Voices United in Education

Looking for an AI proof job? Thinking about working on aircrafts? Want to land a job on the Space Coast? Mark Raab is the Aviation Academy instructor at Booker T Washington High School, the 2nd high school in Florida to offer industry certifications in both aerospace & aircraft assembly. In this episode, Mark gets us up to speed for certification and beyond. Guest: Mark Raab https://washingtonhs.escambiaschools.org/career-academies/aviation-maintenance The 2026 InWeekly Best of the Coast winn

The NFL has been investing in flag football; it’s going to be a part of the Olympics and it’s been a competitive option for high school girls in Escambia County for nearly a decade. When Drew Lafontant isn’t at his day job as the Clinic Director for the Panhandle Comprehensive Treatment Center, he is proud head coach for the girls varsity flag football team at Booker T Washington High School. In this episode, he shares how the team is thriving and why flag football may be the next sport on your

What if we told you that there was a nationwide contest for literacy and of the nearly 10,000 schools, Scenic Heights Elementary won FIRST place? And what if we told you that those students are English speakers of other languages? April Mansfield and Michelle Skidmore are ESOL teachers at Scenic Heights Elementary School. In this episode, hear how they unknowingly made it to the playoffs of the Imagine Learning Literacy Bowl and the impact that winning has had on their students. Guests: April M

Is there a secret to successful middle school years? It’s a changing and challenging time for students and parents. Cameron Peters is the Bailey Middle School PE teacher and the founder of a mentorship program for at-risk students called CAMP — Creating a Meaningful Purpose. In this episode, he shares how the program is helping students tap into their motivation and unlock their full potential. Guest: Cameron Peters https://www.instagram.com/camp.llc/ The Florida Department of Education just re

Do you know Izzie Jenkins? If not, we’re pretty confident that you’ll be hearing more about this Pensacola High School IB Program graduate who was elected as State Secretary for Florida FFA. In this episode, she shares what it means to carry the torch for the nearly 100-year-old organization—growing from future farmers to future leaders—and how her experiences have shaped her outlook on what’s next for her as an adult. Guest: Izzie Jenkins https://www.facebook.com/floridaffa The Florida De

Are you a recent high school graduate, but don't have the money to attend collge? Or, are you an adult who wants to finish your degree or get training for a new career path, but don’t know how to pay for it? Or, do you want to take classes for personal self improvement? Matt Hebert is a part of a program that should be your first call for financial help. He is the Program Director for TRIO Educational Opportunity Center at Pensacola State College. In this episode, he shares his perspective an...

What does it feel like to lead the Booker T Washington’s Varsity Basketball team into state victory for the first time in 26 years? Jade Brown is the Athletic Director, Head Coach of the Lady Cats AND the 2026 Florida Dairy Farmers Girls’ Basketball Coach of the Year! In this episode, she shares the values of both winning and losing, the strengths of her team and her philosophy as a coach. Guest: Jade Brown https://www.facebook.com/BTWLadyCatBasketball The Florida Department of Education j

The COVID19 pandemic created both academic disruption and social deficit. Terri Fina, Principal at Holm Elementary, is getting her students back on track through the Amazing Shake—a social skills competition created by Ron Clark Academy in Atlanta, Georgia. In this episode, she shares the impact its making and how her students fared at the state finals. Guest: Terri Fina https://www.theamazingshake.com/ The Florida Department of Education just released district and sc...

Send us Fan Mail What’s it REALLY like to be a new teacher? Are you on your own? Layla Holiday is an alternatively certified teacher at Workman Middle School and Rachel Rodriguez Schrimsher is a traditionally educated teacher and the Program Specialist for the Professional Learning Certification Program. In this episode, they share their different experiences getting their teacher certification and their experiences in their first year of teaching. Guests: Rachel Rodriguez-Schrimsher & ...

Send us Fan Mail Who doesn’t love the aroma of coffee? How about a local success story brewed in the bitterness of COVID? What about a coffee shop for creatives? In this episode, Summer Sevi, ECPS 5th grade teacher turned coffee roaster and founder of Alla Prima Coffee Roaster, along with Monica Willis, ECPS Grant Management Specialist, talk about how Summer is using this new season in her life to show up for art students and teachers in an even bigger way. Guests: Monica Willis & Summe...

Send us Fan Mail What if your child got a new book in the mail every month? What if they got to pick the books? What if they came with workbooks, too? The University of Florida has a FREE at-home literacy program for VPK - 5th graders. Shelli Payne is the Senior Engagement specialist for New Worlds Reading Initiative. In this episode, she shares how kids are building their confidence and their at-home libraries. Guest: Shelli Payne https://www.newworldsreading.com/en/ | List of books: https...

Send us Fan Mail Is there a NEW & OLD way of approaching etiquette? How does it support academics? Brianna English is the Assistant Principal and Priteyja Olige Brannon is the Curriculum and Expanded Curriculum Coordinator at CA Weiss Elementary School. In this episode, they share how the Elite and Elegant Ambassadors etiquette program is a different way to look at education. Guests: Priteyja Olich Brannon & Brianna English https://www.facebook.com/weiselem Learn more about Escambia County Scho

Send us Fan Mail According to Albert Einstein "Anyone who has never made a mistake has never tried anything new." Trinity Barnett is the 2025-2026 teacher of the year, using art to build confidence and create comfort around experimentation. In her life and classroom, she models how mistakes can lead to inspiration. In this episode, you’ll hear her unusual path to education and her imaginative approach to art for all. Guest: Trinity Barnett Learn more about Escambia County School District: http

Send us Fan Mail Laura Wiggins is a 1st grade teacher at Kingsfield Elementary who completed Pensacola High School’s IB program thanks to School Choice. In this episode, she shares how her path went from rural northwest Florida to Senegal, and from “I’m never becoming a teacher” to it becoming her first choice. You’ll hear how the right people and a yellow school bus gave her the wings she needed to create her own path while also honoring her family’s legacy. Guest: Laura Wiggins https://pensac

Send us Fan Mail What do you talk about with a 7th grader? Do mentorship programs work? Two organizations in Escambia County are united in providing mentorships and college scholarships to deserving local students. In this episode, Alexandra Bach, Student Services Coordinator for Take Stock in Children in Escambia County and Dayre Lias, retired Air Force Colonel and Big Lagoon Kiwanis Club member, share how this partnership is helping kids succeed in school and life. Guests: Alex Bach & D...

Send us Fan Mail In 2026, one of the largest music education professional learning events in the US awarded Ferry Pass Middle School and Ransom Middle School with Music Enrollment Awards for having over 45% of students enrolled in choir, band, or orchestra. In this episode, Barbie Spears, Fine Arts Specialist for ECPS and a 31-year veteran of the classroom, shares the stories behind this incredible statistic along with answering why it matters. Guest: Barbie Spears https://www.escambiaschoo...

Send us Fan Mail How was your day? What did you learn today? Are you tired of eye rolls from your kids? In this episode, Lynn Knighton, publisher of Greater Pensacola Parents magazine, shares how she has learned to facilitate car conversations with kids and how her magazine has created a virtual village where parents find valuable information and resources. Guest: Lynn Knighton lynn@greaterpensacolaparents.com | https://greaterpensacolaparents.com/ | https://www.facebook.com/greaterpe...

Send us Fan Mail Is your child struggling with mental health issues? How do you know? How can you help them? Shawn Salamida is the President of Lakeview Center and Dustin Perry is the Director of Residential Services and leader of the Virtual Intensive Outpatient Program for teens. In this episode, they talk about why this program can work when others have failed and how we’re united in children’s mental health. Guests: Shawn Salamida & Dustin Perry https://elakeviewcenter.org/mental-he...

Send us Fan Mail Why are we turning classrooms into pit lanes? Chad Cherry is West Florida High School Electrathon Racing team coach, helping students work together to build and race lithium battery powered cars. In this episode, he shares how what many would consider a distraction is actually inspiring kids to do more. Guest: Chad Cherry BCherry@ecsdfl.us | https://www.electrathonamerica.org/ | https://www.facebook.com/westflhs Vote for Voices United in Education as "Best Podcast" 2026 in ...

Send us Fan Mail What exactly is a certified babysitter? How do both girls and boy become certified babysitters? Jennifer Smith Richardson is the Patient Education Specialist and Janna Jones is the Health Screening Specialist for Ascension Sacred Heart Community Outreach, helping equip confidence in young babysitters and the parents who hire them. In this episode, they share the details of the Safe Sitter Program and the impact its making, facilitating personalized care and parental peace of ...

Send us Fan Mail Where are individuals with mental, physical and cognitive challenges building confidence and self-esteem? Kristina Guadagnoli is the owner of Special Strong, an adaptive fitness company removing barriers to healthy living. In this episode, she shares how the program works and who it’s helping. Guest: Kristina Guadagnoli 850-920-2180 specialstrongemeraldcoast@specialstrong.com | https://specialstrongemeraldcoast.com/ | https://www.facebook.com/specialstrongpensacola |https:/...

Send us Fan Mail Does the principal of a school make a difference in the quality of your child’s education? Is new leadership that important? Hear what the 2025-2026 Principal of the Year has to say about it. In this episode, Tara Palasciano, principal of Bailey Middle School, shares what’s working for her, her students and staff, and what’s next. Guest: Tara Palasciano https://baileyms.escambiaschools.org/ | https://www.facebook.com/baileybulldogband Vote for Voices United in Educat...

Send us Fan Mail In Pensacola, where can K-8th graders learn to swim without soaking your wallet? Megan Oberholzer is the Aquatics Director for Escambia County Public Schools and she shares a summer program that’s affordable and competitive to help kids keep swimming. Guest: Megan Oberholtzer | For more information, please contact Megan Oberholtzer at Booker T. Washington High School, 850-494-5681, moberholtzer@ecsdfl.us Vote for Voices United in Education as "Best Podcast" 2026 in InWe...

Send us Fan Mail According to the CDC, nearly 1 in 5 young people ages 12 to 17 experienced a mental health disorder in 2024. Melissa Williams is the Coordinator of Mental Health Services and Dr. Lisa Joyner is the Student Services Director. In this episode, they share what the school district is doing to support teachers and your child’s health. Guest: Melissa Williams & Lisa Joyner, Ed.D https://www.escambiaschools.org/departments/mental-health-services/parent-guardian-resources | https...

Send us Fan Mail What are the options for your academically talented 7th or 8th grader? Amy Gordon is the Principal of Pensacola High School, where they are launching an on-campus 7th and 8th grade enrollment for bright students. In this episode, hear what she has to say about student benefits, parent concerns, advanced classes, and campus culture. Guest: Amy Gordon https://pensacolahs.escambiaschools.org/middle-school Vote for Voices United in Education as "Best Podcast" 2026 in InWeekly's B...

Send us Fan Mail Did you know that, on average, one child in every Escambia County classroom is experiencing homelessness? What defines homelessness might surprise you! Casandra Manis is one of the Homeless Liaisons for Escambia County Public Schools. In this episode, she helps us get clear on the reality for these families and how our schools are helping these students succeed academically. Guest: Casandra Manis https://schoolhouseconnection.org/article/mckinney-vento-act-quick-reference | w...

Send us Fan Mail Not all students are ready for middle school. Christine Baker is the Principal of West Pensacola Elementary School, which is trying something different by adding classes for 6th graders. In this episode, she shares how it’s going and brags on her amazing school. Guest: Christine Baker https://westpensacolaes.escambiaschools.org/ Vote for Voices United in Education as "Best Podcast" 2026 in InWeekly's Best on the Coast! https://form.jotform.com/261185754425158 This helps...

Send us Fan Mail What kinds of services are offered through Healthy Kids Escambia? Even the most basic needs can be critical for growing students, but for many parents in the county, there is neither time nor money. Jessica Johnson is the Healthy Schools Program Director at United Way, helping bring free health care resources to four elementary schools in the county. In this episode, she shares how the program came about, what it includes and how it’s setting kids up for success. Guest: Jessi...

Send us Fan Mail What happens when a student falls behind? Dawn Gibbs is the principal at Success Academy, where her and her team are helping students catch up and get ahead. In this episode, she shares who makes up their student population and just how they are ensuring kids aren’t left behind. Guest: Dawn Gibbs https://successsc.escambiaschools.org/ Vote for Voices United in Education as "Best Podcast" 2026 in InWeekly's Best on the Coast! https://form.jotform.com/261185754425158 This helps...

Send us Fan Mail Is your child using a companion bot? How can you help your child navigate the promise and risks of technology? Curiosity is a good place to start. Jamie Nuñez is the Senior Manager of Outreach and Training at Common Sense Media, a nonprofit that supports parents, school districts and state education agencies in integrating digital literacy skills into real life. In this episode, he shares how parents can stay connected to their kids and keep them safe, while setting them up f...

Send us Fan Mail Do you ever wish your kid would put their phone down? How do you get them to improve their reading stamina & comprehension? Anne MacDonald is a mom, author, podcaster, teacher at Scenic Heights Elementary School, and board member at Books by the Bay and Emerald Coast Writers Association. In this episode, she shares proven strategies to develop a generation of readers and how Books by the Bay is not just a book fair, but a literary extravaganza inspiring the next generatio...

Send us Fan Mail Do you have a child or grandchild in our public schools? Are you a member of the PTA? Hear what the President and Vice President of the Escambia County Council PTA have to say. Melanie Gambill and Samantha Strickland share what the PTA is and isn’t, how it benefits parents and students, and what’s next for the 100-year-old organization. Vote for Voices United in Education as "Best Podcast" 2026 in InWeekly's Best on the Coast! https://form.jotform.com/261185754425158 This hel...

Send us Fan Mail Did you know 50 families in the Panhandle face this question every year? Jessica Siderio is the Rally Foundation Development Manager and Haley Brown is the Rally Kid and Program Manager for Rally Gulf Coast. In this episode, they share why cancer in kids is different than adults and how they are working to provide support, fund research and raise resources for these Panhandle families. Guests: Jessica Siderio & Haley Brown https://rallyfoundation.org/rally-gulf-coast/&nb

Send us Fan Mail Does your child vape? How would being expelled change their educational trajectory? During the 2022-2024 school years, numerous students were alternatively placed for vape pens throughout Escambia County. Stephanie Shepard is the founder and Executive Director of Hope Above Fear, a non-profit dedicated to help educate, de-stigmatize and overcome addiction in youth. In this episode, she shares how this program stands out from others and how this may be a good fit for your chil...

Send us Fan Mail For students who struggle in school, something and someone special is accelerating them toward their diploma and career opportunities. Marquette Oliver is the Director of SOAR Academy at Pine Forest High School, a program began as an acceleration program for incoming over age freshman but now includes other students as well. He is the someone and is more than happy to share how both the students and program are evolving and what students have to say about its impact. Guest: M...

Send us Fan Mail Is social media designed to be addictive? Why are multiple lawsuits seeking damages for the damage it is causing to our kids? Emmie Paulos is an attorney at Levin Papantonio and the Court Appointed Leadership in the Federal Social Media Addiction Litigation. In this episode, she shares why the firm is taking social media seriously and why you should too. Guests: Emmie Paulos https://levinlaw.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Social-Media-Addiction-Litigation-Booklet.pdf ht...

Send us Fan Mail Did you know that Pensacola has hosted a Special Olympics event for the last 20 years? Do you know what school continues to pass the torch? Sondra Hill is the Director of Exceptional Student Education and Laura Touchstone is the Principal of Tate High School. Together, they share the exciting impact to students, staff and the community, and dynamic logistics of hosting an event like this. Guests: Sondra Hill & Laura Touchstone Vote for Voices United in Education as "Best ...

Send us Fan Mail Why do our public schools need a foundation? Don’t taxes fund our public schools? Jo McArthur, Executive Director of the Escambia County Public Schools Foundation, shares behind the scenes of the foundation, what it has contributed to our community and why it matters. Guests: Jo McArthur https://www.escambiaschools.org/departments/ecpsf/home Text Tools to 850-930-9939 or Foundation to 850-930-9939 to make a donation Vote for Voices United in Education as "Best Podcast" 2026...

Send us Fan Mail Who would pair Saturdays with science? Who is using Saturdays to spark young minds in Pensacola? Heath Parr is the STEM teacher at Brown Barge Middle School and instructor at Science Saturday. Shannon Nickinson is the Communications Director at IHMC. In this episode, they share how this free monthly event is getting kids excited about science and inspired for the future. Guests: Heath Parr & Shannon Nickinson https://www.ihmc.us/life/science_saturdays/ Vote for Voic...

Send us Fan Mail Where do you look for IT jobs in Pensacola? What’s the difference between IT education at George Stone vs a four year University? Snyder is the Instructor of Computer Systems & Information Technology at George Stone Technical College where programs cover everything from taking computers apart to cyber security. In this episode, Joe shares the potential and the practical of all things Pensacola IT. Guests: Joe Snyder https://gstc.escambiaschools.org/programs/computer-systems-in

Send us Fan Mail Is combining elementary & middle school a good idea? What does this look like logistically? Dr. Michael Roberts, Director of Middle Schools for Escambia County Public Schools, talks about moving to K-6 at Cordova Park and West Pensacola and how K-8 at Longleaf will impact students, parents and teachers. You’ll hear what inspired these changes & the parent feedback so far. Guests: Michael Roberts, EdD Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschool

Send us Fan Mail How do you support your child’s transition into adulthood? How early should you start thinking about that? For parents of students with disabilities, these are tough questions. Pam Cebula is the ECPS Program Specialist, supporting parents through their child’s education and development into the early years of adulthood. Stacey Shelnut is the ECPS Resource Teacher for pre-K through adults and a parent of a child with a disability. In this episode, these educators share details...

Send us Fan Mail Why Latin club? What does a Latin club competition look like? What unconventional methods are working for students? Dr. Dana Boddy is the Principal of Escambia High School and Amy Hornick is the Latin teacher as well as the record holder for longest time taught at the school – 36 years! In this episode, they share how Latin club is not just a competitive outlet, but gives students a competitive & social edge. Guests: Amy Hornick & Dana Boddy, EdD Vote for Voices Unite...

Send us Fan Mail How can six different courses be taught within one program? What does computer technology have to do with boats? What benefits are students graduating with? Stefan Schmitt is the marine service technology instructor at George Stone Technical College, recognized by Yamaha as the top US school for student job placement. He is also the host of BoatSmart on NewRadio Pensacola. In this episode, he gives us an insider look into the program, students and industry. Guest: Stefan Schm...

Send us Fan Mail How are teachers using AI to save time in and out of the classroom? How do they mitigate cheating? Can AI make us MORE human? Sarah Wallace is a World History, AP Human Geography and AP World History teacher and Gary Moore is a Geometry & Statistics teacher at West Florida High School. Two very different subjects, but two very similar teachers in the ways they use AI tools to innovate lesson plans and instructional time. In this episode, they share how AI is impacting the...

Send us Fan Mail What are the magic ingredients that make behavior program benefits last? What would cause a 13-year-old girl to give up on life? Laurie Rodgers is the Executive Director of the Pace Center for Girls. In this episode, she shares the stories of the girls who got their spark back & how this holistic program for girls works when other interventions haven’t. Guest: Laurie Rodgers https://www.pacecenter.org/ Vote for Voices United in Education as "Best Podcast" 2026 in In...

Send us Fan Mail Is music critical to education? What impact does orchestra have on academic performance? What influence have string musicians in pop culture had on student engagement? Cathy McConnell is the Director of Orchestras for Ransom Middle School and Tate High School. In this episode, she shares stories from her 29 years in music education including recent participation at Stringfest 2025 and explains how orchestra is a path to higher academic performance, scholarships and life skill...

Send us Fan Mail Bryan Dawson is the digital media teacher at Pine Forest High School. In this episode, he shares how the New Media Academy is helping kids develop skills deeper than internet fame and opening them up to a range of careers options with good income potential. Guest: Bryan Dawson https://www.bls.gov/ Vote for Voices United in Education as "Best Podcast" 2026 in InWeekly's Best on the Coast! https://form.jotform.com/261185754425158 This helps connect local families with the...