Brighter Together

Brighter Together with Janet L. Courtney is a podcast dedicated to real stories from the front lines of education leadership. Hosted by Janet L. Courtney, Founder and CEO of Lighthouse Therapy, the podcast highlights the voices of school leaders who are making a difference—sharing practical insights, creative solutions, and inspiring moments of growth.

245 episodes

20d ago latest

4x a week cadence

English language

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Episodes 246

The One Decision That Stopped Teacher Burnout at Delhi USD - Eric Griffin
6d ago · 25:05
Superintendent Eric Griffin shares the leadership philosophy that transformed Delhi Unified School District: empowering staff before setting expectations on them. Discover how one conversation with union leadership shifted the district from unsustainable demands to sustainable excellence, unlocking measurable gains in student outcomes, attendance, and teacher retention while keeping "what's best for kids" at the center of every decision.
Stop Pulling Kids Out: Why Inclusive Co-Teaching Changes Everything - Brandon Bernard
20d ago · 35:27
Brandon Bernard, Director of Special Education at Heritage Academy in Mesa, Arizona, reveals why removing students from general education classrooms actually widens achievement gaps—and shares the co-teaching model that keeps special education scholars with content experts and age-appropriate peers while they earn associate degrees. Discover how treating special education as a service, not a place, transforms outcomes for students with disabilities.
The Hexagon Secret: How One County Ended Decision Paralysis - Jeremy Sawtelle
27d ago · 28:46
When education teams face competing good ideas but lack a framework to choose, analysis paralysis sets in. Jeremy Sawtelle, Director of Specialized Student Support at Shasta County Office of Education, reveals how the hexagon tool—a structured rubric borrowed from healthcare—transformed decision-making across Northern California schools by removing power dynamics and scoring ideas on evidence-base and contextual fit.
The Model That Solved Rural SPED Services (And You've Never Heard of It) - George Welsh
1mo ago · 30:31
Small rural school districts serving just a few hundred students cannot afford their own school psychologists, speech pathologists, or occupational therapists—until they form a cooperative. George Welsh, Executive Director of San Luis Valley BOCES (Board of Cooperative Education Services), explains how fourteen districts pooled resources to become Colorado's first and oldest regional special education hub, and why their hybrid model of in-person and telehealth providers is now the blueprint for rural districts nationwide.
The Partnership That Changed How We See Special Education - Jenny Plumb
1mo ago · 25:54
Jenny Plumb, Assistant Superintendent at Yosemite Valley Charter Schools and Monarch River Academy, reveals how a seven-year partnership with Lighthouse fundamentally transformed how two California charter schools serve their 5,000 students—by dismantling silos between special education and general education, creating a unified five-tier MTSS system where all staff own outcomes for all students. Discover how breaking down traditional barriers and partnering with service providers who think like family unlocks creative solutions that keep students off IEPs and moving toward independence.
Stop Treating Behavior as a Punishment Problem - Joya Mitchell & Erica Bauer
1mo ago · 24:48
Greene Local School District transformed student behavior and school climate by shifting from punishment to prevention through Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS)—and Joya Mitchell, Director of Student Services, shares how they achieved over 90% student success with tier-one supports alone. Over a decade of deliberate implementation across all pre-K through 12 buildings created a unified culture where 98% of parents now reinforce the same expectations at home. Discover the administrative buy-in, data-driven strategies, and slow-rollout approach that made PBIS stick when most sc
The 'It Factor' Rural Districts Use to Win Back Families - Scott Bolin
1mo ago · 29:49
Scott Bolin, Director of Pupil Personnel at Garrett County Schools in Kentucky, reveals why rural districts are winning enrollment battles against homeschooling and online alternatives—not through flashy programs, but through genuine relationships and what he calls the intangible "it factor" that families can feel the moment they walk through the door. In this episode, Scott shares his 25-year journey from classroom teacher to district leader and explains how a small-town superintendent and leadership team prioritize people, soft skills, and emotional deposits with families to create school cu
The Fine Artist Who Became a SPED Director (And What He Missed) - Vincent Valerio
1mo ago · 24:32
Vincent Valerio's unconventional journey from fine artist to special education director reveals that expertise in serving children with disabilities flourishes in diverse backgrounds and real-world experience. At Portage County Board of Developmental Disabilities in Ohio, Vincent has built a county-wide collaboration model that provides free training, adaptive equipment, and transition programming to 11 public school districts—a level of integration that most county boards don't attempt. Discover how county-level flexibility and listening to community needs creates sustainable solutions that t
The Penny Strategy: How One Diocese Cut Parent Conflict 70% - Michael Juhas
2mo ago · 28:03
Discover how Diocese of Pensacola-Tallahassee Superintendent Mike Juhas transformed parent-teacher relationships by building positive communication foundations before problems arise. Learn the "Pennies in the Bank" strategy that catches students being good, shifts conversations from defensive to collaborative, and creates partnership instead of conflict. In 11 years leading 3,300 students across 11 schools, Juhas has implemented a faith-centered framework rooted in Matthew 18:15 that reduces parent conflict by 70% while strengthening family engagement.
The Job Guarantee Malcolm's Students Actually Get - Malcolm Pittman
2mo ago · 26:37
Marshall High School in Middletown, Ohio isn't a traditional school—it's a credit recovery program serving 410 students aged 15-22 who fell behind in traditional settings, many facing poverty, trauma, and attendance barriers. Malcolm Pittman, Student Success Coordinator, reveals how his team doesn't just help students graduate; they guarantee job placement, career certifications, or military service pathways before students leave the building. Discover how one Walmart cashier became a Miami University nursing student, and why relationships—not lectures—are the foundation of breaking generation
What Michigan's Top SPED Director Knows About Student Dysregulation (That Most Districts Miss) - Dr. Precios Armstrong
2mo ago · 31:42
Precios Armstrong, Director of Special Education for a Michigan school district, unpacks the unprecedented wave of student dysregulation sweeping K-12 schools in her 26-year career—and reveals why most districts are adding new interventions instead of returning to foundational classroom management. Discover how COVID-era isolation disrupted critical developmental skills, why screen time is rewiring young brains, and the partnership model that actually moves the needle on behavior change.
The 4-Day Week That Cut Teacher Absences From 32% to 8% - Dr. Eugene Blalock Jr.
2mo ago · 35:09
Dr. Eugene Blalock Jr., superintendent of North College Hill City School District in Cincinnati, Ohio, implemented Ohio's first four-day blended learning week not to save money, but to address catastrophic teacher burnout and absenteeism that had reached 32-33% monthly—dropping to just 8-9% within three years. Discover how giving teachers a dedicated Monday for planning, preparation, and data-driven instruction transformed educator morale, student discipline, and career exploration while challenging the false narrative that one standardized test score defines school success.
The Disability Question That's Reshaping Inclusive Schools - Cameron Lazar
2mo ago · 24:22
Cameron Lazar, Coordinator of Special Education at Cuyahoga Falls City School District, reveals how one critical question changed everything: Why are certain student groups disproportionately identified with disabilities and disciplined at higher rates? Through a six-year equity initiative, Cuyahoga Falls shifted from deficit-based thinking to asset-based practices, proving that inclusive schools aren't just a nice idea—they're a strategic imperative that strengthens entire communities.
How One Director Achieved 100% Graduation for Students with Disabilities - Ada Pineiro
2mo ago · 27:39
Ada Pineiro, Special Education Director at Cincinnati College Preparatory Academy, has built a program where 100% of special education students graduate with regular diplomas—a remarkable achievement in a high-poverty, high-crime community serving 90-95% African American students. In this episode, Ada reveals how intentional accessibility, community partnerships, and collaborative leadership created an environment where special education students succeed at the same rate as general education peers. Discover the concrete career pathways, parent engagement strategies, and team-based philosophy t
Stop Competing: How One ESC Built a District Collaboration Model That Works - Dr. Kelly Moran & Nancy Santilli
2mo ago · 31:21
When districts stop viewing each other as competitors and start pooling resources through an Educational Service Center, transformation happens—especially for students who've fallen through the cracks. Nancy Santilli and Kelly Moran from the Educational Service Center of the Western Reserve share how Gateway High School emerged from collaborative problem-solving, pairing rigorous academics with equine therapy, art, and music interventions to reach struggling high school students in ways traditional settings cannot.
Stop Sending Kids to Graduation With No Plan - John Ischy
2mo ago · 27:13
Many special education students graduate without a post-secondary career plan, leaving them unprepared for independence and employment. John Ischy, an intervention specialist at Switzerland of Ohio Local School District, shares how intentional transition planning, hands-on career exploration through the PAYS Lab, and virtual reality job simulation transform student outcomes—moving from "no plan" to meaningful, sustainable employment. Discover why career-focused transition planning starting in middle school matters more than traditional academic metrics for older students.
The Unicorn Program: How One District Built Specialty Special Ed at Scale - Mary Masciovecchio
2mo ago · 24:08
Mary Masciovecchio, Director of Special Education at Berrien Springs Public Schools, reveals how a small Michigan district built and scaled exceptional specialty programs—from a 60-year-old Deaf and Hard of Hearing initiative to a unique preschool combining SLP and teacher expertise. Discover how managing 28 alternative education centers across Michigan while maintaining deep student impact requires delegating wisely, investing in staff development, and staying relentlessly focused on least restrictive environment principles.
The Thrift Shop That Changed How We Teach Work - Sandy Morrill
3mo ago · 38:58
In this episode of Brighter Together, I sit down with Sandy Morrill, the transition coordinator at Shelton School District in Connecticut. Sandy shares the inspiring journey of launching a unique thrift shop, The Thrifty Gale, that serves dual populations: students with special needs and fellow classmates seeking affordable clothing options. We explore how this initiative not only provides invaluable vocational training for the students but also fosters community engagement and inclusivity. Sandy discusses the challenges faced in creating this program, from finding a suitable space to ensuring
Team Inspired Student Desired: A Sup's Playbook - Josh Meyer
3mo ago · 29:22
What happens when a school stops chasing trends—and starts building people instead? In this episode of Brighter Together, Superintendent Josh Meyer shares how a small, high-performing district stays grounded in what works: strong teams, deep relationships, and intentional leadership. From hiring the right people over perfect credentials to navigating AI without losing clarity, Josh offers a practical, refreshing perspective on leading schools in a fast-moving world. If you are balancing innovation with stability, growth with culture, and pressure with purpose—this conversation will meet you wh
From Lockdown to University: How Life Skills Changed Everything For The Better - Jera Pieper
3mo ago · 30:33
Jera Pieper, Director of Special Education at Franklin Jefferson County Special Education District, shares her journey from school psychologist to BCBA and now district leadership, emphasizing her passion for behavior support and systems-level impact. She explains how her co-op model serves 22 rural districts by pooling resources to deliver specialized services efficiently, while also navigating legal, operational, and staffing challenges. Jera highlights the importance of practical life skills, strong systems, and collaborative problem-solving to ensure student success—especially for those wi
"Every Student. Some Success. Every Day." The Mentorship Mindset - Alex Sharick
3mo ago · 23:52
What if the most powerful strategy in education isn’t a program, but a mindset? In this episode of Brighter Together, Alex Sharick, Director of Special Education at Plymouth Shiloh Local School District, shares what 30 years in education has taught him about leadership, relationships, and building systems that actually work for students. From the life-changing impact of mentorship to the evolution of MTSS and behavior supports, Alex challenges a common assumption: that better outcomes come from doing more. Instead, he reveals how clarity, collaboration, and understanding the why behind student
From Turnover to Stability: How One District Rebuilt Its Culture - Erika Bare
3mo ago · 25:40
What does it actually take to turn a struggling district into a place where educators want to stay—and students can thrive? In this episode of Brighter Together, Superintendent Erika Bare shares how her district moved from nearly 25 percent staff turnover to building a stable, high-performing culture in just a few years. But this isn’t a story about quick fixes. It’s about intentional systems. From rethinking hiring practices to redesigning onboarding, coaching, and staff support, Erika reveals how focusing on people—not just programs—created measurable change in both staff retention and stude
Stop Chasing Awards: What One Director Learned About Real Impact - Dr. Katie Lowry
3mo ago · 32:40
In this episode of Brighter Together, I sit down with Dr. Katie Lowry, the Director of Special Education at Lumpkin County School District, to discuss her transformative journey in leadership. Katie shares her insights on moving away from chasing awards and recognition to focusing on meaningful impact in the lives of her students and staff. We explore the importance of embracing one's unique gifts and building capacity in others, creating a stronger educational community. Katie's experiences highlight the often lonely path of leadership and the necessity of fostering authentic relationships to
Stop Treating IEPs Like Paperwork (They're Protections) - Brighter Together Podcast
3mo ago · 29:45
Episode Description **Is your IEP process feeling like a burden—or serving as the powerful protection it was designed to be?** Most educators approach IEP meetings as another box to check, another form to complete. But what if we've been looking at this all wrong? In this eye-opening conversation, Julian Duffey, Special Education Director at Teton County School District 401, reveals how reframing IEPs as ongoing conversations and critical protections—not paperwork—can transform your school's approach to special education and, more importantly, the lives of students who need support. About Our
How Wayne County RESA Cut Teacher Shortages Through Partnerships (And You Can Too) - Elizabeth Santer
3mo ago · 24:44
In this episode of Brighter Together, I sit down with Elizabeth Santer, Executive Director of Special Education Services at Wayne County RESA, to explore innovative strategies for addressing teacher shortages in Michigan's education system. Elizabeth shares insights on how partnerships with local universities and community organizations are creating pathways for aspiring educators, particularly in special education. We discuss the challenges of staffing in special education and highlight the importance of building sustainable support systems for schools. Tune in to learn how you can apply thes

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Brighter Together

Episodes 246

The One Decision That Stopped Teacher Burnout at Delhi USD - Eric Griffin

Stop Pulling Kids Out: Why Inclusive Co-Teaching Changes Everything - Brandon Bernard

The Hexagon Secret: How One County Ended Decision Paralysis - Jeremy Sawtelle

The Model That Solved Rural SPED Services (And You've Never Heard of It) - George Welsh

The Partnership That Changed How We See Special Education - Jenny Plumb

Stop Treating Behavior as a Punishment Problem - Joya Mitchell & Erica Bauer

The 'It Factor' Rural Districts Use to Win Back Families - Scott Bolin

The Fine Artist Who Became a SPED Director (And What He Missed) - Vincent Valerio

The Penny Strategy: How One Diocese Cut Parent Conflict 70% - Michael Juhas

The Job Guarantee Malcolm's Students Actually Get - Malcolm Pittman

What Michigan's Top SPED Director Knows About Student Dysregulation (That Most Districts Miss) - Dr. Precios Armstrong

The 4-Day Week That Cut Teacher Absences From 32% to 8% - Dr. Eugene Blalock Jr.

The Disability Question That's Reshaping Inclusive Schools - Cameron Lazar

How One Director Achieved 100% Graduation for Students with Disabilities - Ada Pineiro

Stop Competing: How One ESC Built a District Collaboration Model That Works - Dr. Kelly Moran & Nancy Santilli

Stop Sending Kids to Graduation With No Plan - John Ischy

The Unicorn Program: How One District Built Specialty Special Ed at Scale - Mary Masciovecchio

The Thrift Shop That Changed How We Teach Work - Sandy Morrill

Team Inspired Student Desired: A Sup's Playbook - Josh Meyer

From Lockdown to University: How Life Skills Changed Everything For The Better - Jera Pieper

"Every Student. Some Success. Every Day." The Mentorship Mindset - Alex Sharick

From Turnover to Stability: How One District Rebuilt Its Culture - Erika Bare

Stop Chasing Awards: What One Director Learned About Real Impact - Dr. Katie Lowry

Stop Treating IEPs Like Paperwork (They're Protections) - Brighter Together Podcast

How Wayne County RESA Cut Teacher Shortages Through Partnerships (And You Can Too) - Elizabeth Santer

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Episodes 246

The One Decision That Stopped Teacher Burnout at Delhi USD - Eric Griffin

Stop Pulling Kids Out: Why Inclusive Co-Teaching Changes Everything - Brandon Bernard

The Hexagon Secret: How One County Ended Decision Paralysis - Jeremy Sawtelle

The Model That Solved Rural SPED Services (And You've Never Heard of It) - George Welsh

The Partnership That Changed How We See Special Education - Jenny Plumb

Stop Treating Behavior as a Punishment Problem - Joya Mitchell & Erica Bauer

The 'It Factor' Rural Districts Use to Win Back Families - Scott Bolin

The Fine Artist Who Became a SPED Director (And What He Missed) - Vincent Valerio

The Penny Strategy: How One Diocese Cut Parent Conflict 70% - Michael Juhas

The Job Guarantee Malcolm's Students Actually Get - Malcolm Pittman

What Michigan's Top SPED Director Knows About Student Dysregulation (That Most Districts Miss) - Dr. Precios Armstrong

The 4-Day Week That Cut Teacher Absences From 32% to 8% - Dr. Eugene Blalock Jr.

The Disability Question That's Reshaping Inclusive Schools - Cameron Lazar

How One Director Achieved 100% Graduation for Students with Disabilities - Ada Pineiro

Stop Competing: How One ESC Built a District Collaboration Model That Works - Dr. Kelly Moran & Nancy Santilli

Stop Sending Kids to Graduation With No Plan - John Ischy

The Unicorn Program: How One District Built Specialty Special Ed at Scale - Mary Masciovecchio

The Thrift Shop That Changed How We Teach Work - Sandy Morrill

Team Inspired Student Desired: A Sup's Playbook - Josh Meyer

From Lockdown to University: How Life Skills Changed Everything For The Better - Jera Pieper

"Every Student. Some Success. Every Day." The Mentorship Mindset - Alex Sharick

From Turnover to Stability: How One District Rebuilt Its Culture - Erika Bare

Stop Chasing Awards: What One Director Learned About Real Impact - Dr. Katie Lowry

Stop Treating IEPs Like Paperwork (They're Protections) - Brighter Together Podcast

How Wayne County RESA Cut Teacher Shortages Through Partnerships (And You Can Too) - Elizabeth Santer