Don’t Forget These Learners: Practical Adaptations That Work - Sara Nussman
Release Date: 10/03/2025
How Student Voice and Developmental Assets Drive Schoolwide Growth - Pierre Orbe
The CharacterStrong Podcast
Today our guest is Pierre Orbee, Principal at DeWitt Clinton High School in New York. Pierre was named the School Administrators Association of New York State’s 2025 New York State Principal of the Year, the Association of Latino Administrators and Superintendents’ 2025 National Principal of the Year, and the K-12 Dive 2025 Principal of the Year. We talk with Pierre about how shoring up the underlying developmental assets students need can unlock stronger outcomes and long-term success. Pierre shares how student voice, a clear framework, and consistent follow-through help schools identify...
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Why Names, Presence, and Energy Matter in Leadership - Andrew Marotta
The CharacterStrong Podcast
Today our guest is Andrew Marotta is an author and presenter, and is the Director of Communications & Academic Services at Port Jervis Schools, NY. We talk with Andrew about the power of positive energy and how small, intentional actions shape how people feel in schools. He shares practical reminders like learning names, using names often, and being fully present in brief moments. Andrew also highlights how slowing down, focusing on what matters most, and leading with intention can create stronger connections each and every day. Learn More About CharacterStrong: Access FREE Visit...
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Creating Calmer Classrooms by Supporting Educators - Kait Ahlbrandt
The CharacterStrong Podcast
Today our guest is Kait Ahlbrandt, school psychologist and Director of Customer Success at EmpowerU. We talk about why educator wellbeing is essential to student success and how adult regulation shapes classroom climate. Kate shares why intentional listening and making space for connection matter, especially when educators feel overwhelmed. She highlights the need for practical, realistic supports that help educators show up present, regulated, and ready to teach. Learn More About CharacterStrong: Access FREE Visit the
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Top 6 of 2025: Simple Systems, Lasting Impact: Character Through Daily Announcements - Meg Boyd
The CharacterStrong Podcast
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Top 6 of 2025: Systems Over Goals: Building Belonging in Schools - Dr. Darian Jones
The CharacterStrong Podcast
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Top 6 of 2025: Doubling Tier 1 Usage: Building Stronger Classrooms Through Character, Connection, and Data - Amy Fairchild & Crystal Hooper
The CharacterStrong Podcast
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Top 6 of 2025: Relational Strategies That Strengthen Academics - Dr. Lori Lynass
The CharacterStrong Podcast
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Top 6 of 2025: The Power of Presence in a Rushed World - John Norlin
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Top 6 of 2025: Don’t Forget These Learners: Practical Adaptations That Work - Sara Nussman
The CharacterStrong Podcast
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Balancing High Accountability with High Support for Tier 2 & 3 Interventions - Chris Fore
The CharacterStrong Podcast
Today our guest is Chris Fore, Principal at Mojave High School, in Hesperia, CA. We talk with Chris about why it is important and how it is guiding his work everyday. He shares how creating high-accountability meetings with parents and teachers led to a nearly 60% reduction in failure rates. Chris also highlights the impact that “flipping the script” on parent communication has as he has celebrated individual student wins with positive phone calls home. Learn More About CharacterStrong: Access FREE Visit the Chris Fore is the Principal at Mojave High School, a 2025...
info_outlineToday our guest is Sara Nussman a School Counselor at Stoner-Thomas School. We talk to Sarah about how she adapts CharacterStrong lessons for students with cognitive and communicative deficits. She shares how nonverbal strategies like body language build relationships, and how visual trait boards, consistent routines, and monthly social narratives make abstract concepts like respect concrete and accessible. Sarah also highlights the impact on student independence and confidence, and reminds us not to overlook learners with limited verbal skills, but to show up, be present, and let connection lead.
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Sara Nussman is a dedicated and innovative school counselor at Stoner Thomas School, a public separate school for students with significant disabilities. She established the school's first-ever comprehensive school counseling program.
In her work, Sara focuses on meeting the unique needs of students with limited verbal and communication skills. She provides individualized and small-group counseling sessions, and she has a remarkable ability to adapt the CharacterStrong Curriculum in ways that are specifically tailored to her students' abilities. She's a true advocate for empowering students to find their voice and reach their full potential.