The School Collective

What happens when two school psychology podcasts sit down together? A conversation packed with leadership insight, podcast behind-the-scenes moments, and honest reflections on the people shaping our field.In this crossover episode, The School Collective Podcast teams up with the Boston School Psychs Podcast for a wide-ranging conversation about advocacy, collaboration, and what they’ve learned from giving school psychologists a platform to share their work. Together, the group talks about using podcasts to translate research into practice, highlight unsung heroes, and build stronger professional communities across districts and states.The discussion explores innovative leadership, interdisciplinary collaboration, and the ways school psychologists are creating space for connection and growth. The hosts also share memorable NASP conference stories, influential mentors who shaped their careers, and how conversations with guests have changed their own practice.Of course, no crossover episode is complete without some off-the-clock energy. The conversation wraps with fun rapid-fire questions, future collaboration ideas, and plans to connect in person at upcoming conferences.This episode is a celebration of community in school psychology—what happens when practitioners connect, share ideas, and amplify each other’s work beyond their own districts and roles.Socials:Chris:Instagram - @theschoolpsychguyLinkedIn - Christopher PonceBoston School Psychs Podcast:Instagram/Facebook/TikTok/YouTube/Bluesky:@bostonschoolpsychsMusic by: J. Andrew Collins

Dr. Christopher Ponce sits down with school psychologist, content creator, and parent Tiffany Lee (@schoolpsychtiffany) for a candid conversation about building a career in school psychology while also building a life outside of it. Tiffany shares her path into the field, from studying psychology and business to discovering school psychology through work with students with disabilities and realizing she wanted to make a measurable impact.They dig into the realities of the job right now — long evaluation timelines, differences across states, imposter syndrome in early career years, and the importance of strong relationships with colleagues. Tiffany reflects on creating school psychology content online for nearly a decade, starting in grad school and eventually becoming a resource for students and practitioners across the country.The conversation also explores how becoming parents has shaped their professional perspectives, from increased empathy with families to sharper time management and boundaries. They talk NASP conference strategy, networking without burning out, and how social media has helped school psychologists feel less isolated in their roles.The episode wraps with a rapid-fire round of fun questions so listeners can get to know Tiffany beyond the profession, because the field is serious work, but the people in it don’t have to be.A real conversation about the profession, the people in it, and how school psychologists are carving out space for authenticity, creativity, and community.Socials:Chris:Instagram - @theschoolpsychguyLinkedIn - Christopher PonceTiffany:YouTube - Tiffany LeeInstagram - @schoolpsychtiffanyTikTok - @schoolpsychtiffanyMusic by:J. Andrew Collins

In this special group episode, we sit down with Carmen Cisneros and Dr. Andrew Shanock for an open, reflective conversation about the growing need for community, training, and shared responsibility in supporting multilingual learners.Together, the group unpacks the purpose behind the NASP Bilingual Interest Group (BIG) and the Multilingual Interest Group (MIG), two spaces dedicated to supporting school psychologists serving bilingual and multilingual students.Listeners will hear about the innovative monthly MIG gatherings, ongoing book studies on bilingual literacy, the growing resource library housed within NASP, and why this work must belong to all school psychologists—not just those who identify as bilingual. The conversation also explores how separating bilingual and monolingual professional learning can unintentionally marginalize practitioners and limit growth across the field.This episode is both a call to action and an invitation: to learn, to engage, and to build a stronger, more connected professional community in service of multilingual students and families.Social Handles:Christopher PonceInstagram - @theschoolpsychguyLinkedIn - Christopher PonceDr. Andrew ShanockEmail - [email protected] Bilingual Interest GroupMusic by: J. Andrew Collins

In this episode of The School Collective Podcast, we welcome Amber Moore as a new co-host and dive into a wide-ranging, honest conversation about what it really means to show up for students and families in school psychology. Amber shares her journey from aspiring teacher to school psychologist, reflecting on how practicum experiences, family-centered work, and real-world constraints shaped her professional identity.Together, we explore the importance of building trust with families—especially when working in homes, early childhood settings, and high-need communities—and why using clear, human-centered language matters more than perfect scores or polished reports. The conversation also touches on power dynamics between schools and families, balancing professional expertise with lived experience, managing heavy caseloads, and navigating inequities across school settings.We also unpack authenticity in professional spaces, including social media, and why being transparent, reflective, and values-driven can help reduce burnout and strengthen connections within the field. This episode blends practical insight, personal reflection, and lighthearted moments—offering an affirming listen for early career school psychologists, seasoned practitioners, and anyone committed to doing this work with intention and heart.Social Handles:Christopher PonceInstagram - @theschoolpsychguyLinkedIn - Christopher PonceAmber MooreInstagram -@therelateableschoolpsychMusic by: J. Andrew Collins

In this episode of The School Collective, we sit down with retired principal and author Martin Silverman to explore why the earliest years of education can shape a child’s entire academic future. We discuss building a strong school culture, supporting teachers before burnout occurs, and shifting from a deficit mindset to a strengths-based view of young learners, especially in Pre-K and kindergarten.Martin shares lessons from his decades of leadership experience, including what school leaders can do right now to build trust, empower teachers, and foster environments where children thrive through curiosity and connection. We even wrap up with a festive holiday roundtable featuring very important topics such as when to hang Christmas lights and the ethics of regifting.Social Handles:Christopher PonceInstagram - @theschoolpsychguyLinkedIn - Christopher PonceMartin SilvermanInstagram -@the5silvermansMusic by: J. Andrew Collins

In this powerhouse episode, Christopher sits down with two icons in school psychology—Dr. John Kelly, former NASP President and lifelong advocate for equitable practice, and Dr. Jack Naglieri, renowned cognitive assessment researcher and co-developer of the KABC and CAS.Together, they take listeners on a journey through the history and evolution of intelligence testing, unpacking how assessment practices have both shaped and been shaped by systemic inequities. From the origins of cognitive theory to the modern-day implications of PASS theory and test fairness, Jack and John bring decades of insight and candor to the conversation.They also share reflections on their own careers—balancing science, advocacy, and humanity—and offer advice for early-career practitioners seeking to expand their roles beyond testing. Expect wisdom, humor, and a few sailing and guitar stories along the way.Topics include:The difference between test bias and test fairnessWhy subtest interpretation may be scientifically unsoundHow systemic inequities impact identification of gifted and diverse learnersThe role of school psychologists as advocates for equity and comprehensive services

In this episode, Christopher, Amy, and Brooke sit down with Dr. Eric Rossen, Executive Director of the National Association of School Psychologists (NASP), for an inside look at how the largest school psychology organization in the world operates. Dr. Rossen breaks down NASP’s structure, decision-making, and advocacy strategy—offering candid insight into how policies are shaped, how the organization decides when to speak out, and what “DRIP” (Discipline, Restraint, Intentionality, Prioritization) means for meaningful advocacy.From balancing science and leadership to a sneak peek into NASP’s new youth mental health documentary featuring Andy Garcia, this conversation sheds light on what it really takes to lead a national professional association. The episode closes on a lighter note, with favorite road trips, celebrity crushes, and a hilarious debate about why umbrellas are overrated.Social Handles:Christopher PonceInstagram - @theschoolpsychguyLinkedIn - Christopher PonceMusic by: J. Andrew Collins

In this episode, Christopher sits down with Taisha Torres, a bilingual school psychologist whose journey from New York City to Texas reveals the beauty and complexity of serving diverse communities. Taisha shares how a college course unexpectedly led her into school psychology, the mentorship that shaped her path, and the lessons learned from working in culturally rich and high-need settings.Together, they explore the nuances of bilingual advocacy, the balance between structure and flexibility in parent-teacher meetings, and the differences between school systems across regions. Taisha also opens up about her experiences as a mom, her authentic approach to parenting content, and her upcoming bilingual children’s book featuring a neurodivergent student named Matteo.This conversation blends professional insight with real-life reflection—reminding us that behind every data point and IEP meeting, there’s a story rooted in culture, care, and community.Social Handles:Christopher PonceInstagram - @theschoolpsychguyLinkedIn - Christopher PonceTaisha TorresInstagram -@taisharisingTikTok - @taisharisingMusic by: J. Andrew Collins

In this episode, Chris and Amy sit down with Paloma Nava, a bilingual school psychologist whose professional journey has taken her from criminal justice to school psychology across Texas and New Mexico. Paloma shares how navigating different state regulations has shaped her practice and highlights the unique challenges of evaluating students in borderland regions.The conversation dives into Paloma’s work with Child Find, her role in psychological and cognitive testing, and her commitment to understanding students’ cultural and linguistic backgrounds, especially for recent immigrants and children with complex needs. She offers a critical look at the limitations of standardized tests for bilingual students, emphasizing the need for culturally responsive assessment tools and improved national collaboration among bilingual evaluators.Beyond assessment, Paloma opens up about student advocacy, the importance of respecting families’ perspectives, and her approach to parenting and child development. She also shares her cultural roots and personal reflections, offering listeners a glimpse into the heart behind her professional passion.Social Handles:Christopher PonceInstagram - @theschoolpsychguyLinkedIn - Christopher PoncePaloma NavaInstagram -@polliipopMusic by: J. Andrew Collins

In this episode of The School Collective Podcast, hosts Amy and Brooke sit down with occupational therapist Mary Beth Powell to explore the vital role of OTs in schools. With over a decade of experience across districts and clinical settings, Mary Beth sheds light on how occupational therapy supports student success, whether through fine motor skills, self-care, or navigating sensory and behavioral challenges.The conversation highlights the importance of collaboration between OTs, teachers, and administrators, and touches on best practices for supervision when leaders may not share the same professional background. Mary Beth also offers practical tips for increasing OT visibility in schools, shares stories of bridging family-school differences, and looks ahead to OT’s expanding role in mental health and policy advocacy.This thoughtful discussion underscores how occupational therapy not only removes barriers to learning but also helps shape more inclusive and responsive school communities.