Explore every episode of the podcast Voices United in Education

Michael Johnston, Associate Vice President of Institutional Research and Enterprise, and Angelica Coonts, Assistant Director of Financial Aid at Pensacola State College share tips about completing FASFA (Free Application for Student Financial Aid). They cover common misconceptions, who is eligible, what kind of money it can bring in and one BIG tip that will save you tons of time!

Guests: Michael Johnston & Angelica Coonts https://financialaid.pensacolastate.edu/ | 850-484-1680 | fava@pensacolastate.edu | FSA Account https://studentaid.gov/fsa-id/create-account/launch | Complete FAFSA: https://studentaid.gov/h/apply-for-aid/fafsa 

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

Lalla Pierce is the principal at Global Learning Academy and Lauren Green is the social services navigator at Children's Home Society. In this episode, they share what makes this elementary school in the heart of downtown Pensacola, a hidden treasure. You'll hear about the unique culture they've cultivated as well as outside-the-box ways both parents and staff are meeting the needs of the students for a better tomorrow.

Guests: Lalla Pierce & Lauren Green https://www.escambiaschools.org/gla 

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

Caroline Gray is the ECPS employee services coordinator with the TPG Cultural Exchange. Johndel Aduka is one of the TPG charter members at O.J. Semmes. They share the behind the scenes of what it takes to qualify for the program, the interview process, cultural comparisons and Johndel’s motivation for teaching in the US.

Guests: Caroline Gray & Johndel Aduka https://www.tpgculturalexchange.com/ 

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

Dr. Ben Renfroe is a neurologist at the Child Neurology Center of Northwest Florida who is passionate about setting kids up for successful adulthood. In this episode, he shares the impact that social media is having on your child’s brain health and gives parents some tools to change behavior and help with social development, communication skills and learning.

Guest: Dr. Ben Renfroe https://childneurologycenter.com/ | https://apps.apple.com/us/app/bedtime-math/id637910701 | Screentime guidelines https://tinyurl.com/4vzj8c5h 

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

Alicia Gifford is 1 of 13 people in the world selected for the prestigious Art 21 Educator Program and the first from Florida. She shares her experience and how she has witnessed art connect creativity, critical thinking and profound conversation skills in her students.

Guest: Alicia Gifford https://tinyurl.com/2nxx6w6w 

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

Melanie Fryou is the pediatric medical social worker at Nemours Children's Health and Erica Mack is a registered clinical social work intern at Greenhouse Counseling. In this episode, they share findings from a study on “why kids worry” and provide practical tips, techniques and local resources for parents to help their kids worry less.

Guests: Melanie Fryou & Erica Mack https://www.ghcpensacola.com/ |Why Kids Worry Study https://tinyurl.com/2f6buarc | Nemours Pensacola https://tinyurl.com/mr3845b8 | https://kidshealth.org/ | https://childmind.org/ 

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

Coach Marquette Oliver is the SOAR academy director and an assistant football coach at Pine Forest High School where he also played and led his team in 2 state championships and 1 national championship. In this episode, he shares how he is elevating his players on the field, in the classroom and in life through Standing on Business Mondays, where students dress in suits and ties on Mondays. You’ll hear how this simple act is changing the trajectory of these young men’s lives and why it matters so much to Coach Oliver.

Guest: Marquette Oliver

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

Dr. Heather Schultz, the assistant principal at Workman Middle School and Master Chief John Spaulding, the Naval Science instructor at Booker T Washington High School, share how students are taking advantage of the only middle school NJROTC program in Escambia County—one with a unique partnership between the schools. Learn how this program not only builds up students academically and socially, but also provides college scholarships.

Guests: Dr. Heather Schultz & Master Chief John Spaulding https://www.escambiaschools.org/domain/1512 

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

Ruthie Noel is the Executive Director of Achieve Escambia. In this episode she explains the unique role this organization plays in the community and why their number should be in your phone. We talk navigating local resources, finding paths to financial aid and advocating for families.

Guest: Ruthie Noel https://www.achieveescambia.org/ | https://escambiachildrenstrust.org/familyresourceguide24-25/ | https://readykidsfl.org/readyrosie | https://www.fastweb.com/ | https://www.reachhigher.org/students/ | https://www.parentuniversitysav.org/pensacola 

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

Patty Hightower is the longest serving school board member in Escambia County history, representing District 4 for 20 years. She will also be the first one to encourage you to run. In this episode, she talks about her experience running for and serving on the School Board. She answers behind the scenes questions and proudly highlights the success and changes over the last two decades.

Guest: Patty Hightower

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

Kerri Coots, Director of Alternative Education, answers real parent questions about bullying in schools. You'll hear her share stories to encourage change, tips to help parents of both the bully and the bullied, and why she believes promoting acts of kindness is path to sustainable harmony.

Guest: Kerri Coots https://www.escambiaschools.org/Page/2852 | School violence reporting index https://tinyurl.com/8ru9yry9 | Report bullying https://tinyurl.com/5n92cv26

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

Cathy Rudd is the Principal and Lindsay Sullivan is the Occupational Therapist at Westgate, an Escambia County Public School for students with intellectual disabilities and autism spectrum disorder. In this episode, they share how the Lacey A. Collier Sensory Complex uses the Snoezelen® concept to increase functional communication, develop gross and fine motor skills, de-escalate inappropriate behaviors, and increase desired learning behaviors.

Guest: Cathy Rudd & Lindsay Sullivan https://www.escambiaschools.org/domain/886 | Snoezelen® success stories Escambia County https://tinyurl.com/3x4e2yk7

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

Want to know why education is a great career path? Bill Slayton shares his teacher's heart and incredible perspective after a career of 52 years in education in Escambia County, which included 16 years on the School Board for District 5. In the largest and fastest growing district in our county, he has left a legacy centered on the students, not only building the leaders of tomorrow, but finding the teachers of the future.

Guest: Bill Slayton

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

It’s hard to know the important milestones your child might be missing. Teresa Zwierzchowski, the Marketing and Communications Specialist at Help Me Grow Escambia, peels back the curtain on early intervention screenings, shares FREE services you may not know you have access to and what milestones you can screen for at home with your child.

Guest: Teresa Zwierzchowski

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

Keith Leonard, Escambia County Public Schools Superintendent, talks about the history behind the half-cent sales, how it's been spent, future projects and just how much accountability there actually is for these funds. 

Guest: Keith Leonard
Related Links: Half Cent Sales 

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

Escambia County Public Schools Athletic Director Casey Thiele shares why the change in the Name Image Likeness (NIL) rules are important for high school athletes and students not in sports. You'll learn how free NIL resources can help your child avoid mistakes with their next side business and set them up to be confident, savvy young entrepreneurs.

Guest: Casey Thiele
Related Links: Florida High School Athletic Association | Escambia Athletics

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

Denny Wilson is the Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction for Escambia County Public Schools and he isn't afraid to answer the question: What schools are good here? In this episode, he shares which schools were awarded Schools of Excellence designation and how other schools are ranking.

Guest: Denny Wilson, Escambia County Public Schools

School grades: https://tinyurl.com/yc4bax35

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

Tate High graduate, Adam Norre, who knew from a young age that he wanted to be in law enforcement. What he didn’t know is that just 3 years in, he would be named Escambia County Sheriff’s Office Officer of the Year. In this episode, Adam traces his path to becoming a Sheriff’s deputy and his hopes for what’s next.  

Guest: Adam Norre

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

Jennifer Causey is a social studies teacher at Pine Forest High School whose econ class includes a mock investing challenge. She is working to end the cycle of poverty in Escambia county, by not just educating kids on money management basics, but making growing it accessible and fun. In this episode she shares what motivates her to dig in, when others short change this issue, and where to start if you’re feeling behind.   

Guest: Jennifer Causey: $500 stipend for FL Educator for completing free personal finance PD | On Demand Personal Finance courses for teachers, including homeschool teachers (all free) | Debt Free Millennials
Guest: Humphrey Yang: YAHOO Finance | Personal Finance

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

Sue Straughn may be the most recognizable news anchor in Pensacola, but she has also been an outstanding advocate for children and education—earning a spot in the 100 Most Influential People by INWeekly, the Martin Luther King Junior "Living the Dream" Award, the Ambassador for Education by the Escambia County Public Schools Foundation and more. Listen as Sue, an Escambia High graduate, shares her unique vantage point into the community from both the news desk and her front porch.

Guest: Sue Straughn

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

Hassan Hills is the founder and Director of Youths Left Behind, a nonprofit working to build up at-risk kids in Escambia County. In this episode, he shares his own story of incarceration & how he’s working to reduce gang violence & increase opportunities for youths in Escambia County & meet one of the young teens positively impacted by organization, Michael Jeter. Learn more about Youth Left behind on Facebook or apply today.

Guests: Hassan Hills & Michael Jeter

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

Jasmine Simms is a Tobacco Prevention Specialist for Tobacco Free Florida. In this episode, she shares vaping myths, why you may not recognize a vape pen if you saw it & practical strategies to talk to your kids about it.

Guest: Jasmine Simms

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

This trio of guests are leveraging a school elective that turns creative problem solving into a competition. Melissa Hughes, Cheri Stoker and Sophia Worley are part of the Ferry Pass Middle School's Odyssey of the Mind Program where seven of their eight teams advanced to the state level. Odyssey of the Mind is an international program designed to help students grow as confident learners and team members. Listen as they share five benefits this program brings to the classroom and beyond. Learn more about the local and national chapters today. 

Guests: Melissa Hughes, Cheri Stoker & Sophia Worley

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

Dr. Kimberly Thomas and Mr. Derrick Thomas are both principals at Escambia County Public Schools on the rise—C.A Weis Elementary School and Workman Middle School. They share their work/home relationship dynamic & their unique perspectives on successful school outcomes.

Guests: Dr. Kimberly Thomas & Derrick Thomas 

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

According to Boeing, the pilot shortage means that over the next 20 years, we will need 200K new pilots in the US alone. Escambia High School has a unique solution facilitated by a unique leader. Greg Pyle is a flight academy instructor. After 20 years in the United States Air Force, six of which spent as a navigator flying a FB1-11 fighter jet, he has combined his love of aviation with his passion for teaching a special dual enrollment program—created in partnership with Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. Hear how the program sets students up with a technologically engaging career and minimal student loans.

Guest: Greg Pyle

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

A House Bill passed in 2021 requires all public school students receive basic first aid training, including CPR. Although simply watching a video satisfies this requirement, Dr. Mary Mehta, pediatric cardiologist, VP & Chief Medical Officer of Nemours Children’s Health Pensacola, explains why they are suppor`ting hands-on training throughout the county. Hear the scenarios that this training prepares families for & why it’s the right combo of practical and empowering.

Guest: Dr. Mary Mehta

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

Kenneth Jordan II is an award-winning artist, graduate of WFHS and alumni of McArthur Elementary School who is lending his brilliance back to his old classroom. Known for his highly realistic portraits using crayons, he’s helping students recognize their feelings and do what he calls, “see their own hand.” Listen to how he illuminates the connection between art, uniqueness and resourcefulness for students in Escambia County. Learn more about Crayola Sensei on Instagram.

Guest: Kenneth Jordan II | The Painter's Dialectic 

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

Theory of knowledge asks International Baccalaureate students, "How do you know what you know?" Dylan Patterson and Audrey Foss are recent IB graduates of Pensacola High School. They used their final CAS project as a way to bring civic education to middle schoolers. Together with Gloria Eligio, the IB college counselor, hear what inspired them, how IB works and what’s next.

Guest: Gloria Eligio, Audrey Foss & Dylan Patterson https://www.youngcitizensdevelopment.org/ | https://www.escambiaschools.org/domain/1423 | https://open.spotify.com/show/5WCwUCgxXhFV2ll4ixyIJP | https://www.instagram.com/educationwithaudreyfoss/ | https://www.instagram.com/youngcitizensdevelopment/ 

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

Chad Cherry is the Building Construction teacher at Northview High School. In this episode, he shares how the building technologies academy is getting the next generation prepared for employment and homeownership through hands-on application of math, safety, critical thinking & interpersonal skills.

Guest: Chad Cherry https://hbi.org/

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

45% of Escambia County households are below the ALICE threshold - ALICE stands for Asset Limited, Income, Constrained, Employed. This squeeze is sharply felt for families during back to school time when expenses pile up quickly.

In this episode, Chris McFarland, the Coordinator of Student Services for Escambia County Public Schools and Laura Gilliam, the President of the United Way of West Florida, share why Stuff the Bus is more than a feel-good event for those involved and how you can both give and get the supplies your child needs.     

Guests: Chris McFarland & Laura Gilliam | Supply List | Call 211 for social service information | Call 988 for suicide prevention hotline | Escambia County Public Schools Community Involvement Office 850.469.5675

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

West Florida High’s Juniors went from shock to awe when they found out their AP English teacher is in a band! Joey Truncale is the lead singer of the alternative rock band, Unicorn Wranglers. Grab a spot by the stage to hear how his unusual hobby has helped him better connect with and educate his students.

Guest: Joey Truncale 

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

Christie Costello owns Costello’s Butcher Shop & Deli in Pensacola. In this episode she shares not about what she’s selling, but what she is giving away – 100-150 sandwiches to hungry neighborhood kids. She also shares the unusual way this idea came to her, her history with the Pensacola food scene & how she’s also setting up the next generation of chefs & entrepreneurs to give back. Learn more about the Kimberly Tauer Foundation on Facebook.

Guest: Christie Costello

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

Scottlin Williams is a meteorologist and the program manager for HERicane Escambia, a free summer camp that is a positive force for girls. In this episode, she shares who inspired her into meteorology, what the camp entails & how broadening representation in emergency management and public safety is good for everyone.

Guest: Scottlin Williams

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

Esi Shannon never expected to be Principal of the Year, but she always expected to be a teacher. In this episode, she shares the story of her career, reluctant leadership, creating joyous learning & the misunderstood struggles of educational leadership.

Guest: Esi Shannon

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

Information is moving at the speed of technology and our kids are learning it all, but how do we keep them safe? Brian Johnson is the Information Systems Security Manager for Escambia County Public Schools. In this episode, he shares insights into how we can support smart internet use for our kids & how the school system is supporting families.

Guest: Brian Johnson 

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

In 2022, Stephanie Shepard’s son died from a fentanyl overdose. Unfortunately, this is not unusual, as Escambia, Santa Rosa, Okaloosa and Walton counties has the highest opioid overdose rate in the state. Vowing that his death not be in vain, she founded Hope Above Fear, a non-profit dedicated to help educate, de-stigmatize and overcome addiction in youth. In this episode, she shares what you need to know as a parent, what you can do and why there is hope. Learn more on Facebook or Instagram.      

Guest: Stephanie Shepard

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

If kids could learn leadership skills, why would it matter? Amy McCrory and Shonna Gilmore have firsthand experience with student leadership. They are the principal and librarian at Bratt Elementary. In this episode, they share how their "Leader in Me" animal shelter drive not only made a concept a reality, but elevated academic performance.

Guests: Amy McCrory & Shonna Gilmore

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

Morgan White is the special needs teacher & cheer coach at Tate Highschool. In this episode she shares how she has taken the Aggies cheer team to number 1 in the state three times, overcomes outdated stereotypes of cheerleading & shares how cheer is not just a sport, but a distinctive system to set kids up to be stellar members of the community.  

Guest: Morgan White

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

We all fondly remember that teacher who made a positive impact on us during our formative years. For many at Pine Meadow, I’ts 4th grade teacher, Cassi McGee, the 2025 ECPS Teacher of the Year. She returned to her first love of teaching after working as a stock broker & is now in her 21st year of teaching thriving in her element. 

Guest: Cassi McGee

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

Where can kids with physical disabilities go to exercise both their mindset and their bodies? Tara Blackwell was a softball superstar at Pine Forest High School in the late 90s-early 2000's. In her sophomore year of college, an accident left her paralyzed. Unable to find accessible fitness options, she made her own, founding Project 7, Pensacola’s only adaptive gym. Listen as she shares the importance of pursuing physical fitness regardless of ability and how she is making that possible for everyone.

Guest: Tara Blackwell

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

It’s safe to say there are two things everyone likes: options and money. So how do you help your kid have both after they graduate from high school? College is expensive and time consuming, and job options are entry level with no upward trajectory. Rob Wise and Ben Weldon are in the talent acquisition department of the Ingalls shipbuilding employment program in Pascagoula, Mississippi. Listen as they share how students can get paid to learn a trade to become skilled in a craft and super employable. *Enterprise transportation rates may vary

Guest: Rob Wise & Ben Weldon, Ingalls Shipbuilding

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

Esports programs are quickly becoming the number one requested program for new student enrollment. Monica Willis, the Grants Management Specialist and District Military Liaison for the county shares why esports may not be what you think it is. In this episode, she shares what esports teams, coaches & practice look like, how it’s facilitating relationships & team building & (importantly) how your kid can get a college scholarship. She is the Grants Management Specialist and District Military Liaison for the county with the inside track on how esports, the fastest growing sport in the country, enables connectedness and facilitates scholarships.

Guest: Monica Willis

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

Kids are a mystery. One day you can’t get them to sit still. The next day you can’t get them out of bed. Some homework is a breeze. Other homework is a battle. What is the best way to set goals with kids who are more focused on learning the latest TikTok dance than getting good grades? Larry Knight knows a thing or two about both kids and goals. He’s the principal at N.B. Cook Elementary School, a parent, and someone who has achieved admirable fitness milestones. Learn about the most effective ways to set goals with your kids as we talk about success, failure, and the steps in between.

Guest: Larry Knight

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

75% of new teachers in Escambia County are Alternative Certification Teachers, which means they didn’t start out on the educational track and took a different route to the classroom. Rachel Rodriguez Schrimsher is the program support specialist at the Professional Learning Certification Program. Hear from her why this program is so popular, why it could be a good fit for you and how it works.

Guests: Rachel Rodriguez Schrimsher

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

We all know how hard it is to work when you're starving or seriously low on the right kind of fuel. The same is true in the classroom; when your child's stomach is louder than the teacher and your child's energy level bottoms out. All learning stops at that point. Jaleena Davis, Director of School Food Services shares what foods your kids are actually getting and meal solutions you may not know you already had access to — like special diets and how to maximize mealtime.          

Guests: Jaleena Davis

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

Clothing insecurity impacts a large number of Escambia County students. It’s a dynamic that can distract them from learning and hurt social development. One program at CA Weis Elementary School is helping kids dress confidently. It’s called Care Closet. Lisa Smith Coleman, community partnerships school director and Janeisha Robinson, family community engagement coordinator at Children's Home Society are here to share how Care Closet is leveling the playing field and instilling confidence in Pensacola kids.

Guests: Lisa Smith Coleman & Janeisha Robinson | C.A. Weis Wish List | C.A. Weis Newsletter

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

Talk to any parent of a middle schooler and you’ll hear about the struggle of early adolescence – them becoming their own person, their friend choices, and their need for deodorant. But don’t forget their academic motivation. How do you keep your kid engaged? Michelle Givens, Tate High graduate and teacher on special assignment at Flight Adventure Deck, a unique program where middle school students learn STEM concepts first hand in a very unique atmosphere. Learn how the program works, what makes it work and how it’s leaving a lasting impression on students.

Guest: Michele Givens

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

Teachers are the eyes and ears of what their students need. But teachers didn’t become teachers just to observe. That's why you’ll find that behind every successful person is a story of a dedicated educator who took an outside the box approach to help them learn. But what happens when teachers have great ideas, but no resources to implement their teaching techniques? Jo McArthur, executive director of the Escambia County Public Schools Foundation, details how “Grants for Excellence” is helping teachers teach and students succeed.            

Guest: Jo McArthur

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

It’s said that afterschool hours of 3-6pm are primetime for risky youth behavior, but as a working parent, your options can feel limited. Kimberly Scott is helping head up a program that not only facilitates a safe space, but an atmosphere that enhances school performance. It’s Pensacola Little Theatre’s new program, “Character Building through Building Character,” a 3-hour afterschool theatre and reading program that brings literature and school to life. In this episode, we spotlight what makes the program special for the kids, to her and the community.

Guest: Kimberly Scott

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

When we think about growing confident kids, we think of sports, academic achievement, even making friends, but what about children’s chorus? Alex Gartner, the Artistic & Executive Director at Pensacola Children's Chorus shares why the arts are the unsung heroes for holistic success. Hear how the “Sing to Succeed” program is striving to eliminate the barriers of affordability and transportation for low-income and at-risk youth in Escambia County.             

Guest: Alex Gartner

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards