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

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 [https://www.reeducationofschoolspodcast.com/] Email justinmoorman@reeducationofschoolspodcast.com katiethornton@reeducationofschoolspodcast.com joshward@reeducationofschoolspodcast.com YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@reeducationofschoolspodcast] Facebook [https://facebook.com/100089429449250] Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/reeducationofschoolspodcast/] Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators! [https://uppbeat.io/t/hey-pluto/gangster] 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

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 [https://www.reeducationofschoolspodcast.com/] Email justinmoorman@reeducationofschoolspodcast.com katiethornton@reeducationofschoolspodcast.com joshward@reeducationofschoolspodcast.com YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@reeducationofschoolspodcast] Facebook [https://facebook.com/100089429449250] Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/reeducationofschoolspodcast/] Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators! [https://uppbeat.io/t/hey-pluto/gangster] License code: 0WMLYW3GMFLMX8H7

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 [https://www.reeducationofschoolspodcast.com/] Email justinmoorman@reeducationofschoolspodcast.com katiethornton@reeducationofschoolspodcast.com joshward@reeducationofschoolspodcast.com YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@reeducationofschoolspodcast] Facebook [https://facebook.com/100089429449250] Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/reeducationofschoolspodcast/] Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators! [https://uppbeat.io/t/hey-pluto/gangster] 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.

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 [https://www.reeducationofschoolspodcast.com/] Email justinmoorman@reeducationofschoolspodcast.com katiethornton@reeducationofschoolspodcast.com joshward@reeducationofschoolspodcast.com YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@reeducationofschoolspodcast] Facebook [https://facebook.com/100089429449250] Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/reeducationofschoolspodcast/] Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators! [https://uppbeat.io/t/hey-pluto/gangster] License code: 0WMLYW3GMFLMX8H7

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 [https://www.reeducationofschoolspodcast.com/] Email justinmoorman@reeducationofschoolspodcast.com katiethornton@reeducationofschoolspodcast.com joshward@reeducationofschoolspodcast.com YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@reeducationofschoolspodcast] Facebook [https://facebook.com/100089429449250] Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/reeducationofschoolspodcast/] Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators! [https://uppbeat.io/t/hey-pluto/gangster] License code: 0WMLYW3GMFLMX8H7