S2E3: Dr. Shelley Moore - "Every Learner Belongs: A Conversation on Inclusive Education"
In this conversation, Dr. Shelley Moore shares her journey in inclusive education, emphasizing the importance of creating environments where all students, including those with disabilities, can thrive. She introduces the Five P's framework for inclusion, discusses the barriers educators face, and highlights the need for purposeful Individual Education Plans (IEPs). Dr. Moore advocates for community reflection and data-driven decisions to ensure educational equity, and she provides innovative teaching strategies that support diverse learners. TakeawaysInclusion is about creating a sense of belonging for all students.The Five P's framework is essential for effective inclusive education.Mindset shifts are crucial for overcoming barriers to inclusion.Individual Education Plans should focus on student strengths and community needs.Community reflection is vital for understanding the needs of diverse learners.Data-driven decisions can enhance educational equity.Innovative teaching strategies can support all learners effectively.Supports should be viewed as tools for empowerment, not as stigmas.Educators must advocate for inclusive practices that reflect community diversity.Balancing personal well-being with professional responsibilities is essential for educators.
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38:39
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38:39
S2E2: Jody Carrington - Wired for Connection: Reframing Behaviour in Education
In this conversation, Jody discusses the critical importance of connection in education, emphasizing that both educators and students are wired for connection. She highlights the impact of trauma on learning and behavior, advocating for a shift in perspective from seeing students as attention-seeking to understanding their need for connection. Jody also addresses the significance of creating safe and inclusive environments in schools, the role of privilege and representation, and the necessity for educators to maintain their passion and purpose amidst challenges. The conversation underscores the need for emotional regulation and empathy in educational settings, ultimately aiming to foster a supportive community for both students and educators.
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40:44
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40:44
S2E1: Mark Pearmain - Navigating Leadership in Education
Summary: In this conversation, Mark Pearmain, the superintendent of Surrey Schools, shares his extensive journey in education, discussing the importance of authenticity in leadership, the challenges of navigating change, and the role of technology in modern education. He emphasizes the need for trust-building in new leadership roles and the significance of maintaining emotional well-being as a leader. Mark also expresses his hopes for the upcoming school year, focusing on the importance of kindness and community support in overcoming challenges.Takeaways:Mark Pearmain has 30 years of experience in education.Authenticity is crucial for effective leadership.New leaders should build trust within their communities.Change is inherently difficult for individuals and organizations.Transparency in leadership fosters trust and understanding.Students need to develop collaboration and communication skills.Technology should enhance, not replace, learning experiences.Leaders must empower their teams to share the workload.Emotional well-being is essential for effective leadership.Kindness and grace are vital in challenging times.
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32:57
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32:57
Dr. Michael Ungar: Resilience - Helping Kids Grow Through Challenge, Not Overprotection
In this compelling episode of Leading Voices in Education, Dr. Michael Ungar—a renowned family therapist and resilience expert—offers a nuanced, research-backed perspective on what it truly means to help children thrive. Moving beyond the simplistic "bounce back" definition of resilience, Dr. Ungar emphasizes that resilience is not solely an internal trait but a dynamic process shaped by supportive environments, relationships, and equitable systems. Through engaging stories and practical strategies, he highlights the importance of age-appropriate challenges, natural consequences, and strong adult connections in building resilience. He critiques the overextension of trauma-informed practices that may unintentionally promote fragility, underscores the developmental value of failure, and warns against overprotective parenting. Crucially, he stresses that resilience requires different supports for different kids—what works for one child with a strong safety net might not work for another without it. Dr. Ungar invites educators and parents to act as thoughtful coaches, helping children navigate life transitions with growing independence. The episode ultimately calls on listeners to embrace resilience as a collective responsibility—rooted in context, equity, and intentional care—offering both inspiration and concrete tools for supporting the well-being of all youth.
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36:37
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36:37
Jessica Kruger - Redefining Resilience: Challenging Limits and Perceptions
In this powerful episode of Leading Voices in Education, we sit down with Jessica Kruger — athlete, artist, entrepreneur, and advocate — whose story of resilience challenges assumptions and redefines what’s possible. From sailing the world as a child to navigating life after a spinal cord injury at age 15, Jessica shares her remarkable journey of reclaiming independence, pushing boundaries, and changing perceptions of disability. She opens up about her experiences breaking barriers in modeling, wheelchair rugby, and culinary school — including facing exclusion from programs and ultimately becoming the first wheelchair user to complete VCC’s pastry arts program. Alongside her accomplishments, Jessica speaks candidly about the mental health struggles that accompanied them, and how therapy and community support helped her reshape her expectations and self-worth. Through it all, Jessica embodies the spirit of her former business name — The Stubborn Baker — showing us how grit, humour, and heart can turn obstacles into stepping stones.
"Leading Voices in Education" is a Surrey Schools podcast that brings together educators, principals, and vice-principals to explore key topics in leadership and education. Focused on creating compassionate systems, promoting diversity, and driving inclusive practices, this podcast provides valuable insights and discussions for those shaping the future of education. Tune in for thoughtful conversations aimed at fostering leadership that truly supports and uplifts all students and communities.
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