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.
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.
In this episode of Education Insight, we explore the incredible journey of students with disabilities who thrive despite the challenges they face in their educational environments. We discuss the importance of specialized programs that empower these students to succeed academically, socially, and personally. Through the lens of La Quinta High School student Amber Trieu, who has been overcoming her hearing disability to excel as a top student and a budding culinary artist, we gain insight into how these programs provide the support needed to help disabled students reach their full potential.
Amber, who has maintained a 4.3 GPA, is an athlete, and a champion in the Family, Career, and Community Leaders of America competition, is a prime example of how determination and support can lead to success. She joins us to discuss how she has excelled despite her hearing impairment and the crucial role that her school’s programs have played in her academic and personal growth.
We also hear from Anne Pruett, Special Education Teacher for Deaf/Hard of Hearing students at the Riverside County Office of Education, and Dena Slocum, Principal for RCOE programs assisting students with visual impairments, orthopedic impairments, and other special needs. Anne and Dena share their insights on how tailored educational services—such as auditory-oral programs, adaptive physical education, and other specialized resources—help students overcome their challenges and thrive in school.
Tune in to hear more about the ways school programs are paving the way for students with disabilities to excel in education and beyond. Amber’s story, along with the expertise of Anne and Dena, highlights the power of resilience, support, and determination in creating an inclusive educational environment.
Featured Guest
Anne Pruett
Teacher, Amelia Earhart Elementary in Indio
Kevin Cokley, Ph.D., is the University Diversity and Social Transformation Professor and Professor of Psychology at the University of Michigan, where he serves as Associate Chair of Diversity Initiatives for the Department of Psychology. Previously he was Chair of the Department of Educational Psychology at the University of Texas, where he held the Oscar and Anne Mauzy Regents Professorship for Educational Research and Development. He has been a Fellow of the University of Texas System and the University of Texas Academy of Distinguished Teachers, past Director of the Institute for Urban Policy Research & Analysis, and Professor of African and African Diaspora Studies.
His research and teaching can be broadly categorized in the area of African American psychology, with a focus on racial identity and understanding the psychological and environmental factors that impact African American students’ academic achievement. Dr. Cokley studies the psychosocial experiences of African American students and students of color and is currently exploring the impostor phenomenon and its relationship to mental health and academic outcomes.
He is the past Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of Black Psychology, holds the title of Distinguished Psychologist and received the Scholarship Award from the Association of Black Psychologists. He is the past President of the Society for the Psychological Study of Culture, Ethnicity, and Race and was elected to Fellow status in the American Psychological Association for his contributions to ethnic minority psychology and counseling psychology. He is the recipient of the Regents’ Outstanding Teaching Award, the Charles and Shirley Thomas Award for mentoring ethnic minority students, and the 10 Rising Stars of the Academy award by Diverse Issues in Higher Education.
He is the author of the 2014 book “The Myth of Black Anti-Intellectualism” which challenges the notion that African American students are anti-intellectual, the editor of the 2021 book “Making Black Lives Matter: Confronting Anti-Black Racism”, and editor of the 2024 book “The Impostor Phenomenon: Psychological Research, Theory, and Interventions.” He has written several Op-Eds in major media outlets on topics such as defending DEI, critical race theory, the Black Lives Matter movement, Blacks’ rational mistrust of police, racism and White supremacy, the importance of ethnic studies, and racial disparities in school discipline. His research has been recognized in media outlets, including the New York Times, USA Today, and Inside Higher Education.
Dena Slocum
RCOE Principal for programs assisting visually impaired, Deaf/Hard of hearing, ADAPTIVE PHYS EDUCATION, and Orthopedic Impairment programs
Kevin Cokley, Ph.D., is the University Diversity and Social Transformation Professor and Professor of Psychology at the University of Michigan, where he serves as Associate Chair of Diversity Initiatives for the Department of Psychology. Previously he was Chair of the Department of Educational Psychology at the University of Texas, where he held the Oscar and Anne Mauzy Regents Professorship for Educational Research and Development. He has been a Fellow of the University of Texas System and the University of Texas Academy of Distinguished Teachers, past Director of the Institute for Urban Policy Research & Analysis, and Professor of African and African Diaspora Studies.
His research and teaching can be broadly categorized in the area of African American psychology, with a focus on racial identity and understanding the psychological and environmental factors that impact African American students’ academic achievement. Dr. Cokley studies the psychosocial experiences of African American students and students of color and is currently exploring the impostor phenomenon and its relationship to mental health and academic outcomes.
He is the past Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of Black Psychology, holds the title of Distinguished Psychologist and received the Scholarship Award from the Association of Black Psychologists. He is the past President of the Society for the Psychological Study of Culture, Ethnicity, and Race and was elected to Fellow status in the American Psychological Association for his contributions to ethnic minority psychology and counseling psychology. He is the recipient of the Regents’ Outstanding Teaching Award, the Charles and Shirley Thomas Award for mentoring ethnic minority students, and the 10 Rising Stars of the Academy award by Diverse Issues in Higher Education.
He is the author of the 2014 book “The Myth of Black Anti-Intellectualism” which challenges the notion that African American students are anti-intellectual, the editor of the 2021 book “Making Black Lives Matter: Confronting Anti-Black Racism”, and editor of the 2024 book “The Impostor Phenomenon: Psychological Research, Theory, and Interventions.” He has written several Op-Eds in major media outlets on topics such as defending DEI, critical race theory, the Black Lives Matter movement, Blacks’ rational mistrust of police, racism and White supremacy, the importance of ethnic studies, and racial disparities in school discipline. His research has been recognized in media outlets, including the New York Times, USA Today, and Inside Higher Education.
Amber Trieu
Student, La Quinta High School
Kevin Cokley, Ph.D., is the University Diversity and Social Transformation Professor and Professor of Psychology at the University of Michigan, where he serves as Associate Chair of Diversity Initiatives for the Department of Psychology. Previously he was Chair of the Department of Educational Psychology at the University of Texas, where he held the Oscar and Anne Mauzy Regents Professorship for Educational Research and Development. He has been a Fellow of the University of Texas System and the University of Texas Academy of Distinguished Teachers, past Director of the Institute for Urban Policy Research & Analysis, and Professor of African and African Diaspora Studies.
His research and teaching can be broadly categorized in the area of African American psychology, with a focus on racial identity and understanding the psychological and environmental factors that impact African American students’ academic achievement. Dr. Cokley studies the psychosocial experiences of African American students and students of color and is currently exploring the impostor phenomenon and its relationship to mental health and academic outcomes.
He is the past Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of Black Psychology, holds the title of Distinguished Psychologist and received the Scholarship Award from the Association of Black Psychologists. He is the past President of the Society for the Psychological Study of Culture, Ethnicity, and Race and was elected to Fellow status in the American Psychological Association for his contributions to ethnic minority psychology and counseling psychology. He is the recipient of the Regents’ Outstanding Teaching Award, the Charles and Shirley Thomas Award for mentoring ethnic minority students, and the 10 Rising Stars of the Academy award by Diverse Issues in Higher Education.
He is the author of the 2014 book “The Myth of Black Anti-Intellectualism” which challenges the notion that African American students are anti-intellectual, the editor of the 2021 book “Making Black Lives Matter: Confronting Anti-Black Racism”, and editor of the 2024 book “The Impostor Phenomenon: Psychological Research, Theory, and Interventions.” He has written several Op-Eds in major media outlets on topics such as defending DEI, critical race theory, the Black Lives Matter movement, Blacks’ rational mistrust of police, racism and White supremacy, the importance of ethnic studies, and racial disparities in school discipline. His research has been recognized in media outlets, including the New York Times, USA Today, and Inside Higher Education.
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.
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.
In this episode of Education Insight, Dr. Kevin Cokley, Associate Chair for Diversity Initiatives at the University of Michigan, explores the critical topic of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) in education. Dr. Cokley discusses how DEI is implemented across schools and universities, addressing common misconceptions and the broader impact these initiatives have on campus climate for students, faculty, and staff. He also delves into the effectiveness of DEI programs, sharing real-world examples of how such initiatives have led to measurable improvements in student outcomes.
The conversation takes a thought-provoking turn as Dr. Cokley reflects on the potential immediate and long-term effects of removing DEI programs from educational institutions. He also offers insights into the challenges educators might face if DEI efforts are reduced or eliminated. Finally, Dr. Cokley provides advice on how schools can strike a balance between inclusivity and ensuring that all students feel they belong, regardless of their perspective on DEI. Tune in for a comprehensive discussion on the current state of DEI in education and its implications for the future.
Featured Guest
Dr. Kevin Cokley
University Diversity and Social Transformation Professor, Professor of Psychology, and Associate Chair for Diversity Initiatives, University of Michigan.
Kevin Cokley, Ph.D., is the University Diversity and Social Transformation Professor and Professor of Psychology at the University of Michigan, where he serves as Associate Chair of Diversity Initiatives for the Department of Psychology. Previously he was Chair of the Department of Educational Psychology at the University of Texas, where he held the Oscar and Anne Mauzy Regents Professorship for Educational Research and Development. He has been a Fellow of the University of Texas System and the University of Texas Academy of Distinguished Teachers, past Director of the Institute for Urban Policy Research & Analysis, and Professor of African and African Diaspora Studies.
His research and teaching can be broadly categorized in the area of African American psychology, with a focus on racial identity and understanding the psychological and environmental factors that impact African American students’ academic achievement. Dr. Cokley studies the psychosocial experiences of African American students and students of color and is currently exploring the impostor phenomenon and its relationship to mental health and academic outcomes.
He is the past Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of Black Psychology, holds the title of Distinguished Psychologist and received the Scholarship Award from the Association of Black Psychologists. He is the past President of the Society for the Psychological Study of Culture, Ethnicity, and Race and was elected to Fellow status in the American Psychological Association for his contributions to ethnic minority psychology and counseling psychology. He is the recipient of the Regents’ Outstanding Teaching Award, the Charles and Shirley Thomas Award for mentoring ethnic minority students, and the 10 Rising Stars of the Academy award by Diverse Issues in Higher Education.
He is the author of the 2014 book “The Myth of Black Anti-Intellectualism” which challenges the notion that African American students are anti-intellectual, the editor of the 2021 book “Making Black Lives Matter: Confronting Anti-Black Racism”, and editor of the 2024 book “The Impostor Phenomenon: Psychological Research, Theory, and Interventions.” He has written several Op-Eds in major media outlets on topics such as defending DEI, critical race theory, the Black Lives Matter movement, Blacks’ rational mistrust of police, racism and White supremacy, the importance of ethnic studies, and racial disparities in school discipline. His research has been recognized in media outlets, including the New York Times, USA Today, and Inside Higher Education.
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.
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.
In this episode of Education Insight, we’re joined by Alfredo Cruz, the Director of the Emmy-nominated and National Educational Television Association Award-winning public television show Learn with Me. Alfredo takes us behind the scenes of this innovative bilingual children’s program that blends live-action and animation to engage and educate young viewers in both English and Spanish.
As someone who has had a long and successful career in broadcasting, Alfredo shares his unique journey to becoming the director of Learn with Me and explains why it was important to create a bilingual show that feels authentic and culturally relevant for Spanish-speaking children. He also discusses the role of teachers in shaping and starring in the show, and how young voice actors and animators have contributed to its vibrant energy.
Tune in to hear how Learn with Me was built from scratch, the creative process behind choosing themes and topics for each episode, and why the show’s success goes far beyond just entertaining kids. You’ll also hear about the exciting future plans for the show and its potential spin-offs.
This episode offers a fascinating look at how Learn with Me is changing the landscape of children’s television and making an impact on education in both English and Spanish-speaking communities.
Featured Guest
Alfredo Cruz
Director, Learn With Me, KVCR PBS Television Program
Karina Augustus serves as the College of Natural and Agricultural Sciences Career Specialist at the University of California, Riverside. She graduated from California State University, Long Beach with a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and Minor in Spanish. She later earned a Master of Science in Higher Education from California State University, Fullerton. She has worked in both academic and student affairs and has worked in a variety of public institutions. Most recently she earned the Woman of Promise award from the Lakers and CoAmerica Bank for the pioneering work she has done for historically marginalized and undocumented communities. Karina is committed to being a change agent in the field and continuing to create equitable opportunities for students who have historically been underserved and/or underrepresented.
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.
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.
In this episode of Education Insight, we dive into the rapidly evolving world of AI with Guadalupe Saldivar and Karina Augustus, Career Services Specialists at UC Riverside. Recently, they shared their expertise at the PROPEL AI Symposium at CSU San Bernardino, where they explored AI’s significant impact on both education and workforce development.
The conversation covers a range of important topics, from how AI is already shaping industries today to the ethical challenges it presents. Guadalupe and Karina discuss whether AI could replace teachers or merely assist them, the hurdles schools face when implementing AI—especially in lower-income communities—and how both students and educators can ensure AI is used as a tool to enhance learning rather than shortcuts.
They also offer valuable insight into the changing job market, advising workers in automation-heavy industries on how to prepare for the future. Additionally, they touch on the important role universities play in helping students adapt to this technological shift. With AI increasingly influencing decisions in hiring, grading, and healthcare, Guadalupe and Karina share their thoughts on ensuring fairness and equity in its applications.
Looking ahead, they discuss what the future holds for AI in education and the workforce in the next 10 to 20 years. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in understanding the current and future impact of AI on education and the job market.
Featured Guest
Karina Augustus
College of Natural and Agricultural Sciences Career Specialist, University of California, Riverside
Karina Augustus serves as the College of Natural and Agricultural Sciences Career Specialist at the University of California, Riverside. She graduated from California State University, Long Beach with a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and Minor in Spanish. She later earned a Master of Science in Higher Education from California State University, Fullerton. She has worked in both academic and student affairs and has worked in a variety of public institutions. Most recently she earned the Woman of Promise award from the Lakers and CoAmerica Bank for the pioneering work she has done for historically marginalized and undocumented communities. Karina is committed to being a change agent in the field and continuing to create equitable opportunities for students who have historically been underserved and/or underrepresented.
Guadalupe Saldivar
Business Career Specialist, University of California, Riverside
Guadalupe Saldivar serves as a Business Career Specialist at the University of California, Riverside. She specializes in career development and advising undergraduate students who are studying business and economics. She earned her Bachelor of Business degree from New Mexico State University and a Master of Arts degree in Student Affairs Administration at Michigan State University. Guadalupe is currently a Ph.D. student at Oregon State University in the Adult and Higher Education Ph.D. Program. Her research is focused on examining social mobility among low-income college students. Her work and research strive to identify the ways universities can support students in securing positive employment outcomes. She is a strong advocate for social mobility, income equality, and an expert in supporting college students navigating the workforce to promote career and educational attainment.
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.
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.
