SUMMARY:

In this episode of TLC Connections, we sit down with Michael Flynn, a school counselor at Penndale Middle School in the North Penn School District, to talk about the power and importance of connection in middle school. With over a decade of experience in school counseling—and a previous career in construction—Michael brings a grounded, relatable perspective to the often-overlooked complexities of middle school life.

The conversation touches on:

• Mental health challenges facing today’s students
• The impact of cell phones and screen culture
• Supporting families through tough conversations
• Teaching basic social-emotional skills in structured and unstructured settings
• What makes a great school counseling team
• Why middle schoolers need safe, steady adults in their lives

Michael’s compassion, clarity, and commitment make this a must-listen for anyone working with middle school students.

GUEST BIO:

Michael Flynn is a school counselor at Penndale Middle School in North Penn School District, where he has served for over 12 years. As department chair, Michael plays a key role in guiding the district’s counseling efforts and supporting students across grades 6–8. Known for his approachable, relationship-driven style, Michael helps students and families navigate everything from academic pressures and social challenges to mental health concerns. Before entering the field of education, he spent 15 years as a project manager in the construction industry. Today, Michael draws from both his life experience and deep commitment to student well-being to build trusting, lasting connections with the middle schoolers he serves every day.

EPISODE LINKS:

Listen now and explore more TLC Connections episodes at: https://www.youtube.com/@TLC_Connections

Learn more about North Penn School District: https://www.npenn.org/

Watch Michael being honored with the North Penn 4Es Award: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZpGxiOXUCq4

SPONSOR

The Lincoln Center for Family and Youth (TLC) is a social enterprise company serving the Greater Philadelphia Area. Founded in 1970 by a behavioral health hospital, TLC is an entrepreneurial nonprofit providing innovative education, coaching, and counseling services to individuals and families, as well as grant writing and management services for school districts and universities.