Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators! License code: 0WMLYW3GMFLMX8H7

  • Jul 21, 2025 · 33 min

    Congressman Greg Landsman and the State of Public Education

    In this powerful episode, we’re honored to welcome Congressman Greg Landsman—a former educator and now a leading voice for Southwest Ohio—to discuss the future of public education and how we can collectively support our students and educators through uncertain times. We talk with Congressman Landsman about: Why public education is deeply personal and vital to him Navigating the current and upcoming changes at the federal and state level—what educators need to know His passion for preparing young men for successful futures and how trauma-informed schools play a role A message of encouragement for educators facing shifting societal expectations How communities can unify around what matters most: our children Whether you're an educator, parent, or community leader, this episode offers timely insight, grounded optimism, and practical ways we can all be part of the solution. Listen, share, and let’s reimagine what’s possible—together. #PublicEducation #TraumaInformedSchools #GregLandsman #EducationPodcast #FutureOfEducation #ReEducationOfSchools Our Website Email justinmoorman@reeducationofschoolspodcast.com katiethornton@reeducationofschoolspodcast.com joshward@reeducationofschoolspodcast.com YouTube Facebook Instagram Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators! License code: 0WMLYW3GMFLMX8H7