Books over Bars

In this episode of the Learning Lab, Christina and Kaylah sit down with Kimberly McKenzie, a teacher in a mid-level security facility, to explore what she calls a “why not” mentality in education. From hatching chicks and raising classroom animals to integrating AI and student-led inquiry, Kimberly shares how creating experiences—not just lessons—builds engagement, responsibility, and real-world skills. This episode highlights how curiosity, care, and creative “side quests” can transform learning, even within the structure of standards and testing.

In this episode of the Learning Lab, Kaylah chats with Rachel Lewis, a New Orleans-based educator and leader with deep experience in trauma-informed care, restorative practices, social-emotional learning (SEL), and special education. In this conversation, Rachel reframes SEL as essential skill-building—not “soft skills,” but the tools young people need to advocate for themselves, regulate emotions, and navigate conflict. She shares practical strategies for embedding SEL into daily classroom routines, from greeting students at the door and starting class with emotional check-ins to creating cool-down corners and modeling vulnerability as adults. Rachel also explores why SEL must be taught when students are regulated. When practiced consistently, emotional regulation becomes like muscle memory—something students can access when they need it most. This episode highlights how building connection, teaching emotional language, and intentionally creating space for SEL can transform classroom culture and support meaningful growth for young people.

In this episode of Learning Lab, Christina and Kaylah sit down with Jackie to talk about what it means to show up with honesty, consistency, and dignity in juvenile justice classrooms. Jackie shares her journey into JJ education as a special education teacher and reflects on the importance of being real with students—naming hard truths, challenging limiting beliefs, and reminding young people that needing help is part of being human. The conversation explores rejecting labels, honoring students as still-developing individuals, and teaching self-advocacy through consistent care and presence. Jackie’s approach is a powerful reminder that when educators meet students where they are and show up every day, real growth becomes possible.

In this episode of Learning Lab, Christina and Kaylah sit down with Chyrl Johnson, a cosmetology teacher at Macon YDC in Georgia Preparatory Academy, to explore parent engagement rooted in empathy, respect, and humanity. Chyrl shares how treating students the way she would her own children shapes everything. Through monthly phone calls, letters home, and joyful family engagement events, she shows how consistent, caring outreach strengthens trust, increases student engagement, and sparks meaningful conversations between students and their families. Chyrl reframes parent outreach not as an obligation, but as a meaningful responsibility, grounded in the belief that families deserve to be part of their child’s story, even in secure settings. This episode is a powerful reminder that when educators treat students as humans and families as partners, everyone benefits.

Christina and Kaylah sit down with Kimberly Molidor, an ELA teacher at the Academy for Academic Excellence Henry Wade campus, to explore multi-level teaching and the power of thematic units. Kimberly shares how flexible design, student choice, and shared themes create one cohesive classroom where students can work at different levels while moving toward common goals. From starting small with short thematic units to identifying standards that span grade levels, this episode offers practical strategies—and encouragement—for educators navigating the complexity of multi-level classrooms.

In this episode of Learning Lab, Christina and Kaylah talk with educator Katharine Jones about the critical process of Cultivating Relationships with Secure Care. Katharine illustrates how when adults are intentionally aligned, the result is significantly calmer, more predictable classrooms for students. The conversation highlights practical alignment strategies, including establishing consistent routines, creating clear channels for daily information exchange, and explicitly sharing expectations with students so they always know what to anticipate. This practice reduces student frustration and builds trust. Katharine shares her powerful philosophy of treating every challenge as a creative opportunity, reminding us that successful partnership begins when we shift the mindset from "Don't tell me how I can't do it, tell me how I can." This episode champions a "village" mindset, emphasizing shared goals and offering concrete first steps for teachers seeking to build stronger, more unified relationships with their secure care staff.

In this episode of Learning Lab, Christina and Kaylah sit down with Ben Wiebesiek, a graphic design teacher at Lookout Academy in Colorado. Together, they explore how Ben's classroom turns student designs into real-world business assets, fostering professional skills and dignity. Ben shares how he uses the critique process, working with authentic clients, to teach students the essential life skill of receiving and applying feedback. The conversation goes beyond design mechanics, diving into how Ben guides students to challenge misconceptions about artistic symbolism, particularly regarding colors and shapes often misidentified as gang signifiers. Ben reminds us that by validating students’ creative choices and allowing them to explore deeper meaning, we foster resilience, professional communication, and the powerful self-expression necessary for students to feel their unique vision is seen and understood.

In this episode of Learning Lab, Christina and Kaylah sit down with Melissa Jeanty, assistant principal at Maya Angelou Academy at New Beginnings, Washington D.C.’s long-term youth facility. Together, they explore how Melissa and her team have built a powerful culture of celebration and acknowledgment — one that helps students see themselves as capable, valued, and part of a caring community. From monthly award ceremonies and birthday shoutouts to everyday classroom wins, this conversation reveals how simple acts of recognition can transform school culture, sustain educators, and remind everyone why this work matters. It's a conversation that highlights not only the transformative power of recognition on students but also how these moments of joy and acknowledgment refuel and sustain the adults doing this critical work. Melissa reminds us why showing up to celebrate every win is the cornerstone of effective JJ education.

In this episode, we sit down with Melissa Duncan, a passionate science teacher at Cammack Children's Center in West Virginia. Melissa shares why she was drawn to Juvenile Justice education and why she believes JJ education is the best kept secret. We explore how she implemented the BreakFree initiative, Unseen. We discuss how engaging in hands-on work that is reviewed and celebrated by an authentic audience (including winning a national contest!) allows students to feel profoundly seen, challenging the negative narratives often placed upon them. It’s a conversation about breaking misconceptions, building confidence, and activating the hidden potential of students.

In this episode, we sit down with Heidi Loening, a passionate art teacher at Travis Hill School in New Orleans. Heidi shares how she uses her classroom as a space to build a strong community and a sense of safety for her students.We’ll also hear about Travis Hill’s annual Youth Justice Action Month (YJAM) showcase, where students share their work and stories with the wider community. Together, these practices highlight Heidi’s commitment to creating spaces where young people feel seen, heard, and valued—not just through self-expression, but through authentic opportunities to belong and be recognized.Here's an example mood meter such as the one Heidi discusses Travis Hill School YJAM Event InfoBook Link: Troublemakers: Lessons in Freedom from Young Children at School

In this episode, we sit down with Jessie Storrs, a teacher librarian at a youth detention facility. Jessie shares her "ask for forgiveness later" approach to innovation, including how she used board games in the library to build crucial social-emotional skills and foster student connection. We discuss the importance of introducing students to new opportunities and how genuine teacher passion is the key to unlocking student engagement. Join us as Jessie reminds us what it takes to make a real difference in the classroom.

In this episode, we're honored to sit down with Amanda Johnson, a dedicated educator from Passages Academy in New York. Amanda shares how she creates a classroom that welcomes students in and empowers them to make it their own. We'll explore her "Real World Fridays" initiative, which turns classroom discussions into platforms for authentic, student-led conversations on big issues. Join us as we learn from Amanda about leading with a focus on connection and creativity to create a learning environment where students feel seen, heard, and empowered.

What makes a technology program truly successful, especially in challenging, restricted spaces? In this episode of Tech Check, we're taking a '1000-foot view' to analyze the key elements that contribute to a program’s success. We'll break down the importance of devices, software, network infrastructure, and policies, but most importantly, the people who make it all happen. Join us to understand how these elements work together to create a cohesive and effective program.Shownotes: Nothing this week.

This episode is PART TWO of diving deep into the critical questions you need to ask before introducing new tech into your secure school environment. Hosts Kaylah Holland and Anthony Martini discuss the importance of technology access for students, who needs to be involved, and the best path for getting started when implementing a new technology program.

In this special episode, we showcase the winning podcast segments from BreakFree Education's "Unspoiled" initiative, where students explored America's National Parks through creative storytelling. Listen as young learners from Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, and Arizona share their research and passion for places like Shenandoah, Yosemite, and Biscayne through engaging original podcasts. These segments highlight how meaningful, project-based learning can spark curiosity and give students an authentic platform to share their knowledge with the world.Shownotes:BreakFree Initiatives

In this episode, we're chatting with Chassidy Williams, an Educational Technology Specialist at Harris County Juvenile Probation in Houston, Texas. In this conversation, Chassidy sheds light on the often complex dynamic between school tech coaches, like herself, and facility tech directors. We'll explore the ins and outs of their relationship – is it a mentorship, a partnership, or something else entirely? Chassidy will share insights on the common challenges faced by tech directors in secure settings, and how she helps them navigate those obstacles. We'll discuss the importance of building trust, fostering collaboration, and creating a culture of innovation, even within the constraints of JJ spaces. Join us for 'Tech Without Fear,' a conversation that's sure to provide valuable perspectives for anyone working at the intersection of technology and education in challenging environments.

Ever wondered what it's like to be a teacher AND a tech coach in a juvenile justice school? In this episode of Books Over Bars, guest Ana Roper shares the complexities of educational technology in secure settings as a math teacher and tech coach. Learn about the challenges she faces, the strategies she uses to encourage tech integration, and the ways schools can better support teachers in using technology effectively.Shownotes:Desmos: free graphing calculatorNotebookLM

What does it take to prioritize student learning in even the most challenging environments? Join us for a conversation with Gena McGill, a dedicated educator who shares her experiences and insights on creating a student-centered classroom in a highly restricted setting. Discover how Gena advocates for her students, adapts to their unique needs, and fosters a love of learning despite the obstacles.

Can theatre-based practices help unlock the potential of confined youth? In this episode of Books Over Bars, Kaylah and Christina explore the innovative collaboration between Blake Tobey, a teaching artist, and Jodie Morgenson, a teacher in a juvenile justice school. Discover how they brought theatre-based therapeutic practices into the classroom, the impact it had on students, and the valuable skills these activities foster. Gain insights into this unique approach and learn how it can be adapted to empower youth in your classroom!Shownotes:Augusto Boal - Games for Actors and Non-Actors & Theatre of the OppressedRehabilitation Through the ArtsViola Spolin - Theater Games For the Classroom“Lone nut” exercise linkLesson Plans

How do you create a school culture where teachers thrive and students excel? Join us as we speak with Simone Garwood, a dynamic principal who shares her insights on fostering continuous improvement, holding teachers accountable with compassion, and building a school community where everyone feels valued and supported.Show notes:Hidden Opportunity: Youth in DetentionIntro and outro music created by students at J.C. Montgomery School in King County, CA; Mastering by NEONMYST

How can we create truly innovative tech programs within the unique environment of secure schools? In this episode of Books Over Bars, Kaylah and Anthony welcome Derek Gagnon, DYS Director of IT for the Collaborative Educational Services in Massachusetts, to explore the challenges and opportunities of bringing cutting-edge technology to juvenile justice education. Derek shares his expertise in fostering innovation, navigating security concerns, and building programs that empower students and educators. Derek provides practical advice, leaving listeners with the adage of 'trust, yet verify.'Shownotes:safedoc (prevents collaboration in Google Workspace)SensoManaging Wi-Fi networks while enrolling ChromebooksMagicschool MagicStudentTransfrVR (Derek’s one new thing)ClassVRIntro and outro music created by students at J.C. Montgomery School in King County, CA; Mastering by NEONMYST

Ready to break down the barriers between your classroom and the real world? Join us as we talk with Ruth Edge, an inspiring educator who has mastered the art of connecting her students with authentic audiences in the community. Discover how Ruth's innovative approach fosters student engagement, builds real-world skills, and makes learning relevant and meaningful.Show notes: 9 years by K.E. (student poem)Out of Akron (student poem + artwork)

Get ready to reimagine English class! Join Kaylah Holland and Christina Campbell as they chat with Bill Laforme, an incredible English teacher from Massachusetts, about innovative ways to engage students and create unique experiences in the classroom. Discover how Bill sparks creativity and fosters a love of literature in his students.Show notes:Unworldly WinnersJason Reynolds (Author)Rime of the Ancient MarinerBill’s news clippings:A Look At Lynnfield In The American RevolutionChristmas 1941: A Surreal Time For LynnfieldAre There Ghosts In The Old Meeting House?

This episode is PART ONE of diving deep into the critical questions you need to ask before introducing new tech into your secure school environment. Hosts Kaylah Holland and Anthony Martini guide you through allowing technology into juvenile justice spaces while also keeping kids safe and secure online. Don't miss this essential guide for any tech specialist working in juvenile justice!Shownotes:HaparaBreakFree BaseNoteBook LM

This episode kicks off a tech series focused on accessible technology in secure schools. Hosts Kaylah Holland and Anthony Martini dive into preparing devices for the new school year and introduce BreakFree Base, a brand new online community. If you're a tech specialist in this space, you won't want to miss this!Reach out to us at [email protected]:NIST password guidelinesBreakFree Base: breakfree-ed.org/baseOne new thing:AI educational platforms: DreamBox Learning Edmentum ZearnVR platforms: ClassVR TransfrVR

Sharnette Sims, Principal of the Consuela B. York High School, located inside the Cook County adult jail, offers some terrific tips on leadership, including how she ‘calls people in’ instead of ‘calling people out.’

A group of tech-educators share what it takes to get the internet up and running inside of youth facilities, and ensure the technology gets used to make school engaging and meaningful, not simply as a tech-based substitute for packets.

Henderson Lewis, outgoing Superintendent of New Orleans Public Schools, talks about how he sees his work in New Orleans–and ensuring that students held in detention get a quality education–as a part of the larger civil rights struggle.

A group of students from a juvenile facility in Missouri remind us how important it is to offer them choice, to trust in them, and see them as capable.

Robert Alexander, a tradesman turned teacher shares how he and a group of students designed and built a Tiny House, inside of a youth facility. You can access photos of the tiny house under "Podcasts" on our website at https://www.breakfree-ed.org/edupalooza-content.

David Domenici is the Executive Director of BreakFree Education and a longtime juvenile justice and education advocate. He joins us to talk about the many different people that play a role in a young person finding success in the juvenile justice classroom.

In this episode we’re joined by poet Sha’Condria "iCon" Sibley and Christopher, a winning student from our 2021 Words Unlocked contest. Words Unlocked is a nationwide poetry initiative and contest sponsored by BreakFree Education during National poetry month in April for students in juvenile justice facilities.Music from this episode was created by students and staff at Los Padrinos Juvenile Hall in Los Angeles in 2016.