Best Illinois STAR NET Regions I&III Podcasts (2025)

1
Engaging students by making stories come to life through storytelling, puppets, and role playing 40:54

9d ago40:54

40:54

In this episode, Deb Shirley, Instructional Coach from Adams Early Childhood Center in Lincoln, Illinois, will discuss with us the ways she engages students by making stories come to life through storytelling, puppets, and role-playing.By Illinois STAR NET Regions I&III

1
Children's Books Featuring Disabilities, with a Focus on Assets 26:50

5M ago26:50

26:50

Dr. Lindsay Meeker and Dr. Kimberly Coy discussed the inspiration and importance of Dr. Coy's new book, "Mia with Dyslexia", which aims to provide a realistic portrayal of dyslexia and promote inclusivity in classrooms. They also discussed the challenges faced by individuals with dyslexia and other disabilities, the importance of learning in differ…

1
A Therapeutic Life, Not a Life of Therapy 49:08

6M ago49:08

49:08

Join us as we meet with Kylie (OT), Alisha (PT), and Sidney (SLP) to discuss navigating different therapeutic solutions for helping children be successful in day-to-day life and in academic settings! This conversation dives through differences parents might see in school therapies versus outpatient therapies and gives concrete examples parents and …

1
Itinerant Teacher in a Community Program 21:41

7M ago21:41

21:41

In this episode, we are joined by Stephanie Mader, an Early Childhood Special Education teacher in Rock Island’s School District 41 who works as an itinerant teacher with the local Head Start program. She shares how she builds relationships and collaborates with the Head Start Teachers as well as how the Head Start teachers support her work with th…

1
Engaging Writing Centers 27:06

7M ago27:06

27:06

In this episode, we are joined by Jen Mohr a PFA teacher from Rock Island School District 41. Today we are going to talk about Jen’s experience in creating an interactive and engaging writing center in her preschool classroom.By Illinois STAR NET Regions I&III

1
Breaking Down the IEP Process for Families with Dr. Kasandra Posey 1:01:00

8M ago1:01:00

1:01:00

In this episode, we talk with Dr. Kasandra Posey from FAIR Consultancy LLC, about what families should know about the IEP process. She shares tips about what families should do, what to look out for, and how to work with the school district as they navigate the process. Resources: The Parent Guide-English The Parent Guide Spanish Procedural Safegua…

1
Play Without Limits - Exploring the Process and Importance of Inclusive Playgrounds For Children 40:11

9M ago40:11

40:11

In this podcast with the president of Hadley's Haven, Lenore Ashby, we walk through the journey of what it takes to build an inclusive playground in your community. From advocating for true accessibility over just meeting ADA compliance to setting up a 501c3 and navigating grants with a local township and fundraising, Lenore shares the importance o…

1
Beginning of the School Year: Insights from the Field 53:01

9M ago53:01

53:01

In this episode, veteran teachers Sherial McKinney and Marc Baxter share some insights into preparing for a new school year. Our discussion covers the weeks leading up to the start of school, preparing the classroom, and getting to know the children and families. Click here for a list of resources you might use for the start of the school year!…

1
Teaming and Collaboration: Sharing Roles Equally 29:24

9M ago29:24

29:24

In this episode, we talk with Heather Nolan from the Urbana Early Childhood School about teaming and collaboration. Heather takes a unique view on this process, including everyone in the process, making sure that all voices are heard, and having all classroom members, teachers, and paraeducators, take turns in the leader role, classroom support rol…

1
Whole Group Visuals with Jasmine Norris 13:54

11M ago13:54

13:54

In this podcast, we discuss the use of visuals with the whole class in addition to using them as individual supports. Jaz discusses several strategies she uses and the benefits she sees as she provides these supports for everyone. Jaz even shared some examples of the visuals she created, click on the link below to view them. Resource Jasmine Norris…

1
CU Early, A Prevention Initiative Program 15:38

12M ago15:38

15:38

In this episode, we talk with Kelly Russell from the CU Early Prevention Initiative Program in Champaign County. We discuss the importance of Early Intervention, the transition process from Early Intervention to Early Childhood Special Education, extended services, and resources for families. Resources Children and Family Connections of Central Ill…

1
Book Study Review: Emotionally Responsive Teaching by Travis Wright 37:30

1y ago37:30

37:30

This podcast is a review of the book study series completed in the Spring of 2024 on Emotionally Responsive Teaching by Travis Wright. Marc Baxter and Sheila Yates review some of the key points from the book and discussions with the group. Some of the key points include: what is "trauma" and how it might have come to mean many things, how the skill…

1
Visual Supports at Snack Time 17:32

1y ago17:32

17:32

Nikki Pehlke is a WIU Student and currently serves as lead teacher in an Early Childhood Special Education classroom at PH Miller in Plano, IL. In this podcast, Nikki describes the power of student choice and voice, as well as how to use visuals authentically to support accessible communication. She also discusses how relationship-building with stu…

1
Screening, Evaluation, and Referrals. Oh, My! 40:17

1y ago40:17

40:17

In this episode, we talk with Katie Madigan from the Urbana Early Childhood School about their process for screening, evaluation, and referrals for identifying children with IEPs. Resource - you are welcome to visit the Urbana Early Childhood School. https://uecs.usd116.org/about/By Illinois STAR NET Regions I&III

1
The Lesser Known Senses: The Proprioceptive System 23:15

1+ y ago23:15

23:15

Welcome to the third and final episode in this three part series on the lesser known senses! In this episode, Kirsten Amundson and Joanna Pasheluk Schimek join us as we discuss in the proprioceptive system. We will talk about what it is, what to look for in children, and what strategies can be used to support the development of this sense. Resource…

1
The Lesser Known Senses: The Vestibular System 24:43

1+ y ago24:43

24:43

Welcome to the second episode in this three part series on the lesser known senses! In this episode, Kirsten Amundson and Joanna Pasheluk Schimek join us as we discuss in the vestibular system. We will talk about what it is, what to look for in children, and what strategies can be used to support the development of this sense. Resources: Kelly Mahl…

1
The Lesser Known Senses: Interoception 21:13

1+ y ago21:13

21:13

Welcome to the first episode in this three part series on the lesser known senses! In this episode, Kirsten Amundson and Joanna Pasheluk Schimek join us as we discuss in the interoception sense. We will talk about what it is, what to look for in children, and what strategies can be used to support the development of this sense. Resources: Kelly Mah…

1
Community Based Organizations: Hand in Hand 23:45

1+ y ago23:45

23:45

In this podcast, Angie Kendall shares how Hand in Hand, a Community Based Organization in Bettendorf, Iowa grew from a one week summer camp for individuals with disabilities, to offering over 15 programs for individuals with disabilities from infants through adults. We talk about the impact this program has on the community and the different types …

1
Preschool Inclusion in Illinois Episode 6: Implementing Preschool Inclusion: East Moline’s Journey Toward Inclusion 33:28

2y ago33:28

33:28

In this episode, we learn about the preschool inclusion journey from Melissa McCullough, Principal of the East Moline School District 37, Early Learning Center, Emily Ropars, Inclusion Specialist with Early CHOICES, Pam Reising Rechner, Inclusion Specialist with Early CHOICES, and Ann Kremer, Project Director of Early CHOICES Resources: NAEYC & DEC…

1
Preschool Inclusion in Illinois Episode 5: Implementing Preschool Inclusion: Plano Early Learning’s Inclusion Journey 34:19

2y ago34:19

34:19

In this episode, we continue to explore the process of achieving high quality inclusion for preschool children. Please listen as Ann Kremer, Project Director of Early CHOICES and Laurel Mateyka, Principal at PH Miller Elementary School and Plano Early Learning, discuss Plano Early Learning’s Inclusion journey Resources: NAEYC & DEC Inclusion Joint …

1
Preschool Inclusion in Illinois Episode 4: Implementing Preschool Inclusion: Mannheim’s Journey 43:49

2y ago43:49

43:49

Show Notes: In this episode, we learn about Mannheim Early Childhood Centers Inclusion journey as one of Illinois’ 3 Community Inclusion Teams. We’ll hear from Ann Kremer, Project Director of Early CHOICES, Emily Ropars, Inclusion Specialist with Early CHOICES and Shannon Cribaro, Director of Early Childhood Education for District 83 and Principal …

1
Preschool Inclusion in Illinois Episode 3: Implementing Preschool Inclusion: Springfield’s Journey 47:58

2y ago47:58

47:58

In this episode, we have the opportunity to hear from Kevi Jackson, PreK Programs Coordinator with Springfield School District 186, Julie Schackman, Inclusion Specialist with Early CHOICES, and Ann Kremer, Project Director of Early CHOICES as we learn about Springfield’s inclusion journey as one of Illinois’ 3 Community Inclusion Teams. Resources: …

1
DEI with Jade Johnson from Jade Inclusion 29:02

2y ago29:02

29:02

In this podcast episode, we talk with Jade Johnson from Jade Inclusion about Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Education and some of the lifelong impacts experiences can have on individuals. Resources: Jade Inclusion Email: [email protected] Illinois STAR NET Regions I&III

1
Preschool Inclusion in Illinois Series: Episode 2 - Implementing Preschool Inclusion: Collinsville's Journey 30:17

2y ago30:17

30:17

In this episode, we have the opportunity to hear from Christine Coleman, Pre K Coordinator with the Collinsville School District, Pam Reising Rechner, Inclusion Specialist with Early CHOICES, and Ann Kremer, Project Director of Early CHOICES as they share Collinsville’s journey as one of Illinois’ 3 Community Inclusion Teams. Resources: NAEYC & DEC…

1
Supporting Multilingual Learners in the Early Childhood Classroom 21:10

2y ago21:10

21:10

In this episode, Abbie Loos, a preschool bilingual teacher from Urbana Early Childhood School, discusses supporting multilingual learners in the early childhood classroom. She shares tips for looking at the whole child and strategies to include families while supporting the child's home language in the classroom environment. Resources: WIDA Early L…

1
Preschool Inclusion in Illinois Series: Episode 1 - Building a System to Support Implementation of Preschool Inclusion 34:56

2y ago34:56

34:56

In this episode, you will hear from Megan Vinh, Associate Director of the Early Childhood Technical Assistance Center and Ann Kremer, Director of Early CHOICES the Illinois inclusion initiative for birth to 5. Megan and Ann discuss Inclusion and the tools, structures and planning used to support three Illinois communities to build Community Inclusi…

1
DAP Series, Episode 16, A Conversation with Susan Friedman 27:30

2+ y ago27:30

27:30

In this last episode of the DAP series, Susan Friedman, Senior Director, Publishing and Content Development with NAEYC and volume editor on the 4th edition shares the driving factors for the 4th edition, key concepts threaded throughout the DAP book, and ways to engage more deeply with DAP. Resources: DAP Position statement purpose (image of how th…

1
DAP Series, Episode 15, Guidance and Discipline 49:30

2+ y ago49:30

49:30

In this episode, Carol Weisheit, Regional Manager with Birth to Five Illinois and former college instructor shares her thoughts on foundational knowledge and principles for developmentally appropriate guidance techniques. Resources: Dan Siegel Hand Model: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qFTljLo1bK8 Guidance Matters Column with Dan Gartrell: https:/…

1
DAP Series, Episode 13, Individuality and Inclusion 26:10

2+ y ago26:10

26:10

Listen to this episode to hear from Talin Tokat, Inclusion Specialist with Early CHOICES, about how the DAP core consideration of individuality supports her work on inclusion in Illinois. Resources: https://www.eclre.org/By Illinois STAR NET Regions I&III

1
DAP SEries, Episode 14, Play in K! 38:41

2+ y ago38:41

38:41

In this episode educators, Erean Mei, Margi Bhansali, and Alli Bizon share the value of play-based instruction for all children and recommendations to advocate for and advance equitable play in Kindergarten classrooms in Illinois. Episode Notes: Implementing Play-Based Learning Across Illinois Classrooms Brief https://online.fliphtml5.com/mgbmv/esm…

1
We all Need a Knapp...Reflections on a Career in Early Childhood. 26:23

2+ y ago26:23

26:23

Jodi Knapp, a 38 year early childhood veteran in the field spends time reflecting on her career on her last day before retiring as an Early Childhood Special Education Professional Development Specialist from STAR NET Regions I and III. Resource links: -Illinois Early Learning Project - https://illinoisearlylearning.org -Early Childhood Professiona…

1
DAP Series, Episode 12, Context and Challenging Behavior 35:02

2+ y ago35:02

35:02

In this episode, Dr. Angela Searcy shares the importance of considering context when thinking about challenging behavior. Dr. Searcy also shares how the "Push Past It" Approach from her book can be helpful for educators and professionals as a tool to be intentional when addressing challenging behaviors. Resources: Dr. Angela Searcy Author Page: htt…

1
Early Childhood Professional Development Projects in Illinois 36:43

2+ y ago36:43

36:43

In this episode, you will hear from Kristy Doan, Early Childhood Principal Consultant, about the vision of the Illinois State Board of Education Early Childhood Department and several other leaders of professional development organizations in Illinois, including Early Childhood Professional Learning, Early CHOICES and STAR NET. ISBE Professional De…

1
DAP Series, episode 11, The Language of Microaggressions 25:36

2+ y ago25:36

25:36

NAEYC advocates for educators to use strengths-based inclusive language to affirm all children and families they work with and identifies deficit language as a microaggression. In this episode, Dr. Anni Reinking, founder of Reinking Education Consulting, author, and researcher shares her knowledge on microaggressions and ways early childhood profes…

1
Math in Early Childhood 34:32

2+ y ago34:32

34:32

In this podcast episode, Sherial McKinney discusses the importance of mathematics in early childhood education. She focuses on the importance of the adult's attitude when engaging in mathematical activities and reminds us to be aware of the attitude we portray when introducing math concepts. DREME - Development and Research in Early Math Education …

1
DAP Series, episode 10, Shifting Language from Special Needs to Disability with Dr. Emily Dorsey 26:14

2+ y ago26:14

26:14

In this episode, Emily Reilly talks with Dr. Emily Dorsey with the Illinois Early Learning Project (IEL) to explore one aspect of the DAP core consideration of context, specifically rethinking the use of the term special needs. Dr. Dorsey shares some of the factors that prompted IEL to shift the title of one of their blog posts from "Children with …

1
DAP Series, Episode 9, Equitable Play Spaces to Support Multilingual Learners with Disabilities 27:25

3y ago27:25

27:25

In this episode, Dr. Lindsay Meeker, Director of the Center for Best Practices in Early Childhood Education and Early Childhood Faculty member at Western Illinois University shares the benefits of and her experience with inquiry based learning as a way to support equitable play spaces for children. Stay connected and up to date on the topic on Lind…

1
DAP Series, Episode 8, No More Worksheets for Math, DAP Ways to Support Math Learning in Early Childhood with Sherial McKinney 33:44

3y ago33:44

33:44

In this episode, Sherial McKinney, retired early childhood educator and current Resource Specialist with STAR NET Regions I and III, shares her knowledge about ways to make math learning fun and meaningful in the early childhood years. Listening to this episode will prompt educators and families to get creative in using natural opportunities and av…

1
Grief and Loss in Young Children 29:35

3y ago29:35

29:35

Young children experience grief and loss in a variety of ways. In this episode of the STAR NET Regions I and III podcast, Emily Reilly chats with Elizabeth Frisbie, an early childhood mental health consultant in Illinois, about grief and loss from a developmental perspective and how adults, both professionals and family members, can talk to childre…

1
DAP Series, Episode 7, DAP and Math Content Learning with Dr. Sallee Beneke 40:44

3y ago40:44

40:44

In this episode of the DAP series, Emily Reilly talks with Dr. Sallee Beneke about how to support math content learning with preschool children in developmentally appropriate ways. Dr. Benekee also explains from a developmental perspective why the use of calendar time is not an engaging strategy for teaching math concepts in the preschool years. Ep…

1
I Wonder...Sensory Stimuli 11:56

3y ago11:56

11:56

In this podcast, join us as we explore some of the different stimuli in our environments that can have an impact on how young children experience our world. For more information about sensory considerations, register for our TED-Ed lesson on Understanding Sensory Processing. Click this link to register: https://starnet.org/home/events/sensory-proce…

1
DAP Series, Episode 6, Perspectives on DAP with Angelica Taylor 42:14

3y ago42:14

42:14

Description: In this episode of the DAP series, Emily Reilly interviews Angelica Taylor, Doctoral Student at University of Illinois, about her perspectives and experience with using DAP in her work. Episode notes: DAP Position Statement: https://www.naeyc.org/sites/default/files/globally-shared/downloads/PDFs/resources/position-statements/dap-state…

1
A Discussion on Play 27:09

3+ y ago27:09

27:09

In this episode, we talk with Beth Ladd from the Urbana Early Childhood School on her experiences with play in early childhood.By Illinois STAR NET Regions I&III

1
Developmentally Appropriate Practice Series, Episode 5: DAP and Related Service Providers 22:05

3+ y ago22:05

22:05

In this episode of the DAP series, Emily Reilly interviews Becky Handler, Early Childhood Resource Specialist and SLP, for her perspective on how DAP can support the work of related service providers.By Illinois STAR NET Regions I&III

1
Developmentally Appropriate Practice (DAP) Series #4 34:15

3+ y ago34:15

34:15

In this episode of the Developmentally Appropriate Practice series, Emily Reilly interviews Dr. Antoinette Taylor.By Illinois STAR NET Regions I&III

1
Adult Anti-Bias Education #5 of 5 25:48

3+ y ago25:48

25:48

This is the final episode of the Adult Anti-Bias Education discussion with Evelyn Green, Emily Ropars, and Anni Reinking. Further Resource: https://sesamestreetincommunities.org/interactive-training/room-to-grow-resources-for-racial-justice/?cid=e98842ea7dfcccf16d49114875036279By Illinois STAR NET Regions I&III

1
Adult Anti-Bias Education #4 of 5 28:26

3+ y ago28:26

28:26

In this 4th episode in the ABE Adult Learning Principles series, listen to Anni, Evelyn, and Emily discuss the third ABE Adult Learning Principles.By Illinois STAR NET Regions I&III

1
Adult Anti-Bias Education #3 of 5 37:07

3+ y ago37:07

37:07

In this 3rd episode in the ABE Adult Learning Princples series, listen to Anni, Evelyn, and Emily discuss the third ABE Adult Learning Principles. Resource: Adultification (https://hello.naeyc.org/communities/community-home/digestviewer/viewthread?MessageKey=dd58f428-1873-4180-87bc-a6398999ecce&CommunityKey=f51f9fd4-47c9-4bfd-aca7-23e9f31b601e)…

1
Adult Anti-Bias Education #2 of 5 46:22

3+ y ago46:22

46:22

In this episode Anni, Evelyn, and Emily continue the conversation on ABE Adult Learning Goals, specifically #2. Trigger warning. www.starnet.orgBy Illinois STAR NET Regions I&III