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Strong Starts

Strong Starts

By: Jessica Whitehead and Sarah Gerber-Kai
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Welcome to the Strong Starts Podcast. We are your hosts, Jessica Whitehead and Sarah Gerber-Kai. Strong Starts is your go-to source for building strong foundations in K-12 education. Each episode explores how to create inclusive, supportive, and thriving environments for all learners. We unpack key topics like neurodiversity, social-emotional learning, creating meaningful connections, universal supports, and Tier 1 strategies. Whether you’re setting up your classroom for the first time or leading a school-wide initiative, join us for practical insights, expert interviews, and real-world stories that inspire strong starts for all learners.

Science Social Sciences
Episodes
  • Building Strong Foundations: Accountability in Education
    Aug 11 2025

    Description: In this episode of the Strong Starts Podcast, Jessica and Sarah dive into the importance of accountability in education. They explore how strengthening tier one systems begins with building the capacity of the people within them. The discussion covers traditional accountability models, the role of discipline, and the shift towards team-based and relational accountability.

    Resources: Shawn Wilson, "Research Is Ceremony: Indigenous Research Methods" (2008); Brené Brown, Dare to Lead (2018); Sam Silverstein, Theory of Accountability (2021)

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    28 mins
  • Inclusive strategies. Real stories. Strong starts.
    Jul 28 2025

    In this inaugural episode of the Strong Starts podcast, hosts Jessica Whitehead and Sarah Kierber dive into the pivotal role adults play in shaping educational systems. They explore how educators and professionals can build supportive environments for both students and themselves, emphasizing the importance of teamwork and systemic change. Join them as they discuss their professional journeys, the challenges of behavior management, and the power of collaboration in creating impactful educational experiences. Tune in to discover how adults can transform educational landscapes by working together. #Education #Collaboration #StrongStarts

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    38 mins
  • Welcome to the Strong Starts Podcast
    Jul 21 2025

    Join hosts Jessica, a BCBA, and Sarah, a school social worker, as they embark on the journey of launching the "Strong Starts" podcast. With their combined experience in education, they share candid stories of trials and triumphs in building strong foundations for behavior support. Expect real stories, inclusive strategies, and a community-driven approach to tackling the challenges educators face today. Tune in every other week for insights and tips that can transform your educational setting. Subscribe now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen. Connect with us on social media @strongstartspodcast on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok for bonus content and more.

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    2 mins
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