The Good Life EDU Podcast

In this episode of The Good Life EDU Podcast, we spotlight the JAG Nebraska (Jobs for America’s Graduates) effort and its mission to prepare students for the future. We're joined by Jessica Hedlund, JAG Nebraska’s Senior Expansion and Onboarding Manager, and Brock Paul, a JAG student leader at Tekamah-Herman Community Schools and the Nebraska State Vice President, to discuss how this transformative program is equipping students with the skills and leadership experiences needed for lifelong success. Jessi and Brock share insights into the program’s trauma-informed approach, project-based learning curriculum, and employer engagement initiatives, which are driving workforce readiness and leadership development in the JAG students. From fostering communication and soft skills to creating real-world connections with employers, this conversation highlights the statewide impact of JAG. To learn more about JAG Nebraska, visit https://jagnebraska.org/ [https://jagnebraska.org/]

In this episode of The Good Life EDU Podcast, we explore Nebraska’s newly revised 2024 Science Standards with Kellen Conroy of ESU 1 and Dianah Steinbrink of ESU 10, co-leads of the ESU Science Cadre. Kellen and Dianah provide insights into the collaborative process behind updating the standards and the focus on supporting teachers statewide with resources and professional development. Together, we dive into the evolution of science education in Nebraska, from the 2017 shift to three-dimensional standards to the current updates emphasizing scientific literacy, cross-curricular connections, and equity in instructional support. This conversation highlights how these standards prepare students to think critically and engage as future scientists, engineers, and informed citizens. Whether you’re a science educator or simply curious about the behind-the-scenes efforts driving educational progress, this episode offers a deep dive into the exciting advancements shaping Nebraska’s classrooms. Resources: Access the Nebraska Dept of Education's science page for more information and resources: https://www.education.ne.gov/science/

In this episode of The Good Life EDU Podcast, recorded live at the Nebraska MTSS Summit, we explore how the Omaha Tribe Head Start program is transforming early childhood education through the implementation of Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS). We are joined by Merissa Cruye and Shelsea Bia, who share their inspiring journey of bringing systems-level change to their Head Start program, serving children from six weeks to five years old across four townships on the Omaha Tribe reservation in Nebraska. Merissa and Shelsea detail how the pandemic revealed gaps in early intervention services and led to a bold commitment to improving outcomes for the children in their program (and their families). They discuss the challenges and successes of integrating MTSS into their support at Omaha Tribe Head Start, including the use of data-driven practices, professional development, and building a foundation of collaboration through tools like CliftonStrengths. This episode offers a powerful look at how systemic change and a dedicated team can create meaningful improvements for young learners! To learn more about the Omaha Tribe Head Start Program, visit https://www.omahatribe.com/omaha-tribe-head-start-early-head-start-are-open-for-enrollment/ [https://www.omahatribe.com/omaha-tribe-head-start-early-head-start-are-open-for-enrollment/] To learn more about Nebraska's MTSS efforts, visit https://nemtss.unl.edu/ [https://nemtss.unl.edu/]

In this episode, we take on the critical issue of school safety, featuring insights from Jay Martin, School Safety and Security Director at the Nebraska Department of Education, and Dr. Mike Lucas, Superintendent at Westside Community Schools. Together, we explore how Nebraska schools are enhancing safety through practical measures like secure vestibules and advanced technologies such as ZeroEyes, an AI-based weapon detection system. From prevention and preparedness to response and recovery, this episode breaks down the key elements driving school safety initiatives across the state. To access the NDE page on School Safety and Security, visit www.education.ne.gov/safety [www.education.ne.gov/safety] To access the NDE School Safety and Security Playlist on YouTube, visit https://www.youtube.com/@ndeschoolsafety9410 [https://www.youtube.com/@ndeschoolsafety9410] To learn more about ZeroEyes AI security, visit https://zeroeyes.com/ [https://zeroeyes.com/] To learn more about the I Love You Guys Foundation, visit https://iloveuguys.org/ [https://iloveuguys.org/]

In this episode of The Good Life EDU Podcast, recorded live at the Nebraska MTSS Summit, we sit down with leaders from Ainsworth Community Schools to discuss their six-year journey of implementing Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS). We welcomed Ben Wright (K-6 Principal), Steven Dike (7-12 Principal), Heather Lutter (Middle School ELA Teacher and PBIS Team Leader), and Scott Steinhauser (School Psychologist and SPED Coordinator) to share their experiences fostering a culture of collaboration and student growth through effective interventions and enrichment opportunities. From reshaping the schedule to accommodate intervention periods to focusing on reading as a foundational skill across all subjects, the Ainsworth team highlights the importance of breaking down silos and building systems that address the whole student. With personal stories of student success and reflections on professional growth, this episode provides valuable insights for educators and administrators looking to implement MTSS in their own districts. To learn more about the NeMTSS effort in our state, visit https://nemtss.unl.edu/ [https://nemtss.unl.edu/]