Voices United in Education

Send us Fan MailHow was your day? What did you learn today? Are you tired of eye rolls from your kids? In this episode, Lynn Knighton, publisher of Greater Pensacola Parents magazine, shares how she has learned to facilitate car conversations with kids and how her magazine has created a virtual village where parents find valuable information and resources. Guest: Lynn Knighton [email protected] | https://greaterpensacolaparents.com/ | https://www.facebook.com/greaterpensacolaparents | https://www.instagram.com/greaterpensacolaparents/ Vote for Voices United in Education as "Best Podcast" 2026 in InWeekly's Best on the Coast! https://form.jotform.com/261185754425158This helps connect local families with the resources they need & the stories that get missed.Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodesHost:  Meredith Hackwith Edwards 

Send us Fan MailIs your child struggling with mental health issues? How do you know? How can you help them? Shawn Salamida is the President of Lakeview Center and Dustin Perry is the Director of Residential Services and leader of the Virtual Intensive Outpatient Program for teens. In this episode, they talk about why this program can work when others have failed and how we’re united in children’s mental health.Guests: Shawn Salamida & Dustin Perry https://elakeviewcenter.org/mental-health-and-substance-misuse/ | To register call 850-469-3500 | https://www.facebook.com/LakeviewCenter Vote for Voices United in Education as "Best Podcast" 2026 in InWeekly's Best on the Coast! https://form.jotform.com/261185754425158This helps connect local families with the resources they need & the stories that get missed.Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodesHost:  Meredith Hackwith Edwards 

Send us Fan MailWhy are we turning classrooms into pit lanes? Chad Cherry is West Florida High School Electrathon Racing team coach, helping students work together to build and race lithium battery powered cars. In this episode, he shares how what many would consider a distraction is actually inspiring kids to do more.Guest: Chad Cherry [email protected] | https://www.electrathonamerica.org/ | https://www.facebook.com/westflhsVote for Voices United in Education as "Best Podcast" 2026 in InWeekly's Best on the Coast! https://form.jotform.com/261185754425158This helps connect local families with the resources they need & the stories that get missed.Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodesHost:  Meredith Hackwith Edwards 

Send us Fan MailWhat exactly is a certified babysitter? How do both girls and boy become certified babysitters? Jennifer Smith Richardson is the Patient Education Specialist and Janna Jones is the Health Screening Specialist for Ascension Sacred Heart Community Outreach, helping equip confidence in young babysitters and the parents who hire them. In this episode, they share the details of the Safe Sitter Program and the impact its making, facilitating personalized care and parental peace of mind.Guests: Jennifer Smith Richardson & Janna Jones. For class dates & registration, call 850-416-7262 https://safesitter.org/ Vote for Voices United in Education as "Best Podcast" 2026 in InWeekly's Best on the Coast! https://form.jotform.com/261185754425158This helps connect local families with the resources they need & the stories that get missed.Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodesHost:  Meredith Hackwith Edwards 

Send us Fan MailWhere are individuals with mental, physical and cognitive challenges building confidence and self-esteem? Kristina Guadagnoli is the owner of Special Strong, an adaptive fitness company removing barriers to healthy living. In this episode, she shares how the program works and who it’s helping.Guest: Kristina Guadagnoli 850-920-2180 [email protected] | https://specialstrongemeraldcoast.com/ | https://www.facebook.com/specialstrongpensacola |https://www.instagram.com/specialstrongemeraldcoast_fl/        Vote for Voices United in Education as "Best Podcast" 2026 in InWeekly's Best on the Coast! https://form.jotform.com/261185754425158This helps connect local families with the resources they need & the stories that get missed.Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodesHost:  Meredith Hackwith Edwards 

Send us Fan MailDoes the principal of a school make a difference in the quality of your child’s education? Is new leadership that important? Hear what the 2025-2026 Principal of the Year has to say about it. In this episode, Tara Palasciano, principal of Bailey Middle School, shares what’s working for her, her students and staff, and what’s next.Guest: Tara Palasciano https://baileyms.escambiaschools.org/ | https://www.facebook.com/baileybulldogband  Vote for Voices United in Education as "Best Podcast" 2026 in InWeekly's Best on the Coast! https://form.jotform.com/261185754425158This helps connect local families with the resources they need & the stories that get missed.Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodesHost:  Meredith Hackwith Edwards 

Send us Fan MailIn Pensacola, where can K-8th graders learn to swim without soaking your wallet? Megan Oberholzer is the Aquatics Director for Escambia County Public Schools and she shares a summer program that’s affordable and competitive to help kids keep swimming.Guest: Megan Oberholtzer | For more information, please contact Megan Oberholtzer at Booker T. Washington High School, 850-494-5681, [email protected] Vote for Voices United in Education as "Best Podcast" 2026 in InWeekly's Best on the Coast! https://form.jotform.com/261185754425158This helps connect local families with the resources they need & the stories that get missed.Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodesHost:  Meredith Hackwith Edwards 

Send us Fan MailAccording to the CDC, nearly 1 in 5 young people ages 12 to 17 experienced a mental health disorder in 2024. Melissa Williams is the Coordinator of Mental Health Services and Dr. Lisa Joyner is the Student Services Director. In this episode, they share what the school district is doing to support teachers and your child’s health.Guest: Melissa Williams & Lisa Joyner, Ed.D https://www.escambiaschools.org/departments/mental-health-services/parent-guardian-resources | https://www.escambiaschools.org/departments/school-counseling-services/home Vote for Voices United in Education as "Best Podcast" 2026 in InWeekly's Best on the Coast! https://form.jotform.com/261185754425158This helps connect local families with the resources they need & the stories that get missed.Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodesHost:  Meredith Hackwith Edwards 

Send us Fan MailWhat are the options for your academically talented 7th or 8th grader? Amy Gordon is the Principal of Pensacola High School, where they are launching an on-campus 7th and 8th grade enrollment for bright students. In this episode, hear what she has to say about student benefits, parent concerns, advanced classes, and campus culture.Guest: Amy Gordon https://pensacolahs.escambiaschools.org/middle-schoolVote for Voices United in Education as "Best Podcast" 2026 in InWeekly's Best on the Coast! https://form.jotform.com/261185754425158This helps connect local families with the resources they need & the stories that get missed.Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodesHost:  Meredith Hackwith Edwards 

Send us Fan MailDid you know that, on average, one child in every Escambia County classroom is experiencing homelessness? What defines homelessness might surprise you! Casandra Manis is one of the Homeless Liaisons for Escambia County Public Schools. In this episode, she helps us get clear on the reality for these families and how our schools are helping these students succeed academically.Guest: Casandra Manis https://schoolhouseconnection.org/article/mckinney-vento-act-quick-reference | www.title1.org  (ECPS Title 1 website) | www.nche.ed.gov National Center for Homeless Education | https://openingdoorsnwfl.org/ for those who may be interested in local volunteer opportunities or those seeking help.Vote for Voices United in Education as "Best Podcast" 2026 in InWeekly's Best on the Coast! https://form.jotform.com/261185754425158This helps connect local families with the resources they need & the stories that get missed.Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodesHost:  Meredith Hackwith Edwards 

Send us Fan MailNot all students are ready for middle school. Christine Baker is the Principal of West Pensacola Elementary School, which is trying something different by adding classes for 6th graders. In this episode, she shares how it’s going and brags on her amazing school.Guest: Christine Baker https://westpensacolaes.escambiaschools.org/ Vote for Voices United in Education as "Best Podcast" 2026 in InWeekly's Best on the Coast! https://form.jotform.com/261185754425158This helps connect local families with the resources they need & the stories that get missed.Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodesHost:  Meredith Hackwith Edwards 

Send us Fan MailWhat kinds of services are offered through Healthy Kids Escambia? Even the most basic needs can be critical for growing students, but for many parents in the county, there is neither time nor money. Jessica Johnson is the Healthy Schools Program Director at United Way, helping bring free health care resources to four elementary schools in the county. In this episode, she shares how the program came about, what it includes and how it’s setting kids up for success.Guest: Jessica Johnson https://www.uwwf.org/healthy-schools-escambiaVote for Voices United in Education as "Best Podcast" 2026 in InWeekly's Best on the Coast! https://form.jotform.com/261185754425158This helps connect local families with the resources they need & the stories that get missed.Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodesHost:  Meredith Hackwith Edwards 

Send us Fan MailWhat happens when a student falls behind? Dawn Gibbs is the principal at Success Academy, where her and her team are helping students catch up and get ahead. In this episode, she shares who makes up their student population and just how they are ensuring kids aren’t left behind.Guest: Dawn Gibbs https://successsc.escambiaschools.org/Vote for Voices United in Education as "Best Podcast" 2026 in InWeekly's Best on the Coast! https://form.jotform.com/261185754425158This helps connect local families with the resources they need & the stories that get missed.Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodesHost:  Meredith Hackwith Edwards 

Send us Fan MailIs your child using a companion bot? How can you help your child navigate the promise and risks of technology? Curiosity is a good place to start. Jamie Nuñez is the Senior Manager of Outreach and Training at Common Sense Media, a nonprofit that supports parents, school districts and state education agencies in integrating digital literacy skills into real life. In this episode, he shares how parents can stay connected to their kids and keep them safe, while setting them up for success.Guest: Jamie Nuñez https://www.commonsensemedia.org/ | https://www.commonsensemedia.org/carpool-conversations | https://www.bark.us/ | https://www.mobicip.com/ | https://www.commonsensemedia.org/press-releases/common-sense-media-launches-petition-to-stop-facebook-from-targeting-very-young-children Vote for Voices United in Education as "Best Podcast" 2026 in InWeekly's Best on the Coast! https://form.jotform.com/261185754425158This helps connect local families with the resources they need & the stories that get missed.Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodesHost:  Meredith Hackwith Edwards 

Send us Fan MailDo you ever wish your kid would put their phone down? How do you get them to improve their reading stamina & comprehension? Anne MacDonald is a mom, author, podcaster, teacher at Scenic Heights Elementary School, and board member at Books by the Bay and Emerald Coast Writers Association. In this episode, she shares proven strategies to develop a generation of readers and how Books by the Bay is not just a book fair, but a literary extravaganza inspiring the next generation.Guests: Anne MacDonald https://www.booksbythebay.info/ Vote for Voices United in Education as "Best Podcast" 2026 in InWeekly's Best on the Coast! https://form.jotform.com/261185754425158This helps connect local families with the resources they need & the stories that get missed.Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodesHost:  Meredith Hackwith Edwards 

Send us Fan MailDo you have a child or grandchild in our public schools? Are you a member of the PTA? Hear what the President and Vice President of the Escambia County Council PTA have to say. Melanie Gambill and Samantha Strickland share what the PTA is and isn’t, how it benefits parents and students, and what’s next for the 100-year-old organization.Vote for Voices United in Education as "Best Podcast" 2026 in InWeekly's Best on the Coast! https://form.jotform.com/261185754425158This helps connect local families with the resources they need & the stories that get missed.Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodesHost:  Meredith Hackwith Edwards 

Send us Fan MailDid you know 50 families in the Panhandle face this question every year? Jessica Siderio is the Rally Foundation Development Manager and Haley Brown is the Rally Kid and Program Manager for Rally Gulf Coast. In this episode, they share why cancer in kids is different than adults and how they are working to provide support, fund research and raise resources for these Panhandle families.Guests: Jessica Siderio & Haley Brown https://rallyfoundation.org/rally-gulf-coast/ Vote for Voices United in Education as "Best Podcast" 2026 in InWeekly's Best on the Coast! https://form.jotform.com/261185754425158This helps connect local families with the resources they need & the stories that get missed.Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodesHost:  Meredith Hackwith Edwards 

Send us Fan MailDoes your child vape? How would being expelled change their educational trajectory? During the 2022-2024 school years, numerous students were alternatively placed for vape pens throughout Escambia County. Stephanie Shepard is the founder and Executive Director of Hope Above Fear, a non-profit dedicated to help educate, de-stigmatize and overcome addiction in youth. In this episode, she shares how this program stands out from others and how this may be a good fit for your child.Guest: Stephanie Shepard https://hopeabovefear.org/early-intervention | https://hopeabovefear.org/impact-over-time Vote for Voices United in Education as "Best Podcast" 2026 in InWeekly's Best on the Coast! https://form.jotform.com/261185754425158This helps connect local families with the resources they need & the stories that get missed.Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodesHost:  Meredith Hackwith Edwards 

Send us Fan MailFor students who struggle in school, something and someone special is accelerating them toward their diploma and career opportunities. Marquette Oliver is the Director of SOAR Academy at Pine Forest High School, a program began as an acceleration program for incoming over age freshman but now includes other students as well. He is the someone and is more than happy to share how both the students and program are evolving and what students have to say about its impact.Guest: Marquette OliverVote for Voices United in Education as "Best Podcast" 2026 in InWeekly's Best on the Coast! https://form.jotform.com/261185754425158This helps connect local families with the resources they need & the stories that get missed.Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodesHost:  Meredith Hackwith Edwards 

Send us Fan MailIs social media designed to be addictive? Why are multiple lawsuits seeking damages for the damage it is causing to our kids? Emmie Paulos is an attorney at Levin Papantonio and the Court Appointed Leadership in the Federal Social Media Addiction Litigation. In this episode, she shares why the firm is taking social media seriously and why you should too.Guests: Emmie Pauloshttps://levinlaw.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Social-Media-Addiction-Litigation-Booklet.pdf https://levinlaw.com/social-media-harm-lawsuits/?fbclid=IwY2xjawOm9ZhleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFER2c1ODdYZDIwc0hlUWtxc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHqZLKvdZuxCrJVqTvpNV_Pz7G2JWxfdmHDYxmalNCJ3dLQra-XTMMnkam3C2_aem_HuSyyf09Hrgdedvry1FREg Vote for Voices United in Education as "Best Podcast" 2026 in InWeekly's Best on the Coast! https://form.jotform.com/261185754425158This helps connect local families with the resources they need & the stories that get missed.Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodesHost:  Meredith Hackwith Edwards 

Send us Fan MailDid you know that Pensacola has hosted a Special Olympics event for the last 20 years? Do you know what school continues to pass the torch? Sondra Hill is the Director of Exceptional Student Education and Laura Touchstone is the Principal of Tate High School. Together, they share the exciting impact to students, staff and the community, and dynamic logistics of hosting an event like this.Guests: Sondra Hill & Laura TouchstoneVote for Voices United in Education as "Best Podcast" 2026 in InWeekly's Best on the Coast! https://form.jotform.com/261185754425158This helps connect local families with the resources they need & the stories that get missed.Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodesHost:  Meredith Hackwith Edwards 

Send us Fan MailWhy do our public schools need a foundation? Don’t taxes fund our public schools? Jo McArthur, Executive Director of the Escambia County Public Schools Foundation, shares behind the scenes of the foundation, what it has contributed to our community and why it matters.Guests: Jo McArthur https://www.escambiaschools.org/departments/ecpsf/home Text Tools to 850-930-9939 or Foundation to 850-930-9939 to make a donationVote for Voices United in Education as "Best Podcast" 2026 in InWeekly's Best on the Coast! https://form.jotform.com/261185754425158This helps connect local families with the resources they need & the stories that get missed.Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodesHost:  Meredith Hackwith Edwards 

Send us Fan MailWho would pair Saturdays with science? Who is using Saturdays to spark young minds in Pensacola? Heath Parr is the STEM teacher at Brown Barge Middle School and instructor at Science Saturday. Shannon Nickinson is the Communications Director at IHMC. In this episode, they share how this free monthly event is getting kids excited about science and inspired for the future.Guests: Heath Parr & Shannon Nickinson https://www.ihmc.us/life/science_saturdays/ Vote for Voices United in Education as "Best Podcast" 2026 in InWeekly's Best on the Coast! https://form.jotform.com/261185754425158This helps connect local families with the resources they need & the stories that get missed.Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodesHost:  Meredith Hackwith Edwards 

Send us Fan MailWhere do you look for IT jobs in Pensacola? What’s the difference between IT education at George Stone vs a four year University?Snyder is the Instructor of Computer Systems & Information Technology at George Stone Technical College where programs cover everything from taking computers apart to cyber security. In this episode, Joe shares the potential and the practical of all things Pensacola IT.Guests: Joe Snyder https://gstc.escambiaschools.org/programs/computer-systems-information-technology-csit/computer-systems-information-technology-cist Vote for Voices United in Education as "Best Podcast" 2026 in InWeekly's Best on the Coast! https://form.jotform.com/261185754425158This helps connect local families with the resources they need & the stories that get missed.Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodesHost:  Meredith Hackwith Edwards 

Send us Fan MailIs combining elementary & middle school a good idea? What does this look like logistically?Dr. Michael Roberts, Director of Middle Schools for Escambia County Public Schools, talks about moving to K-6 at Cordova Park and West Pensacola and how K-8 at Longleaf will impact students, parents and teachers. You’ll hear what inspired these changes & the parent feedback so far.Guests: Michael Roberts, EdDVote for Voices United in Education as "Best Podcast" 2026 in InWeekly's Best on the Coast! https://form.jotform.com/261185754425158This helps connect local families with the resources they need & the stories that get missed.Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodesHost:  Meredith Hackwith Edwards 

Send us Fan MailHow do you support your child’s transition into adulthood? How early should you start thinking about that?For parents of students with disabilities, these are tough questions. Pam Cebula is the ECPS Program Specialist, supporting parents through their child’s education and development into the early years of adulthood. Stacey Shelnut is the ECPS Resource Teacher for pre-K through adults and a parent of a child with a disability. In this episode, these educators share details about the program and their perspective for what’s available and what’s possible.Guests: Pam Cebula & Stacey ShelnutVote for Voices United in Education as "Best Podcast" 2026 in InWeekly's Best on the Coast! https://form.jotform.com/261185754425158This helps connect local families with the resources they need & the stories that get missed.Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodesHost:  Meredith Hackwith Edwards 

Send us Fan MailWhy Latin club? What does a Latin club competition look like? What unconventional methods are working for students?Dr. Dana Boddy is the Principal of Escambia High School and Amy Hornick is the Latin teacher as well as the record holder for longest time taught at the school – 36 years! In this episode, they share how Latin club is not just a competitive outlet, but gives students a competitive & social edge.Guests: Amy Hornick & Dana Boddy, EdDVote for Voices United in Education as "Best Podcast" 2026 in InWeekly's Best on the Coast! https://form.jotform.com/261185754425158This helps connect local families with the resources they need & the stories that get missed.Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodesHost:  Meredith Hackwith Edwards 

Send us Fan MailHow can six different courses be taught within one program? What does computer technology have to do with boats? What benefits are students graduating with?Stefan Schmitt is the marine service technology instructor at George Stone Technical College, recognized by Yamaha as the top US school for student job placement. He is also the host of BoatSmart on NewRadio Pensacola. In this episode, he gives us an insider look into the program, students and industry.Guest: Stefan Schmitt https://gstc.escambiaschools.org/programs/programs/marine-service-technologies | https://www.youtube.com/@TricksoftheTrade2025 Vote for Voices United in Education as "Best Podcast" 2026 in InWeekly's Best on the Coast! https://form.jotform.com/261185754425158This helps connect local families with the resources they need & the stories that get missed.Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodesHost:  Meredith Hackwith Edwards 

Send us Fan MailHow are teachers using AI to save time in and out of the classroom? How do they mitigate cheating? Can AI make us MORE human?Sarah Wallace is a World History, AP Human Geography and AP World History teacher and Gary Moore is a Geometry & Statistics teacher at West Florida High School. Two very different subjects, but two very similar teachers in the ways they use AI tools to innovate lesson plans and instructional time. In this episode, they share how AI is impacting their classrooms and students.Guests: Sarah Wallace & Gary MooreVote for Voices United in Education as "Best Podcast" 2026 in InWeekly's Best on the Coast! https://form.jotform.com/261185754425158This helps connect local families with the resources they need & the stories that get missed.Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodesHost:  Meredith Hackwith Edwards 

Send us Fan MailWhat are the magic ingredients that make behavior program benefits last? What would cause a 13-year-old girl to give up on life?Laurie Rodgers is the Executive Director of the Pace Center for Girls. In this episode, she shares the stories of the girls who got their spark back & how this holistic program for girls works when other interventions haven’t.Guest: Laurie Rodgers https://www.pacecenter.org/ Vote for Voices United in Education as "Best Podcast" 2026 in InWeekly's Best on the Coast! https://form.jotform.com/261185754425158This helps connect local families with the resources they need & the stories that get missed.Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodesHost:  Meredith Hackwith Edwards 

Send us Fan MailIs music critical to education? What impact does orchestra have on academic performance? What influence have string musicians in pop culture had on student engagement?Cathy McConnell is the Director of Orchestras for Ransom Middle School and Tate High School. In this episode, she shares stories from her 29 years in music education including recent participation at Stringfest 2025 and explains how orchestra is a path to higher academic performance, scholarships and life skills.Guest: Catherine McConnell [email protected] for Voices United in Education as "Best Podcast" 2026 in InWeekly's Best on the Coast! https://form.jotform.com/261185754425158This helps connect local families with the resources they need & the stories that get missed.Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodesHost:  Meredith Hackwith Edwards 

Send us Fan MailBryan Dawson is the digital media teacher at Pine Forest High School. In this episode, he shares how the New Media Academy is helping kids develop skills deeper than internet fame and opening them up to a range of careers options with good income potential.Guest: Bryan Dawson https://www.bls.gov/ Vote for Voices United in Education as "Best Podcast" 2026 in InWeekly's Best on the Coast! https://form.jotform.com/261185754425158This helps connect local families with the resources they need & the stories that get missed.Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodesHost:  Meredith Hackwith Edwards 

Send us Fan MailMonica Willis is the District Military Liaison for ECPS and Bruce Cummins is the Pensacola Public Affairs Officer for NAS Pensacola. In this episode, they are going to share why they have added a third day, STEAM Day, to the annual Blue Angels Homecoming Show, why it’s just for kids, how it’s different from the public shows & how it connects with classroom learning standards to not just educate, but inspire. Guests: Monica Willis & Bruce Cummins https://www.facebook.com/naspensacolaairshow | https://www.escambiaschools.org/Page/1269 | https://www.naspensacolaairshow.org/ Vote for Voices United in Education as "Best Podcast" 2026 in InWeekly's Best on the Coast! https://form.jotform.com/261185754425158This helps connect local families with the resources they need & the stories that get missed.Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodesHost:  Meredith Hackwith Edwards 

Send us Fan MailCaitlin Rhea, Curator of Education and Public Programs for the Pensacola Museum of Art, shares how this free monthly art program for children on the autism spectrum is benefiting everyone.Guest: Caitlin Rhea https://pensacolamuseum.org/learn-engage/publicprograms/ Vote for Voices United in Education as "Best Podcast" 2026 in InWeekly's Best on the Coast! https://form.jotform.com/261185754425158This helps connect local families with the resources they need & the stories that get missed.Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodesHost:  Meredith Hackwith Edwards 

Send us Fan MailTara Palasciano is the principal of Bailey Middle School and Amy Roby is the principal of Hellen Caro Elementary School. In this episode, they talk about working together to turn the age-old apprehension with moving to middle school into an opportunity, sharing what this new collaboration looks like and how it could benefit the entire community.Guests: Tara Palasciano & Amy Roby https://www.escambiaschools.org/jbms | https://www.escambiaschools.org/hces Vote for Voices United in Education as "Best Podcast" 2026 in InWeekly's Best on the Coast! https://form.jotform.com/261185754425158This helps connect local families with the resources they need & the stories that get missed.Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodesHost:  Meredith Hackwith Edwards 

Send us Fan MailBill Davis is the Aviation Maintenance Technology Coordinator at George Stone Technical College. In this episode, he shares how a special collaboration with King Aero has delivered a cutaway version of a real turbine engine into the classroom for hands-on learning, streamlining instruction and changing lives.Guest: Bill Davis https://www.escambiaschools.org/Page/6125 Vote for Voices United in Education as "Best Podcast" 2026 in InWeekly's Best on the Coast! https://form.jotform.com/261185754425158This helps connect local families with the resources they need & the stories that get missed.Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodesHost:  Meredith Hackwith Edwards 

Send us Fan MailNancy Barger is the Pre-Nursing Instructor in the Health Science Academy at Booker T Washington and the 2025-2026 High School Career Academy Teacher of the Year. In this episode, she shares her journey of nursing to education and how the Health Science Academy may be a set up for success for both students and the community.Guests: Nancy Barger Vote for Voices United in Education as "Best Podcast" 2026 in InWeekly's Best on the Coast! https://form.jotform.com/261185754425158This helps connect local families with the resources they need & the stories that get missed.Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodesHost:  Meredith Hackwith Edwards 

Send us Fan MailMatt MacGregor, Marine Science Teacher at West Florida High School, shares how a group of his students are designing Pensacola’s latest reef through the new Artificial Reefs Curriculum. You’ll hear how this not only gives student education a boost, but our local economy as well.Guests: Matt MacGregor https://ccaflorida.org/ | http://alturl.com/6qf8q Vote for Voices United in Education as "Best Podcast" 2026 in InWeekly's Best on the Coast! https://form.jotform.com/261185754425158This helps connect local families with the resources they need & the stories that get missed.Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodesHost:  Meredith Hackwith Edwards 

Send us Fan MailLee Gilreath is the Criminal Justice Academy Instructor at West Florida High School. In this episode, he brags on his students, tells stories from his experience as a Miami cop and shares how this academy is facilitating excellence for future 911 dispatchers and beyond.Guest: Lee Gilreath Vote for Voices United in Education as "Best Podcast" 2026 in InWeekly's Best on the Coast! https://form.jotform.com/261185754425158This helps connect local families with the resources they need & the stories that get missed.Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodesHost:  Meredith Hackwith Edwards 

Send us Fan MailJenn Montoya is the Learning Management Coordinator for Escambia County Public Schools. In this episode, she shares how one learning management app has officially replaced all the others, making keeping up with your child’s classroom assignments & deadlines seamless.Guest: Jen Montoya [email protected] | https://escambia.instructure.com/courses/63591/pages/ecps-canvas-login-portal | https://www.khanacademy.org/ Vote for Voices United in Education as "Best Podcast" 2026 in InWeekly's Best on the Coast! https://form.jotform.com/261185754425158This helps connect local families with the resources they need & the stories that get missed.Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodesHost:  Meredith Hackwith Edwards 

Send us Fan MailGloria Cane is the Owner and Executive Director of Sylvan Learning Center for Pensacola and Fort Walton Beach. In this episode, she shares how discovering your child’s learning style can activate and accelerate their academic performance, right now, and build confidence for life. She also deals out practical hacks for parents and scholarship opportunities.Guest: Gloria Cane https://www.sylvanlearning.com/locations/us/fl/pensacola-tutoring/pensacola/ | http://alturl.com/p2k8i | https://www.stepupforstudents.org/ Vote for Voices United in Education as "Best Podcast" 2026 in InWeekly's Best on the Coast! https://form.jotform.com/261185754425158This helps connect local families with the resources they need & the stories that get missed.Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodesHost:  Meredith Hackwith Edwards 

Send us Fan MailPhedra Smith is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and owner of Greenhouse Counseling in Pensacola, specializing in children and families. In this episode, she shares insights in the areas of feelings, friends and communication to make the back-to-school transition smoother.Guest: Phedra Smith https://www.ghcpensacola.com/ | https://www.instagram.com/greenhouse_counseling/ | https://www.facebook.com/ghousecounseling | Thumb Ball https://a.co/d/4uocdcj | Wheel of Feelings https://a.co/d/6ED3mH2 Vote for Voices United in Education as "Best Podcast" 2026 in InWeekly's Best on the Coast! https://form.jotform.com/261185754425158This helps connect local families with the resources they need & the stories that get missed.Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodesHost:  Meredith Hackwith Edwards 

Send us Fan MailLisa Bloodworth, Director at Global Connections to Employment, and Pam Cebula, Escambia County Public Schools Program Specialist, share how Project Search is changing the employment landscape for young adults with disabilities in the areas of availability, access and perception. They are taking hard topics and making them easy through open and direct conversations, like the one we had in this episode.Guests: Lisa Bloodworth https://gce.org/ | Pam Cebula https://www.escambiaschools.org/Page/766 | [email protected] | https://www.projectsearch.us/Vote for Voices United in Education as "Best Podcast" 2026 in InWeekly's Best on the Coast! https://form.jotform.com/261185754425158This helps connect local families with the resources they need & the stories that get missed.Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodesHost:  Meredith Hackwith Edwards 

Send us Fan MailClass of 2025 graduates, Bethany Gurley from Pine Forest High School New Media Academy and Mekayla Leonard from West Florida High School Multimedia Academy were the first videographer and graphic design interns for a newly formed workforce education program with Escambia County Public Schools Office of Communications. In this episode, they share what this internship taught them that the classroom couldn’t, their proudest moments and what’s next.Guests: Bethany Gurley & Mekayla LeonardVote for Voices United in Education as "Best Podcast" 2026 in InWeekly's Best on the Coast! https://form.jotform.com/261185754425158This helps connect local families with the resources they need & the stories that get missed.Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodesHost:  Meredith Hackwith Edwards 

Send us Fan MailJacob Hill, IB Business Management teacher at Pensacola High School, is not only seeing the future, he’s helping build it. In this episode, he shares how Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) is giving high school students real experiences that translate into confidence, connections and leadership. Learn how students in middle school are getting the same opportunities.Guest: Jacob Hill https://www.instagram.com/pensacolahigh.fbla/ | https://www.facebook.com/pensacolaib  | https://www.escambiaschools.org/Page/91 Vote for Voices United in Education as "Best Podcast" 2026 in InWeekly's Best on the Coast! https://form.jotform.com/261185754425158This helps connect local families with the resources they need & the stories that get missed.Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodesHost:  Meredith Hackwith Edwards 

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, you'll quickly understand why Kelly Reed is the Escambia County Public Schools 2025-2026 Teacher of the Year. A kindergarten teacher at Global Learning Academy, she shares her journey to becoming a teacher, some special stories about her little “love nuggets,” as she calls her students, and surprising tips for parents.Guest: Kelly Reed Vote for Voices United in Education as "Best Podcast" 2026 in InWeekly's Best on the Coast! https://form.jotform.com/261185754425158This helps connect local families with the resources they need & the stories that get missed.Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodesHost:  Meredith Hackwith Edwards 

Send us Fan MailJoseph Moss is the Welding Instructor at Pensacola High School. In this episode, he shares his journey out of generational poverty and into welding & how that led him to becoming the cornerstone of the PHS welding program. Hear how one arc and one weld are building multiple opportunities for his students.Guest: Joseph Moss https://www.escambiaschools.org/Page/4274  Vote for Voices United in Education as "Best Podcast" 2026 in InWeekly's Best on the Coast! https://form.jotform.com/261185754425158This helps connect local families with the resources they need & the stories that get missed.Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodesHost:  Meredith Hackwith Edwards 

Send us Fan MailSteve Harrell, Workforce Education Director at Escambia County Public Schools, shares how the new Automotive Technology Academy is opening the door to more career opportunities for our students and is bringing needed ASC certified technicians to our community.Guest: Steve Harrell  https://www.escambiaschools.org/career Vote for Voices United in Education as "Best Podcast" 2026 in InWeekly's Best on the Coast! https://form.jotform.com/261185754425158This helps connect local families with the resources they need & the stories that get missed.Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodesHost:  Meredith Hackwith Edwards 

Send us Fan MailHolly Busse, Escambia County Public Schools Counselor Specialist, and Lesa Morgan, Director of High Schools, talk about dual enrollment, student and parent readiness, what to expect and how the free class credits for both college and workforce, focus kids.Guests: Holly Busse & Lesa Morgan https://www.escambiaschools.org/Page/4437 Vote for Voices United in Education as "Best Podcast" 2026 in InWeekly's Best on the Coast! https://form.jotform.com/261185754425158This helps connect local families with the resources they need & the stories that get missed.Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodesHost:  Meredith Hackwith Edwards 

Send us Fan MailMeet Bethany Gurley, a senior in the New Media Academy at Pine Forest High School and outstanding student intern with ECPS’s Communications Office. In this special episode, Meredith Hackwith Edwards becomes the guest, sharing insights into her world and our podcast while Ms. Bethany gets hand-on, real-world experience in podcasting—not only as a host—but through interviewing a professional podcaster and the host of our Voices United in Education podcast.Guest host: Bethany GurleyVote for Voices United in Education as "Best Podcast" 2026 in InWeekly's Best on the Coast! https://form.jotform.com/261185754425158This helps connect local families with the resources they need & the stories that get missed.Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodesHost:  Meredith Hackwith Edwards