Education Insight: Childhelp’s Mission to Protect Kids in Every Classroom

About This Episode

Season 5. Episode 14.

In this episode of Education Insight, we welcome Michael Medoro, the Chief Operating Officer of Childhelp U.S.A., to explore the Speak Up Be Safe curriculum, a powerful program created to help children stay safe from predators and bullies. Michael takes us through the story behind the creation of the curriculum and explains why it’s so crucial for kids to learn these important lessons at such a young age.

The curriculum, which is now being used in classrooms across the country and beyond, teaches children how to recognize and respond to various forms of abuse, including the dangers of online bullying. Michael shares the strategies used by facilitators to ensure children feel safe discussing tough topics and how the program fosters a supportive environment where kids learn to stand up for themselves and support each other.

We also dive into the role parents and caregivers play in reinforcing these lessons at home, as well as the ongoing concerns related to bullying and online safety. Michael also shares a powerful story of how Speak Up Be Safe made a real difference in a child’s life.

Tune in for a conversation that sheds light on this impactful program and the work Childhelp is doing to protect children everywhere. For more information on how to acquire the Speak Up Be Safe curriculum, Michael offers insights on where listeners can find resources for their schools and communities.

Featured Guest

Michael Medoro
Chief Operating Officer with Childhelp U.S.A.

Experienced Nonprofit Executive Officer achieving remarkable results in the national and international nonprofit sector. Over $500+M raised. Successful projects globally in youth development, education, and healthcare throughout the United States, Africa, Europe, and Central America. Seasoned professional in high net worth fundraising and revenue development. MBA in Global Management, MA in Digital Education, and actively earning a Doctorate in Education. Strong executive skills in Nonprofit Management, Business Planning, Strategic Planning, Fundraising and Revenue Development, Executive Management Coaching, Event Management, and Team Development. Nationally and internationally recognized Fundraiser and Motivational Speaker.

Watch the Episode

Interview Highlights

3:57 – Adrienne describes dual enrollment and its benefits.

7:15 – Adrienne speaks to how recent California mandates and initiatives may have influenced the growth of these new programs.

8:34 – Adrienne explains what research shows about the impact of dual enrollment on a student’s academic achievements or even their future success.

9:24 – Adrienne shares examples of dual enrollment activities that are taking place in our region and what is happening in the IE. 

13:11 – Adrienne talks about strategies in place to make sure that equal opportunities are available for all students.

20:18 – Jorge explains how dual enrollment aligns with his role at Riverside County Unified School District.

21:28 – Jorge shares his experiences and thoughts on the current dual enrollment programs that are being offered at Riverside Unified School District.

23:32 – Jorge gives insight into how dual enrollment makes students career ready.

25:58 – Jorge describes what challenges students typically face in dual enrollment programs and how he addresses those issues. 

32:43 – Jorge shares what he would like to see be the future of the dual enrollment program in his district and beyond. 

36:31 – Special Feature: Avijeet Randhawa, 8th-Grader, Auburndale Intermediate School in the Corona Norco Unified School District.

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Education Insight tells the story of education in the Inland Empire through the diverse voices of those in and around the regional education community. The show is produced by Growing Inland Achievement, a collective impact organization in the Inland Empire with a mission to increase economic prosperity in the region by increasing educational attainment. Hosted by 30-year broadcast veteran Lacey Kendall, monthly shows explore topics ranging from education challenges and shortcomings to innovations and groundbreaking ideas that are driving student success.