In this episode of The School Collective, we sit down with retired principal and author Martin Silverman to explore why the earliest years of education can shape a child’s entire academic future. We discuss building a strong school culture, supporting teachers before burnout occurs, and shifting from a deficit mindset to a strengths-based view of young learners, especially in Pre-K and kindergarten.

Martin shares lessons from his decades of leadership experience, including what school leaders can do right now to build trust, empower teachers, and foster environments where children thrive through curiosity and connection. We even wrap up with a festive holiday roundtable featuring very important topics such as when to hang Christmas lights and the ethics of regifting.

Social Handles:

Christopher Ponce

• Instagram - @theschoolpsychguy
• LinkedIn - Christopher Ponce

Martin Silverman

• Instagram -@the5silvermans

Music by: J. Andrew Collins

In this powerhouse episode, Christopher sits down with two icons in school psychology—Dr. John Kelly, former NASP President and lifelong advocate for equitable practice, and Dr. Jack Naglieri, renowned cognitive assessment researcher and co-developer of the KABC and CAS.

Together, they take listeners on a journey through the history and evolution of intelligence testing, unpacking how assessment practices have both shaped and been shaped by systemic inequities. From the origins of cognitive theory to the modern-day implications of PASS theory and test fairness, Jack and John bring decades of insight and candor to the conversation.

They also share reflections on their own careers—balancing science, advocacy, and humanity—and offer advice for early-career practitioners seeking to expand their roles beyond testing. Expect wisdom, humor, and a few sailing and guitar stories along the way.

Topics include:

• The difference between test bias and test fairness
• Why subtest interpretation may be scientifically unsound
• How systemic inequities impact identification of gifted and diverse learners
• The role of school psychologists as advocates for equity and comprehensive services

In this episode, Christopher, Amy, and Brooke sit down with Dr. Eric Rossen, Executive Director of the National Association of School Psychologists (NASP), for an inside look at how the largest school psychology organization in the world operates. Dr. Rossen breaks down NASP’s structure, decision-making, and advocacy strategy—offering candid insight into how policies are shaped, how the organization decides when to speak out, and what “DRIP” (Discipline, Restraint, Intentionality, Prioritization) means for meaningful advocacy.

From balancing science and leadership to a sneak peek into NASP’s new youth mental health documentary featuring Andy Garcia, this conversation sheds light on what it really takes to lead a national professional association. The episode closes on a lighter note, with favorite road trips, celebrity crushes, and a hilarious debate about why umbrellas are overrated.

Social Handles:

Christopher Ponce

• Instagram - @theschoolpsychguy
• LinkedIn - Christopher Ponce

Music by: J. Andrew Collins

In this episode, Christopher sits down with Taisha Torres, a bilingual school psychologist whose journey from New York City to Texas reveals the beauty and complexity of serving diverse communities. Taisha shares how a college course unexpectedly led her into school psychology, the mentorship that shaped her path, and the lessons learned from working in culturally rich and high-need settings.

Together, they explore the nuances of bilingual advocacy, the balance between structure and flexibility in parent-teacher meetings, and the differences between school systems across regions. Taisha also opens up about her experiences as a mom, her authentic approach to parenting content, and her upcoming bilingual children’s book featuring a neurodivergent student named Matteo.

This conversation blends professional insight with real-life reflection—reminding us that behind every data point and IEP meeting, there’s a story rooted in culture, care, and community.

Social Handles:

Christopher Ponce

• Instagram - @theschoolpsychguy
• LinkedIn - Christopher Ponce

Taisha Torres

• Instagram -@taisharising
• TikTok - @taisharising

Music by: J. Andrew Collins

In this episode, Chris and Amy sit down with Paloma Nava, a bilingual school psychologist whose professional journey has taken her from criminal justice to school psychology across Texas and New Mexico. Paloma shares how navigating different state regulations has shaped her practice and highlights the unique challenges of evaluating students in borderland regions.

The conversation dives into Paloma’s work with Child Find, her role in psychological and cognitive testing, and her commitment to understanding students’ cultural and linguistic backgrounds, especially for recent immigrants and children with complex needs. She offers a critical look at the limitations of standardized tests for bilingual students, emphasizing the need for culturally responsive assessment tools and improved national collaboration among bilingual evaluators.

Beyond assessment, Paloma opens up about student advocacy, the importance of respecting families’ perspectives, and her approach to parenting and child development. She also shares her cultural roots and personal reflections, offering listeners a glimpse into the heart behind her professional passion.

Social Handles:

Christopher Ponce

• Instagram - @theschoolpsychguy
• LinkedIn - Christopher Ponce

Paloma Nava

• Instagram -@polliipop

Music by: J. Andrew Collins

In this episode of The School Collective Podcast, hosts Amy and Brooke sit down with occupational therapist Mary Beth Powell to explore the vital role of OTs in schools. With over a decade of experience across districts and clinical settings, Mary Beth sheds light on how occupational therapy supports student success, whether through fine motor skills, self-care, or navigating sensory and behavioral challenges.

The conversation highlights the importance of collaboration between OTs, teachers, and administrators, and touches on best practices for supervision when leaders may not share the same professional background. Mary Beth also offers practical tips for increasing OT visibility in schools, shares stories of bridging family-school differences, and looks ahead to OT’s expanding role in mental health and policy advocacy.

This thoughtful discussion underscores how occupational therapy not only removes barriers to learning but also helps shape more inclusive and responsive school communities.

In this foundational episode, Amy and Christopher are joined by Melissa Mathews, a seasoned speech therapist and assistive technology (AT) specialist, to break down the essentials of AT in education. From text-to-speech and speech-to-text tools to AAC devices and high-tech supports like eye-gaze systems, Melissa demystifies what AT really is, who it serves, and why it matters.

The trio dives into the SETT framework, misconceptions about AT evaluations, and the growing role of AI in accessibility. Along the way, they share personal stories, reflect on their own professional journeys, and even explore the world of Sulcata tortoises, Aqua Zumba, and hypothetical medical careers.

Social Handles:

Christopher Ponce

• Instagram - @theschoolpsychguy
• LinkedIn - Christopher Ponce

Music by: J. Andrew Collins

In this episode of The School Collective, we sit down with Jana Parker, a Licensed Educational Psychologist, Board Certified School Neuropsychologist, and founder of Mind by Design, Inc. Jana shares her journey from school psychologist to CEO, giving us an inside look at what it takes to launch and grow a thriving private practice in California. We talk about the highs and hurdles of transitioning out of public education, her mission behind Empower LEP, and how she’s helping other professionals redefine success on their terms.

If you're curious about what it means to be an LEP, thinking about private practice, or want a dose of inspiration from someone who’s boldly paving her path, this episode is for you.

P.S. Follow Jana on Instagram at @themindbydesign and @empowerlep

P.S.S. And check out The Empower LEP Podcast wherever you listen!

Social Handles:

Christopher Ponce

• Instagram - @theschoolpsychguy
• LinkedIn - Christopher Ponce

Jana Parker

• Instagram -@empowerlep
• Instagram - @themindbydesign

Music by: J. Andrew Collins