Voices United in Education (Escambia County Public Schools)

Hear the positive stories in education that don’t make the news. You’ll hear uplifting stories of student, parent and teacher impact in Escambia County. Meredith Hackwith Edwards—a local and independent podcaster—interviews teachers, staff, parents, students, graduates, community mentors and members, so that we can become more united inside and outside the classroom to support the success of every student in Florida’s Escambia County Public Schools.

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

Meet the Pensacola TikTok star who makes the wheels on the bus go round, Cor’Darius Jones. The kids are big fans of Escambia County School District's Mr. Bus Driver for good reasons. He shares his strategy on public school bus safety, how he saved a woman’s life and what’s next. To learn more about Cor'Darius Jones, visit Facebook or TikTok.

Guest: Cor'Darius Jones

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

Are your kids getting too much screen time? Principal Lalla Pierce & Technology Coordinator, Kevin McNally from Global Learning Academy, share how students at Escambia County Public Schools in partnership with Common Sense Media are learning how to vet information, be a good digital citizen and when to walk away from technology.

Guests: Lalla Pierce & Kevin McNally

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

 Avoiding college debt is key to setting up students for a strong start in adulthood, but how do you avoid student loans when you can barely make ends meet? The County Coordinator of Take Stock in Children, Sally Lee, shares the surprisingly simple way Escambia County students can qualify for free college scholarships and guidance from mentors as early as the seventh grade. She shares how a bright future can impact the student, the school and the community.

Guest: Sally Lee

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

Over 17,000 backpacks. Over 500 children. Learn how our community is coming together for every student to be successful in school. Big hearts helping little stomachs with nutritional meals. Volunteers and partners united against food insecurity and hunger that makes learning hard. Learn more about Take Stock In Children by visiting their website.

Guest: Tiffany Clark

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

Ever wish you had a manual on how to be a parent? Tune into this week's episode on Parent University Pensacola to learn how parents, grandparents and others are getting the training they need to help traverse the public school system in Escambia County and their student's homework including subjects like new math.

Guest: Michael O'Neal

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

Ever try working all day when you haven't eaten anything? Hunger is one of a number of factors that can make learning difficult for students. In this episode on the ECSD Navigator Program, we discuss how Escambia County Public Schools are working with students and their families to navigate these challenges. Learn more about Children’s Home Society of Florida or submit a Navigator Support Request.

Guests: Jen Montoya & Lindsey Cannon

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

How can we set our students up for success? In this episode, hear how Escambia County Public Schools are creating opportunities for middle school and high school students to learn and develop critical job skills, leading to fulfilling careers right here in Escambia County.

Guest: Steven Harrell

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

Where do new teachers turn for help and guidance? At Escambia County Public Schools, savvy and seasoned teachers serve as a Sherpa and guide new teachers for the entire year. Learn more about this transformation program, called START, on this week's podcast episode.

Guest: Caroline Gray

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

What's the most important thing you can do in an hour this week? How about mentoring a child? Tune into this week's episode to learn how you can impact the life of a student and build a bond that will last a lifetime.

Guest: Wanda Kotick

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

Meet Escambia County’s Superintendent, Dr. Tim Smith! Learn what led him to Escambia County and how he is leading our public school system into the future. United in the success of every student, he is focused on closing the achievement gap.

Guest: Dr. Tim Smith

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

Meet Mrs. Jamiliya McBride, the 2023 Teacher of the Year for the Escambia County School District as she shares her heart and love to motivate and teach her students. She shares the unique way she stayed connected to her class during COVID quarantine how she will serve next with Capturing Kid's Hearts.

Guest: Jamiliya McBride

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

C.A. Weis  is proud to be the first elementary level community partnership school in the state of Florida. Learn how this one-stop-shop partnership that includes University of West Florida, Children’s Home Society, Community Health Northwest Florida and Escambia County School District, is unifying and strengthening our community.

Guests: Dr Kimberly Thomas & Lisa Coleman

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

Who will be the leaders of tomorrow? Debra Phillips is teaching the seven habits of highly effective people to put our students on the right path. Learn more about the Leader in Me Program today.

Guest: Debra Phillips

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

Summer break is a great time to pick up a book and grow as a reader. Michelle White shares how students are turning the page and starting a new chapter by not only preventing the Summer Slide, but gaining skills to lead forward. Learn more about the Summer Reading Program today.

Guest: Michelle White

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

When it comes to our schools, we may hear ABOUT improvement initiatives, but we rarely get to hear the real account of how they play out. Deputy Superintendent Shena Payne & Superintendent Dr. Tim Smith give a peek inside the schools as they share the real stories of commitment & support from the real people who show up everyday.

Guests: Dr. Tim Smith & Shenna Payne

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

Is it possible to get kids interested in science *and* give them a break from screen time? Cheyenna Novotny & Adam Bretschneider think so. They are the Science Specialist for Escambia County Public Schools & the Teacher on Special Assignment of the Roy Hyatt Center. Together they’ve combined their passion for the outdoors, science & teaching to inspire the next generation. In this episode they share what’s happening on the 320 acres of the Roy Hyatt Center & how it’s sparking life-long scientific interest. 

Guests: Cheyenna Novotny & Adam Bretschneider

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

Getting kids to read is a challenge every parent & teacher can relate to. How do you pry the screen out of their hands & get them to get interested? John Ham of Animal Tales shares how the animals from his live animal presentations has inspired students all over the county to read.

Guests: John Ham

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

If you’re a busy working parent, you’re a busy worrying parent, especially when it comes to after school care. Do you give your child a key to the house with instructions to do their chores & finish their homework? Or do you send them to aftercare? Will they be safe? Will they make friends? Robin Heller is the founder & executive director Seastars Aquatics, a USA Swimming Registered team that provides individualized attention as part of a structured competitive swim team program for kids who are economically, physically, & mentally challenged. The team not only provides a judgement & bullying-free zone for kids, but is also a place where they, their families & teachers can reap cognitive, academic, social & physical benefits … all for free.

Guest: Robin Heller

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

It seems like there’s a new app every week that poses a potential trafficking threat to our digital savvy kids. In this episode, Stacey Kostevicki, the Executive Director of the Gulf Coast Kids House shares practical tips to keep kids safe & how prevention education can unite parents, teachers & community members to safeguard our kids. 

Guests: Stacey Kostevicki

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

Post high school education can be expensive and out of reach for many families. Holly Busse explains how the Bright Futures Scholarship is helping unlock a path to college or vocational education, up to five years after graduation & takes just 15 minutes to apply for.               

Guest: Holly Busse

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

Why does mental wellness matter? Silvio Fina explores how connection and quality care can boost academic success, and what services and steps are available to ECPS students and parents. 

Guest: Silvio Fina

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

Tapping kids full potential. Kristin Fairchild, founder and executive director of Chain Reaction focuses on giving our children the perspective and soft skills to succeed globally.

Guest: Kristin Fairchild

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

No one will argue the roles teachers play in the lives of our children and the future of our country. The need and openings for teachers couldn't be greater. Melia Adams discusses a career in education and recruiting the right people for a job that impacts so many and means so much?

Guest: Melia Adams

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

This isn't your dad's shop class. Learn how boys and girls at Ernest Ward Middle School are certified in engineering and equipped with the skills and knowledge to thrive in industry and emerging technologies.   

Guests: Tyvanna Boulanger & Ray Sellers

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

Zac Stefanko is the welding instructor at Pensacola High School, where they were recently awarded a grant for the program that is giving students a way to cut through and seal together a career in welding and other trades.

Guest: Zac Stefanko

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

Tristan Harris is the coach for Escambia county’s Allstar Academic Team, a place where kids with drive & book smarts can gain a sense of community & competition. She proudly and passionately nerds out about how Escambia County students are winning by working together and scoring so much more than points as she explains how this trivia style tournament team is making a difference for students in Escambia County.

Guest:    Tristan Harris    

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

For many students with an IEP, their full potential can only be accessed outside of the traditional school framework. Donna Perry is the program specialist & Dr. Jared Stanley is the administrator on special assignment at Hope Horizon, a center school that works with students & families individually to find holistic solutions. In this episode they share what students are best served at Hope Horizon & the services they provide.

Guests: Donna Perry & Dr. Jared Stanley

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

Claire Frear, military spouse and teacher, shares her perspective on the unique needs of students with active duty family members & what specific resources are in place for them at Escambia High. 

Guest: Claire Frear

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

Many performance-based scholarships revolve around sports, which can often take a toll on academic performance. Christina Frierdich is the orchestra director at Washington, Pine Forest & Escambia High schools. In this episode she shares how music scholarships can provide college scholarships AND improve student performance on standardized testing. She also shares her family tie with Pensacola string music history & its lasting impact on kids.

Guest: Christina Frierdich

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

Reading and writing go together like chips and salsa. For Alexander Fitzgerald, teaching creative writing is equally delicious, but goes deeper than a playful food metaphor. In this episode, he shares how he transformed from a slow reading student who hated reading, to becoming a creative writing teacher who reads philosophy for fun as well has the three problems creative writing solves: apathy to learn, lack of follow through & relationship disconnect.

Guest: Alexander Fitzgerald

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

Do you know where your food comes from? You do if you're an FFA member or taking an AG class with Leanne Jenkins at Beulah Middle School. In this episode, she talks about the how the AG program inspired her as a student & how it’s helping kids & supporting our community. Learn more about Future Farmers of America in Florida today. 

Guest: Leanne Jenkins

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

Not all learning happens in the classroom. The Great Outdoors is a pretty great teacher. National Park Rangers Jennifer Watson & Cas Rosiecki share how fourth graders and their families can get free access all our National Parks. Get your free parks pass now.

Guest: Cas Rosiecki & Jennifer Watson

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

When it comes to the success of every student, we're all in. That means taking every step possible to keep our kids safe at school. Director of Protection Services, Kyle Kinser, covers what all that means. You’ll hear how the new Centegix system & the Aaron Feiss guardian program cover use technology & humanity to keep our kids safe.

Guest: Kyle Kinser

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

From rotations to ride-a-longs, this is as real as it gets. Instructor Terry Thomas and graduate Dakota Ward openly discuss the riggers and rewards of the Critical Care & Emergency Medicine Academy at West Florida High School.

Guest: Terry Thomas & Dakota Ward

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

Dr. KK Owen with the Huron Studer Group explains one way Escambia County Public Schools reaches out to give parents a voice in their child's education by rating how we're doing. 

Guest: Dr. KK Owen

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

Angela McFarland is a business & multimedia teacher at West Florida High School & the 2024 Teacher of Year for Escambia County Public Schools! Learn how she inspires her students, what students inspire her & what makes this 26-year career educator such a deserving person for this award.

Guest: Angela McFarland

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

Arelia Laster is a former quality nurse at Sacred Heart & the current Director at Next Step Distribution, a non-profit providing emergency support supplies within 24 hours of crisis. In this episode, she shares the origin of this grass roots effort, how she collaborates with Escambia County Public Schools & how you can help or be helped.

Guest: Arelia Laster

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

District Data Scientist, James Bobbitt, breaks down what the new state grading scales will mean for Escambia County Public Schools. 

Guest: James Bobbitt

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

Pensacola Code Ninjas owner JoDawn Brown noticed a huge change in her child’s academic performance after learning to code. In this episode, she talks about why learning to code isn’t just for gamers, how coding could set your kid up for employment & how their summer camp or after school programs could be a haven for technologically creative and curious kids.

Guest: JoDawn Brown

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

Escambia Children’s Trust is one of 13 unique government agencies that assign a portion of property taxes to local non-profits that support the needs of the community based on what the community says they need. In this episode, Executive Director, Tammy Greer shares results of the most recent needs assessment & how you can be heard.

Guest: Tammy Greer

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

Principal, Dr. Kimberly Thomas and Barbara Hayes, a Pensacola High School graduate and pediatrics nurse with Community Health Northwest Florida, share how the Health Ambassadors program in the community clinic at CA Weiss is empowering 3-5 graders. Outfitted in scrubs and lab coats, the program is inspiring a new generation of leaders and professions in the field of healthcare.

Guests: Dr. Kimberly Thomas & Barbara Hayes

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

West Florida High School graduates & twin brothers, Jamal & Jamari sharp are entrepreneurs, authors and philanthropists. But it wasn’t always this way. Jamal shares how the two went from problem students to success stories, why they decided to call their snoball business BAM & what it means for them to be Pensacola business owners. For these two, it's truly a snowball effect. Purchase Unleash your Inner Hero today.

Guest: Jamal Sharp

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

Life is full of teaching moments and too often missed milestones as a result of poverty. Jennifer Collins, Principal at Sherwood Elementary talks about how the All Kid's Bike program teaches kindergarteners lasting life lessons—independence, balance, safety, compassion, resilience and success. You’ll also hear what it was like for Sherwood to be one of the two schools in Escambia county chosen by the foundation to receive a donation funded by the local branch of HDR Engineering. 

Guest: Jennifer Collins, Strider Bikes

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

Ever considered becoming a mentor to a child? Karen Kellams, a full-time executive and mom, and Natalie Stipkovich, a full-time college student, share why they did and the joy it has brought to them. Hear how being there for one hour every week has changed their lives and their mentees lives forever.   

Guests: Karen Kellams & Natalie Stipkovich, Big Brothers Big Sisters

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

Jena Melancon, Founder and Executive Director of Gulf Coast Diplomacy Council is ushering in new perspectives for Escambia County students. In this episode she shares how the non-profit is facilitating communication & connection.

Guest: Jena Melancon

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

Ever wish you had a manual on how to be a parent? Tune into this week's episode on Parent University Pensacola to learn how parents, grandparents and others are getting the training they need to help traverse the public school system in Escambia County and their student's homework including subjects like new math.

Guest: Michael O’Neal

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

Meet the Pensacola TikTok star who makes the wheels on the bus go round, Cor’Darius Jones. The kids are big fans of Escambia County School District's Mr. Bus Driver for good reasons. He shares his strategy on public school bus safety, how he saved a woman’s life and what’s next. Learn more on Facebook or TikTok. 

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

Summer break is a great time to pick up a book and grow as a reader. Michelle White shares how students are turning the page and starting a new chapter by not only preventing the Summer Slide, but gaining skills to lead forward.

Guest: Michelle White, Summer Reading Program

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

Getting kids to read is a challenge every parent & teacher can relate to. How do you pry the screen out of their hands & get them to get interested? John Ham of Animal Tales shares how the animals from his live animal presentations has inspired students all over the county to read.

Guests: John Ham

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

For many students with an IEP, their full potential can only be accessed outside of the traditional school framework. Donna Perry is the program specialist & Dr. Jared Stanly is the administrator on special assignment at Hope Horizon, a center school that works with students & families individually to find holistic solutions. In this episode they share what students are best served at Hope Horizon & the services they provide.

Guests: Donna Perry & Dr. Jared Stanley

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

It seems like there’s a new app every week that poses a potential trafficking threat to our digital savvy kids. In this episode, Stacey Kostevicki, the Executive Director of the Gulf Coast Kids House shares practical tips to keep kids safe & how prevention education can unite parents, teachers & community members to safeguard our kids. 

Guests: Stacey Kostevicki

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

When it comes to the success of every student, we're all in. That means taking every step possible to keep our kids safe at school. Director of Protection Services, Kyle Kinser, covers what all that means. You’ll hear how the new Centegix system & the Aaron Feiss guardian program cover use technology & humanity to keep our kids safe.

Guest: Kyle Kinser

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

From rotations to ride-a-longs, this is as real as it gets. Instructor Terry Thomas and graduate Dakota Ward openly discuss the rigors and rewards of the Critical Care & Emergency Medicine Academy at West Florida High School.

Guest: Terry Thomas & Dakota Ward

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

Where do new teachers turn for help and guidance? At Escambia County Public Schools, savvy and seasoned teachers serve as a Sherpa and guide new teachers for the entire year. Learn more about this transformation program, called START, on this week's podcast episode.

Guest: Caroline Gray

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

Who will be the leaders of tomorrow? Debra Phillips is teaching the seven habits of highly effective people to put our students on the right path.

Guest: Debra Phillips, Leader in Me Program

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

Post high school education can be expensive and out of reach for many families. Holly Busse explains how the Bright Futures Scholarship is helping unlock a path to college or vocational education, up to five years after graduation & takes just 15 minutes to apply for.               

Guest: Holly Busse

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

Are your kids getting too much screen time? Principal Lalla Pierce & Technology Coordinator, Kevin McNally from Global Learning Academy, share how students at Escambia County Public Schools in partnership with Common Sense Media are learning how to vet information, be a good digital citizen and when to walk away from technology.

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

If you’re a busy working parent, you’re a busy worrying parent, especially when it comes to after school care. Do you give your child a key to the house with instructions to do their chores & finish their homework? Or do you send them to aftercare? Will they be safe? Will they make friends? Robin Heller is the founder & executive director Seastars Aquatics, a USA Swimming Registered team that provides individualized attention as part of a structured competitive swim team program for kids who are economically, physically, & mentally challenged. The team not only provides a judgement & bullying-free zone for kids, but is also a place where they, their families & teachers can reap cognitive, academic, social & physical benefits … all for free.

Guests: Robin Heller

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

Avoiding college debt is key to setting up students for a strong start in adulthood, but how do you avoid student loans when you can barely make ends meet? The County Coordinator of Take Stock in Children, Sally Lee, shares the surprisingly simple way Escambia County students can qualify for free college scholarships and guidance from mentors as early as the seventh grade. She shares how a bright future can impact the student, the school and the community.

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

Ever try working all day when you haven't eaten anything? Hunger is one of a number of factors that can make learning difficult for students. In this episode on the ECSD Navigator Program, we discuss how Escambia County Public Schools are working with students and their families to navigate these challenges. 

Guests: Jennifer Montoya & Lindsay Cannon Children’s Home Society of Florida

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

As a parent, you want the best for your kid. And you worry – is what I’m doing enough? Is this school enough? in this episode, a student and faculty member have unique stories to tell. Kathryn Trohn is the youngest of 15 children and the daughter of Vietnamese immigrants. Dr. Colleen Boyett is the IB Diploma Program Coordinator at PHS and has taught a number of Kathryn’s siblings. Hear how the IB program is academically rigorous and not just accessible to gifted students, but motivated students.                 

Guests: Kathryn Trohn & Dr. Colleen Boyett

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

Tristan Harris is the coach for Escambia county’s Allstar Academic Team, a place where kids with drive & book smarts can gain a sense of community & competition. She proudly and passionately nerds out about how Escambia County students are winning by working together and scoring so much more than points as she explains how this trivia style tournament team is making a difference for students in Escambia County.

Guest: Tristan Harris

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

College is an opportunity to learn and grow. You don't have to have it all figured out before you enroll, but there are things you need to know to prepare for college. Layla Zandi-Karimi, a UWF admissions counselor and Pensacola local, helps create a path for parents and students by sharing 5 mistakes to avoid.  

Guest: Layla Zandi-Karimi 

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

They say it takes a village to raise a child, but what happens when the villagers are busy, tired and fighting with rising housing and living costs? Chris McFarland, Director of Enrollment Services and Coordinator of Student Services talks about community partnerships and resources to lighten the load and help us to rally around our kids.           

Guest: Chris McFarland

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

Join us as this Pine Forest High School graduate and former Escambia County educator shares why fitness matters in and out of the classroom, and what parents can do to set kids up for success. Dacia May is the CEO of Pensacola's first black-owned youth fitness studio, Healthy Habits & Opportunities, which is better known as H20.

Guest: Dacia Mays

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

Emma Meyers is a senior at Booker T Washington High School. At just 17, she is ranked third in the world in her triathlon level 4 class. She is also an amputee. Always up for a challenge, Emma jumped at the chance to do this podcast with us. Emma shares her experiences traveling the world, her goals and her ambitions for the future while her mom shares what it’s like raising a differently abled athlete and Paralympic hopeful for 2024.

Guests: Emma Myers & Leah Finneseth

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One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

Wouldn't it be great to know what did your child did in school today and what assignments, tests, activities, events and even scholarship deadlines are looming in the near future? Well, there is an app for that. Jen Montoya and Rashena McWhite discuss how Canvas is streamlining and opening communications between parents, teachers and K-12 students. Learn how this single platform is helping students be more successful in the classroom and reducing panicked mornings for parents in Escambia County.

Guests: Jen Montoya & Rashena McWhite
Canvas Parent App 2023-24.pdf - Google Drive |
Canvas Student App 2023-24.pdf - Google Drive

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

Thomas TJ Rollins is the principal at George Stone Technical College, a trade school providing quality academic, career, and technical education. He shares how these work-based learning programs may be the fast track to financial stability, job security, and successful careers for the next graduating class of Escambia County high schoolers.

Guests: Thomas TJ Rollins

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

Some people like putting a face to name. In this episode, we like putting a voice to a title, to let you, the parent, get to know the people behind the email signatures and more importantly, our mission to be united for every child to succeed. So with that, meet Mr. Keith Leonard, the interim superintendent of Escambia County Public Schools. A teacher at heart, learn about him and what he hopes to contribute to the future of our kids.

Guest: Superintendent Keith Leonard

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One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

Let's face it, helping with your child's homework can raise more questions than solving problems. Thankfully, there’s a solution. Tutor Me is a FREE 7 day a week virtual tutoring service available to all students in Escambia County. Jen Montoya and Rashena White will get you up to speed on how you can free yourself from the homework blues.  

Guests: Jen Montoya & Rashena White

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

How do you, as a parent, help your academically strong child get to college when you're struggling to make ends meet?  Elise Glidden, counselor at Booker T. Washington High School, explains Questbridge, a special college scholarship program for high-achieving, low-income students that matches the students with prestigious universities. You'll hear the details of eligibility and about a local student standout from this program.

Guest: Elise Glidden

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One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

We attribute fundraising and caretaking as characteristics of successful adults, but one student at Northview High School is showing out for his generation. Tyler Riggs has not only operated the school's greenhouse for the last 3 years, but got a $1,100 grant for much-needed upgrades. Student Tyler Riggs and teacher Brandon Korinchak share their connection to the greenhouse project, their passion for agriculture and how both are impacting what's next. Learn more about Northview FFA now.

Guests: Brandon Korinchak & Tyler Riggs

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One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

"I'm fine!" Grief is complex. It's more than sadness and can manifest is all kinds of ways. It can impact school. But it's never too late to connect grieving kids with each other in order to open up and find healthy ways to cope with the grief. Crista Brandt, the Director of Valerie's House opens up about her grief journey and shares how peer-to-peer model can help kids where traditional counseling alone can't. Learn more by visiting the Valerie's House Facebook.

Guest: Crista Brandt

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One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

Many local people express a desire to help others when asked about their hopes for their future careers, but getting there can often be a winding path. Cathy Rudd, principal of Escambia Westgate School and Dr. Keri Fogle, director of the Para-to-Teacher Tuition Support Program, talk about how this unique program could be a fit for people wanting to work as paraprofessionals.

Guests: Cathy Rudd & Dr. Keri Fogle

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

Every parent needs a little pick me up now and then – a real reminder you’re on the right path as a parent and your kid is gonna be ok. More than ok. Derreck Brooks, NFL Superstar and Washington High School class of 1991, shares his roots in Escambia County, why success is a team sport and how his charity is setting kids up for a winning future.       

Guest: Derrick Brooks https://db55.org/ | https://www.facebook.com/DBC55

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

Ever wonder how we can make the world a better place? It starts here. Vanessa Mays, Executive Director of Global Corner, talks about how bringing the whole world to the classroom brings skills and solutions to our hometown. Learn more about Global Corner on Facebook.               

Guest: Vanessa Mays

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

Every parent wants their child to have the best quality education possible, including having the proper tools and resources, but how do we ensure every classroom has what it needs without teachers buying their own supplies? David Gardner & Jo McArthur share how they’ve united to solve this widespread problem by establishing the Tools for Teachers initiative. Learn more about the Escambia County Public Schools Foundation or donate today.             

Guests: David Gardner & Jo Mcarthur

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

No one wants their kid kicking off their next school year to a slow start, but how do you prevent your child from the summer slide in their reading skills? Torrey Jones, Tate High graduate and Executive Director of Freedom Schools, discusses how a free, six-week summer program is helping K-8 grade students in Escambia County start their next school year strong.

Guest: Torrey Jones

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

Playing catch up not only makes learning not fun, but parenting as well – extra parent teacher meetings, IEPs, tutoring and even being held back a grade, but what can a parent do? ReadyKids is doing something to support parent efforts with early literacy for kindergarten readiness. In this episode, Kristy Craig, West Florida High School graduate and the organization’s executive director, shares stories of impact, what kindergarten ready looks like and how you can help.

Guest: Kristy Craig

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

One of the challenges parents face is helping their kids overcome academic setbacks. Statements like “I don’t like science” and “I’m just not good at math” can be bigger obstacles than the homework itself. Rita Miller, the Director of Department of Defense STARBASE Pensacola, explains how this immersive STEM experience program for 5th graders is creating unique memories and confidence to last a lifetime.             

Guest: Rita Miller

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

When we think about growing confident kids, we think of sports, academic achievement, even making friends, but what about children’s chorus? Alex Gartner, the Artistic & Executive Director at Pensacola Children's Chorus shares why the arts are the unsung heroes for holistic success. Hear how the “Sing to Succeed” program is striving to eliminate the barriers of affordability and transportation for low-income and at-risk youth in Escambia County.             

Guest: Alex Gartner

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

It’s said that afterschool hours of 3-6pm are primetime for risky youth behavior, but as a working parent, your options can feel limited. Kimberly Scott is helping head up a program that not only facilitates a safe space, but an atmosphere that enhances school performance. It’s Pensacola Little Theatre’s new program, “Character Building through Building Character,” a 3-hour afterschool theatre and reading program that brings literature and school to life. In this episode, we spotlight what makes the program special for the kids, to her and the community.

Guest: Kimberly Scott

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

Teachers are the eyes and ears of what their students need. But teachers didn’t become teachers just to observe. That's why you’ll find that behind every successful person is a story of a dedicated educator who took an outside the box approach to help them learn. But what happens when teachers have great ideas, but no resources to implement their teaching techniques? Jo McArthur, executive director of the Escambia County Public Schools Foundation, details how “Grants for Excellence” is helping teachers teach and students succeed.            

Guest: Jo McArthur

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

Talk to any parent of a middle schooler and you’ll hear about the struggle of early adolescence – them becoming their own person, their friend choices, and their need for deodorant. But don’t forget their academic motivation. How do you keep your kid engaged? Michelle Givens, Tate High graduate and teacher on special assignment at Flight Adventure Deck, a unique program where middle school students learn STEM concepts first hand in a very unique atmosphere. Learn how the program works, what makes it work and how it’s leaving a lasting impression on students.

Guest: Michele Givens

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One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

Clothing insecurity impacts a large number of Escambia County students. It’s a dynamic that can distract them from learning and hurt social development. One program at CA Weis Elementary School is helping kids dress confidently. It’s called Care Closet. Lisa Smith Coleman, community partnerships school director and Janeisha Robinson, family community engagement coordinator at Children's Home Society are here to share how Care Closet is leveling the playing field and instilling confidence in Pensacola kids.

Guests: Lisa Smith Coleman & Janeisha Robinson | C.A. Weis Wish List | C.A. Weis Newsletter

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

We all know how hard it is to work when you're starving or seriously low on the right kind of fuel. The same is true in the classroom; when your child's stomach is louder than the teacher and your child's energy level bottoms out. All learning stops at that point. Jaleena Davis, Director of School Food Services shares what foods your kids are actually getting and meal solutions you may not know you already had access to — like special diets and how to maximize mealtime.          

Guests: Jaleena Davis

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

75% of new teachers in Escambia County are Alternative Certification Teachers, which means they didn’t start out on the educational track and took a different route to the classroom. Rachel Rodriguez Schrimsher is the program support specialist at the Professional Learning Certification Program. Hear from her why this program is so popular, why it could be a good fit for you and how it works.

Guests: Rachel Rodriguez Schrimsher

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

Kids are a mystery. One day you can’t get them to sit still. The next day you can’t get them out of bed. Some homework is a breeze. Other homework is a battle. What is the best way to set goals with kids who are more focused on learning the latest TikTok dance than getting good grades? Larry Knight knows a thing or two about both kids and goals. He’s the principal at N.B. Cook Elementary School, a parent, and someone who has achieved admirable fitness milestones. Learn about the most effective ways to set goals with your kids as we talk about success, failure, and the steps in between.

Guest: Larry Knight

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

Esports programs are quickly becoming the number one requested program for new student enrollment. Monica Willis, the Grants Management Specialist and District Military Liaison for the county shares why esports may not be what you think it is. In this episode, she shares what esports teams, coaches & practice look like, how it’s facilitating relationships & team building & (importantly) how your kid can get a college scholarship. She is the Grants Management Specialist and District Military Liaison for the county with the inside track on how esports, the fastest growing sport in the country, enables connectedness and facilitates scholarships.

Guest: Monica Willis

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

It’s safe to say there are two things everyone likes: options and money. So how do you help your kid have both after they graduate from high school? College is expensive and time consuming, and job options are entry level with no upward trajectory. Rob Wise and Ben Weldon are in the talent acquisition department of the Ingalls shipbuilding employment program in Pascagoula, Mississippi. Listen as they share how students can get paid to learn a trade to become skilled in a craft and super employable. *Enterprise transportation rates may vary

Guest: Rob Wise & Ben Weldon, Ingalls Shipbuilding

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

Where can kids with physical disabilities go to exercise both their mindset and their bodies? Tara Blackwell was a softball superstar at Pine Forest High School in the late 90s-early 2000's. In her sophomore year of college, an accident left her paralyzed. Unable to find accessible fitness options, she made her own, founding Project 7, Pensacola’s only adaptive gym. Listen as she shares the importance of pursuing physical fitness regardless of ability and how she is making that possible for everyone.

Guest: Tara Blackwell

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

We all fondly remember that teacher who made a positive impact on us during our formative years. For many at Pine Meadow, I’ts 4th grade teacher, Cassi McGee, the 2025 ECPS Teacher of the Year. She returned to her first love of teaching after working as a stock broker & is now in her 21st year of teaching thriving in her element. 

Guest: Cassi McGee

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

Morgan White is the special needs teacher & cheer coach at Tate Highschool. In this episode she shares how she has taken the Aggies cheer team to number 1 in the state three times, overcomes outdated stereotypes of cheerleading & shares how cheer is not just a sport, but a distinctive system to set kids up to be stellar members of the community.  

Guest: Morgan White

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

If kids could learn leadership skills, why would it matter? Amy McCrory and Shonna Gilmore have firsthand experience with student leadership. They are the principal and librarian at Bratt Elementary. In this episode, they share how their "Leader in Me" animal shelter drive not only made a concept a reality, but elevated academic performance.

Guests: Amy McCrory & Shonna Gilmore

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

In 2022, Stephanie Shepard’s son died from a fentanyl overdose. Unfortunately, this is not unusual, as Escambia, Santa Rosa, Okaloosa and Walton counties has the highest opioid overdose rate in the state. Vowing that his death not be in vain, she founded Hope Above Fear, a non-profit dedicated to help educate, de-stigmatize and overcome addiction in youth. In this episode, she shares what you need to know as a parent, what you can do and why there is hope. Learn more on Facebook or Instagram.      

Guest: Stephanie Shepard

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

Information is moving at the speed of technology and our kids are learning it all, but how do we keep them safe? Brian Johnson is the Information Systems Security Manager for Escambia County Public Schools. In this episode, he shares insights into how we can support smart internet use for our kids & how the school system is supporting families.

Guest: Brian Johnson 

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

Esi Shannon never expected to be Principal of the Year, but she always expected to be a teacher. In this episode, she shares the story of her career, reluctant leadership, creating joyous learning & the misunderstood struggles of educational leadership.

Guest: Esi Shannon

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

Scottlin Williams is a meteorologist and the program manager for HERicane Escambia, a free summer camp that is a positive force for girls. In this episode, she shares who inspired her into meteorology, what the camp entails & how broadening representation in emergency management and public safety is good for everyone.

Guest: Scottlin Williams

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards

Christie Costello owns Costello’s Butcher Shop & Deli in Pensacola. In this episode she shares not about what she’s selling, but what she is giving away – 100-150 sandwiches to hungry neighborhood kids. She also shares the unusual way this idea came to her, her history with the Pensacola food scene & how she’s also setting up the next generation of chefs & entrepreneurs to give back. Learn more about the Kimberly Tauer Foundation on Facebook.

Guest: Christie Costello

Want to interact with the resources and guests featured here in real life?! Join us at the 2nd annual FREE Podcastapalooza! There will be a live animal presentation by animal tales and food trucks like BAM snowballs, Kip's Hotdogs & MELT Pensacola.

One lucky guest will win a $250 Amazon gift card! Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 1, 2025 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Booker T Washington High School. 

Learn more about Escambia County School District: https://www.escambiaschools.org/
Find additional links: https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com/podcast-episodes

Host: Meredith Hackwith Edwards