https://simplecast.com Duty Free Lunch Duty Free Lunch is the official podcast of the Pennsylvania State Education Association. Join us as we unpack the issues that matter most to Pennsylvania educators and especially PSEA members. From cutting-edge classroom strategies to thought-provoking policy discussions, if it impacts our education community, it's on the menu. 2024 - Duty Free Lunch en Wed, 1 Apr 2026 09:00:00 +0000 Wed, 1 Apr 2026 12:22:41 +0000 https://duty-free-lunch.simplecast.com Duty Free Lunch https://image.simplecastcdn.com/images/3acb30cf-1564-415c-b0c2-121def206096/7a83aa93-4695-47e6-9b7f-f14756b41976/3000x3000/duty-free-lunch-logo-4.jpg?aid=rss_feed https://duty-free-lunch.simplecast.com episodic Duty Free Lunch is the official podcast of the Pennsylvania State Education Association. Join us as we unpack the issues that matter most to Pennsylvania educators and especially PSEA members. From cutting-edge classroom strategies to thought-provoking policy discussions, if it impacts our education community, it's on the menu. Pennsylvania State Education Association, PSEA false https://feeds.simplecast.com/KnBr3VY1 education, educator, pennsylvania, psea, students Pennsylvania State Education Association comms@psea.org bea08760-5880-487c-abdf-ddb2565a9c5c Making a difference at every level: One-on-one with PSEA Senior NEA Director Melissa Costantino-Poruben Aaron sits down one-on-one with Melissa Costantino-Poruben in the first of a special spring series honoring outgoing PSEA Board members. A longtime math teacher and PSEA’s Senior NEA Director, Melissa shares what it’s really like to bridge state and national education advocacy, from chairing the NEA’s Friend of Education Committee to representing Pennsylvania at Education International in Argentina. She opens up about managing board responsibilities alongside family and classroom life, why she’s a passionate advocate for teacher sabbaticals, how the Corbett-era education cuts lit a fire under her to speak out, and why relationships are the real heart of this work.

Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to podcast@psea.org. 

Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

]]> Wed, 1 Apr 2026 09:00:00 +0000 comms@psea.org (Aaron Chapin, Melissa Costantino-Poruben, David Constantin, Erica Garcia) https://duty-free-lunch.simplecast.com/episodes/making-a-difference-at-every-level-one-on-one-with-psea-senior-nea-director-melissa-costantino-poruben-ew9j_3T4 Aaron sits down one-on-one with Melissa Costantino-Poruben in the first of a special spring series honoring outgoing PSEA Board members. A longtime math teacher and PSEA’s Senior NEA Director, Melissa shares what it’s really like to bridge state and national education advocacy, from chairing the NEA’s Friend of Education Committee to representing Pennsylvania at Education International in Argentina. She opens up about managing board responsibilities alongside family and classroom life, why she’s a passionate advocate for teacher sabbaticals, how the Corbett-era education cuts lit a fire under her to speak out, and why relationships are the real heart of this work.

Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to podcast@psea.org. 

Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

]]> Making a difference at every level: One-on-one with PSEA Senior NEA Director Melissa Costantino-Poruben Aaron Chapin, Melissa Costantino-Poruben, David Constantin, Erica Garcia 00:25:33 Aaron sits down one-on-one with Melissa Costantino-Poruben in the first of a special spring series honoring outgoing PSEA Board members. A longtime math teacher and PSEA’s Senior NEA Director, Melissa shares what it’s really like to bridge state and national education advocacy, from chairing the NEA’s Friend of Education Committee to representing Pennsylvania at Education International in Argentina. She opens up about managing board responsibilities alongside family and classroom life, why she’s a passionate advocate for teacher sabbaticals, how the Corbett-era education cuts lit a fire under her to speak out, and why relationships are the real heart of this work. Aaron sits down one-on-one with Melissa Costantino-Poruben in the first of a special spring series honoring outgoing PSEA Board members. A longtime math teacher and PSEA’s Senior NEA Director, Melissa shares what it’s really like to bridge state and national education advocacy, from chairing the NEA’s Friend of Education Committee to representing Pennsylvania at Education International in Argentina. She opens up about managing board responsibilities alongside family and classroom life, why she’s a passionate advocate for teacher sabbaticals, how the Corbett-era education cuts lit a fire under her to speak out, and why relationships are the real heart of this work. nea, public education, union, psea, politics, teaching, leadership, school false full 64 578351c3-c2f3-448d-953e-1d6b46d57c60 State Sen. Santarsiero makes the case for banning cellphones in schools Aaron and Jeff sit down with State Sen. Steve Santarsiero and PSEA Legislative Committee Chair Mike Cherinka to dig into Senate Bill 1014, Pennsylvania's proposed bell-to-bell cellphone ban for public schools. They talk about what the bill would actually require, how PSEA's position evolved over 18 months of member-driven discussions, and why a bill that passed the Senate 46-1 might just be the rare thing everyone can agree on. 

Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to podcast@psea.org. 

Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

]]> Wed, 18 Mar 2026 09:00:00 +0000 comms@psea.org (Aaron Chapin, Jeff Ney, Mike Cherinka, Sen. Steve Santarsiero) https://duty-free-lunch.simplecast.com/episodes/state-sen-santarsiero-makes-the-case-for-banning-cellphones-in-schools-UiN_SgcQ Aaron and Jeff sit down with State Sen. Steve Santarsiero and PSEA Legislative Committee Chair Mike Cherinka to dig into Senate Bill 1014, Pennsylvania's proposed bell-to-bell cellphone ban for public schools. They talk about what the bill would actually require, how PSEA's position evolved over 18 months of member-driven discussions, and why a bill that passed the Senate 46-1 might just be the rare thing everyone can agree on. 

Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to podcast@psea.org. 

Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

]]> State Sen. Santarsiero makes the case for banning cellphones in schools Aaron Chapin, Jeff Ney, Mike Cherinka, Sen. Steve Santarsiero 00:27:20 Aaron and Jeff sit down with State Sen. Steve Santarsiero and PSEA Legislative Committee Chair Mike Cherinka to dig into Senate Bill 1014, Pennsylvania's proposed bell-to-bell cellphone ban for public schools. They talk about what the bill would actually require, how PSEA's position evolved over 18 months of member-driven discussions, and why a bill that passed the Senate 46-1 might just be the rare thing everyone can agree on. Aaron and Jeff sit down with State Sen. Steve Santarsiero and PSEA Legislative Committee Chair Mike Cherinka to dig into Senate Bill 1014, Pennsylvania's proposed bell-to-bell cellphone ban for public schools. They talk about what the bill would actually require, how PSEA's position evolved over 18 months of member-driven discussions, and why a bill that passed the Senate 46-1 might just be the rare thing everyone can agree on. public schools, union, psea, politics, senate, screens, cellphones, students false full 63 7b7de3b8-99d7-467b-8889-d8913a7accf1 Breaking down the budget: what the latest Shapiro budget proposal means for you Aaron and Jeff are back with PSEA's Government Relations team to discuss the highs and lows for educators in Gov. Shapiro's 2026-27 Pennsylvania state budget proposal. 

Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to podcast@psea.org. 

Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

]]> Wed, 4 Mar 2026 10:00:00 +0000 comms@psea.org (Aaron Chapin, Jeff Ney, Dan Wiedemer, Erika Brunelle, Kelli Thompson) https://duty-free-lunch.simplecast.com/episodes/breaking-down-the-budget-what-the-latest-shapiro-budget-proposal-means-for-you-JWZ0LDxF Aaron and Jeff are back with PSEA's Government Relations team to discuss the highs and lows for educators in Gov. Shapiro's 2026-27 Pennsylvania state budget proposal. 

Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to podcast@psea.org. 

Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

]]> Breaking down the budget: what the latest Shapiro budget proposal means for you Aaron Chapin, Jeff Ney, Dan Wiedemer, Erika Brunelle, Kelli Thompson 00:25:25 Aaron and Jeff are back with PSEA's Government Relations team to discuss the highs and lows for educators in Gov. Shapiro's 2026-27 Pennsylvania state budget proposal. Aaron and Jeff are back with PSEA's Government Relations team to discuss the highs and lows for educators in Gov. Shapiro's 2026-27 Pennsylvania state budget proposal. public education, union, psea, politics, public school, budget, josh shapiro, shapiro, education false full 62 aebc3efc-ff18-4d54-80bf-500cdbd5ac7f Buried treasure in the schoolyard Aaron and Rachael speak with Spring Grove teacher Jason Baker about his innovative anthropology and archaeology program, where students design civilizations, bury artifacts, and conduct real digs on school grounds. This hands-on elective sparks unforgettable "aha" moments and proves experiential learning still matters.

Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to podcast@psea.org. 

Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

]]> Wed, 18 Feb 2026 10:00:00 +0000 comms@psea.org (Aaron Chapin, Rachael West, Jason Baker) https://duty-free-lunch.simplecast.com/episodes/buried-treasure-in-the-schoolyard-bPAUyh3p Aaron and Rachael speak with Spring Grove teacher Jason Baker about his innovative anthropology and archaeology program, where students design civilizations, bury artifacts, and conduct real digs on school grounds. This hands-on elective sparks unforgettable "aha" moments and proves experiential learning still matters.

Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to podcast@psea.org. 

Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

]]> Buried treasure in the schoolyard Aaron Chapin, Rachael West, Jason Baker 00:22:02 Aaron and Rachael speak with Spring Grove teacher Jason Baker about his innovative anthropology and archaeology program, where students design civilizations, bury artifacts, and conduct real digs on school grounds. This hands-on elective sparks unforgettable "aha" moments and proves experiential learning still matters. Aaron and Rachael speak with Spring Grove teacher Jason Baker about his innovative anthropology and archaeology program, where students design civilizations, bury artifacts, and conduct real digs on school grounds. This hands-on elective sparks unforgettable "aha" moments and proves experiential learning still matters. public schools, public education, union, psea, anthropology, archaeology, teaching false full 61 397fe841-bf64-44d3-8b6b-6d138abf4fcd The keystone moment: Becky Pringle on the power of PSEA members right now NEA President Becky Pringle returns to "Duty Free Lunch" for a powerful and personal conversation about attacks on educators, the future of public education, and Pennsylvania’s outsized role in protecting democracy. From union advocacy and cellphone policy to joy, resilience, and a surprise reunion with a former student, this episode blends heart, humor, and urgency at a pivotal moment for schools and educators nationwide.

Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to podcast@psea.org. 

Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

]]> Wed, 4 Feb 2026 10:00:00 +0000 comms@psea.org (Aaron Chapin, Jeff Ney, Jennette Harrison, Rachael West, Becky Pringle) https://duty-free-lunch.simplecast.com/episodes/the-keystone-moment-becky-pringle-on-the-power-of-psea-members-right-now-STPQOdBZ NEA President Becky Pringle returns to "Duty Free Lunch" for a powerful and personal conversation about attacks on educators, the future of public education, and Pennsylvania’s outsized role in protecting democracy. From union advocacy and cellphone policy to joy, resilience, and a surprise reunion with a former student, this episode blends heart, humor, and urgency at a pivotal moment for schools and educators nationwide.

Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to podcast@psea.org. 

Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

]]> The keystone moment: Becky Pringle on the power of PSEA members right now Aaron Chapin, Jeff Ney, Jennette Harrison, Rachael West, Becky Pringle 00:33:23 NEA President Becky Pringle returns to "Duty Free Lunch" for a powerful and personal conversation about attacks on educators, the future of public education, and Pennsylvania’s outsized role in protecting democracy. From union advocacy and cellphone policy to joy, resilience, and a surprise reunion with a former student, this episode blends heart, humor, and urgency at a pivotal moment for schools and educators nationwide. NEA President Becky Pringle returns to "Duty Free Lunch" for a powerful and personal conversation about attacks on educators, the future of public education, and Pennsylvania’s outsized role in protecting democracy. From union advocacy and cellphone policy to joy, resilience, and a surprise reunion with a former student, this episode blends heart, humor, and urgency at a pivotal moment for schools and educators nationwide. nea, public education, union, psea, politics, becky pringle, schools, election, keystone, educator, education false full 60 5cfabb4e-3d59-4b0a-9439-98d61b0d1545 Painting a path to success in career and technical education Aaron and Rachael talk with Erick Leiva, a career and technical education instructor and graduate of Lancaster Career & Technology Center  who’s helping students turn hands-on learning into real careers. From building confidence to landing jobs before graduation, Erick shares why CTC programs work, why funding and awareness matter, and why CTE is anything but a backup plan.

Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to podcast@psea.org. 

Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

]]> Wed, 21 Jan 2026 10:00:00 +0000 comms@psea.org (Erick Leiva, Aaron Chapin, Rachael West) https://duty-free-lunch.simplecast.com/episodes/painting-a-path-to-success-in-career-and-technical-education-KkE0MpFL Aaron and Rachael talk with Erick Leiva, a career and technical education instructor and graduate of Lancaster Career & Technology Center  who’s helping students turn hands-on learning into real careers. From building confidence to landing jobs before graduation, Erick shares why CTC programs work, why funding and awareness matter, and why CTE is anything but a backup plan.

Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to podcast@psea.org. 

Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

]]> Painting a path to success in career and technical education Erick Leiva, Aaron Chapin, Rachael West 00:22:42 Aaron and Rachael talk with Erick Leiva, a career and technical education instructor and graduate of Lancaster Career & Technology Center who’s helping students turn hands-on learning into real careers. From building confidence to landing jobs before graduation, Erick shares why CTC programs work, why funding and awareness matter, and why CTE is anything but a backup plan. Aaron and Rachael talk with Erick Leiva, a career and technical education instructor and graduate of Lancaster Career & Technology Center who’s helping students turn hands-on learning into real careers. From building confidence to landing jobs before graduation, Erick shares why CTC programs work, why funding and awareness matter, and why CTE is anything but a backup plan. higher education, trades, union, psea, cte, tradeschool, painting, ctc, education false full 59 1f2b39f4-a74e-4d7f-92ea-0e9c1b0c651a Elections, advocacy, and the fight ahead with NEA's Mary Kusler Aaron, Jeff, and Rachael are once again joined by Mary Kusler, Senior Director at NEA’s Center for Advocacy, to break down the 2025 election results and what they mean for educators heading into 2026. The conversation covers major wins for pro–public education candidates, Pennsylvania’s role as a key swing state, growing policy threats like Project 2025, and how sustained educator advocacy translates into real political power.

Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to podcast@psea.org. 

Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

]]> Wed, 7 Jan 2026 10:00:00 +0000 comms@psea.org (Mary Kusler, Rachael West, Jeff Ney, Aaron Chapin) https://duty-free-lunch.simplecast.com/episodes/elections-advocacy-and-the-fight-ahead-with-neas-mary-kusler-JLyc4gu_ Aaron, Jeff, and Rachael are once again joined by Mary Kusler, Senior Director at NEA’s Center for Advocacy, to break down the 2025 election results and what they mean for educators heading into 2026. The conversation covers major wins for pro–public education candidates, Pennsylvania’s role as a key swing state, growing policy threats like Project 2025, and how sustained educator advocacy translates into real political power.

Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to podcast@psea.org. 

Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

]]> Elections, advocacy, and the fight ahead with NEA's Mary Kusler Mary Kusler, Rachael West, Jeff Ney, Aaron Chapin 00:25:44 Aaron, Jeff, and Rachael are once again joined by Mary Kusler, Senior Director at NEA’s Center for Advocacy, to break down the 2025 election results and what they mean for educators heading into 2026. The conversation covers major wins for pro–public education candidates, Pennsylvania’s role as a key swing state, growing policy threats like Project 2025, and how sustained educator advocacy translates into real political power. Aaron, Jeff, and Rachael are once again joined by Mary Kusler, Senior Director at NEA’s Center for Advocacy, to break down the 2025 election results and what they mean for educators heading into 2026. The conversation covers major wins for pro–public education candidates, Pennsylvania’s role as a key swing state, growing policy threats like Project 2025, and how sustained educator advocacy translates into real political power. nea, union, psea, politics, teaching, advocacy, education, elections false full 58 9b1f8529-9369-483c-9705-4b317855540e Podaversary reflections: 2025 in review and what lies ahead As 2025 and a second year of podcasting come to a close, PSEA leaders look back at the year's highlights while gazing into their 2026 crystal ball. This past year tested our strength and showcased our collective power. From an epic state budget battle that ended with huge wins for public education, to record-setting member activism in a pivotal election, there's plenty to celebrate.

Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to podcast@psea.org. 

Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

]]> Wed, 17 Dec 2025 10:00:00 +0000 comms@psea.org (Rachael West, Jim Vaughan, Aaron Chapin, Jeff Ney) https://duty-free-lunch.simplecast.com/episodes/podaversary-reflections-2025-in-review-and-what-lies-ahead-k_WlcxMN As 2025 and a second year of podcasting come to a close, PSEA leaders look back at the year's highlights while gazing into their 2026 crystal ball. This past year tested our strength and showcased our collective power. From an epic state budget battle that ended with huge wins for public education, to record-setting member activism in a pivotal election, there's plenty to celebrate.

Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to podcast@psea.org. 

Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

]]> Podaversary reflections: 2025 in review and what lies ahead Rachael West, Jim Vaughan, Aaron Chapin, Jeff Ney 00:25:08 As 2025 and a second year of podcasting come to a close, PSEA leaders look back at the year's highlights while gazing into their 2026 crystal ball. This past year tested our strength and showcased our collective power. From an epic state budget battle that ended with huge wins for public education, to record-setting member activism in a pivotal election, there's plenty to celebrate. As 2025 and a second year of podcasting come to a close, PSEA leaders look back at the year's highlights while gazing into their 2026 crystal ball. This past year tested our strength and showcased our collective power. From an epic state budget battle that ended with huge wins for public education, to record-setting member activism in a pivotal election, there's plenty to celebrate. public schools, public education, union, cola, psea, year in review, educator, teaching, students, cell phones false full 57 f8c940e9-14b4-496e-a521-45cd84a14029 Podcast rewind: Managing stress as an educator Take a breather this holiday season and listen to this "Duty Free Lunch" classic on effective stress management. Aaron and Jeff speak with subject experts Dorothy Morelli and Denine Goolsby about techniques you as an educator can use to keep your cool no matter what's happening around you. Don't miss this treasure trove of practical wisdom you can put to immediate use. 

Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to podcast@psea.org. 

Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

]]> Wed, 3 Dec 2025 10:00:00 +0000 comms@psea.org (Dorothy Morelli, Aaron Chapin, Denine Goolsby, Sandy Williams, Jeff Ney) https://duty-free-lunch.simplecast.com/episodes/podcast-rewind-managing-stress-as-an-educator-XA_QtjlK Take a breather this holiday season and listen to this "Duty Free Lunch" classic on effective stress management. Aaron and Jeff speak with subject experts Dorothy Morelli and Denine Goolsby about techniques you as an educator can use to keep your cool no matter what's happening around you. Don't miss this treasure trove of practical wisdom you can put to immediate use. 

Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to podcast@psea.org. 

Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

]]> Podcast rewind: Managing stress as an educator Dorothy Morelli, Aaron Chapin, Denine Goolsby, Sandy Williams, Jeff Ney 00:26:03 Take a breather this holiday season and listen to this "Duty Free Lunch" classic on effective stress management. Aaron and Jeff speak with subject experts Dorothy Morelli and Denine Goolsby about techniques you as an educator can use to keep your cool no matter what's happening around you. Don't miss this treasure trove of practical wisdom you can put to immediate use. Take a breather this holiday season and listen to this "Duty Free Lunch" classic on effective stress management. Aaron and Jeff speak with subject experts Dorothy Morelli and Denine Goolsby about techniques you as an educator can use to keep your cool no matter what's happening around you. Don't miss this treasure trove of practical wisdom you can put to immediate use. union, well-being, psea, wellness, stress, teacher, stress management, selfcare, education, mindfulness false full 56 a812a275-6504-42c5-a3e5-3bbe655c970d PA's budget breakthrough is a big win for public schools After months of delays and major strain on schools, the state finally has a budget. Aaron and Rachael bring in Government Relations experts Dan Wiedemer and Kelli Thompson to explain what it all means for PSEA members and their students.

Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to podcast@psea.org. 

Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

]]> Wed, 19 Nov 2025 10:00:00 +0000 comms@psea.org (Aaron Chapin, Kelli Thompson, Dan Wiedemer, Rachael West) https://duty-free-lunch.simplecast.com/episodes/pas-budget-breakthrough-is-a-big-win-for-public-schools-GfJzObXT After months of delays and major strain on schools, the state finally has a budget. Aaron and Rachael bring in Government Relations experts Dan Wiedemer and Kelli Thompson to explain what it all means for PSEA members and their students.

Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to podcast@psea.org. 

Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

]]> PA's budget breakthrough is a big win for public schools Aaron Chapin, Kelli Thompson, Dan Wiedemer, Rachael West 00:25:27 After months of delays and major strain on schools, the state finally has a budget. Aaron and Rachael bring in Government Relations experts Dan Wiedemer and Kelli Thompson to explain what it all means for PSEA members and their students. After months of delays and major strain on schools, the state finally has a budget. Aaron and Rachael bring in Government Relations experts Dan Wiedemer and Kelli Thompson to explain what it all means for PSEA members and their students. state government, state budget, public education, union, psea, politics, budget, schools false full 55 8e23470d-f082-4540-b7e9-0684e4dedd4f How Club Hope helps students cope with loss Aaron and Jeff sit down with Lisa Lehman and Jenn Mattucci from the Moon Area School District to talk about Club Hope, a student-led grief support group that’s helping kids heal after losing a loved one. What started with six students has grown into a thriving community built on compassion, connection, and the belief that no one should face grief alone. Lisa and Jenn share how their own experiences inspired the club, how students have embraced it, and how educators across Pennsylvania can bring this kind of support to their own schools.

Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to podcast@psea.org. 

Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

]]> Wed, 12 Nov 2025 10:00:00 +0000 comms@psea.org (Lisa Lehman, Jenn Mattucci, Aaron Chapin, Jeff Ney) https://duty-free-lunch.simplecast.com/episodes/how-club-hope-helps-students-cope-with-loss-d7nZ_GSH Aaron and Jeff sit down with Lisa Lehman and Jenn Mattucci from the Moon Area School District to talk about Club Hope, a student-led grief support group that’s helping kids heal after losing a loved one. What started with six students has grown into a thriving community built on compassion, connection, and the belief that no one should face grief alone. Lisa and Jenn share how their own experiences inspired the club, how students have embraced it, and how educators across Pennsylvania can bring this kind of support to their own schools.

Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to podcast@psea.org. 

Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

]]> How Club Hope helps students cope with loss Lisa Lehman, Jenn Mattucci, Aaron Chapin, Jeff Ney 00:22:00 Aaron and Jeff sit down with Lisa Lehman and Jenn Mattucci from the Moon Area School District to talk about Club Hope, a student-led grief support group that’s helping kids heal after losing a loved one. What started with six students has grown into a thriving community built on compassion, connection, and the belief that no one should face grief alone. Lisa and Jenn share how their own experiences inspired the club, how students have embraced it, and how educators across Pennsylvania can bring this kind of support to their own schools. Aaron and Jeff sit down with Lisa Lehman and Jenn Mattucci from the Moon Area School District to talk about Club Hope, a student-led grief support group that’s helping kids heal after losing a loved one. What started with six students has grown into a thriving community built on compassion, connection, and the belief that no one should face grief alone. Lisa and Jenn share how their own experiences inspired the club, how students have embraced it, and how educators across Pennsylvania can bring this kind of support to their own schools. union, psea, hope, public school, loss, school, education, grief false full 54 a828386e-33cc-4de6-a4c0-140254ba55be A conversation with Rep. Malcolm Kenyatta Aaron and Rachael welcome their first lawmaker to the podcast, State Rep. Malcolm Kenyatta, one of Pennsylvania’s most dynamic voices for working families. Listen as they dig into the ongoing state budget battle, the future of public education funding, and what keeps Rep. Kenyatta hopeful in today’s highly charged political climate.

Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to podcast@psea.org. 

Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

]]> Wed, 29 Oct 2025 09:00:00 +0000 comms@psea.org (Malcolm Kenyatta, Rachael West, Aaron Chapin) https://duty-free-lunch.simplecast.com/episodes/a-conversation-with-rep-malcolm-kenyatta-W_oMR9Hs Aaron and Rachael welcome their first lawmaker to the podcast, State Rep. Malcolm Kenyatta, one of Pennsylvania’s most dynamic voices for working families. Listen as they dig into the ongoing state budget battle, the future of public education funding, and what keeps Rep. Kenyatta hopeful in today’s highly charged political climate.

Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to podcast@psea.org. 

Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

]]> A conversation with Rep. Malcolm Kenyatta Malcolm Kenyatta, Rachael West, Aaron Chapin 00:25:26 Aaron and Rachael welcome their first lawmaker to the podcast, State Rep. Malcolm Kenyatta, one of Pennsylvania’s most dynamic voices for working families. Listen as they dig into the ongoing state budget battle, the future of public education funding, and what keeps Rep. Kenyatta hopeful in today’s highly charged political climate. Aaron and Rachael welcome their first lawmaker to the podcast, State Rep. Malcolm Kenyatta, one of Pennsylvania’s most dynamic voices for working families. Listen as they dig into the ongoing state budget battle, the future of public education funding, and what keeps Rep. Kenyatta hopeful in today’s highly charged political climate. state government, malcolm kenyatta, state budget, public education, union, psea, politics, judicial retention, pennsylvania, education, elections false full 53 b159ba1d-b2ed-442f-8962-71b41c902cc4 Inside the data that drives PSEA Jeff and Rachael explore how PSEA uses surveys and research to stay connected to its 177,000 members. Guests Dr. David Wazeter and Dr. Katherine Hamilton from PSEA's Research division share what the data reveals about educator stress, job satisfaction, and public perception, and how those insights shape our work as an organization.

Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to podcast@psea.org. 

Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

]]> Wed, 15 Oct 2025 09:00:00 +0000 comms@psea.org (David Wazeter, Katherine Hamilton, Rachael West, Jeff Ney) https://duty-free-lunch.simplecast.com/episodes/inside-the-data-that-drives-psea-3Fi8svsC Jeff and Rachael explore how PSEA uses surveys and research to stay connected to its 177,000 members. Guests Dr. David Wazeter and Dr. Katherine Hamilton from PSEA's Research division share what the data reveals about educator stress, job satisfaction, and public perception, and how those insights shape our work as an organization.

Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to podcast@psea.org. 

Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

]]> Inside the data that drives PSEA David Wazeter, Katherine Hamilton, Rachael West, Jeff Ney 00:27:09 Jeff and Rachael explore how PSEA uses surveys and research to stay connected to its 177,000 members. Guests Dr. David Wazeter and Dr. Katherine Hamilton from PSEA's Research division share what the data reveals about educator stress, job satisfaction, and public perception, and how those insights shape our work as an organization. Jeff and Rachael explore how PSEA uses surveys and research to stay connected to its 177,000 members. Guests Dr. David Wazeter and Dr. Katherine Hamilton from PSEA's Research division share what the data reveals about educator stress, job satisfaction, and public perception, and how those insights shape our work as an organization. public schools, research, public education, union, psea, schools, data, education false full 52 68c0d726-8f38-4ac3-a51f-2b117a2fdcc7 "Mr. Lenny": A school custodian's legacy of service and love Lenny Robinson has spent 23 years as a custodian in the Wissahickon School District. But to his students and community, he’s so much more. In this episode of Duty Free Lunch, we celebrate the 2025 Civil Rights Educational Leader Award winner and hear from the colleagues who helped shine a light on his extraordinary impact.

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]]> Wed, 1 Oct 2025 09:00:00 +0000 comms@psea.org (Lenny Robinson, Sue Brown, Rachael West, Aaron Chapin, Jen Statler) https://duty-free-lunch.simplecast.com/episodes/mr-lenny-a-school-custodians-legacy-of-service-and-love-x61l4g1b Lenny Robinson has spent 23 years as a custodian in the Wissahickon School District. But to his students and community, he’s so much more. In this episode of Duty Free Lunch, we celebrate the 2025 Civil Rights Educational Leader Award winner and hear from the colleagues who helped shine a light on his extraordinary impact.

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Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

]]> "Mr. Lenny": A school custodian's legacy of service and love Lenny Robinson, Sue Brown, Rachael West, Aaron Chapin, Jen Statler 00:24:50 Lenny Robinson has spent 23 years as a custodian in the Wissahickon School District. But to his students and community, he’s so much more. In this episode of Duty Free Lunch, we celebrate the 2025 Civil Rights Educational Leader Award winner and hear from the colleagues who helped shine a light on his extraordinary impact. Lenny Robinson has spent 23 years as a custodian in the Wissahickon School District. But to his students and community, he’s so much more. In this episode of Duty Free Lunch, we celebrate the 2025 Civil Rights Educational Leader Award winner and hear from the colleagues who helped shine a light on his extraordinary impact. public education, union, psea, custodian, service, school, celebrating excellence, support professional false full 51 a8d69ffe-2a20-48ee-83dc-018bbbd10586 Inside the only classroom zoo in America Canon-McMillan teacher Chelsea Geist turned her high school classroom into a zoo - literally. Aaron and Jeff talk to her about how it started, the impact on students, and what it takes to run a living zoo at school.

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]]> Wed, 17 Sep 2025 09:00:00 +0000 comms@psea.org (Chelsea Geist, Aaron Chapin, Jeff Ney) https://duty-free-lunch.simplecast.com/episodes/inside-the-only-classroom-zoo-in-america-s_blWqHj Canon-McMillan teacher Chelsea Geist turned her high school classroom into a zoo - literally. Aaron and Jeff talk to her about how it started, the impact on students, and what it takes to run a living zoo at school.

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]]> Inside the only classroom zoo in America Chelsea Geist, Aaron Chapin, Jeff Ney 00:24:36 Canon-McMillan teacher Chelsea Geist turned her high school classroom into a zoo - literally. Aaron and Jeff talk to her about how it started, the impact on students, and what it takes to run a living zoo at school. Canon-McMillan teacher Chelsea Geist turned her high school classroom into a zoo - literally. Aaron and Jeff talk to her about how it started, the impact on students, and what it takes to run a living zoo at school. public education, union, psea, teaching, zoo, animals false full 50 ca7a7922-ca13-46d2-b387-779ff0d7da8c Union strong: A conversation with PSEA leadership Welcome to Season 3 of "Duty Free Lunch"! We're kicking it off with a look at the state of the union as PSEA Executive Director Jim Vaughan joins Aaron, Jeff, and Rachael to discuss PSEA happenings, the current state of our politics, and what's in store for PSEA members in the new year. 

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Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

]]> Wed, 10 Sep 2025 13:01:52 +0000 comms@psea.org (Aaron Chapin, Rachael West, Jim Vaughan, Jeff Ney) https://duty-free-lunch.simplecast.com/episodes/union-strong-a-conversation-with-psea-leadership-5IPL47fG Welcome to Season 3 of "Duty Free Lunch"! We're kicking it off with a look at the state of the union as PSEA Executive Director Jim Vaughan joins Aaron, Jeff, and Rachael to discuss PSEA happenings, the current state of our politics, and what's in store for PSEA members in the new year. 

Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to podcast@psea.org. 

Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

]]> Union strong: A conversation with PSEA leadership Aaron Chapin, Rachael West, Jim Vaughan, Jeff Ney 00:27:02 Welcome to Season 3 of "Duty Free Lunch"! We're kicking it off with a look at the state of the union as PSEA Executive Director Jim Vaughan joins Aaron, Jeff, and Rachael to discuss PSEA happenings, the current state of our politics, and what's in store for PSEA members in the new year. Welcome to Season 3 of "Duty Free Lunch"! We're kicking it off with a look at the state of the union as PSEA Executive Director Jim Vaughan joins Aaron, Jeff, and Rachael to discuss PSEA happenings, the current state of our politics, and what's in store for PSEA members in the new year. public education, union, psea, politics, pennsylvania, education false full 49 0fc7697e-b806-4659-8a7f-ac7136091356 From book bans to better boards: Building political power for public education PSEA PACE Chairperson Theresa Prato and Central York teacher Gina Grolemund join Aaron and Rachael to talk about political organizing, winning school board seats, and how PACE makes a real difference for public education.

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Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

]]> Wed, 3 Sep 2025 09:00:00 +0000 comms@psea.org (Theresa Prato, Gina Grolemund, Aaron Chapin, Rachael West) https://duty-free-lunch.simplecast.com/episodes/from-book-bans-to-better-boards-building-political-power-for-public-education-6_l7tE4H PSEA PACE Chairperson Theresa Prato and Central York teacher Gina Grolemund join Aaron and Rachael to talk about political organizing, winning school board seats, and how PACE makes a real difference for public education.

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Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

]]> From book bans to better boards: Building political power for public education Theresa Prato, Gina Grolemund, Aaron Chapin, Rachael West 00:25:17 PSEA PACE Chairperson Theresa Prato and Central York teacher Gina Grolemund join Aaron and Rachael to talk about political organizing, winning school board seats, and how PACE makes a real difference for public education. PSEA PACE Chairperson Theresa Prato and Central York teacher Gina Grolemund join Aaron and Rachael to talk about political organizing, winning school board seats, and how PACE makes a real difference for public education. public education, union, psea, politics, schools, book bans, teaching, school board, political action, education false full 48 7cb5a339-3fe4-41cd-b3b3-620a58e079e8 PSEA’s Dolores McCracken Education Support Professional of the Year Ann Monaghan Ann Monaghan, PSEA’s Dolores McCracken ESP Member of the Year for 2025-26, joins Duty Free Lunch to discuss the challenges, rewards, and joys of being a support professional in Pennsylvania’s public schools.

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Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

]]> Wed, 20 Aug 2025 09:00:00 +0000 comms@psea.org (Aaron Chapin, Rachael West, Jeff Ney) https://duty-free-lunch.simplecast.com/episodes/pseas-dolores-mccracken-education-support-professional-of-the-year-ann-monaghan-F5zA8v_v Ann Monaghan, PSEA’s Dolores McCracken ESP Member of the Year for 2025-26, joins Duty Free Lunch to discuss the challenges, rewards, and joys of being a support professional in Pennsylvania’s public schools.

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Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

]]> PSEA’s Dolores McCracken Education Support Professional of the Year Ann Monaghan Aaron Chapin, Rachael West, Jeff Ney 00:22:44 Ann Monaghan, PSEA’s Dolores McCracken ESP Member of the Year for 2025-26, joins Duty Free Lunch to discuss the challenges, rewards, and joys of being a support professional in Pennsylvania’s public schools. Ann Monaghan, PSEA’s Dolores McCracken ESP Member of the Year for 2025-26, joins Duty Free Lunch to discuss the challenges, rewards, and joys of being a support professional in Pennsylvania’s public schools. public education, union, delores mccracken, psea, public school, ann monaghan, teaching, education support professional of the year, education false full 47 85d38065-9d6c-4d47-b1c3-4748cfb5a8c5 National Teacher of the Year Ashlie Crosson: "What I've learned" National Teacher of the Year Ashlie Crosson returns to Duty Free Lunch with sharp insights, honest reflections, and urgent ideas. From rural education to teacher burnout to student empowerment, Ashlie's national exposure has given her new insights into the state of teaching today. 

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Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

]]> Wed, 6 Aug 2025 09:00:00 +0000 comms@psea.org (Jeff Ney, Rachael West, Aaron Chapin) https://duty-free-lunch.simplecast.com/episodes/national-teacher-of-the-year-ashlie-crosson-what-ive-learned-QY_O_cBm National Teacher of the Year Ashlie Crosson returns to Duty Free Lunch with sharp insights, honest reflections, and urgent ideas. From rural education to teacher burnout to student empowerment, Ashlie's national exposure has given her new insights into the state of teaching today. 

Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to podcast@psea.org. 

Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

]]> National Teacher of the Year Ashlie Crosson: "What I've learned" Jeff Ney, Rachael West, Aaron Chapin 00:25:33 National Teacher of the Year Ashlie Crosson returns to Duty Free Lunch with sharp insights, honest reflections, and urgent ideas. From rural education to teacher burnout to student empowerment, Ashlie's national exposure has given her new insights into the state of teaching today. National Teacher of the Year Ashlie Crosson returns to Duty Free Lunch with sharp insights, honest reflections, and urgent ideas. From rural education to teacher burnout to student empowerment, Ashlie's national exposure has given her new insights into the state of teaching today. public education, union, psea, ashlie crosson, public school, teacher of the year, teaching, education false full 46 54d91538-e667-45c5-9936-c7b44b5f947f Fourth-generation PSEA member follows 100 years of family teaching legacy Pennsbury elementary school teacher Jenn Fumanti sits down with Aaron and Jeff to share the remarkable story of her family's five-generation commitment to teaching in Pennsylvania. From coal stoves to Chromebooks, hear how public education shaped her legacy, and why she's proud to carry the torch today. 

]]> Thu, 24 Jul 2025 15:13:30 +0000 comms@psea.org (Jeff Ney, Aaron Chapin, Jenn Fumanti) https://duty-free-lunch.simplecast.com/episodes/fourth-generation-psea-member-follows-100-years-of-family-teaching-legacy-J_UagrAf Pennsbury elementary school teacher Jenn Fumanti sits down with Aaron and Jeff to share the remarkable story of her family's five-generation commitment to teaching in Pennsylvania. From coal stoves to Chromebooks, hear how public education shaped her legacy, and why she's proud to carry the torch today. 

]]> Fourth-generation PSEA member follows 100 years of family teaching legacy Jeff Ney, Aaron Chapin, Jenn Fumanti 00:24:57 Pennsbury elementary school teacher Jenn Fumanti sits down with Aaron and Jeff to share the remarkable story of her family's five-generation commitment to teaching in Pennsylvania. From coal stoves to Chromebooks, hear how public education shaped her legacy, and why she's proud to carry the torch today. Pennsbury elementary school teacher Jenn Fumanti sits down with Aaron and Jeff to share the remarkable story of her family's five-generation commitment to teaching in Pennsylvania. From coal stoves to Chromebooks, hear how public education shaped her legacy, and why she's proud to carry the torch today. history, public education, union, psea, pennsylvania, teacher, teaching, legacy, generations false full 45 0a768259-8135-4264-acf4-87e20efdc4ed Inside the classroom program that talked to astronauts in space Aaron and Jeff are joined by Allen Lombardozzi and Elaine LaFuria, two STEM teachers from the Harbor Creek School District. They share the story behind Advanced Technologies Group, a student program powered by HAM radio, science, and sheer curiosity. From building antennas to speaking directly with astronauts aboard the International Space Station, their students are putting STEM to good use.

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]]> Wed, 9 Jul 2025 09:00:00 +0000 comms@psea.org (Allen Lombardozzi, Elaine LaFuria, Jeff Ney, Aaron Chapin) https://duty-free-lunch.simplecast.com/episodes/inside-the-classroom-program-that-talked-to-astronauts-in-space-UXAAlOCP Aaron and Jeff are joined by Allen Lombardozzi and Elaine LaFuria, two STEM teachers from the Harbor Creek School District. They share the story behind Advanced Technologies Group, a student program powered by HAM radio, science, and sheer curiosity. From building antennas to speaking directly with astronauts aboard the International Space Station, their students are putting STEM to good use.

Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to podcast@psea.org. 

Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

]]> Inside the classroom program that talked to astronauts in space Allen Lombardozzi, Elaine LaFuria, Jeff Ney, Aaron Chapin 00:24:37 Aaron and Jeff are joined by Allen Lombardozzi and Elaine LaFuria, two STEM teachers from the Harbor Creek School District. They share the story behind Advanced Technologies Group, a student program powered by HAM radio, science, and sheer curiosity. From building antennas to speaking directly with astronauts aboard the International Space Station, their students are putting STEM to good use. Aaron and Jeff are joined by Allen Lombardozzi and Elaine LaFuria, two STEM teachers from the Harbor Creek School District. They share the story behind Advanced Technologies Group, a student program powered by HAM radio, science, and sheer curiosity. From building antennas to speaking directly with astronauts aboard the International Space Station, their students are putting STEM to good use. public education, union, psea, space, iss, teaching, international space station, astronauts, education, stem false full 44 938ae326-f466-46f4-8807-19d2bf62e02d PSEA Lobby Days: Retired members speak up Join us for another dispatch from the legislative trenches as Aaron and Jeff sit down with PSEA-Retired leaders Todd Miller and Russ Stevenson during PSEA’s ACE Lobby Days in Harrisburg. They cover why retired educators remain on the front lines, the fight to protect pensions, and the push for a cost-of-living adjustment for pre-Act 9 retirees. 

Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to podcast@psea.org. 

Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

]]> Wed, 25 Jun 2025 09:00:00 +0000 comms@psea.org (Todd Miller, Russ Stevenson, Aaron Chapin, Jeff Ney) https://duty-free-lunch.simplecast.com/episodes/psea-lobby-days-retired-members-speak-up-BbGW_72u Join us for another dispatch from the legislative trenches as Aaron and Jeff sit down with PSEA-Retired leaders Todd Miller and Russ Stevenson during PSEA’s ACE Lobby Days in Harrisburg. They cover why retired educators remain on the front lines, the fight to protect pensions, and the push for a cost-of-living adjustment for pre-Act 9 retirees. 

Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to podcast@psea.org. 

Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

]]> PSEA Lobby Days: Retired members speak up Todd Miller, Russ Stevenson, Aaron Chapin, Jeff Ney 00:25:31 Join us for another dispatch from the legislative trenches as Aaron and Jeff sit down with PSEA-Retired leaders Todd Miller and Russ Stevenson during PSEA’s ACE Lobby Days in Harrisburg. They cover why retired educators remain on the front lines, the fight to protect pensions, and the push for a cost-of-living adjustment for pre-Act 9 retirees. Join us for another dispatch from the legislative trenches as Aaron and Jeff sit down with PSEA-Retired leaders Todd Miller and Russ Stevenson during PSEA’s ACE Lobby Days in Harrisburg. They cover why retired educators remain on the front lines, the fight to protect pensions, and the push for a cost-of-living adjustment for pre-Act 9 retirees. retired, public education, union, cola, psea, politics, public schools4, legislature, teaching, lobbying, education false full 43 a4d977f4-ba4c-401d-b2e1-b82009540fe5 How PSEA Lobby Days turn passion into policy This episode was recorded during PSEA’s ACE Lobby Days, where educators from across Pennsylvania come together to meet with lawmakers and make their voices heard. Joining us are two advocates, teachers, and local presidents Amanda Simcoe and Mike Soskil. They join Aaron and Rachael to talk about what it means to lead not just in their schools, but in their communities and at the Capitol, on issues like school funding, educator shortages, student teacher stipends, and the critical need to support every school staff member.

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]]> Wed, 11 Jun 2025 09:00:00 +0000 comms@psea.org (Amanda Simcoe, Mike Soskil, Aaron Chapin, Rachael West) https://duty-free-lunch.simplecast.com/episodes/how-psea-lobby-days-turn-passion-into-policy-BvUoB0X8 This episode was recorded during PSEA’s ACE Lobby Days, where educators from across Pennsylvania come together to meet with lawmakers and make their voices heard. Joining us are two advocates, teachers, and local presidents Amanda Simcoe and Mike Soskil. They join Aaron and Rachael to talk about what it means to lead not just in their schools, but in their communities and at the Capitol, on issues like school funding, educator shortages, student teacher stipends, and the critical need to support every school staff member.

Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to podcast@psea.org. 

Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

]]> How PSEA Lobby Days turn passion into policy Amanda Simcoe, Mike Soskil, Aaron Chapin, Rachael West 00:23:30 This episode was recorded during PSEA’s ACE Lobby Days, where educators from across Pennsylvania come together to meet with lawmakers and make their voices heard. Joining us are two advocates, teachers, and local presidents Amanda Simcoe and Mike Soskil. They join Aaron and Rachael to talk about what it means to lead not just in their schools, but in their communities and at the Capitol, on issues like school funding, educator shortages, student teacher stipends, and the critical need to support every school staff member. This episode was recorded during PSEA’s ACE Lobby Days, where educators from across Pennsylvania come together to meet with lawmakers and make their voices heard. Joining us are two advocates, teachers, and local presidents Amanda Simcoe and Mike Soskil. They join Aaron and Rachael to talk about what it means to lead not just in their schools, but in their communities and at the Capitol, on issues like school funding, educator shortages, student teacher stipends, and the critical need to support every school staff member. public education, union, psea, politics, pennsylvania, teaching, advocacy false full 42 70d111f6-8b5e-4416-b421-0104a6e9180d Father and daughter's shared path to teacher certification What happens when a father and daughter go from paraprofessionals to certified teachers together? The officer team sits down with Jermaine and ShaWanna Bailey, a dynamic duo from the York City School District who did exactly that. They share their powerful story of career transformation through the “Grow Your Own” program, the challenges they overcame, and why representation in the classroom matters.

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Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

]]> Wed, 28 May 2025 09:00:00 +0000 comms@psea.org (Jermaine Bailey, ShaWanna Bailey, Aaron Chapin, Jeff Ney, Rachael West) https://duty-free-lunch.simplecast.com/episodes/father-and-daughters-shared-path-to-teacher-certification-kHwndO53 What happens when a father and daughter go from paraprofessionals to certified teachers together? The officer team sits down with Jermaine and ShaWanna Bailey, a dynamic duo from the York City School District who did exactly that. They share their powerful story of career transformation through the “Grow Your Own” program, the challenges they overcame, and why representation in the classroom matters.

Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to podcast@psea.org. 

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]]> Father and daughter's shared path to teacher certification Jermaine Bailey, ShaWanna Bailey, Aaron Chapin, Jeff Ney, Rachael West 00:22:23 What happens when a father and daughter go from paraprofessionals to certified teachers together? The officer team sits down with Jermaine and ShaWanna Bailey, a dynamic duo from the York City School District who did exactly that. They share their powerful story of career transformation through the “Grow Your Own” program, the challenges they overcame, and why representation in the classroom matters. What happens when a father and daughter go from paraprofessionals to certified teachers together? The officer team sits down with Jermaine and ShaWanna Bailey, a dynamic duo from the York City School District who did exactly that. They share their powerful story of career transformation through the “Grow Your Own” program, the challenges they overcame, and why representation in the classroom matters. paraprofessional, union, psea, grow your own, teacher, teaching, family, education false full 41 c699e418-62d0-4639-8da5-0ed18f95d53b What happens at the House of Delegates… …doesn’t always stay at the House of Delegates. In fact, this is the episode where all is revealed – the ins and outs and goings on at the twice-yearly gathering of our union brothers and sisters. The officer team welcomes back Executive Director Jim Vaughan to break down everything that goes into this important event – from delegate elections and new business items to behind-the-scenes prep and personal reflections. Whether you’re a first-timer, a veteran, or just House-curious, this episode gives you an inside look at how your union gets things done.

Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to podcast@psea.org. 

Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

]]> Wed, 21 May 2025 09:00:00 +0000 comms@psea.org (Jim Vaughan, Aaron Chapin, Jeff Ney, Rachael West) https://duty-free-lunch.simplecast.com/episodes/what-happens-at-the-house-of-delegates-Ucm_pdRG …doesn’t always stay at the House of Delegates. In fact, this is the episode where all is revealed – the ins and outs and goings on at the twice-yearly gathering of our union brothers and sisters. The officer team welcomes back Executive Director Jim Vaughan to break down everything that goes into this important event – from delegate elections and new business items to behind-the-scenes prep and personal reflections. Whether you’re a first-timer, a veteran, or just House-curious, this episode gives you an inside look at how your union gets things done.

Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to podcast@psea.org. 

Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

]]> What happens at the House of Delegates… Jim Vaughan, Aaron Chapin, Jeff Ney, Rachael West 00:25:55 …doesn’t always stay at the House of Delegates. In fact, this is the episode where all is revealed – the ins and outs and goings on at the twice-yearly gathering of our union brothers and sisters. The officer team welcomes back Executive Director Jim Vaughan to break down everything that goes into this important event – from delegate elections and new business items to behind-the-scenes prep and personal reflections. Whether you’re a first-timer, a veteran, or just House-curious, this episode gives you an inside look at how your union gets things done. …doesn’t always stay at the House of Delegates. In fact, this is the episode where all is revealed – the ins and outs and goings on at the twice-yearly gathering of our union brothers and sisters. The officer team welcomes back Executive Director Jim Vaughan to break down everything that goes into this important event – from delegate elections and new business items to behind-the-scenes prep and personal reflections. Whether you’re a first-timer, a veteran, or just House-curious, this episode gives you an inside look at how your union gets things done. philadelphia, pittsburgh, union, psea, pennsylvania, teachers, house of delegates, education false full 40 b15cef93-cf34-4331-bba6-233a89942efc Why IUs are the backbone of Pennsylvania's education system Wed, 14 May 2025 09:00:00 +0000 comms@psea.org (Kathy Dunkle, Tina Giazzoni-Fialko, Aaron Chapin, Rachael West, Jeff Ney) https://duty-free-lunch.simplecast.com/episodes/why-ius-are-the-backbone-of-pennsylvanias-education-system-Lv9hM4X_ Why IUs are the backbone of Pennsylvania's education system Kathy Dunkle, Tina Giazzoni-Fialko, Aaron Chapin, Rachael West, Jeff Ney 00:24:06 The PSEA officer team speaks with two frontline IU educators – Kathy Dunkle from IU #24 and Tina Giazzoni-Fialko from IU #22 – to unpack the real story behind Pennsylvania’s Intermediate Units. What exactly are IUs? Why do they matter? And how do they quietly power some of the most essential educational services across the state? Whether you’re an educator, school leader, or just IU-curious, this episode is for you. The PSEA officer team speaks with two frontline IU educators – Kathy Dunkle from IU #24 and Tina Giazzoni-Fialko from IU #22 – to unpack the real story behind Pennsylvania’s Intermediate Units. What exactly are IUs? Why do they matter? And how do they quietly power some of the most essential educational services across the state? Whether you’re an educator, school leader, or just IU-curious, this episode is for you. union, psea, pennsylvania, teaching, school, ius, intermediate units, education false full 39 548e26b4-1f02-4265-bc47-4bb0d23c6080 Burnout and breakthroughs: Special education in focus The officer team dives into the powerful conversations that came out of PSEA's recent special education roundtables. More than 100 educators sat down with lawmakers to talk about challenges and brainstorm solutions. Two of those roundtable participants - special ed. teacher Cassie McCabe and speech therapist Christina Rojas - join us to share their experiences.

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]]> Wed, 30 Apr 2025 09:00:00 +0000 comms@psea.org (Cassie McCabe, Christina Rojas, Rachael West, Jeff Ney, Aaron Chapin) https://duty-free-lunch.simplecast.com/episodes/burnout-and-breakthroughs-special-education-in-focus-Dd79Fcz8 The officer team dives into the powerful conversations that came out of PSEA's recent special education roundtables. More than 100 educators sat down with lawmakers to talk about challenges and brainstorm solutions. Two of those roundtable participants - special ed. teacher Cassie McCabe and speech therapist Christina Rojas - join us to share their experiences.

Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to podcast@psea.org. 

Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

]]> Burnout and breakthroughs: Special education in focus Cassie McCabe, Christina Rojas, Rachael West, Jeff Ney, Aaron Chapin 00:25:15 The officer team dives into the powerful conversations that came out of PSEA's recent special education roundtables. More than 100 educators sat down with lawmakers to talk about challenges and brainstorm solutions. Two of those roundtable participants - special ed. teacher Cassie McCabe and speech therapist Christina Rojas - join us to share their experiences. The officer team dives into the powerful conversations that came out of PSEA's recent special education roundtables. More than 100 educators sat down with lawmakers to talk about challenges and brainstorm solutions. Two of those roundtable participants - special ed. teacher Cassie McCabe and speech therapist Christina Rojas - join us to share their experiences. special education, lawmakers, public education, union, psea, schools, teaching false full 38 19ff30df-1630-4317-a256-5d5d7ea2af66 The great MRE cook-off Aaron and Jeff chat with Tiffany Zook, a Family and Consumer Sciences teacher at Penn Manor High School, who shares how she turned military-style MREs (Meals Ready to Eat) into a hands-on cooking competition for her students. With help from a Marine Corps staff sergeant, the project gave students a taste of field rations and a big serving of creativity, collaboration, and practical skills.

Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to podcast@psea.org. 

Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

]]> Wed, 16 Apr 2025 09:00:00 +0000 comms@psea.org (Tiffany Zook, Aaron Chapin, Jeff Ney) https://duty-free-lunch.simplecast.com/episodes/the-great-mre-cook-off-6QSD_wW5 Aaron and Jeff chat with Tiffany Zook, a Family and Consumer Sciences teacher at Penn Manor High School, who shares how she turned military-style MREs (Meals Ready to Eat) into a hands-on cooking competition for her students. With help from a Marine Corps staff sergeant, the project gave students a taste of field rations and a big serving of creativity, collaboration, and practical skills.

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Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

]]> The great MRE cook-off Tiffany Zook, Aaron Chapin, Jeff Ney 00:24:54 Aaron and Jeff chat with Tiffany Zook, a Family and Consumer Sciences teacher at Penn Manor High School, who shares how she turned military-style MREs (Meals Ready to Eat) into a hands-on cooking competition for her students. With help from a Marine Corps staff sergeant, the project gave students a taste of field rations and a big serving of creativity, collaboration, and practical skills. Aaron and Jeff chat with Tiffany Zook, a Family and Consumer Sciences teacher at Penn Manor High School, who shares how she turned military-style MREs (Meals Ready to Eat) into a hands-on cooking competition for her students. With help from a Marine Corps staff sergeant, the project gave students a taste of field rations and a big serving of creativity, collaboration, and practical skills. union, psea, cooking, consumer sciences, mre, teaching, military, competition, high school false full 37 62d7f2fa-5af5-42a3-99a5-02e336fcc062 Fighting back against Trump's attack on education Public schools are under attack, and educators need to fight back. Aaron and Jeff are joined by expert guests to dig into the latest threats to public education, like devastating federal budget cuts, and what we can do about them. NEA’s Mary Kusler and PSEA’s Jen Statler discuss the Trump administration’s drastic cuts to the U.S. Department of Education, the impact on Pennsylvania schools, and how educators can take action.

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]]> Fri, 4 Apr 2025 09:00:00 +0000 comms@psea.org (Mary Kusler, Jeff Ney, Jen Statler, Aaron Chapin) https://duty-free-lunch.simplecast.com/episodes/fighting-back-against-trumps-attack-on-education-qCOu8aO0 Public schools are under attack, and educators need to fight back. Aaron and Jeff are joined by expert guests to dig into the latest threats to public education, like devastating federal budget cuts, and what we can do about them. NEA’s Mary Kusler and PSEA’s Jen Statler discuss the Trump administration’s drastic cuts to the U.S. Department of Education, the impact on Pennsylvania schools, and how educators can take action.

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]]> Fighting back against Trump's attack on education Mary Kusler, Jeff Ney, Jen Statler, Aaron Chapin 00:27:08 Public schools are under attack, and educators need to fight back. Aaron and Jeff are joined by expert guests to dig into the latest threats to public education, like devastating federal budget cuts, and what we can do about them. NEA’s Mary Kusler and PSEA’s Jen Statler discuss the Trump administration’s drastic cuts to the U.S. Department of Education, the impact on Pennsylvania schools, and how educators can take action. Public schools are under attack, and educators need to fight back. Aaron and Jeff are joined by expert guests to dig into the latest threats to public education, like devastating federal budget cuts, and what we can do about them. NEA’s Mary Kusler and PSEA’s Jen Statler discuss the Trump administration’s drastic cuts to the U.S. Department of Education, the impact on Pennsylvania schools, and how educators can take action. trump, public schools, union, psea, politics, pennsylvania, department of education, education false full 36 b2139d29-c67a-4031-96b8-eca090549bb7 The fight for a living wage: ESPs take a stand We take you straight from the steps of the state Capitol to the podcast studio, where we break down the first ESP Lobby Day and the fight for a living wage. Our support professionals keep our schools running, yet nearly half of them make less than $20 per hour. The officer team interviews ESP President Rudy Burruss and Vice President Marc Howshall on a promising new House bill, the impact of raising ESP wages to at least $20 an hour, and what comes next in the fight for fair pay.

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]]> Wed, 26 Mar 2025 09:00:00 +0000 comms@psea.org (Rudy Burruss, Marc Howshall, Jeff Ney, Rachael West, Aaron Chapin) https://duty-free-lunch.simplecast.com/episodes/the-fight-for-a-living-wage-esps-take-a-stand-cmEqXQsc We take you straight from the steps of the state Capitol to the podcast studio, where we break down the first ESP Lobby Day and the fight for a living wage. Our support professionals keep our schools running, yet nearly half of them make less than $20 per hour. The officer team interviews ESP President Rudy Burruss and Vice President Marc Howshall on a promising new House bill, the impact of raising ESP wages to at least $20 an hour, and what comes next in the fight for fair pay.

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]]> The fight for a living wage: ESPs take a stand Rudy Burruss, Marc Howshall, Jeff Ney, Rachael West, Aaron Chapin 00:23:51 We take you straight from the steps of the state Capitol to the podcast studio, where we break down the first ESP Lobby Day and the fight for a living wage. Our support professionals keep our schools running, yet nearly half of them make less than $20 per hour. The officer team interviews ESP President Rudy Burruss and Vice President Marc Howshall on a promising new House bill, the impact of raising ESP wages to at least $20 an hour, and what comes next in the fight for fair pay. We take you straight from the steps of the state Capitol to the podcast studio, where we break down the first ESP Lobby Day and the fight for a living wage. Our support professionals keep our schools running, yet nearly half of them make less than $20 per hour. The officer team interviews ESP President Rudy Burruss and Vice President Marc Howshall on a promising new House bill, the impact of raising ESP wages to at least $20 an hour, and what comes next in the fight for fair pay. esp, union, psea, living wage, pennsylvania, support professional, state politics false full 35 5a1ad0e5-a701-49a5-908d-d900dd1039ec PA Teacher of the Year Leon Smith on representation, retention, and the future of teaching Aaron, Jeff, and Rachael sit down with 2025 PA Teacher of the Year Leon Smith to discuss the challenges facing education today. From the shrinking teacher pipeline to the urgent need for more diverse educators, Leon shares his insights on why representation matters, how to rebuild the profession, and what gives him hope for the future.

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]]> Wed, 12 Mar 2025 09:00:00 +0000 comms@psea.org (Leon Smith, Rachael West, Aaron Chapin, Jeff Ney) https://duty-free-lunch.simplecast.com/episodes/pa-teacher-of-the-year-leon-smith-on-representation-retention-and-the-future-of-teaching-Rs4DldDO Aaron, Jeff, and Rachael sit down with 2025 PA Teacher of the Year Leon Smith to discuss the challenges facing education today. From the shrinking teacher pipeline to the urgent need for more diverse educators, Leon shares his insights on why representation matters, how to rebuild the profession, and what gives him hope for the future.

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]]> PA Teacher of the Year Leon Smith on representation, retention, and the future of teaching Leon Smith, Rachael West, Aaron Chapin, Jeff Ney 00:26:02 Aaron, Jeff, and Rachael sit down with 2025 PA Teacher of the Year Leon Smith to discuss the challenges facing education today. From the shrinking teacher pipeline to the urgent need for more diverse educators, Leon shares his insights on why representation matters, how to rebuild the profession, and what gives him hope for the future. Aaron, Jeff, and Rachael sit down with 2025 PA Teacher of the Year Leon Smith to discuss the challenges facing education today. From the shrinking teacher pipeline to the urgent need for more diverse educators, Leon shares his insights on why representation matters, how to rebuild the profession, and what gives him hope for the future. public education, union, psea, dei, teacher of the year, pennsylvania, teaching, education false full 34 dca42a63-4a44-4e60-b9cd-c3af9e62215e From classroom to cockpit: How one high school is changing aviation education Join us as we explore an extraordinary high school program that’s preparing students for careers in aviation. Aaron and Rachael sit down with Eric Greenberger, the creator and lead instructor of the Wallenpaupack Aeronautical Science & Aviation program, as well as senior Josh Griffiths, a student pilot in the program. Learn how this one-of-a-kind program is giving students hands-on experience in professional piloting, air traffic control, and aircraft maintenance while helping them earn certifications and launch their careers before they even graduate.

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]]> Wed, 26 Feb 2025 10:00:00 +0000 comms@psea.org (Eric Greenberger, Josh Griffiths, Aaron Chapin, Rachael West) https://duty-free-lunch.simplecast.com/episodes/from-classroom-to-cockpit-how-one-high-school-is-changing-aviation-education-RzRChfa4 Join us as we explore an extraordinary high school program that’s preparing students for careers in aviation. Aaron and Rachael sit down with Eric Greenberger, the creator and lead instructor of the Wallenpaupack Aeronautical Science & Aviation program, as well as senior Josh Griffiths, a student pilot in the program. Learn how this one-of-a-kind program is giving students hands-on experience in professional piloting, air traffic control, and aircraft maintenance while helping them earn certifications and launch their careers before they even graduate.

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]]> From classroom to cockpit: How one high school is changing aviation education Eric Greenberger, Josh Griffiths, Aaron Chapin, Rachael West 00:23:04 Join us as we explore an extraordinary high school program that’s preparing students for careers in aviation. Aaron and Rachael sit down with Eric Greenberger, the creator and lead instructor of the Wallenpaupack Aeronautical Science & Aviation program, as well as senior Josh Griffiths, a student pilot in the program. Learn how this one-of-a-kind program is giving students hands-on experience in professional piloting, air traffic control, and aircraft maintenance while helping them earn certifications and launch their careers before they even graduate. Join us as we explore an extraordinary high school program that’s preparing students for careers in aviation. Aaron and Rachael sit down with Eric Greenberger, the creator and lead instructor of the Wallenpaupack Aeronautical Science & Aviation program, as well as senior Josh Griffiths, a student pilot in the program. Learn how this one-of-a-kind program is giving students hands-on experience in professional piloting, air traffic control, and aircraft maintenance while helping them earn certifications and launch their careers before they even graduate. public schools, union, aerospace, psea, pilot, aeronautical, aviation, teaching, education false full 33 6df29500-f538-474c-8eeb-838f4245a662 Teach happier: strategies for a more fulfilling career Aaron and Rachael sit down with educator, instructional coach, author, and podcaster Suzanne Dailey, along with PSEA Mideastern Region President Bill Senavaitis, to explore practical strategies for staying positive in education. Suzanne shares insights from her Teach Happier podcast and book, offering science-backed techniques to help educators feel more grounded and fulfilled.

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]]> Wed, 12 Feb 2025 10:00:00 +0000 comms@psea.org (Suzanne Dailey, Bill Senavaitis, Rachael West, Aaron Chapin) https://duty-free-lunch.simplecast.com/episodes/teach-happier-strategies-for-a-more-fulfilling-career-35kFahVM Aaron and Rachael sit down with educator, instructional coach, author, and podcaster Suzanne Dailey, along with PSEA Mideastern Region President Bill Senavaitis, to explore practical strategies for staying positive in education. Suzanne shares insights from her Teach Happier podcast and book, offering science-backed techniques to help educators feel more grounded and fulfilled.

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Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

]]> Teach happier: strategies for a more fulfilling career Suzanne Dailey, Bill Senavaitis, Rachael West, Aaron Chapin 00:25:55 Aaron and Rachael sit down with educator, instructional coach, author, and podcaster Suzanne Dailey, along with PSEA Mideastern Region President Bill Senavaitis, to explore practical strategies for staying positive in education. Suzanne shares insights from her Teach Happier podcast and book, offering science-backed techniques to help educators feel more grounded and fulfilled. Aaron and Rachael sit down with educator, instructional coach, author, and podcaster Suzanne Dailey, along with PSEA Mideastern Region President Bill Senavaitis, to explore practical strategies for staying positive in education. Suzanne shares insights from her Teach Happier podcast and book, offering science-backed techniques to help educators feel more grounded and fulfilled. podcast, well-being, happiness, psea, wellness, pennsylvania, teacher, career, teaching, education, mental health, happy false full 32 ad051666-5402-4e71-97a2-d3b6582a073b Breaking down the budget: What's in it for PA schools We're back with another late-breaking budget breakdown! The officer team sits down with PSEA Government Relations gurus Dan Wiedemer and Kelli Thompson to comb over the details in Gov. Shapiro's Feb. 4 Budget Proposal. They explore key funding increases, the impact on school districts, and the fight for more support for student teachers. 

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]]> Wed, 5 Feb 2025 18:29:27 +0000 comms@psea.org (Dan Wiedemer, Aaron Chapin, Jeff Ney, Rachael West, Kelli Thompson) https://duty-free-lunch.simplecast.com/episodes/breaking-down-the-budget-whats-in-it-for-pa-schools-sMZy22Kk We're back with another late-breaking budget breakdown! The officer team sits down with PSEA Government Relations gurus Dan Wiedemer and Kelli Thompson to comb over the details in Gov. Shapiro's Feb. 4 Budget Proposal. They explore key funding increases, the impact on school districts, and the fight for more support for student teachers. 

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Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

]]> Breaking down the budget: What's in it for PA schools Dan Wiedemer, Aaron Chapin, Jeff Ney, Rachael West, Kelli Thompson 00:24:58 We're back with another late-breaking budget breakdown! The officer team sits down with PSEA Government Relations gurus Dan Wiedemer and Kelli Thompson to comb over the details in Gov. Shapiro's Feb. 4 Budget Proposal. They explore key funding increases, the impact on school districts, and the fight for more support for student teachers. We're back with another late-breaking budget breakdown! The officer team sits down with PSEA Government Relations gurus Dan Wiedemer and Kelli Thompson to comb over the details in Gov. Shapiro's Feb. 4 Budget Proposal. They explore key funding increases, the impact on school districts, and the fight for more support for student teachers. public schools, state budget, union, psea, politics, budget, schools, pennsylvania, educators, teachers, education false full 31 e81b9348-a84f-45b7-95ee-b5b0e8445739 Why Phoenixville's Educators Rising program is a model for schools everywhere When Brittney Ehrenzeller started a small club at Phoenixville Area High School to inspire and mentor students interested in an education career, she had no idea it would balloon into the thriving, in-demand program it is today. Aaron and Jeff sit down with Brittney to hear how she did it, and hopefully inspire more future teacher leaders to start an Educators Rising chapter in their schools.

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]]> Wed, 29 Jan 2025 10:00:00 +0000 comms@psea.org (Aaron Chapin, Jeff Ney) https://duty-free-lunch.simplecast.com/episodes/why-phoenixvilles-educators-rising-program-is-a-model-for-schools-everywhere-AsBfPC3R When Brittney Ehrenzeller started a small club at Phoenixville Area High School to inspire and mentor students interested in an education career, she had no idea it would balloon into the thriving, in-demand program it is today. Aaron and Jeff sit down with Brittney to hear how she did it, and hopefully inspire more future teacher leaders to start an Educators Rising chapter in their schools.

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Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

]]> Why Phoenixville's Educators Rising program is a model for schools everywhere Aaron Chapin, Jeff Ney 00:26:11 When Brittney Ehrenzeller started a small club at Phoenixville Area High School to inspire and mentor students interested in an education career, she had no idea it would balloon into the thriving, in-demand program it is today. Aaron and Jeff sit down with Brittney to hear how she did it, and hopefully inspire more future teacher leaders to start an Educators Rising chapter in their schools. When Brittney Ehrenzeller started a small club at Phoenixville Area High School to inspire and mentor students interested in an education career, she had no idea it would balloon into the thriving, in-demand program it is today. Aaron and Jeff sit down with Brittney to hear how she did it, and hopefully inspire more future teacher leaders to start an Educators Rising chapter in their schools. educators rising, public education, union, psea, schools, pennsylvania, teaching, teachers false full 30 ae838ada-156e-48dc-9f98-11cbbd93baa1 A student teacher's stipend story Aaron and Jeff sit down with Kaylin Shewmake, a Penn State University student and Student PSEA Central Region president. Kaylin was one of the fortunate recipients of the student teacher stipend that was awarded this past year. She talks about her experience applying for and receiving the stipend, the improvements she hopes to see in the future, and how fully funding this stipend is key to attracting more future educators in Pennsylvania. 

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]]> Wed, 15 Jan 2025 10:00:00 +0000 comms@psea.org (Kaylin Shewmake, Jeff Ney, Aaron Chapin) https://duty-free-lunch.simplecast.com/episodes/a-student-teachers-stipend-story-SPPjK_tQ Aaron and Jeff sit down with Kaylin Shewmake, a Penn State University student and Student PSEA Central Region president. Kaylin was one of the fortunate recipients of the student teacher stipend that was awarded this past year. She talks about her experience applying for and receiving the stipend, the improvements she hopes to see in the future, and how fully funding this stipend is key to attracting more future educators in Pennsylvania. 

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]]> A student teacher's stipend story Kaylin Shewmake, Jeff Ney, Aaron Chapin 00:25:22 Aaron and Jeff sit down with Kaylin Shewmake, a Penn State University student and Student PSEA Central Region president. Kaylin was one of the fortunate recipients of the student teacher stipend that was awarded this past year. She talks about her experience applying for and receiving the stipend, the improvements she hopes to see in the future, and how fully funding this stipend is key to attracting more future educators in Pennsylvania. Aaron and Jeff sit down with Kaylin Shewmake, a Penn State University student and Student PSEA Central Region president. Kaylin was one of the fortunate recipients of the student teacher stipend that was awarded this past year. She talks about her experience applying for and receiving the stipend, the improvements she hopes to see in the future, and how fully funding this stipend is key to attracting more future educators in Pennsylvania. penn state, public education, union, psea, pennsylvania, stipend, education, student teacher false full 29 9c664cde-30c5-415e-8d34-d8f6ecfa0a1b Pod-aversary reflections: The year in review and what lies ahead In a special episode, Aaron, Jeff, and Rachael celebrate the podcast’s one-year pod-aversary. They discuss key PSEA highlights from 2024, including success with a student teacher stipend, ongoing efforts to secure a pre-Act 9 retiree COLA, and plans to address ESP shortages with a dedicated Lobby Day in 2025. The team also shares their favorite memories from the year and looks ahead to new goals and more tapping into the collaborative spirit that drives PSEA’s mission forward.

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Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

]]> Wed, 1 Jan 2025 10:00:00 +0000 comms@psea.org (Aaron Chapin, Rachael West, Jeff Ney) https://duty-free-lunch.simplecast.com/episodes/pod-aversary-reflections-the-year-in-review-and-what-lies-ahead-qQ4AAAbQ In a special episode, Aaron, Jeff, and Rachael celebrate the podcast’s one-year pod-aversary. They discuss key PSEA highlights from 2024, including success with a student teacher stipend, ongoing efforts to secure a pre-Act 9 retiree COLA, and plans to address ESP shortages with a dedicated Lobby Day in 2025. The team also shares their favorite memories from the year and looks ahead to new goals and more tapping into the collaborative spirit that drives PSEA’s mission forward.

Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to podcast@psea.org. 

Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

]]> Pod-aversary reflections: The year in review and what lies ahead Aaron Chapin, Rachael West, Jeff Ney 00:28:20 In a special episode, Aaron, Jeff, and Rachael celebrate the podcast’s one-year pod-aversary. They discuss key PSEA highlights from 2024, including success with a student teacher stipend, ongoing efforts to secure a pre-Act 9 retiree COLA, and plans to address ESP shortages with a dedicated Lobby Day in 2025. The team also shares their favorite memories from the year and looks ahead to new goals and more tapping into the collaborative spirit that drives PSEA’s mission forward. In a special episode, Aaron, Jeff, and Rachael celebrate the podcast’s one-year pod-aversary. They discuss key PSEA highlights from 2024, including success with a student teacher stipend, ongoing efforts to secure a pre-Act 9 retiree COLA, and plans to address ESP shortages with a dedicated Lobby Day in 2025. The team also shares their favorite memories from the year and looks ahead to new goals and more tapping into the collaborative spirit that drives PSEA’s mission forward. public schools, public education, union, psea, pennsylvania, educator, education false full 28 4820c497-a9da-47f2-a266-1f077d0e5862 Celebrating America’s 250th with Cassandra Coleman In this episode of Duty Free Lunch, we’re looking ahead to America’s 250th birthday in 2026 and Pennsylvania’s key role in the celebrations. Cassandra Coleman, Executive Director of America250PA, joins Aaron, Jeff, and Rachael to share how the commission is connecting history with education and highlighting Pennsylvania’s contributions. They discuss programs for students, partnerships with schools and museums, and ways educators can get involved to bring history to life in the classroom. Plus, Cassandra shares her favorite piece of Pennsylvania trivia - don't miss it!

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]]> Wed, 18 Dec 2024 10:00:00 +0000 comms@psea.org (Cassandra Coleman, Aaron Chapin, Rachael West, Jeff Ney) https://duty-free-lunch.simplecast.com/episodes/celebrating-americas-250th-with-cassandra-coleman-44A_xysU In this episode of Duty Free Lunch, we’re looking ahead to America’s 250th birthday in 2026 and Pennsylvania’s key role in the celebrations. Cassandra Coleman, Executive Director of America250PA, joins Aaron, Jeff, and Rachael to share how the commission is connecting history with education and highlighting Pennsylvania’s contributions. They discuss programs for students, partnerships with schools and museums, and ways educators can get involved to bring history to life in the classroom. Plus, Cassandra shares her favorite piece of Pennsylvania trivia - don't miss it!

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]]> Celebrating America’s 250th with Cassandra Coleman Cassandra Coleman, Aaron Chapin, Rachael West, Jeff Ney 00:27:10 In this episode of Duty Free Lunch, we’re looking ahead to America’s 250th birthday in 2026 and Pennsylvania’s key role in the celebrations. Cassandra Coleman, Executive Director of America250PA, joins Aaron, Jeff, and Rachael to share how the commission is connecting history with education and highlighting Pennsylvania’s contributions. They discuss programs for students, partnerships with schools and museums, and ways educators can get involved to bring history to life in the classroom. Plus, Cassandra shares her favorite piece of Pennsylvania trivia - don't miss it! In this episode of Duty Free Lunch, we’re looking ahead to America’s 250th birthday in 2026 and Pennsylvania’s key role in the celebrations. Cassandra Coleman, Executive Director of America250PA, joins Aaron, Jeff, and Rachael to share how the commission is connecting history with education and highlighting Pennsylvania’s contributions. They discuss programs for students, partnerships with schools and museums, and ways educators can get involved to bring history to life in the classroom. Plus, Cassandra shares her favorite piece of Pennsylvania trivia - don't miss it! public schools, america250, history, public education, union, psea, pennsylvania, education false full 27 cc5522d9-d872-40ae-b07a-fa841ad8b029 Building more resilient students and healthier schools Aaron and Jeff delve into student health and wellness with PSEA leaders Michelle Sholder and Adam Oldham. Michelle, president of PSEA’s Department of Pupil Services (DPS), and Adam, a school counselor, share their expertise on addressing issues like trauma, anxiety, and the impact of social media on students. They share practical strategies and emphasize the need for more certified student service professionals. They also explore PSEA's professional development opportunities and advocate for more empathetic, systemic solutions to help students thrive.

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Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

]]> Wed, 4 Dec 2024 10:00:00 +0000 comms@psea.org (Michelle Sholder, Adam Oldham, Aaron Chapin, Jeff Ney) https://duty-free-lunch.simplecast.com/episodes/building-more-resilient-students-and-healthier-schools-smdcvPJa Aaron and Jeff delve into student health and wellness with PSEA leaders Michelle Sholder and Adam Oldham. Michelle, president of PSEA’s Department of Pupil Services (DPS), and Adam, a school counselor, share their expertise on addressing issues like trauma, anxiety, and the impact of social media on students. They share practical strategies and emphasize the need for more certified student service professionals. They also explore PSEA's professional development opportunities and advocate for more empathetic, systemic solutions to help students thrive.

Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to podcast@psea.org. 

Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

]]> Building more resilient students and healthier schools Michelle Sholder, Adam Oldham, Aaron Chapin, Jeff Ney 00:24:54 Aaron and Jeff delve into student health and wellness with PSEA leaders Michelle Sholder and Adam Oldham. Michelle, president of PSEA’s Department of Pupil Services (DPS), and Adam, a school counselor, share their expertise on addressing issues like trauma, anxiety, and the impact of social media on students. They share practical strategies and emphasize the need for more certified student service professionals. They also explore PSEA's professional development opportunities and advocate for more empathetic, systemic solutions to help students thrive. Aaron and Jeff delve into student health and wellness with PSEA leaders Michelle Sholder and Adam Oldham. Michelle, president of PSEA’s Department of Pupil Services (DPS), and Adam, a school counselor, share their expertise on addressing issues like trauma, anxiety, and the impact of social media on students. They share practical strategies and emphasize the need for more certified student service professionals. They also explore PSEA's professional development opportunities and advocate for more empathetic, systemic solutions to help students thrive. counselor, public education, union, psea, wellness, schools, pennsylvania, pupil services, mental health false full 26 76534325-37aa-49c9-9477-0f12cfb9f2ce PSEA’s 2024 Education Support Professional of the Year Becky Marszalek Aaron and Jeff sit down with with PSEA’s 2024 Dolores McCracken Education Support Professional of the Year, Becky Marszalek, a paraprofessional at Avonworth Elementary School and president of Avonworth ESP with 18 years of education experience. Becky shares some of the challenges and joys of her journey from nannying to working in education, emphasizing the importance of trust, consistency, and the evolving support for paraprofessionals within the education community. 

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]]> Wed, 20 Nov 2024 10:00:00 +0000 comms@psea.org (Aaron Chapin, Jeff Ney, Becky Marszalek) https://duty-free-lunch.simplecast.com/episodes/pseas-2024-education-support-professional-of-the-year-becky-marszalek-wUTbUj8U Aaron and Jeff sit down with with PSEA’s 2024 Dolores McCracken Education Support Professional of the Year, Becky Marszalek, a paraprofessional at Avonworth Elementary School and president of Avonworth ESP with 18 years of education experience. Becky shares some of the challenges and joys of her journey from nannying to working in education, emphasizing the importance of trust, consistency, and the evolving support for paraprofessionals within the education community. 

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]]> PSEA’s 2024 Education Support Professional of the Year Becky Marszalek Aaron Chapin, Jeff Ney, Becky Marszalek 00:23:11 Aaron and Jeff sit down with with PSEA’s 2024 Dolores McCracken Education Support Professional of the Year, Becky Marszalek, a paraprofessional at Avonworth Elementary School and president of Avonworth ESP with 18 years of education experience. Becky shares some of the challenges and joys of her journey from nannying to working in education, emphasizing the importance of trust, consistency, and the evolving support for paraprofessionals within the education community. Aaron and Jeff sit down with with PSEA’s 2024 Dolores McCracken Education Support Professional of the Year, Becky Marszalek, a paraprofessional at Avonworth Elementary School and president of Avonworth ESP with 18 years of education experience. Becky shares some of the challenges and joys of her journey from nannying to working in education, emphasizing the importance of trust, consistency, and the evolving support for paraprofessionals within the education community. public schools, esp, public education, union, psea, teaching, support professional false full 25 3465a8e2-6e72-42d7-9868-d7ebd94b3066 Election 2024: What the results mean for Pennsylvania's educators In this special post-election wrap-up of Duty Free Lunch, we break down the latest election results and their impact on Pennsylvania's public education landscape. Aaron welcomes Dan Wiedemer and Sari Stevens from PSEA's Government Relations unit to discuss key issues from the Nov. 5 election, from voter turnout and demographic trends to the policy priorities that could shape our schools’ future. Tune in as we explore the path forward for educators and PSEA’s ongoing commitment to putting students and public schools first.

Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to podcast@psea.org. 

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]]> Fri, 8 Nov 2024 10:00:00 +0000 comms@psea.org (Sari Stevens, Aaron Chapin, Dan Wiedemer) https://duty-free-lunch.simplecast.com/episodes/election-2024-what-the-results-mean-for-pennsylvanias-educators-u_ALF38n In this special post-election wrap-up of Duty Free Lunch, we break down the latest election results and their impact on Pennsylvania's public education landscape. Aaron welcomes Dan Wiedemer and Sari Stevens from PSEA's Government Relations unit to discuss key issues from the Nov. 5 election, from voter turnout and demographic trends to the policy priorities that could shape our schools’ future. Tune in as we explore the path forward for educators and PSEA’s ongoing commitment to putting students and public schools first.

Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to podcast@psea.org. 

Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

]]> Election 2024: What the results mean for Pennsylvania's educators Sari Stevens, Aaron Chapin, Dan Wiedemer 00:24:26 In this special post-election wrap-up of Duty Free Lunch, we break down the latest election results and their impact on Pennsylvania's public education landscape. Aaron welcomes Dan Wiedemer and Sari Stevens from PSEA's Government Relations unit to discuss key issues from the Nov. 5 election, from voter turnout and demographic trends to the policy priorities that could shape our schools’ future. Tune in as we explore the path forward for educators and PSEA’s ongoing commitment to putting students and public schools first. In this special post-election wrap-up of Duty Free Lunch, we break down the latest election results and their impact on Pennsylvania's public education landscape. Aaron welcomes Dan Wiedemer and Sari Stevens from PSEA's Government Relations unit to discuss key issues from the Nov. 5 election, from voter turnout and demographic trends to the policy priorities that could shape our schools’ future. Tune in as we explore the path forward for educators and PSEA’s ongoing commitment to putting students and public schools first. public education, union, psea, politics, schools, pennsylvania, election, republican, democrat, 2024 election, education false full 24 9c1010ca-b80a-4cc8-817e-8f2cd358084c Take three deep breaths: Managing stress in education Aaron and Jeff tackle a topic that hits close to home for educators: stress and how to effectively manage it. They are joined by Dorothy Morelli, a career educator with over 30 years of experience and co-founder of the non-profits CREATE and Bounceback, and Denine Goolsby, an SEL expert with 46 years as an educator, principal, and executive in social-emotional learning. Also joining in is Sandy Williams, PSEA’s wellness facilitator, who highlights wellness resources for members, offering quick techniques to find calm and joy in stressful moments.

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]]> Wed, 6 Nov 2024 17:30:00 +0000 comms@psea.org (Denine Goolsby, Dorothy Morelli, Sandy Williams, Jeff Ney, Aaron Chapin) https://duty-free-lunch.simplecast.com/episodes/take-three-deep-breaths-managing-stress-in-education-olrd99_Z Aaron and Jeff tackle a topic that hits close to home for educators: stress and how to effectively manage it. They are joined by Dorothy Morelli, a career educator with over 30 years of experience and co-founder of the non-profits CREATE and Bounceback, and Denine Goolsby, an SEL expert with 46 years as an educator, principal, and executive in social-emotional learning. Also joining in is Sandy Williams, PSEA’s wellness facilitator, who highlights wellness resources for members, offering quick techniques to find calm and joy in stressful moments.

Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to podcast@psea.org. 

Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

]]> Take three deep breaths: Managing stress in education Denine Goolsby, Dorothy Morelli, Sandy Williams, Jeff Ney, Aaron Chapin 00:26:03 Aaron and Jeff tackle a topic that hits close to home for educators: stress and how to effectively manage it. They are joined by Dorothy Morelli, a career educator with over 30 years of experience and co-founder of the non-profits CREATE and Bounceback, and Denine Goolsby, an SEL expert with 46 years as an educator, principal, and executive in social-emotional learning. Also joining in is Sandy Williams, PSEA’s wellness facilitator, who highlights wellness resources for members, offering quick techniques to find calm and joy in stressful moments. Aaron and Jeff tackle a topic that hits close to home for educators: stress and how to effectively manage it. They are joined by Dorothy Morelli, a career educator with over 30 years of experience and co-founder of the non-profits CREATE and Bounceback, and Denine Goolsby, an SEL expert with 46 years as an educator, principal, and executive in social-emotional learning. Also joining in is Sandy Williams, PSEA’s wellness facilitator, who highlights wellness resources for members, offering quick techniques to find calm and joy in stressful moments. union, well-being, psea, wellness, pennsylvania, educator, selfcare, education, mindfulness false full 23 ced4757e-2944-48a1-9473-20e7a50e89fb Exploring PSEA's Innovative Teaching Grants PSEA’s Innovative Teaching Grants program is designed to support educators in creating groundbreaking classroom projects. Jeff and Rachael chat with Amy Lightner, Chair of the program, and Anthony DeRosa, a grant recipient from the Lawrence County Career & Technical Center. Tune in to hear how DeRosa’s “Art Mart” is equipping economically disadvantaged students with entrepreneurial skills through a unique STEAM-based curriculum and learn about the opportunities and tips for applying to this prestigious grant to your own program.

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Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

]]> Wed, 23 Oct 2024 09:00:00 +0000 comms@psea.org (Anthony DeRosa, Jeff Ney, Rachael West, Amy Lightner) https://duty-free-lunch.simplecast.com/episodes/exploring-pseas-innovative-teaching-grants-rrJwmiy3 PSEA’s Innovative Teaching Grants program is designed to support educators in creating groundbreaking classroom projects. Jeff and Rachael chat with Amy Lightner, Chair of the program, and Anthony DeRosa, a grant recipient from the Lawrence County Career & Technical Center. Tune in to hear how DeRosa’s “Art Mart” is equipping economically disadvantaged students with entrepreneurial skills through a unique STEAM-based curriculum and learn about the opportunities and tips for applying to this prestigious grant to your own program.

Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to podcast@psea.org. 

Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

]]> Exploring PSEA's Innovative Teaching Grants Anthony DeRosa, Jeff Ney, Rachael West, Amy Lightner 00:23:18 PSEA’s Innovative Teaching Grants program is designed to support educators in creating groundbreaking classroom projects. Jeff and Rachael chat with Amy Lightner, Chair of the program, and Anthony DeRosa, a grant recipient from the Lawrence County Career & Technical Center. Tune in to hear how DeRosa’s “Art Mart” is equipping economically disadvantaged students with entrepreneurial skills through a unique STEAM-based curriculum and learn about the opportunities and tips for applying to this prestigious grant to your own program. PSEA’s Innovative Teaching Grants program is designed to support educators in creating groundbreaking classroom projects. Jeff and Rachael chat with Amy Lightner, Chair of the program, and Anthony DeRosa, a grant recipient from the Lawrence County Career & Technical Center. Tune in to hear how DeRosa’s “Art Mart” is equipping economically disadvantaged students with entrepreneurial skills through a unique STEAM-based curriculum and learn about the opportunities and tips for applying to this prestigious grant to your own program. public schools, career and technical education, public education, union, psea, pennsylvania, teaching, grant false full 22 59d1c8fd-2d8b-43c0-aca1-893f759b86c9 Maximize your professional learning with PSEA's free online offerings Aaron and Rachael sit down with PSEA Assistant Directors of Education Services Gina Gullo and Michael Bogdan to explore the professional learning opportunities available to PSEA members. Learn about PSEA’s Center for Professional Learning and the PEARL platform, which offer flexible, free Act 48 and Chapter 14 credits through webinars, book studies, and NEA micro-credentials. Whether you're a seasoned educator or just starting out, PSEA's pro-learning opportunities have you covered.

Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to podcast@psea.org. 

Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

]]> Wed, 9 Oct 2024 12:27:39 +0000 comms@psea.org (Gina Gullo, Michael Bogdan, Rachael West, Aaron Chapin) https://duty-free-lunch.simplecast.com/episodes/maximize-your-professional-learning-with-pseas-free-online-offerings-8oAZ64hl Aaron and Rachael sit down with PSEA Assistant Directors of Education Services Gina Gullo and Michael Bogdan to explore the professional learning opportunities available to PSEA members. Learn about PSEA’s Center for Professional Learning and the PEARL platform, which offer flexible, free Act 48 and Chapter 14 credits through webinars, book studies, and NEA micro-credentials. Whether you're a seasoned educator or just starting out, PSEA's pro-learning opportunities have you covered.

Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to podcast@psea.org. 

Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

]]> Maximize your professional learning with PSEA's free online offerings Gina Gullo, Michael Bogdan, Rachael West, Aaron Chapin 00:21:24 Aaron and Rachael sit down with PSEA Assistant Directors of Education Services Gina Gullo and Michael Bogdan to explore the professional learning opportunities available to PSEA members. Learn about PSEA’s Center for Professional Learning and the PEARL platform, which offer flexible, free Act 48 and Chapter 14 credits through webinars, book studies, and NEA micro-credentials. Whether you're a seasoned educator or just starting out, PSEA's pro-learning opportunities have you covered. Aaron and Rachael sit down with PSEA Assistant Directors of Education Services Gina Gullo and Michael Bogdan to explore the professional learning opportunities available to PSEA members. Learn about PSEA’s Center for Professional Learning and the PEARL platform, which offer flexible, free Act 48 and Chapter 14 credits through webinars, book studies, and NEA micro-credentials. Whether you're a seasoned educator or just starting out, PSEA's pro-learning opportunities have you covered. public education, union, psea, public school, pennsylvania, educator, teacher, chapter 14, act 48, education, professional learning false full 21 542b84f9-160e-46a8-bf1d-903d37798673 Preparing future educators through Career and Technical Education Aaron and Rachael explore the world of Career and Technical Education (CTE) with special guests from York County School of Technology. Teacher Development Instructor Dr. Melissa-Ann Pero discusses her innovative teacher development program, which borrows from the Educators Rising curriculum, and its role in preparing the next generation of educators. Senior student Grace Rinehart shares what inspires and motivates her on her journey to become a teacher.

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Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

]]> Wed, 25 Sep 2024 09:00:00 +0000 comms@psea.org (Melissa-Ann Pero, Grace Rinehart, Aaron Chapin, Rachael West) https://duty-free-lunch.simplecast.com/episodes/preparing-future-educators-through-career-and-technical-education-Azx8ojua Aaron and Rachael explore the world of Career and Technical Education (CTE) with special guests from York County School of Technology. Teacher Development Instructor Dr. Melissa-Ann Pero discusses her innovative teacher development program, which borrows from the Educators Rising curriculum, and its role in preparing the next generation of educators. Senior student Grace Rinehart shares what inspires and motivates her on her journey to become a teacher.

Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to podcast@psea.org. 

Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

]]> Preparing future educators through Career and Technical Education Melissa-Ann Pero, Grace Rinehart, Aaron Chapin, Rachael West 00:24:19 Aaron and Rachael explore the world of Career and Technical Education (CTE) with special guests from York County School of Technology. Teacher Development Instructor Dr. Melissa-Ann Pero discusses her innovative teacher development program, which borrows from the Educators Rising curriculum, and its role in preparing the next generation of educators. Senior student Grace Rinehart shares what inspires and motivates her on her journey to become a teacher. Aaron and Rachael explore the world of Career and Technical Education (CTE) with special guests from York County School of Technology. Teacher Development Instructor Dr. Melissa-Ann Pero discusses her innovative teacher development program, which borrows from the Educators Rising curriculum, and its role in preparing the next generation of educators. Senior student Grace Rinehart shares what inspires and motivates her on her journey to become a teacher. career and technical education, educators rising, union, psea, pennsylvania, educator, teacher, teaching, cte, education false full 20 5a50204a-8b98-4b13-9267-ebe745c5d6b5 2024 Election: What's at stake for public education with NEA's Mary Kusler The PSEA officer team dives into the 2024 election and its potential impact on public education with Mary Kusler, NEA's Senior Director for the Center for Advocacy and Political Action. Mary shares insights on the political landscape, the importance of educators' involvement, and key issues like student loan debt, union rights, and federal funding for schools. Tune in as we discuss why this election could be the most consequential of our lifetimes and how educators can make their voices heard.

Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to podcast@psea.org. 

Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

]]> Thu, 12 Sep 2024 09:00:00 +0000 comms@psea.org (Mary Kusler, Rachael West, Aaron Chapin, Jeff Ney) https://duty-free-lunch.simplecast.com/episodes/2024-election-whats-at-stake-for-public-education-with-neas-mary-kusler-PqcyslAT The PSEA officer team dives into the 2024 election and its potential impact on public education with Mary Kusler, NEA's Senior Director for the Center for Advocacy and Political Action. Mary shares insights on the political landscape, the importance of educators' involvement, and key issues like student loan debt, union rights, and federal funding for schools. Tune in as we discuss why this election could be the most consequential of our lifetimes and how educators can make their voices heard.

Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to podcast@psea.org. 

Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

]]> 2024 Election: What's at stake for public education with NEA's Mary Kusler Mary Kusler, Rachael West, Aaron Chapin, Jeff Ney 00:23:55 The PSEA officer team dives into the 2024 election and its potential impact on public education with Mary Kusler, NEA's Senior Director for the Center for Advocacy and Political Action. Mary shares insights on the political landscape, the importance of educators' involvement, and key issues like student loan debt, union rights, and federal funding for schools. Tune in as we discuss why this election could be the most consequential of our lifetimes and how educators can make their voices heard. The PSEA officer team dives into the 2024 election and its potential impact on public education with Mary Kusler, NEA's Senior Director for the Center for Advocacy and Political Action. Mary shares insights on the political landscape, the importance of educators' involvement, and key issues like student loan debt, union rights, and federal funding for schools. Tune in as we discuss why this election could be the most consequential of our lifetimes and how educators can make their voices heard. nea, public education, union, psea, politics, pennsylvania, election, kamala harris, donald trump, 2024 election false full 19 482a4306-44f5-4a47-953a-276c9d59fe2a How PSEA Works: Insights from Executive Director Jim Vaughan Aaron, Jeff, and Rachael sit down with PSEA Executive Director Jim Vaughan to illuminate the inner workings of the Association. Jim shares his day-to-day responsibilities, discusses how members' voices shape PSEA’s decisions, and highlights recent successes in organizing and bargaining. Get a behind-the-scenes look at the people and projects that keep PSEA running smoothly, along with Jim's vision for the future of the organization.

Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to podcast@psea.org. 

Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

]]> Wed, 28 Aug 2024 09:00:00 +0000 comms@psea.org (Jim Vaughan, Aaron Chapin, Rachael West, Jeff Ney) https://duty-free-lunch.simplecast.com/episodes/how-psea-works-insights-from-executive-director-jim-vaughan-iqayUpuU Aaron, Jeff, and Rachael sit down with PSEA Executive Director Jim Vaughan to illuminate the inner workings of the Association. Jim shares his day-to-day responsibilities, discusses how members' voices shape PSEA’s decisions, and highlights recent successes in organizing and bargaining. Get a behind-the-scenes look at the people and projects that keep PSEA running smoothly, along with Jim's vision for the future of the organization.

Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to podcast@psea.org. 

Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

]]> How PSEA Works: Insights from Executive Director Jim Vaughan Jim Vaughan, Aaron Chapin, Rachael West, Jeff Ney 00:24:38 Aaron, Jeff, and Rachael sit down with PSEA Executive Director Jim Vaughan to illuminate the inner workings of the Association. Jim shares his day-to-day responsibilities, discusses how members' voices shape PSEA’s decisions, and highlights recent successes in organizing and bargaining. Get a behind-the-scenes look at the people and projects that keep PSEA running smoothly, along with Jim's vision for the future of the organization. Aaron, Jeff, and Rachael sit down with PSEA Executive Director Jim Vaughan to illuminate the inner workings of the Association. Jim shares his day-to-day responsibilities, discusses how members' voices shape PSEA’s decisions, and highlights recent successes in organizing and bargaining. Get a behind-the-scenes look at the people and projects that keep PSEA running smoothly, along with Jim's vision for the future of the organization. labor day, public education, union, psea, schools, education, labor false full 18 46f8f232-eb3c-4527-b68a-698fac04085f Breaking down the budget: what PA's financial plan means for educators The officer team sits down with PSEA Government Relations gurus Dan Wiedemer and Erika Brunelle to discuss the hits and misses for educators in the 2024-25 Pennsylvania state budget. 

Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to podcast@psea.org. 

Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

]]> Thu, 15 Aug 2024 09:00:00 +0000 comms@psea.org (Jeff Ney, Rachael West, Dan Wiedemer, Aaron Chapin) https://duty-free-lunch.simplecast.com/episodes/breaking-down-the-budget-what-pas-financial-plan-means-for-educators-_HUfVbKH The officer team sits down with PSEA Government Relations gurus Dan Wiedemer and Erika Brunelle to discuss the hits and misses for educators in the 2024-25 Pennsylvania state budget. 

Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to podcast@psea.org. 

Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

]]> Breaking down the budget: what PA's financial plan means for educators Jeff Ney, Rachael West, Dan Wiedemer, Aaron Chapin 00:24:10 The officer team sits down with PSEA Government Relations gurus Dan Wiedemer and Erika Brunelle to discuss the hits and misses for educators in the 2024-25 Pennsylvania state budget. The officer team sits down with PSEA Government Relations gurus Dan Wiedemer and Erika Brunelle to discuss the hits and misses for educators in the 2024-25 Pennsylvania state budget. state government, state budget, union, psea, politics, josh shapiro, pennsylvania, educator, teaching, education false full 17 453038f0-9739-4687-b5f3-860bf406df93 Inside PSEA's legislative advocacy efforts Join us for an in-depth discussion about PSEA’s Advocates for Children and Education, or “ACE”, program, which is one of the ways PSEA members can advocate directly to lawmakers in the Capitol for public education. Aaron and Rachael sit down with PSEA's own ACE Program Coordinator, Jen Statler,  as well as ACEs Melissa Costantino-Poruben, a mathematics teacher in the Avonworth School District, and PSEA President of Higher Education Gretchen Osterman.

Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to podcast@psea.org. 

Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

]]> Fri, 19 Jul 2024 09:00:00 +0000 comms@psea.org (Melissa Costantino-Poruben, Gretchen Osterman, Jen Statler, Rachael West, Aaron Chapin) https://duty-free-lunch.simplecast.com/episodes/inside-pseas-legislative-advocacy-efforts-V8kgzCGc Join us for an in-depth discussion about PSEA’s Advocates for Children and Education, or “ACE”, program, which is one of the ways PSEA members can advocate directly to lawmakers in the Capitol for public education. Aaron and Rachael sit down with PSEA's own ACE Program Coordinator, Jen Statler,  as well as ACEs Melissa Costantino-Poruben, a mathematics teacher in the Avonworth School District, and PSEA President of Higher Education Gretchen Osterman.

Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to podcast@psea.org. 

Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

]]> Inside PSEA's legislative advocacy efforts Melissa Costantino-Poruben, Gretchen Osterman, Jen Statler, Rachael West, Aaron Chapin 00:23:32 Join us for an in-depth discussion about PSEA’s Advocates for Children and Education, or “ACE”, program, which is one of the ways PSEA members can advocate directly to lawmakers in the Capitol for public education. Aaron and Rachael sit down with PSEA's own ACE Program Coordinator, Jen Statler, as well as ACEs Melissa Costantino-Poruben, a mathematics teacher in the Avonworth School District, and PSEA President of Higher Education Gretchen Osterman. Join us for an in-depth discussion about PSEA’s Advocates for Children and Education, or “ACE”, program, which is one of the ways PSEA members can advocate directly to lawmakers in the Capitol for public education. Aaron and Rachael sit down with PSEA's own ACE Program Coordinator, Jen Statler, as well as ACEs Melissa Costantino-Poruben, a mathematics teacher in the Avonworth School District, and PSEA President of Higher Education Gretchen Osterman. public schools, public education, union, psea, pennsylvania, children, policy, students, advocacy, state politics false full 15 2bc51a67-be8a-4299-983f-57ea485fa1e4 How Educators Rising is helping refuel Pennsylvania's educator pipeline Educators Rising is a national “Grow Your Own” program for high school students interested in a career in education, which has taken off in Pennsylvania over the past year with PSEA at the helm. Aaron, Jeff, and Rachael sit down to discuss this exciting program with PSEA Director of Education Services and Statewide Coordinator for Educators Rising Pennsylvania, Dr. Chris Clayton, as well as Educators Rising Teacher Leader at JP McCaskey High School in the School District of Lancaster, Amanda Funk.

Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to podcast@psea.org. 

Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

]]> Wed, 26 Jun 2024 09:00:00 +0000 comms@psea.org (Chris Clayton, Amanda Funk, Aaron Chapin, Jeff Ney, Rachael West) https://duty-free-lunch.simplecast.com/episodes/how-educators-rising-is-helping-refuel-pennsylvanias-educator-pipeline-tWNWTpnt Educators Rising is a national “Grow Your Own” program for high school students interested in a career in education, which has taken off in Pennsylvania over the past year with PSEA at the helm. Aaron, Jeff, and Rachael sit down to discuss this exciting program with PSEA Director of Education Services and Statewide Coordinator for Educators Rising Pennsylvania, Dr. Chris Clayton, as well as Educators Rising Teacher Leader at JP McCaskey High School in the School District of Lancaster, Amanda Funk.

Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to podcast@psea.org. 

Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

]]> How Educators Rising is helping refuel Pennsylvania's educator pipeline Chris Clayton, Amanda Funk, Aaron Chapin, Jeff Ney, Rachael West 00:25:38 Educators Rising is a national “Grow Your Own” program for high school students interested in a career in education, which has taken off in Pennsylvania over the past year with PSEA at the helm. Aaron, Jeff, and Rachael sit down to discuss this exciting program with PSEA Director of Education Services and Statewide Coordinator for Educators Rising Pennsylvania, Dr. Chris Clayton, as well as Educators Rising Teacher Leader at JP McCaskey High School in the School District of Lancaster, Amanda Funk. Educators Rising is a national “Grow Your Own” program for high school students interested in a career in education, which has taken off in Pennsylvania over the past year with PSEA at the helm. Aaron, Jeff, and Rachael sit down to discuss this exciting program with PSEA Director of Education Services and Statewide Coordinator for Educators Rising Pennsylvania, Dr. Chris Clayton, as well as Educators Rising Teacher Leader at JP McCaskey High School in the School District of Lancaster, Amanda Funk. educators rising, public education, union, psea, pennsylvania, teacher, teaching, school, students false full 14 f553c3a1-965c-4d48-987e-d449362040ba The urgent need for more student teacher stipends In December, the Pennsylvania House authorized $10 million in stipends for aspiring educators while they complete their student teaching. But much more is needed. How much more? This podcast was recorded before the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency determined that a $45 million state appropriation is necessary to fund student teacher stipends for all eligible student teachers. Aaron and Rachael discuss the issue with PSEA Assistant Director of Government Relations Kelli Thompson and Student-PSEA Vice President Amber Bloom, who is a student at the University of Pittsburgh at Greensburg.

Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to podcast@psea.org. 

Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

]]> Thu, 20 Jun 2024 17:56:22 +0000 comms@psea.org (Aaron Chapin, Rachael West, Kelli Thompson, Amber Bloom) https://duty-free-lunch.simplecast.com/episodes/the-urgent-need-for-more-student-teacher-stipends-qXFP9xbi In December, the Pennsylvania House authorized $10 million in stipends for aspiring educators while they complete their student teaching. But much more is needed. How much more? This podcast was recorded before the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency determined that a $45 million state appropriation is necessary to fund student teacher stipends for all eligible student teachers. Aaron and Rachael discuss the issue with PSEA Assistant Director of Government Relations Kelli Thompson and Student-PSEA Vice President Amber Bloom, who is a student at the University of Pittsburgh at Greensburg.

Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to podcast@psea.org. 

Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

]]> The urgent need for more student teacher stipends Aaron Chapin, Rachael West, Kelli Thompson, Amber Bloom 00:23:26 In December, the Pennsylvania House authorized $10 million in stipends for aspiring educators while they complete their student teaching. But much more is needed. How much more? This podcast was recorded before the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency determined that a $45 million state appropriation is necessary to fund student teacher stipends for all eligible student teachers. Aaron and Rachael discuss the issue with PSEA Assistant Director of Government Relations Kelli Thompson and Student-PSEA Vice President Amber Bloom, who is a student at the University of Pittsburgh at Greensburg. In December, the Pennsylvania House authorized $10 million in stipends for aspiring educators while they complete their student teaching. But much more is needed. How much more? This podcast was recorded before the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency determined that a $45 million state appropriation is necessary to fund student teacher stipends for all eligible student teachers. Aaron and Rachael discuss the issue with PSEA Assistant Director of Government Relations Kelli Thompson and Student-PSEA Vice President Amber Bloom, who is a student at the University of Pittsburgh at Greensburg. public schools, public education, union, psea, student, pennsylvania, teacher, teaching, state politics false full 13 9d974c2e-caa3-4a72-91c7-184b0b856f85 Talking COLA with PSEA-Retired members Aaron, Jeff, and Rachael sit down with PSEA-Retired members Scott Brown and Jacqualyn James to talk about a much-needed cost-of-living-adjustment for our pre-Act 9 retirees. Nearly 43,000 public servants who retired before 2002 have not seen a COLA in their pension in more than 20 years. Here are two of their stories. 

Click here to watch an interview Jacqualyn James did on this subject with "NBC Nightly News."

Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to podcast@psea.org. 

Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

]]> Wed, 12 Jun 2024 09:00:00 +0000 comms@psea.org (Jacqualyn James, Scott Brown, Rachael West, Jeff Ney, Aaron Chapin) https://duty-free-lunch.simplecast.com/episodes/talking-cola-with-psea-retired-members-JOcB6fFr Aaron, Jeff, and Rachael sit down with PSEA-Retired members Scott Brown and Jacqualyn James to talk about a much-needed cost-of-living-adjustment for our pre-Act 9 retirees. Nearly 43,000 public servants who retired before 2002 have not seen a COLA in their pension in more than 20 years. Here are two of their stories. 

Click here to watch an interview Jacqualyn James did on this subject with "NBC Nightly News."

Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to podcast@psea.org. 

Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

]]> Talking COLA with PSEA-Retired members Jacqualyn James, Scott Brown, Rachael West, Jeff Ney, Aaron Chapin 00:22:06 Aaron, Jeff, and Rachael sit down with PSEA-Retired members Scott Brown and Jacqualyn James to talk about a much-needed cost-of-living-adjustment for our pre-Act 9 retirees. Nearly 43,000 public servants who retired before 2002 have not seen a COLA in their pension in more than 20 years. Here are two of their stories. Aaron, Jeff, and Rachael sit down with PSEA-Retired members Scott Brown and Jacqualyn James to talk about a much-needed cost-of-living-adjustment for our pre-Act 9 retirees. Nearly 43,000 public servants who retired before 2002 have not seen a COLA in their pension in more than 20 years. Here are two of their stories. public schools, retired, public education, cola, psea, schools, teacher, teaching, cost-of-living adjustment, education false full 12 17faa01a-351e-48b1-ae40-00e984b6fe27 PSEA leadership unfiltered: The officers interview each other As state officers for PSEA, Aaron, Jeff, and Rachael have made it their mission to be accessible to as many PSEA members as possible. What better way to do that than to lay it all out there on a special, self-reflective episode of Duty Free Lunch? 

Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to podcast@psea.org. 

Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

]]> Wed, 29 May 2024 09:00:00 +0000 comms@psea.org (Aaron Chapin, Rachael West, Jeff Ney) https://duty-free-lunch.simplecast.com/episodes/psea-leadership-unfiltered-the-officers-interview-each-other-5BK_F8lD As state officers for PSEA, Aaron, Jeff, and Rachael have made it their mission to be accessible to as many PSEA members as possible. What better way to do that than to lay it all out there on a special, self-reflective episode of Duty Free Lunch? 

Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to podcast@psea.org. 

Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

]]> PSEA leadership unfiltered: The officers interview each other Aaron Chapin, Rachael West, Jeff Ney 00:23:02 As state officers for PSEA, Aaron, Jeff, and Rachael have made it their mission to be accessible to as many PSEA members as possible. What better way to do that than to lay it all out there on a special, self-reflective episode of Duty Free Lunch? As state officers for PSEA, Aaron, Jeff, and Rachael have made it their mission to be accessible to as many PSEA members as possible. What better way to do that than to lay it all out there on a special, self-reflective episode of Duty Free Lunch? public education, union, psea, educator, leadership, school, education false full 11 7294d433-0e95-4094-a8b6-15e379fc8e66 PSEA Board of Directors members Amy Lightner and Jimbo Lamb Aaron, Jeff, and Rachael are joined by fellow teachers and current PSEA Board of Directors members Amy Lightner and Jimbo Lamb, who share some potent memories from their own school days, the radical changes they've seen in the education landscape over their careers, and their journeys into union leadership.

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]]> Wed, 15 May 2024 09:00:00 +0000 comms@psea.org (Amy Lightner, Jimbo Lamb, Aaron Chapin, Rachael West, Jeff Ney) https://duty-free-lunch.simplecast.com/episodes/psea-board-of-directors-members-amy-lightner-and-jimbo-lamb-ltbcduTj Aaron, Jeff, and Rachael are joined by fellow teachers and current PSEA Board of Directors members Amy Lightner and Jimbo Lamb, who share some potent memories from their own school days, the radical changes they've seen in the education landscape over their careers, and their journeys into union leadership.

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]]> PSEA Board of Directors members Amy Lightner and Jimbo Lamb Amy Lightner, Jimbo Lamb, Aaron Chapin, Rachael West, Jeff Ney 00:24:08 Aaron, Jeff, and Rachael are joined by fellow teachers and current PSEA Board of Directors members Amy Lightner and Jimbo Lamb, who share some potent memories from their own school days, the radical changes they've seen in the education landscape over their careers, and their journeys into union leadership. Aaron, Jeff, and Rachael are joined by fellow teachers and current PSEA Board of Directors members Amy Lightner and Jimbo Lamb, who share some potent memories from their own school days, the radical changes they've seen in the education landscape over their careers, and their journeys into union leadership. public education, union, psea, teacher, teaching, leadership, school false full 10 8e17e995-27ba-4522-b6f5-2804b81e8280 PSEA local presidents roundtable Peek behind the curtain of PSEA leadership with local presidents Dwayne McCarthur, Erin Huwalt, and Raquel Gray. They talk with Aaron and Jeff about the challenges and surprises of being a local president, the importance of teamwork, their strategies for maintaining a work-life balance, and how their union leadership roles have enhanced their work as educators.

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]]> Wed, 1 May 2024 09:00:00 +0000 comms@psea.org (Erin Huwalt, Dwayne McCarthur, Raquel Gray, Aaron Chapin, Jeff Ney) https://duty-free-lunch.simplecast.com/episodes/psea-local-presidents-roundtable-OrRXA_AJ Peek behind the curtain of PSEA leadership with local presidents Dwayne McCarthur, Erin Huwalt, and Raquel Gray. They talk with Aaron and Jeff about the challenges and surprises of being a local president, the importance of teamwork, their strategies for maintaining a work-life balance, and how their union leadership roles have enhanced their work as educators.

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Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

]]> PSEA local presidents roundtable Erin Huwalt, Dwayne McCarthur, Raquel Gray, Aaron Chapin, Jeff Ney 00:25:09 Peek behind the curtain of PSEA leadership with local presidents Dwayne McCarthur, Erin Huwalt, and Raquel Gray. They talk with Aaron and Jeff about the challenges and surprises of being a local president, the importance of teamwork, their strategies for maintaining a work-life balance, and how their union leadership roles have enhanced their work as educators. Peek behind the curtain of PSEA leadership with local presidents Dwayne McCarthur, Erin Huwalt, and Raquel Gray. They talk with Aaron and Jeff about the challenges and surprises of being a local president, the importance of teamwork, their strategies for maintaining a work-life balance, and how their union leadership roles have enhanced their work as educators. public education, union, psea, educator, leadership, school, education false full 9 b07ac87c-ede1-499c-8f40-e64f9c5c0941 New PSEA members speak out It's never easy being the new kid on the block. But new PSEA members Riley McGowan and Emily Goss have found a home in public education and in PSEA. Riley teaches music in the West Chester Area School District and Emily teaches special education in the Conestoga Valley School District, and they're both members of PSEA's New Member Task Force. Hear them get real about the struggles and triumphs of their teaching journey so far, and what they would have done differently if they could start over.  

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]]> Wed, 17 Apr 2024 09:00:00 +0000 comms@psea.org (Riley McGowan, Emily Goss, Aaron Chapin, Jeff Ney, Rachael West) https://duty-free-lunch.simplecast.com/episodes/new-psea-members-speak-out-cHtx89co It's never easy being the new kid on the block. But new PSEA members Riley McGowan and Emily Goss have found a home in public education and in PSEA. Riley teaches music in the West Chester Area School District and Emily teaches special education in the Conestoga Valley School District, and they're both members of PSEA's New Member Task Force. Hear them get real about the struggles and triumphs of their teaching journey so far, and what they would have done differently if they could start over.  

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]]> New PSEA members speak out Riley McGowan, Emily Goss, Aaron Chapin, Jeff Ney, Rachael West 00:23:29 It's never easy being the new kid on the block. But new PSEA members Riley McGowan and Emily Goss have found a home in public education and in PSEA. Riley teaches music in the West Chester Area School District and Emily teaches special education in the Conestoga Valley School District, and they're both members of PSEA's New Member Task Force. Hear them get real about the struggles and triumphs of their teaching journey so far, and what they would have done differently if they could start over. It's never easy being the new kid on the block. But new PSEA members Riley McGowan and Emily Goss have found a home in public education and in PSEA. Riley teaches music in the West Chester Area School District and Emily teaches special education in the Conestoga Valley School District, and they're both members of PSEA's New Member Task Force. Hear them get real about the struggles and triumphs of their teaching journey so far, and what they would have done differently if they could start over. public education, union, psea, schools, educator, teacher, teaching, education false full 8 588b5476-7169-4363-b231-1f9ea82f5c99 How to rescue a struggling local with North East ESP President Michael Spellman Middle school instructional aide and North East ESP President Michael Spellman has only worked in his district for one year, and he's been president for almost as long. Hear how he turned his local association around and increased membership by more than 350% in that short time. Hosted by PSEA President Aaron Chapin and Vice President Jeff Ney. 

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]]> Wed, 3 Apr 2024 09:00:00 +0000 comms@psea.org (Michael Spellman, Jeff Ney, Aaron Chapin) https://duty-free-lunch.simplecast.com/episodes/how-to-rescue-a-struggling-local-with-north-east-esp-president-michael-spellman-biPkimoV Middle school instructional aide and North East ESP President Michael Spellman has only worked in his district for one year, and he's been president for almost as long. Hear how he turned his local association around and increased membership by more than 350% in that short time. Hosted by PSEA President Aaron Chapin and Vice President Jeff Ney. 

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]]> How to rescue a struggling local with North East ESP President Michael Spellman Michael Spellman, Jeff Ney, Aaron Chapin 00:24:27 Middle school instructional aide and North East ESP President Michael Spellman has only worked in his district for one year, and he's been president for almost as long. Hear how he turned his local association around and increased membership by more than 350% in that short time. Hosted by PSEA President Aaron Chapin and Vice President Jeff Ney. Middle school instructional aide and North East ESP President Michael Spellman has only worked in his district for one year, and he's been president for almost as long. Hear how he turned his local association around and increased membership by more than 350% in that short time. Hosted by PSEA President Aaron Chapin and Vice President Jeff Ney. esp, union, psea, local association, teaching, school, support professional false full 7 c4f716aa-910d-4574-bc59-6b324a649e6f What does a PSEA UniServ do? What is the role of a PSEA UniServ anyway? In this episode, UniServ for the Southern Region Stephanie Cramer joins PSEA President Aaron Chapin and Treasurer Rachael West to break it all down. From contract negotiations to advocating for individual members, find out how UniServs serve members and how you can make the most of this valuable resource.

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Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

]]> Wed, 20 Mar 2024 09:00:00 +0000 comms@psea.org (Stephanie Cramer, Aaron Chapin, Rachael West) https://duty-free-lunch.simplecast.com/episodes/what-does-a-uniserv-do-mdMqn28E What is the role of a PSEA UniServ anyway? In this episode, UniServ for the Southern Region Stephanie Cramer joins PSEA President Aaron Chapin and Treasurer Rachael West to break it all down. From contract negotiations to advocating for individual members, find out how UniServs serve members and how you can make the most of this valuable resource.

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]]> What does a PSEA UniServ do? Stephanie Cramer, Aaron Chapin, Rachael West 00:20:14 What is the role of a PSEA UniServ anyway? In this episode, UniServ for the Southern Region Stephanie Cramer joins PSEA President Aaron Chapin and Treasurer Rachael West to break it all down. From contract negotiations to advocating for individual members, find out how UniServs serve members and how you can make the most of this valuable resource. What is the role of a PSEA UniServ anyway? In this episode, UniServ for the Southern Region Stephanie Cramer joins PSEA President Aaron Chapin and Treasurer Rachael West to break it all down. From contract negotiations to advocating for individual members, find out how UniServs serve members and how you can make the most of this valuable resource. uniserv, union, psea, educator, teacher, teaching, bargaining, school false full 6 da9537a1-99bd-48e3-9bc7-1c84b2d7fb50 Student teaching in Pennsylvania A conversation with Student PSEA members at the University of Pittsburgh at Greensburg, Emily Jett and Amber Bloom. Emily is the Student PSEA president and Amber is vice president. They join PSEA President Aaron Chapin and Vice President Jeff Ney to discuss their experience as student teachers, their embrace of AI, and what impact they hope to make as educators.

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Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

]]> Wed, 6 Mar 2024 10:00:00 +0000 comms@psea.org (Emily Jett, Amber Bloom, Aaron Chapin, Jeff Ney) https://duty-free-lunch.simplecast.com/episodes/student-teaching-in-pennsylvania-M56NeF_r A conversation with Student PSEA members at the University of Pittsburgh at Greensburg, Emily Jett and Amber Bloom. Emily is the Student PSEA president and Amber is vice president. They join PSEA President Aaron Chapin and Vice President Jeff Ney to discuss their experience as student teachers, their embrace of AI, and what impact they hope to make as educators.

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]]> Student teaching in Pennsylvania Emily Jett, Amber Bloom, Aaron Chapin, Jeff Ney 00:23:40 A conversation with Student PSEA members at the University of Pittsburgh at Greensburg, Emily Jett and Amber Bloom. Emily is the Student PSEA president and Amber is vice president. They join PSEA President Aaron Chapin and Vice President Jeff Ney to discuss their experience as student teachers, their embrace of AI, and what impact they hope to make as educators. A conversation with Student PSEA members at the University of Pittsburgh at Greensburg, Emily Jett and Amber Bloom. Emily is the Student PSEA president and Amber is vice president. They join PSEA President Aaron Chapin and Vice President Jeff Ney to discuss their experience as student teachers, their embrace of AI, and what impact they hope to make as educators. union, psea, student, college, educator, teacher, teaching, school, education false full 5 691d3369-d642-42c9-b8c0-49e7e9a626f5 "What serves you serves your students" with PA Teacher of the Year Ashlie Crosson We sit down with the 2024 Pennsylvania Teacher of the Year Ashlie Crosson to discuss her award, her feelings on PSEA membership, and why she stands by the phrase, "what's good for teachers is good for students." Hosted by PSEA President Aaron Chapin and Treasurer Rachael West.

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]]> Wed, 21 Feb 2024 10:00:00 +0000 comms@psea.org (Ashlie Crosson, Aaron Chapin, Rachael West) https://duty-free-lunch.simplecast.com/episodes/what-serves-you-serves-your-students-with-pa-toty-ashlie-crosson-P1kBudXo We sit down with the 2024 Pennsylvania Teacher of the Year Ashlie Crosson to discuss her award, her feelings on PSEA membership, and why she stands by the phrase, "what's good for teachers is good for students." Hosted by PSEA President Aaron Chapin and Treasurer Rachael West.

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]]> "What serves you serves your students" with PA Teacher of the Year Ashlie Crosson Ashlie Crosson, Aaron Chapin, Rachael West 00:21:56 We sit down with the 2024 Pennsylvania Teacher of the Year Ashlie Crosson to discuss her award, her feelings on PSEA membership, and why she stands by the phrase, "what's good for teachers is good for students." Hosted by PSEA President Aaron Chapin and Treasurer Rachael West. We sit down with the 2024 Pennsylvania Teacher of the Year Ashlie Crosson to discuss her award, her feelings on PSEA membership, and why she stands by the phrase, "what's good for teachers is good for students." Hosted by PSEA President Aaron Chapin and Treasurer Rachael West. union, psea, teacher of the year, educator, teacher, teaching, school, education false full 4 422ad548-0e05-4be0-a786-5c62f958c21d Response to Gov. Shapiro's budget address The PSEA team discusses the high and low points of Gov. Josh Shapiro's Feb. 6 budget address for 2024-25. PSEA President Aaron Chapin, Vice President Jeff Ney, and Treasurer Rachael West are joined by PSEA Government Relations experts Dan Wiedemer and Kelli Thompson to hash over the details of what this budget means for PSEA members. 

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]]> Wed, 7 Feb 2024 22:55:42 +0000 comms@psea.org (Kelli Thompson, Aaron Chapin, Rachael West, Jeff Ney, Dan Wiedemer) https://duty-free-lunch.simplecast.com/episodes/response-to-gov-shapiros-budget-address-9ZWKAMT0 The PSEA team discusses the high and low points of Gov. Josh Shapiro's Feb. 6 budget address for 2024-25. PSEA President Aaron Chapin, Vice President Jeff Ney, and Treasurer Rachael West are joined by PSEA Government Relations experts Dan Wiedemer and Kelli Thompson to hash over the details of what this budget means for PSEA members. 

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]]> Response to Gov. Shapiro's budget address Kelli Thompson, Aaron Chapin, Rachael West, Jeff Ney, Dan Wiedemer 00:23:33 The PSEA team discusses the high and low points of Gov. Josh Shapiro's Feb. 6 budget address for 2024-25. PSEA President Aaron Chapin, Vice President Jeff Ney, and Treasurer Rachael West are joined by PSEA Government Relations experts Dan Wiedemer and Kelli Thompson to hash over the details of what this budget means for PSEA members. The PSEA team discusses the high and low points of Gov. Josh Shapiro's Feb. 6 budget address for 2024-25. PSEA President Aaron Chapin, Vice President Jeff Ney, and Treasurer Rachael West are joined by PSEA Government Relations experts Dan Wiedemer and Kelli Thompson to hash over the details of what this budget means for PSEA members. union, psea, politics, budget, pennsylvania, educator, shapiro, teaching, education false full 3 870b0458-15b7-41fa-80f6-a4a717e34c15 Conversation with NEA President Becky Pringle The PSEA officer team of President Aaron Chapin, Vice President Jeff Ney, and Treasurer Rachael West sits down with President of the National Education Association and proud PSEA member Becky Pringle to discuss her experience as the head of the largest public sector union in America, the importance of diversity in the educator workforce, and why Pennsylvania educators are some of the most powerful in the country.

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Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

]]> Wed, 24 Jan 2024 10:00:00 +0000 comms@psea.org (Rachael West, Becky Pringle, Jeff Ney, Aaron Chapin) https://duty-free-lunch.simplecast.com/episodes/conversation-with-nea-president-becky-pringle-9wtiwajH The PSEA officer team of President Aaron Chapin, Vice President Jeff Ney, and Treasurer Rachael West sits down with President of the National Education Association and proud PSEA member Becky Pringle to discuss her experience as the head of the largest public sector union in America, the importance of diversity in the educator workforce, and why Pennsylvania educators are some of the most powerful in the country.

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]]> Conversation with NEA President Becky Pringle Rachael West, Becky Pringle, Jeff Ney, Aaron Chapin 00:22:04 The PSEA officer team of President Aaron Chapin, Vice President Jeff Ney, and Treasurer Rachael West sits down with President of the National Education Association and proud PSEA member Becky Pringle to discuss her experience as the head of the largest public sector union in America, the importance of diversity in the educator workforce, and why Pennsylvania educators are some of the most powerful in the country. The PSEA officer team of President Aaron Chapin, Vice President Jeff Ney, and Treasurer Rachael West sits down with President of the National Education Association and proud PSEA member Becky Pringle to discuss her experience as the head of the largest public sector union in America, the importance of diversity in the educator workforce, and why Pennsylvania educators are some of the most powerful in the country. nea, union, psea, becky pringle, educator, teacher, teaching, education false full 2 5c11c0d8-72c0-468b-8b39-e37f9d239d04 Inside state government and politics Welcome to the debut of “Duty Free Lunch” where we discuss the most relevant issues happening in the state Legislature and how they affect PSEA members. The hosts for this episode are PSEA President Aaron Chapin and PSEA Vice President Jeff Ney and our guest is PSEA Director of Government Relations Dan Wiedemer.

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Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

 

]]> Wed, 10 Jan 2024 17:59:19 +0000 comms@psea.org (Aaron Chapin, Jeff Ney, Dan Wiedemer) https://duty-free-lunch.simplecast.com/episodes/inside-state-government-and-politics-1yPAClF_ Welcome to the debut of “Duty Free Lunch” where we discuss the most relevant issues happening in the state Legislature and how they affect PSEA members. The hosts for this episode are PSEA President Aaron Chapin and PSEA Vice President Jeff Ney and our guest is PSEA Director of Government Relations Dan Wiedemer.

Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to podcast@psea.org. 

Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

 

]]> Inside state government and politics Aaron Chapin, Jeff Ney, Dan Wiedemer 00:22:13 Welcome to the debut of “Duty Free Lunch” where we discuss the most relevant issues happening in the state Legislature and how they affect PSEA members. The hosts for this episode are PSEA President Aaron Chapin and PSEA Vice President Jeff Ney and our guest is PSEA Director of Government Relations Dan Wiedemer. Welcome to the debut of “Duty Free Lunch” where we discuss the most relevant issues happening in the state Legislature and how they affect PSEA members. The hosts for this episode are PSEA President Aaron Chapin and PSEA Vice President Jeff Ney and our guest is PSEA Director of Government Relations Dan Wiedemer. psea, politics, pennsylvania, educator, teacher, teaching, policy, education, state politics false full 1