ADAC Answers

ADAC

ADAC Answers: an education podcast for all.

ADAC specializes in providing to K-12 school leaders and teachers customized professional development and coaching services to meet the individual learning needs of all students. Led and staffed by passionate, committed professionals, ADAC prides itself on delivering to its clients and the students and families whom its clients serve precise solutions to their unique education challenges. ADAC stands for Attain, Differentiate, Advance, & Collaborate – four words we believe epitomize the work we do. read less
EducationEducation

Episodes

Unlocking the Power of Inclusive Education with Dr. Beth Fitzmaurice
Oct 25 2023
Unlocking the Power of Inclusive Education with Dr. Beth Fitzmaurice
EP 11 “Unlocking the Power of Inclusive Education with Dr. Beth Fitzmaurice” ADAC is excited to bring you another episode of ADAC Answers, an #educationpodcast for all! In our FREE 30-minute podcast, Dr. Beth Fitzmaurice provides insights into her extensive career in education and her role at ADAC as the Vice President for Public School Leader & Teacher Development. In this episode, we delve into: insights into the importance of inclusive education and Universal Design for Learning (UDL), emphasizing the value of embracing students' diverse abilities and backgrounds as assets.the significance of MTSS in addressing students' academic, social, and emotional needs. Dr. Fitzmaurice highlights the fluidity of tiered support systems and the role of data-driven interventions.practical strategies for educators to foster inclusive classrooms are discussed, including the importance of listening to students, challenging assumptions, and promoting character education to build respectful and diverse learning spaces.And more!Invest just 30 minutes with us to listen to "Unlocking the Power of Inclusive Education with Dr. Beth Fitzmaurice” Then, armed with new insight, check out how ADAC can assist your school with its particular needs and many other needs that your school may have. And also, be sure to check out and remain updated on the rest of our ADAC Answers podcast episodes.If you have any topics that you would like addressed in a future episode or to share your thoughts about today's episode, please do so by using the hashtag #ADACAnswers. As follows is the bio of our guest speaker Beth Fitzmaurice, Ed.D: Beth Fitzmaurice, Ed.D (ADAC Vice President for Public School Leader & Teacher Development): A special educator and educational leader for over 30 years, Elizabeth has served as an instructional coach and a special education program developer and evaluator. A veteran of the United States Army, she has taught at the United States Military Academy at West Point. With research interests in Universal Design for Learning (UDL), Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS), and inclusive practices, Elizabeth holds a bachelor’s degree from Fitchburg State University, a master’s degree from Worcester State University, and a doctoral degree from Boston College.
Mission-Driven Leadership: Wisdom from the Trenches
Oct 12 2023
Mission-Driven Leadership: Wisdom from the Trenches
ADAC is excited to bring you another episode of ADAC Answers, an #educationpodcast for all! In our FREE 30-minute podcast, Jaycob Knazur. provides insights into his extensive career in education and his role as Principal of Andrean High School. In this episode, we delve into: ● Jaycob’s unique journey from Andrean High School student to its principal, emphasizing the mission-driven approach rooted in faith, learning, leadership, and service● the challenges of leading a Catholic College Preparatory Institution and the importance of adapting to changing times while maintaining a work-life balance● insights highlighting the power of positive relationships in education, the joy of empowering students, and advice for aspiring educators and leaders●And more! Invest just 30 minutes with us to listen to “Mission-Driven Leadership: Wisdom from the Trenches” Then, armed with new insight, check out how ADAC can assist your school with its particular needs and many other needs that your school may have. And also, be sure to check out and remain updated on the rest of our ADAC Answers podcast episodes. If you have any topics that you would like addressed in a future episode or to share your thoughts about today's episode, please do so by using the hashtag #ADACAnswers. As follows is the bio of our guest speaker Jaycob Knazur: Principal of Andrean High School: Jaycob Knazur serves as the dedicated Principal of Andrean High School in Indiana, leading with unwavering commitment to education and the school's mission. A proud alumnus of Andrean High School, Jaycob's journey began as a student, graduating in 2005. He pursued a Bachelor of Arts degree at Valparaiso University, establishing his academic foundation. His path then led him to earn a Master of Arts degree from Valparaiso University and another Master of Arts in Education Leadership (M.A.E.L.) from the University of Notre Dame. Jaycob's trajectory from student to Principal reflects his deep commitment to educational excellence and the school's mission.
Leading from the Heart: Unpacking School Culture with Matt Moloney
Sep 20 2023
Leading from the Heart: Unpacking School Culture with Matt Moloney
ADAC is excited to bring you another episode of ADAC Answers, an #educationpodcast for all!In our FREE 30-minute podcast, Matt Moloney. provides insights into his extensive career in education and his new role at ADAC as the Vice President of Educational Partnerships. In this episode, we delve into:Matt Moloney's inspiring journey: From Catholic educator to VP for Educational Partnerships at ADAC, he reveals how it transformed his education perspective.Unveiling the essence of educational leadership: Matt delves into school culture's significance, sharing insights from his own leadership journey at the diocesan level.Innovative solutions for educational challenges: Drawing on his extensive leadership experience, Matt offers creative strategies to address common educational challenges.And more!Invest just 30 minutes with us to listen to “Leading from the Heart: Unpacking School Culture with Matt Moloney” Then, armed with new insight, check out how ADAC can assist your school with its particular needs and many other needs that your school may have. And also, be sure to check out and remain updated on the rest of our ADAC Answers podcast episodes.If you have any topics that you would like addressed in a future episode or to share your thoughts about today's episode, please do so by using the hashtag #ADACAnswers. As follows is the bio of our guest speaker Matt Moloney: Matt Moloney (ADAC Vice President for Educational Partnerships): With over 15 years of leadership experience in K-12 Catholic education, Matt has served as a teacher, vice-principal, and principal. His experience includes supporting, nationally, the Catholic school partners of the Alliance for Catholic Education (ACE) at the University of Notre Dame. Matt holds a bachelor’s degree from Saint Anselm College and two master’s degrees from the University of Notre Dame.
Championing Excellence: A Conversation on Advocacy and Leadership
Aug 30 2023
Championing Excellence: A Conversation on Advocacy and Leadership
Ep. 08 - “Championing Excellence: A Conversation on Advocacy and Leadership”ADAC is excited to bring you another episode of ADAC Answers, an #educationpodcast for all!In our FREE 30-minute podcast, Julie Cantillon Ph.D. provides insights into her extensive career in education and her new role at ADAC as the Vice President of Academic & Advocacy. In this episode, we delve into:●The evolution of Julie Cantillon, Ph.D., from a Catholic school teacher to her current role as Vice President for Academics & Advocacy at ADAC. She shares insights into her diverse career journey and how it has cultivated her distinct outlook on education and advocacy.●Exploring qualities of effective education leadership, Julie sheds light on her emphasis on enhancing teacher leadership to elevate education at the diocesan level.●Julie navigates challenges within education, drawing from her extensive background in diverse institutions and providing strategies to overcome these hurdles.● And more!Invest just 30 minutes with us to listen to “Championing Excellence: A Conversation on Advocacy and Leadership” Then, armed with new insight, check out how ADAC can assist your school with its particular needs and many other needs that your school may have. And also, be sure to check out and remain updated on the rest of our ADACAnswers podcast episodes.If you have any topics that you would like addressed in a future episode or to share your thoughts about today's episode, please do so by using the hashtag #ADACAnswers.As follows is the bio of our guest speaker Julie Cantillon, Ph.D:Julie Cantillon, Ph.D (ADAC Vice President for Academics & Advocacy): An experienced Catholic school teacher and leader, Julie Cantillon has served as an associate superintendent in the Diocese of San Diego and as the academic dean of the Center for Talented Youth at Johns Hopkins University. Julie’s broad experience and training include completing professional learning at the Learning Forward Academy at which her multi-year problem-of-practice focus was on elevating at the diocesan level teacher leadership. Julie holds a bachelor’s degree from Saint Anselm College, a master’s degree from Simmons College, and a doctoral degree from the University of San Diego.
From Words to Wisdom: Crafting Literacy Instruction with Dawn Florino
Aug 16 2023
From Words to Wisdom: Crafting Literacy Instruction with Dawn Florino
Ep. 07 - “From Words to Wisdom: Crafting Literacy Instruction with Dawn Florino”ADAC is excited to bring you another episode of ADAC Answers, an #educationpodcast for all!In our FREE 30-minute podcast, Dawn Florino provides insights into Reading and Writing instruction and shares tips for addressing student engagement. In this episode, we discuss:Dawn’s professional journey and the experiences that have shaped her expertise and discover the roots of her dedication and enthusiasm for Reading and Writing instruction.Gain access to Dawn’s wealth of knowledge to enhance instructional practices and extract practical insights and resources designed for Reading and Writing educators.Dive into strategies to cultivate curiosity and foster deeper understanding of content among students.And more!Invest just 30 minutes with us to listen to “[insert title]” Then, armed with new insight, check out how ADAC can assist your school with its particular needs and many other needs that your school may have. And also, be sure to check out and remain updated on the rest of our ADAC Answers podcast episodes.If you have any topics that you would like addressed in a future episode or to share your thoughts about today's episode, please do so by using the hashtag #ADACAnswers. As follows is the bio of our guest speaker Dawn Florino: Dawn Florino (Founder of The Literacy Coach ): With broad experience in both public and private education, Dawn began her career as a teacher at St. Benedict Academy in Manchester, New Hampshire. She then served for ten years as a public school teacher and Title I Director in New Hampshire before returning to private education as the principal of both St. Joseph Regional Jr. High and Cardinal Lacroix Academy. Passionate about leading educators toward overcoming schoolwide challenges, Dawn has served on the adjunct faculties of the School of Education at Southern New Hampshire University and the NH Technical Institute at the Center for Teaching Excellence. Having also served as both an ESL instructor and special education advocate, educational consultant. Dawn has most recently served as the Director of Federal Funds and School Support for the Diocese of Manchester. In addition to being a Certified Reading and Writing Specialist and, currently, a doctoral degree candidate at Rivier University, Dawn holds a bachelor’s and master’s degree from Notre Dame College.
Empowering Education: The Teach Florida Story
Jul 26 2023
Empowering Education: The Teach Florida Story
ADAC is excited to bring you another episode of ADAC Answers, an #educationpodcast for all! Title: Empowering Education: The Teach Florida Story In our FREE 30-minute podcast,Ariella Hellman of ADAC and Danny Aqua of Teach Florida provide insights into education policy and share tips for addressing schools’ challenges. In this episode, Ariella and Danny discuss: ● how Teach Florida is transforming the education landscape in Florida by advocating for increased access to federal programs for private schools.● the challenges faced by private school stakeholders in understanding equitable services requirements and the exciting progress made in accessing for private school students and teachers, respectively, federally funded services and professional development.●the fascinating world of state-funded school choice programs in Florida, including tax credit scholarships and education savings accounts that offer to private school students and families impactful educational opportunities.●properly leveraging these state and federally-funded education programs to enhance education quality, reduce administrative burden, and provide to all students remarkable educational opportunities● and more!Invest just 30 minutes with us to listen to “Empowering Education: The Teach Florida Story.” Then, armed with new insight, check out how ADAC can assist your school with accessing for your students and teachers their equitable share of federally-funded education services and meeting the many other needs that your school may have. Also, be sure to check out and remain updated on the rest of our ADAC Answers podcast episodes.If you have any topics that you would like addressed in a future episode or to share your thoughts about this episode, then please do so by using the hashtag #ADACAnswers. As follows are the bios of our presenter, Ariella Hellman and Danny Aqua:Ariella Hellman (ADAC Senior Vice President for Public Policy & Advocacy): A strong advocate for Jewish day schools, Ariella has served as the Director of the Day School Initiative at Combined Jewish Philanthropies. Ariella was also the Associate Director of Government Affairs at the Jewish Community Relations Council where she advocated for key legislative priorities on behalf of the Jewish community. Ariella holds a juris doctor (JD) from the Fordham University School of Law and a bachelor’s degree from Yeshiva University.Danny Aqua (Executive Director of Teach Florida): A passionate advocate for education reform, DannyAqua serves as the Executive Director of Teach Florida, an advocacy group working towards safe, quality, and affordable Jewish Education. Danny holds a Master of Science in Jewish Education from Azrieli Graduate School and a juris doctor (JD) from Cardozo School of Law. Prior to his career in education advocacy, he taught elementary school Judaic Studies at various Jewish day schools and practiced law at Blank Rome LLP.
The Catholic School Difference
Jul 12 2023
The Catholic School Difference
ADAC is excited to bring you another episode of ADAC Answers, an #educationpodcast for all!In our FREE 30-minute podcast, Erin Black and Mary Pat Donoghue provide insights into a Catholic school education and discuss tips for addressing schools’ challenges. In this episode, Mary Pat Donoghue discusses:● the mission of the USCCB and the importance of restoring the Christian imagination in Catholic Education● the need to serve vulnerable populations and prioritize human formation in schools● federal school choice and the importance of preserving religious liberty● finding innovative ways to strengthen the mission of Catholic education and more!Invest just 30 minutes with us to listen to “The Catholic School Difference.” Then, armed with new insight, check out how ADAC can assist your school with meeting its special education, teaching learning, and development (fundraising) needs. Also, be sure to check out and remain updated on the rest of our ADAC Answers podcast episodes.If you have any topics that you would like addressed in a future episode or to share your thoughts about this episode, then please do so by using the hashtag #ADACAnswers.As follows is the bio of our presenter, Mary Pat Donoghue:Mary Pat Donoghue (USCCB): Mary Pat Donoghue is the Executive Director of the Secretariat of Catholic Education for the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB). With a bachelor's degree from the University of Maryland and a master’s degree from Trinity Washington University, she has dedicated her 28-year career to Catholic education. Mary Pat's remarkable leadership and commitment to revitalizing schools led to the successful turnaround of St. Jerome Academy in Hyattsville, MD. As the Director of School Services at the Institute for Catholic Liberal Education, she traveled across the country, spreading the vision of a Catholic classical liberal arts curriculum. Her extensive experience and passion for Catholic education make her a valuable asset to the Church in her new role.
Falling Back in Love with Teaching
Jun 28 2023
Falling Back in Love with Teaching
ADAC is excited to bring you another episode of ADAC Answers, an #educationpodcast for all!In our FREE 30-minute podcast, Dr. Sandra Drummey and Krystie Medeiros provide insights into teacher and leader burnout and tips for addressing schools’ challenges. In this episode, Dr. Sandra Drummey and Krystie Medeiros discuss:• teacher burnout and how it is impacting the world of education; • the importance of (and some ways of achieving) teacher self-care; • practical steps toward (1) understanding teachers’ and leaders’ “why” and (2) allowing that “why” to drive teachers and leaders toward reigniting for teaching their passion and love; • and more!Invest just 30 minutes with us to listen to “Falling Back in Love with Teaching.” Then, armed with new insight, check out how ADAC can assist your school with meeting its special education, teaching & learning, and development (fundraising) needs. Also, be sure to check out and remain updated on the rest of our ADAC Answers podcast episodes.If you have any topics that you would like addressed in a future episode or to share your thoughts about this episode, please do so by using the hashtag #ADACAnswers.As follows are the bios of our presenters, Dr. Sandra Drummey & Krystie Medeiros:Sandra Drummey, Ed.D., (Senior Vice President for Leader & Teacher Development): A lifelong special education practitioner, Sandi has served as a teacher, vice-principal, and principal. As an administrator, she established special education centers, and as the Assistant Superintendent of Catholic Schools in the Diocese of Fall River, she oversaw the creation and implementation of a first-of-its-kind diocesan-wide special education program. Sandi holds a bachelor’s degree from Suffolk University, a master’s degree from Boston College, and a doctoral degree from Boston College.Krystie Medeiros (Vice Principal – St. Joseph School in Fall River, Massachusetts): An expereinced Catholic school educator and leader. To learn more about our ADAC Leadership Team, please visit our website at www.theadac.com. In addition, if you are interested in learning more about our services at ADAC, email any leadership team members or call us toll-free at 1-833-ADAC123.
ADAC’s Advocates Answer the Call for Help: One Family’s Journey
Jun 14 2023
ADAC’s Advocates Answer the Call for Help: One Family’s Journey
ADAC is excited to bring you another episode of ADAC Answers, an #educationpodcast for all!In our FREE 30-minute podcast, Kate McConnell and Jeff Groves provide an overview of their experiences as, respectively, a special education advocate and the father of a son with multiple special needs. In this episode, Ms. McConnell and Mr. Groves discuss their own experiences of the struggles borne by families to find and secure for their students with special needs the essential services that these students requirethe importance of engaging special education advocates to attain for students with disabilities services that are well calibrated to the particular needs of said studentsand more!Invest just 30 minutes with us to listen to “ADAC’s Advocates Answer the Call for Help: One Family’s Journey.” Then, armed with new insight, check out how ADAC can assist your school with its particular SEL needs and many other needs that your school may have. And also, be sure to check out and remain updated on the rest of our ADAC Answers podcast episodes.If you have any topics that you would like addressed in a future episode or to share your thoughts about today's episode, please do so by using the hashtag #ADACAnswers. As follows are the bios of this episode’s guests, Kate McConnell & Jeff Groves: Kate McConnell (Vice President for Student Advocacy & Family Engagement): With more than 20 years’ worth of experience in special education, Kate has served as a special education advocate, teacher, and program evaluator and developer. Her professional experience includes service as the Director of Inclusive Education at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Academy in Chicago and, later, as the Director of Inclusive Education for the Office of Catholic Schools at the Archdiocese of Chicago. Kate holds a bachelor’s degree from Towson University and master’s degrees from Loyola University Chicago and DePaul University.Jeff Groves (Adjunct Consultant for Creative Direction & Brand Development): A veteran creative director with over 20 years of experience in print design, website design and development, digital communication, marketing, and advertising, Jeff has served the non-profit sector – including dozens of Catholic schools – and also the for-profit sector in the areas of healthcare, technology, and retail. Jeff holds a bachelor’s degree from Keene State College and graduate certificates from the University of Massachusetts at Boston and the New England Institute of Art.
Actionable & Affordable Solutions to Schools' SEL Challenges
May 31 2023
Actionable & Affordable Solutions to Schools' SEL Challenges
The ADAC Leadership Team is excited to bring you another episode of ADAC Answers, an #educationpodcast for all! In our FREE 30-minute podcast, Dr. Cipriano and Ms. Schlosser provide actionable insights and affordable tips for addressing these challenges. In this episode, Dr. Cipriano and Ms. Schlosser discuss:the post-pandemic teaching and SEL landscape in private schoolsactionable & affordable solutions to social-emotional challenges and how these solutions can be effectively managed and implementedthe importance of (and some ways of achieving) teacher self-care & more!Invest just 30 minutes with us to listen to "Actionable & Affordable Solutions to Schools' SEL Challenges."Then, armed with new insight, check out how our ADAC Team can assist your school with its particular SEL needs and many other needs that your school may have. And also, be sure to check out and remain updated on the rest of our ADAC Answers podcast episodes.If you have any topics you would like addressed in a future episode or to share your thoughts about today's episode, please do so by using the hashtag #ADACAnswers. As follows are the bios of our presenters, Dr. Cipriano and Ms. Schlosser: Chris Cipriano, Ed.D (Adjunct Consultant for SEL & Mental Health): Currently the principal of Notre Dame High School in Fairfield, Connecticut, Dr. Cipriano has served at Notre Dame in various capacities since 1998, including as assistant principal, athletic director, and director of admissions. He holds a bachelor’s degree from Fairfield University, a master’s degree from Sacred Heart University, and a doctoral degree also from Sacred Heart University.Dahyana Schlosser, PMHNP, M.Ed (Adjunct Consultant for SEL & Culturally Responsive Teaching): Dahyana is a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over a decade of experience in the mental health field providing services for individuals and families. Serving as a Catholic school mental health consultant and partnering with public schools to design and implement social and emotional learning infrastructure, she is the co-founder of Pinnacle Partnerships, the mission of which is to help students with social and emotional challenges. Dahyana holds a bachelor’s degree from Boston College, a bachelor’s degree in nursing from the Massachusetts General Hospital Institute of Health Professions, and a master’s degree from Cambridge College.Remember to like and subscribe so you can attend our next episode of #ADACAnswers.
Who is ADAC & Why Does ADAC Matter to Private Schools?
May 17 2023
Who is ADAC & Why Does ADAC Matter to Private Schools?
ADAC is excited to bring you the inaugural episode of ADAC Answers, an #educationpodcast for all!In our FREE 30-minute podcast, Tom Olson and Steve Perla – ADAC’s CEO and ADAC’s President, respectively, – discuss their vision for ADAC. As ADAC’s founders, Tom and Steve reflect upon: ·their professional experiences and commitments that inspired them to found ADAC;·ADAC’s mission; and·ADAC’s future.Invest just 30 minutes with us to listen to “Who is ADAC & Why Does ADAC Matter to Private Schools?.” Then, armed with new insight, check out how ADAC can assist your school with meeting its special education, teaching & learning, and development (fundraising) needs. Also, be sure to check out and remain updated on the rest of our ADAC Answers podcast episodes. If you have any topics that you would like addressed in a future episode or if you would like to share your thoughts about this episode, then please do so by using the hashtag #ADACAnswers.As follows are the bios of this episode’s guests, Tom Olson & Steve Perla: Tom Olson (Chief Executive Officer): Tom has successfully overseen development efforts, augmented donor commitment, and cultivated major gifts for a variety of organizations over the years. Tom’s professional competencies include published writing and public policy research. Tom holds a bachelor’s degree from the College of the Holy Cross and master’s degrees from St. Louis University and Boston College.Steve Perla (President): One of the nation’s foremost leaders in Catholic education, Steve has served as the Superintendent of Catholic Schools in the Diocese of Worcester and the Diocese of Fall River. In addition, he has served as Executive Director of the Parents Alliance for Catholic Education and Senior Director of the University of Notre Dame’s Alliance for Catholic Education. Steve holds a bachelor’s degree from Lesley University and a master’s degree from Boston College.