SST 2

There's no instruction manual for raising a middle schooler. But a few good habits certainly help. After joining families at Longfellow MS in @loraincsd, Josh Preece is sharing 10 ideas worth trying at home. English: app.smore.com/n/m7kf3 Español: app.smore.com/n/fdn7m

Getting students to graduation is one part of the work. Helping them see what’s possible beyond it is another. At Pathways to Possibility, educators connected graduation pathways with transition planning and career coaching that reflect students’ strengths, interests, and goals.

Strong systems don't happen by accident. They're built over time by teams committed to helping students thrive. This year, 33 Region 2 schools met or exceeded Ohio's PBIS implementation standards. We're proud to celebrate your work! sstr2.org/pbis3277.aspx

Sometimes, it isn’t about adding something new to the preschool day; it’s about seeing more possibility in the moments already there. This month’s Preschool Pointer explores opportunities for learning during snacks and mealtime. youtube.com/shorts/K1xIdicQa…

With the school year underway, a few things are already worth having on your radar. Our September Things 2 Know provides timely updates and resources to help you stay informed. Take a few minutes to catch up on what’s happening this month. app.smore.com/n/xg5jm

Families who are navigating special education for the first time may not be aware of resources available to support them. This is a great time to survey needs and connect caregivers with agencies. Learn more about what is available in Preschool Pointer. youtube.com/shorts/YEmhp9ieQ…

We’re so glad Mallary’s next chapter keeps her based here with us at @SSTregion2. We can’t wait to see where she takes this work.

The work started in Columbus, but it’s meant to take root in schools. Conversations at the SST Institute laid the groundwork for Instructional Implementation Teams and a larger shift: moving from talking about what stands in the way to what we can do to improve instruction.

We're pleased to share that @MrSearight will begin a new role with the @ESCLC this fall. Known to many for his work supporting career pathways and workforce connections, he will continue partnering with districts to help create meaningful opportunities for students.

The earliest years matter and so do the educators who support them. We're hiring an Early Childhood Specialist to provide coaching, technical assistance, and support to early learning programs across the region. Learn more and apply: esclc.org/Employment.aspx

We are thrilled to welcome @erica_kaufmann2 to our team this fall!

This time of year invites both reflection and renewal. We're looking back on growth and accomplishments while considering what lies ahead. This edition includes updates, opportunities, and celebrations as we close one chapter and prepare for another. app.smore.com/n/yjvb2

The early years shape everything that follows. We're hiring a part-time Early Childhood Specialist to support literacy, educator growth, and high-quality early learning programs across the region. Flexible schedule. Meaningful impact. esclc.org/employment

Educators spend so much time trying to understand what students need beneath the surface of a moment. Functional communication strategies can help replace frustration with connection and support. We hope this Preschool Pointer serves as helpful tool.

The Franklin B. Walter All-Scholastic Award recognizes one senior from each Ohio county for excellence in academics, leadership, and service. Grace Denes from @WEVSD has been selected as Lorain County's 2026 honoree. Please join us in congratulating her!

PBIS Strategy #17: Celebrate Good Behavior. When students feel valued for what they do right, it builds momentum for confidence, connection, & growth. A little joy goes a long way in shaping positive school culture. Thanks to Josh Preece for the reminder this St. Patty’s Day.

Stability in uncertain times starts with staying connected. Our March newsletter offers key updates, coaching opportunities, PBIS information, and resources to support your teams and students. Access the full edition in the link. app.smore.com/n/m1kyb

Transition planning isn’t paperwork, it’s possibility. When we start with where a student hopes to go, the conversation shifts. Through backwards planning with OCALI and DODD, teams mapped goals to real outcomes. The result? IEPs that feel less like forms and more like futures.

Winter can be a tough stretch for PBIS work. Join Josh Preece for our PBIS Champion Cohort for a chance to pause, reconnect, and strengthen your implementation with updates, shared learning, and practical supports that keep the work moving forward. app.smore.com/n/9wsu0

We’re proud to recognize local professionals recently named Charting the LifeCourse Ambassadors, supporting person-centered, future-focused planning across the lifespan. Pictured: @MrSearight & Melissa Wagner @SSTregion2, Tori Woods-Rourke @ESCLC, and Nikole Davis @loraincsd.