In today's episode, we are continuing our conversation around literacy. There is a lot of conversation in Kansas City about literacy and reading as it relates to students and schools. But today we want to talk about how families can support their students’ literacy at home. Danielle Dispenza, Director of School Navigation, and is joined by educators Gabi Guillory Welsh, and Amanda Walker-Jackson, and Julia Kingsbury with the Kansas City Library to discuss how you can support literacy at home!

Season 3, Episode 2 - Join Nina Ward, with Danielle Dispenza, Director of School Navigation, and literacy and special ed educator Ms. Gabi Guillory Welsh as they discuss supporting students with dyslexia both at home and at school.

Season 3, Episode 1 - In today's episode, we chat about the Science of Reading- why it's important and the impact reading has on your child's education.

This episode kicks off our three part series on literacy!

Season 2, Episode 9 - Tune in as Danielle Dispenza, Director of School Navigation, is joined by Jessica DiGiovanni and Stephanie Answer, as they discuss a very unique Individualized Education Plan carried out through homebound instruction that supports the needs of Stephanie's son, who is non-verbal, and has unique needs. Resources:Understood.orgMissouri Parent Bill of Rights

Missouri Procedural SafeguardsIEP Evaluation Parent Referral Flow Chart mofamilytofamily.orgmissouriparentsact.orgSpellers Documentaryhttps://i-asc.org/https://www.spellers.com/

Season 2, Episode 8 - En este episodio, escuche a Susana Elizarraraz y Celia C. Ruiz hablar sobre los recursos de salud mental disponibles en Kansas City.ResourcesLínea 988 NAMI Folleto educativo sobre salud mentalMattie Rhodes

Season 2, Episode 7 - Nina and Danielle discuss kindergarten readiness with parents and educators, Akeyla Walker and Amanda Walker-Jackson. Tune in to hear tips on how to prepare your child and yourself for he transition to kindergarten.Resources:Showmekcschools.orgKindergarten Readiness GuideSchool Guide KC English School Guide KC Spanish Finding the Right School Workbook

Season 2, Episode 6 - Middle school years pass by so quickly, we often forget to use this time to prepare our students for high school. Tune in to this episode with Nina, Danielle, and Kauffman School counselor, Alexis Thuston to hear tips on how to support your student during these transition years and how to search for the best high school for your student.Resources:School Search site School Guide KC English School Guide KC SpanishFinding the Right School Workbook

Season 2, Episode 5 - In this episode, we’re diving into an important topic that impacts students, families, and the future of Kansas City Public Schools—the upcoming General Obligation (GO) Bond on the April 2025 ballot. Nina sits down with KCPS Superintendent Dr. Collier to break down the GO Bond, why it’s needed, and how it fits into the district’s 10-year Capital Funding Plan. We’ll explore how KCPS plans to use the funding, the impact of building improvements on student success, and how the community can support these plans. Whether you’re a parent, educator, or community member, this episode will help you stay informed before you head to the polls on April 8, 2025.Remember to vote! Tune in to learn more, and visit:KCPS Bond Website KCPS Capital Plan page Jackson County Election Board