159: Teamwork Makes the Dream Work for PFDs in Public Schools

First Bite: A Speech Therapy Podcast

Guest: Dr. Kristen West, M.A., CCC-SLP - In today’s episode of First Bite, we are delighted to welcome back Dr. Kristen West, M.A., CCC-SLP, to discuss her work as an SLP in public schools. Kristen is an assistant professor in the Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders at Edinboro University in Pennsylvania and is currently also pursuing her educational doctorate at Slippery Rock University. In our conversation with Kristen, we delve into the challenges of setting up a program in public schools and how her journey led her to work in that space. We spend some time appreciating the role that advocacy plays when it comes to special education services in schools and how our host Michelle Dawson, in collaboration with Angie Neal, was able to pass a proposal that countless children in South Carolina will benefit from for years to come. Listening in, you'll hear Michelle break down the many aspects of working as an SLP in public schools and what she has learned throughout her career. She expands on the inextricable relationship between nutrition and learning, why cafeterias pose a unique challenge to children with PFDs, and why teamwork between nurses, teachers, and parents is essential. We loved having Kristen back on the show and we know you’ll find the conversation as informative and inspiring as we did! For all this and much more, join us today!