Teaching Kindness Through Animal Welfare with Richard Verlander Accelerating Education Podcast 🎙️ Richard Verlander, Board Member Goochland Pet Lovers in Richmond, VA with host Richard Capone

Episode P1E10, Oct 30, 2025 Sponsored by Let's Go Learn https://www.letsgolearn.com

Summary

In this episode, Richard Capone interviews Richard Verlander, a founding board member of Goochland Pet Lovers, an animal shelter in Richmond, Virginia. They discuss the transformation of the shelter, the importance of kindness and empathy in education, and the innovative 'Teaching Kindness' initiative that integrates animal welfare into school curriculums. Verlander shares insights on building community partnerships and the impact of their programs on children's behavior and social skills. The conversation highlights the power of animals to unite people and foster positive change in society.

Takeaways

Richard Verlander shares his unexpected journey into animal welfare. Goochland Pet Lovers raised $1.5 million to improve their shelter. The 'Teaching Kindness' program uses animal welfare to teach empathy. Community partnerships are essential for program sustainability. The curriculum is designed to be repeatable and teachable. Animal welfare can help address bullying in schools. Volunteers play a crucial role in the success of the shelter. The program culminates in a visit to the animal shelter. Animals have a unique ability to unite diverse groups of people. There is a need for more positive stories in the media.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Goochland Pet Lovers 02:57 The Journey of Transformation 05:58 Teaching Kindness: A New Initiative 09:02 Building Community Partnerships 11:52 Curriculum Development and Implementation 15:06 The Impact of Animal Welfare on Behavior 17:57 Conclusion and Future Aspirations

Teaching Kindness Program https://www.goochlandpetlovers.com/education

Keywords #TeachingKindness, #AnimalWelfare, #EducationPodcast, #GoochlandPetLovers, #EmpathyInEducation, #letsgolearn , #behavioralskills , #AnimalShelter, #RichmondVA, #BullyingPrevention

Bridging the Knowing-Doing Gap: Teacher Ed, AI, and the Future of Special Education with Dr. Jennifer Sears Accelerating Education Podcast 🎙️ Dr. Jennifer Sears, Associate Professor Department of Elementary and Special Education, University of North Georgia with host Richard Capone

Episode P1E9, Oct 3, 2025 Sponsored by Let's Go Learn https://www.letsgolearn.com

Summary

In this conversation, Dr. Jennifer Sears shares her journey into special education, highlighting the importance of advocacy and the evolution of educational practices. She discusses the innovative teacher education program at the University of North Georgia, which prepares students for diverse classroom environments. The conversation also addresses challenges in teacher retention, the role of technology in education, and the importance of embracing new tools and ideas in special education. Dr. Sears emphasizes the need for open-mindedness among special education directors and the value of insights from new teachers.

Takeaways

—Dr. Sears' journey into special education was influenced by her family's advocacy for individuals with disabilities. —The IDEA legislation was significantly impacted by early advocates like Dr. Sears' grandparents. —Dr. Sears emphasizes the importance of practical experience in teacher education programs. —The University of North Georgia's program uniquely certifies students in both elementary and special education. —Teacher retention is a significant challenge, with many new teachers leaving the profession within five years. —Dr. Sears encourages students to remember their 'why' in teaching to combat burnout. —Maintaining a work-life balance is crucial for educators. —Technology can enhance teaching practices, but it requires proper training and integration. —New teachers often bring fresh ideas and technological skills that can benefit experienced educators. —Collaboration between new and experienced teachers can lead to innovative solutions in education.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Special Education Journey 03:11 Family Legacy and Advocacy in Special Education 05:08 Teacher Education Program Structure 12:10 Challenges in Teacher Retention 17:15 The Role of Technology in Education 24:59 Embracing New Tools in Special Education

#SpecialEducation, #TeacherTraining, #TeacherEd, #IDEA, #EdTech, #ProfessionalDevelopment, #AIinEducation, #TeacherRetention, #DataDrivenInstruction, #LetsGoLearn

Navigating Today’s Special Education with CEC President & UNCG Professor, Dr. Julie Bost Accelerating Education Podcast 🎙️ Dr. Julie Irene Bost, CEC President, Clinical Associate Professor, UNCG with host Richard Capone

Episode P1E8, Sep 26, 2025 Sponsored by Let's Go Learn https://www.letsgolearn.com

Summary

In this conversation, Richard Capone speaks with Dr. Julie Bost about her extensive experience in special education, the current challenges facing educators, and the importance of support and advocacy for students with disabilities. They discuss the pressing educator shortage, the need for effective professional development, and the impact of funding changes on special education. Dr. Bost emphasizes the significance of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and the positive trends in technology and data utilization in education. The conversation concludes with a message of hope and the importance of community support in the field of special education.

Takeaways

—Dr. Bost has 28 years of experience in special education. —The educator shortage is a significant issue affecting schools. —Teachers need to feel supported to reduce burnout. —Funding for special education is still lacking despite promises. —IDEA has transformed access to education for students with disabilities. —Technology and data are increasingly important in special education. —Professional development needs to be more accessible and relevant. —Less is more when implementing new technologies in schools. —Community support is crucial for educators and students alike. —Celebrating achievements in the profession can foster a positive environment.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Special Education and Personal Journey 02:43 Current Challenges in Special Education 05:39 Supporting Educators and Professional Development 08:48 Funding Changes and Advocacy for IDEA 11:39 The Impact of IDEA and Historical Context 14:33 Trends in Technology and Data Utilization 17:33 Implementation Strategies for New Administrators 20:38 Closing Thoughts on Hope and Community Support

#SpecialEducation, #EducatorShortage, #TeacherSupport, #DisabilityAdvocacy, #IDEA, #ProfessionalDevelopment, #EducationTechnology, #StudentSupport, #SPED, #InclusiveEducation