D35 on the Go

In this episode, we visit with our school nurses and highlight the work they do in our schools to support student wellness and belonging.You will learn more about:The role school nurses play in schoolsHow mental health finds its way into the nurse’s officeThe work our nurses do to support heart healthLink to D35 Nurses and Healthcare Page: https://www.glencoeschools.org/family-resources/nurses-healthcare Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In January, D35 hosts a Career Exploration Day. The experience is designed to provide our 8th grade students an opportunity to deepen their understanding of the careers available across multiple pathways as they plan for the classes they will explore in high school. In addition to visiting a variety of different booths, students hear a keynote presentation from a D35 alum. On today’s episode, you will have the chance to:Learn more from the various professionals that presented at the eventHear from some of our 8th graders about their experience with the Career Exploration DayListen in to a conversation with Stevie Ringel, this year’s keynote speaker Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Dr. Wang and Mrs. Weir have a conversation focused on the ripple effect of gratitude. As we approach the end of another calendar year, focusing on spreading gratitude to others can be a great way to get positive energy out into the world. The science of gratitude is also an interesting topic to explore.During our conversation, we will discuss:Research on the positive effects of expressing gratitudeThe power of sharing gratitude with teachersDetails of our upcoming Gratitude Gift Making eventInterested in learning more? Infographic on the Science of Gratitude Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Dr. Wang speaks with Enza Fox and Mary Kelly from West School. Mrs. Fox serves as our Instructional Technology Specialist at West, and Mrs. Kelly serves as our library, or CLC, director. Together, these two innovative educators lead our Westies through creative lessons that require critical thinking and collaboration. During our conversation, we discuss:The unique experiences Mrs. Fox and Mrs. Kelly bring to our WestiesLessons your children learn related to digital literacy and citizenshipThe ways in which Mrs. Fox and Mrs. Kelly partner with classroom teachers to enhance what is happening in our classroomsInterested in learning more? Information about Digital Citizenship at West SchoolTake a look at our new District Technology Guidelines that we reference in the episode Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Dr. Wang connects with Dr. Marc Brackett, a leading voice in the field of emotional intelligence. Dr. Brackett is the founding director of the Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence and a professor at Yale’s Child Study Center. His groundbreaking research explores how emotions influence learning, decision-making, relationships, well-being, and even the climate of schools.During our conversation, we will discuss:Dr. Brackett’s new book, Dealing with Feeling: Use Your Emotion to Create the Life You WantStrategies we can use to help us regulate our emotionsInterested in learning more? Explore Dr. Brackett’s website: https://marcbrackett.com/View Marc’s YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@marcbrackettPurchase one of his books: Permission to Feel and Dealing with Feeling Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We had the good fortune of meeting today’s guest, Andrew Fishman, during our Anxious Generation panel last year. Andrew is a licensed, clinical social worker who specializes in supporting his clients to understand the impact video games have on their lives. He also recently wrote a book titled, Parenting a Gamer: Help Your Child Build Healthy Habits, Make Positive Choices, and Find Balance in Virtual Worlds. During this episode, Dr. Wang and Mr. Fishman will discuss:Positives associated with gamingAspects of video games that warrant concernsHow to support your child with having a healthy relationship with video gamesInterested in learning more? Check out Andrew Fishman’s articles and upcoming book on his website: https://www.videogamehealth.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In our 3rd episode of the D35 On the Go Kindergarten mini-series, we are  joined by Molly Pope, parenting coach and early childhood expert, and  Erin Nathan, one of our South School kindergarten teachers, to discuss the following topics:The ways in which regulation comes into play in kindergartenDevelopmentally appropriate expectations when it comes to regulationWays we can support our child’s regulation practice and growth at homeResources:Breathing strategies for parents Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We will be recording 3 Kindergarten Mini-series episodes in this first month of school to bolster kindergarten families as they support their child in the transition to kindergarten. In this second episode, we welcome Molly Pope, parenting coach, former school psychologist, and early childhood expert. Molly will be talking us through how we can set boundaries in our homes in order to support our children in rising to our expectations - both at home and at school.During this conversation, topics include:What effective boundaries look like for kindergarten-aged childrenHow to align home expectations with school routines and valuesPractical strategies for implementing consistent boundaries that support learningCommon boundary-setting challenges and how to overcome themWays to help children understand and embrace expectations rather than resist them Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

One unique resource in our Glencoe  community is access to mental health care through Family Service of Glencoe, or FSG as they are known. In this episode, Dr. Wang speaks with Amber Bond, Executive Director of FSG. During their conversation, they discuss:The services offered by FSGHow you can reach out for support if it’s neededInformation about our upcoming Hearts & Minds in Motion event, which will support the work of FSG Interested in learning more? Check out www.fsgcares.org Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We will be recording 3 Kindergarten Mini-series episodes in this first month of school to bolster kindergarten families as they support their child in the transition to kindergarten. In this first episode, South School Principal, Kelly Zonghetti, and Director of Professional Learning, Betty Weir, discuss all of the planning that went into opening this school year and ways in which parents can complement the work of the school at home.During this conversation, topics include:The most common hopes and worries parents express about kindergartenWhat "kindergarten readiness" really means beyond academicsNew supports South School has implemented this year for kindergarten familiesPractical ways to build learning stamina both at home and at school Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As we look to the 2025-26 school year, District 35 is excited to be offering the Let Grow Play Club as an option at both South and West. In this episode, Dr. Wang speaks with Megan Hebert, Let Grow’s school program director. During our conversation, we will discuss:The foundations of the Let Grow organizationThe way in which the clubs are structuredWays parents can complement the Let Grow approach at homeInterested in learning more? Check out the Let Grow websiteLet Grow Home Independence Toolkit Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Dr. Wang speaks with Sarah Ward, a nationally revered professional in the area of executive functioning. During our conversation, we will discuss:The reasons we are seeing an increase in executive functioning challenges, among children and adultsWays in which we can support our children at home and at schoolSpecial considerations as we think about setting up routines and structures in our classrooms and homesInterested in learning more? Check out Sarah Ward’s website at www.efpractice.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Dr. Wang speaks with West School principal Ben Baird about the 4th Grade Boundless Adventures field trip. During our conversation, we will discuss:The origin of the field tripThe types of activities our students experience on the field tripThe value of the field trip as the students conclude their 4th grade experience at West and prepare to transition to 5th grade at CentralInterested in learning more? Check out the Boundless Adventures website Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Dr. Wang speaks with Dr. Doug Bolton about the ideas presented in his new book, Untethered. During their conversation, they will discuss:The role of attachment in healthy developmentThe importance of learning to regulate emotionsThe power of repairInterested in learning more? Take a look at the book, UntetheredListen to Dr. Bolton’s interview with Lisa Damour from the April Family Action Network event. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Dr. Wang speaks with Megan Michna, South’s Multilingual Learner Teacher and member of the District Belonging Committee. During our conversation, we will discuss:A behind the scenes look at our Family Belonging EventThe variety of cultures represented within our D35 schoolsThe strengths that our multilingual learners bring to our school communityInterested in learning more? Superhero VideoBook listTedTalk- The Benefits of a Bilingual BrainView pictures of the Being Bilingual is a Superpower Bulletin Board` Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Dr. Wang speaks with members of the D35 leadership team regarding learnings coming out of recent D35 parent engagement events and ways we can empower our children to be more independent. During our conversation, we will discuss:New approaches community parents shared on ways they are promoting skill-building with their childrenShifts we are making in our schools to enhance free play and agencySuggestions from each of our building principals on ways in which we can encourage independence at homeInterested in learning more? Supporting Our Youth with Healthy Technology HabitsScreen Sanity websiteResearch from The Anxious Generation Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

D35 On the Go, Episode #25: PTO Spotlight: Enhancing Education Beyond the ClassroomIn this episode, Dr. Wang speaks with Lauren Kase, one of our PTO co-presidents, and Sarah Elsasser,​​​​​​​​ Chair of The Power of Partnership 2025 Appeal. During our conversation, we will discuss:The role of the PTO in D35Examples of opportunities the PTO fundsHow you can get involved with and support the PTOInterested in learning more? Visit https://glencoepto.membershiptoolkit.com/Contribute to the PTO Annual Appeal here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we speak with Jennifer Miller, a highly revered parenting expert. Jennifer has been a regular contributor to NBC Education Nation’s parent toolkit and has contributed articles and interviews to publications such as The Washington Post, Parent Magazine, and the Huffington Post. She has a masters degree with a focus on social and emotional development from University of Illinois Chicago. She is also an author…her book Confident Parents, Confident Kids is available in stores and she is in the process of writing her second book.During this conversation, you will learn more about:Jennifer’s work with parents, children, and educators.The structure of her family newsletter that will be available for all D35 familiesHow to start the year fresh in your family Interested in learning more? Take a moment to listen to the webinar we hosted, during which Jennifer already begins to share some valuable parenting tips! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Dr. Wang connects with members of the Central School Integrated Arts team. During the conversation, they will discuss:Central’s integrated arts offeringsHow the arts add to our students’ experience in D35Experiences your children can look forward to in these programs Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we are joined by Amy Holaday, Director of Curriculum and Instruction, who is also a leader in our work with instructional technology. During our conversation, we will discuss:Our philosophy about instructional technology in the districtThe work we are doing as a district to ensure intentional and purposeful use of technology in classroomsOur tech practices in D35 and their connection to Jonathan Haidt’s call to action for schools in The Anxious GenerationResources: Away for the Day parent letter Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we hear from West Teachers Courtney Orosz and Katie Doherty to discuss the power of reading aloud with children (no matter their age)! Our discussion includes:The value of reading aloud in the classroomWays in which you can incorporate reading aloud in your homeHow reading aloud can support your child in perspective takingResources: Resource shared at West Family Literacy Night with ways parents can support at home during read aloudDumpling Soup picture book discussed in the episodeThe Dunderheads picture book discussed in the episodeThe Thing About Georgie novel discussed in the episodeTomas and the Library Lady picture book discussed in the episode Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Dr. Wang will speak with Mary Kelly, CLC Director at West School and leader of several West student clubs. We will also feature some South and West students to help provide a picture of the club experience in D35.Additional information on student clubsClub offerings in D35How clubs can support students in feeling a sense of belonging at schoolWe will also hear directly from several students about their experiences with clubs. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Dr. Wang is joined by Dr. David Yeager, acclaimed developmental psychologist and author of the recently published book, “10 to 25: The Science of Motivating Young People.” Dr. Yeager is a professor of psychology at the University of Texas at Austin and worked closely with Carol Dweck and her research on growth mindset. Dr. Yeager and Dr. Wang will discuss:Current misconceptions about adolescentsHow to embrace the mentor mindset when working with young peopleStrategies that will support adults in communicating with youth in a way that they can hear usResources: FAN website with Dr. Yeager’s FAN Talk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As we look forward to the 2024-25 school year, we have planned an exciting lineup of parent engagement opportunities for the Glencoe community. During this episode, Dr. Wang and Betty Weir, Director of Professional Learning, discuss:The learning opportunities you have to look forward to in the upcoming school year.The process that we use to plan parent engagement in D35Family Night gatherings to put on your calendar so you can save the date!Resources: D35 2024-2025 Parent Engagement CalendarEnhancing the Partnership Between School and Home Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As we enter summer, our teachers have supported students with making plans for summer reading. In this episode, we welcome Dr. Amy Stewart, District Literacy Specialist, and Michelle Gonzalez, Central Reading Specialist, to discuss ways parents can support their children with reading over the summer. Enjoy information on:Research behind the value of summer readingTools parents can utilize to support student reading motivation Ideas for great books to read and shareSummer Reading Note & Ideas/Links-2024 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It seems to be the #1 topic on parents’ and teachers’ minds…how are smartphones impacting our children? In this episode, Dr. Wang speaks with a Glencoe parent about what we are noticing and wondering when it comes to our children’s phone usage. Topics addressed will include:The interactions parents and educators are noticing our children have via phonesRecent research and articles presenting ideas about this topicWays we can support our children and each other in living a balanced life Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For the past 5 years, D35 has partnered with Julie Freeman to provide dedicated Mindfulness instruction to students K-8. This May, some of our West classrooms are piloting a 21-day mindfulness challenge for our students, staff, and families. In this episode, Dr. Wang and Julie discuss:The benefits of mindfulnessThe ways we have partnered to bring mindfulness instruction to studentsThe details of the 21-day Mindfulness ChallengeSpecial thanks to the Glencoe PTO for funding this learning experience for our students and staff. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Each year, West School invites Bill Buczinsky to lead a poetry learning experience for the 3rd graders. In today’s episode, Dr. Wang talks with Mr. Buczinsky about his work with the children. During the conversation, they will touch on:The role poetry can play in learningThe idea that poetry lives within each of usThe performances students make at WestSpecial thanks to the Glencoe PTO for funding this learning experience for our students. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Dr. Wang talks with Dr. Kelly Zonghetti, South School Principal, as well as a variety of South School students. Topics discussed will include:The role of play at South SchoolWays parents can incorporate play at homeStudents sharing their views on playIf you are interested in learning more about social emotional learning at South School, you can visit our website at https://www.glencoesouth.org/learning-in-our-schools/social-and-emotional-learning-sel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Dr. Wang talks with Clair Durkes, Central Project Lead the Way teacher, and Ellie, a 7th grade student, about the Project Lead the Way course D35 offers students. Topics discussed will include:Project Lead the Way approach and what you might see in the classroomSkill sets the course enhancesThe student perspective on what they most value about the courseIf you are interested in learning more about D35’s Project Lead the Way course, you can visit our website at: https://www.glencoeschools.org/learning-in-our-schools/project-lead-the-way-pltw Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Dr. Wang talks with Molly Pope, an Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health Consultant specializing in supporting children, families, and classrooms. She has worked with young children and families as a school psychologist for 17 years. Topics discussed will include:Enhancing connection with your children, even when you are feeling frustratedWays to support your children in managing their emotionsStrategies to try to support your family’s well-beingIf you are interested in learning more about Molly Pope’s coaching and consulting services, you can visit her website at: https://mollypopeparentcoach.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Dr. Wang talks with Mrs. Lori Worth, New Trier Northfield Campus Transition Specialist about the transition process from Central to New Trier. She also interviews Alexa, a current 9th grade student, who recently transitioned to New Trier from Central. Topics discussed will include:What to expect in the coming months for 8th grade parents and studentsWays parents can support their child during the transition processWhat students can expect during the transition processIf you are interested in learning more about the transition to New Trier, you can visit their webpage for incoming freshmen at: https://www.newtrier.k12.il.us/incomingfreshmen. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Dr. Wang talks with Dr. Devorah Heitner, author of Screenwise and Growing Up in Public. Dr. Heitner has written articles about children and technology that have been published in The Washington Post and New York Times. They delve into topics such as mentoring vs. monitoring when it comes to digital tools, ways to support our children in thinking critically about posting and engaging in online dialogue, and considerations to help you determine your child's readiness for various tech tools and apps.If you are interested in learning more from Dr. Heitner, you can view her presentation to D35 parents from November 14, 2023 or purchase her book Growing Up in Public. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Dr. Wang talks with Andy Pickett, Central School assistant principal, about the Spartans in Action. Spartans In Action is a framework that contains a common language that Central teachers are utilizing to talk about social emotional learning skills with students. If you are interested in looking at the Spartans In Action infographic, you can find it here on our website (scroll down to the button of the page). Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Dr. Wang talks with Lynn Lyons, psychotherapist and author of Anxious Kids, Anxious Parents, The Anxiety Audit, and host of the FlusterClux podcast. The discussion highlights skills families can put into practice that support children with anxiety and worry.If you are interested in reading Lynn’s newest book, The Anxiety Audit, please email us at [email protected]. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Dr. Wang talks with Michelle Icard, author of 8 Setbacks that Can Make A Child A Success, Fourteen Talks By Age Fourteen, and Middle School Makeover. The discussion highlights the 3 steps parents can take to support a child through a setback and help them come out stronger. We also explore how we can work together as a community to support all of our children collectively.If you are interested in reading Michelle Icard’s book, 8 Setbacks That Can Make A Child A Success, please email us at [email protected]. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

During this podcast, Dr. Wang interviews Aman Bedi, parent, and Betty Weir, D35 Director of Professional Learning. The three discuss the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion in the community of Glencoe and within the D35 schools. They highlight the upcoming Family Belonging Night. The goal of the evening is to celebrate the diversity within Glencoe and enhance the sense of belonging in our schools.If you are interested in taking part in Family Belonging Night, it will take place on October 19 from 6:00-7:30 p.m. at West School. Learn more about the event and RSVP here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As our students acclimate to the beginning of the school year, we know families are in the midst of setting up routines and supporting their children in staying organized. In this episode, Dr. Wang talks with Beth Bertoni, Central School Psychologist, about “executive functioning.” Mrs. Bertoni defines this term and shares practical strategies parents can use at home to support their children with homework, materials, and more. If you are interested in this topic, please join us at our D35 Learning Together event on Wednesday, September 20th with Maggie Schwalback, CEO of North Shore Executive functioning. Learn more about the event and RSVP here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In our first episode of the 2023-24 school year, Dr. Wang has a conversation with Diana Thompson, our new Assistant Director of Pupil Services. They discuss how to support your child as you look to the new school year. Topics addressed include setting your child up for success on the first day of school, ways to handle conversations about school jitters, and suggestions for routines at home that will support a smooth transition. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In our second episode of the D35 On the Go Podcast, Dr. Wang speaks with Ben Baird, the new West School Principal. Get to know Mr. Baird’s professional history, as well as how he plans to engage parents at West School. Don’t miss this episode including fun facts and special insider information about Mr. Ben Baird! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In our premier episode of the D35 On the Go Podcast, Dr. Wang speaks with Dr. Mollet, Central School Principal, and two 5th grade students about the transition from 4th to 5th grade. Topics explored include navigating the Central School building, how parents can be involved at the middle school level, and what 5th graders wish they knew prior to the transition. Both parents and students preparing for the transition to 5th grade will benefit from hearing the insights shared by our guests! A special thank you to our student participants, who took time out of their day to sit down and talk with Dr. Wang. We also want to give a special shout out to our band, orchestra, and chorus programs who provided the transition music for the podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.