Pencils Down with Jamie Williamson

About Pencils Down with Jamie Williamson

Welcome to Pencils Down with Jamie Williamson. In each episode, Jamie will engage in informal, unscripted conversations with key community members—to learn more about their professional journey, the work they do for Windward, and the impact they have within our community. Guests will dive into a variety of topics including school life, curriculum, dyslexia, and other important issues that impact our students, faculty, staff, and community. Join us each month to hear our guests' inspiring stories and learn from the incredible individuals who help make a difference in the lives of our students.

Publisher

The Windward School

Category

education

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

22 Oct 2024

Latest episode

1 May 2026

Latest episodes

15 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   1 May 2026

   Pencils Down With Jamie Williamson Episode 15: Daniele Kass, EdD, Campus Head of Westchester Lower School

   In this episode, Jamie Williamson is joined by Westchester Lower School’s Campus Head Dr. Daniele Kass. Dr. Kass shares her experience as the mother of a dyslexic child and reflects on the importance of support among family. They exchange stories of mentorship and their core values, and discuss the strength of Windward’s RULER program for both students and faculty. The Windward School Official Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ (https://www.thewindwardschool.org/) Windward is a coeducational, independent day school dedicated to providing a proven instructional program for children with language-based learning disabilities. The multisensory curriculum is designed for students of average to superior intelligence who can benefit from the unique educational experience provided. Through direct instruction in small class settings, a trained staff assists students to improve their language skills. Academic success, combined with opportunities for social and emotional growth within an intentionally diverse and inclusive setting, enables students to understand their learning differences, build confidence, and develop self-advocacy skills. Windward is committed to helping students achieve their full potential in preparation for a successful return to a mainstream educational environment. To meet these goals, the School provides ongoing training to its faculty based on the most current research and shares its expertise with the parent body, other educators, and the broader community. Our Vision: A world where every child with a language-based learning disability is empowered to achieve unlimited success. Our Core Values Commitment – Windward maintains a disciplined and rigorous approach to all we do, and our every action is guided by an unparalleled commitment to a world where every child with a language-based learning disability is empowered to achieve unlimited success. Growth – We believe that everyone is capable of growing and learning. At Windward, a growth mindset is shared by all and takes many forms, from academic growth for students to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠professional growth⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ (https://www.thewindwardschool.org/about/teacher-training-program) for faculty and staff. Impact - Each day Windward strives to serve as many students as we can and to make a life-changing and transformational impact on every individual child in the classroom as well as within the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠greater learning disability population⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ (https://www.thewindwardschool.org/fs/pages/247)⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ (https://www.thewindwardschool.org/the-windward-institute) Community - Windward believes in fostering a strong, cohesive, and collaborative culture and building a ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠diverse and inclusive community⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ (https://www.thewindwardschool.org/about/deib) that puts our students at the center of all we do, and where everyone feels valued and a sense of belonging. At The Windward School, we are committed to a world where every child with a language-based learning disability is empowered to achieve unlimited success – a vision fulfilled by disrupting the educational status quo. The Windward School deliberately builds both its curriculum and culture to foster a powerful sense of belonging through a research-based program that is authentically inclusive and a community in which everyone is seen in their full humanity.  The Windward School aspires to bring forth students who are culturally engaged critical thinkers, confident self-advocates who understand and celebrate their differences, and upstanders who identify and challenge all forms of injustice. Windward is committed to these values and expectations of its community members by embracing the importance of ongoing anti-oppression dialogue and critical conversations; by advancing educational equity in underrepresented communities, especially those historically marginalized by society; and by working to ensure that our program is accessible to all who need it.

2. 

   18 Feb 2026

   Pencils Down With Jamie Williamson Ep 14: Kara Schremser, Teacher Training Program Director

   In this episode, Jamie Williamson is joined by Windward's Teacher Training Program Director Kara Schremser. Kara offers an inside look at the depth and intentionality behind Windward’s Teacher Training Program and how it shapes our teachers. They discuss the importance of the program and Kara's journey - from first arriving at Windward as a teacher to where she is now! ⁠⁠⁠The Windward School Official Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ (https://www.thewindwardschool.org/) Windward is a coeducational, independent day school dedicated to providing a proven instructional program for children with language-based learning disabilities. The multisensory curriculum is designed for students of average to superior intelligence who can benefit from the unique educational experience provided. Through direct instruction in small class settings, a trained staff assists students to improve their language skills. Academic success, combined with opportunities for social and emotional growth within an intentionally diverse and inclusive setting, enables students to understand their learning differences, build confidence, and develop self-advocacy skills. Windward is committed to helping students achieve their full potential in preparation for a successful return to a mainstream educational environment. To meet these goals, the School provides ongoing training to its faculty based on the most current research and shares its expertise with the parent body, other educators, and the broader community. Our Vision: A world where every child with a language-based learning disability is empowered to achieve unlimited success. Our Core Values Commitment – Windward maintains a disciplined and rigorous approach to all we do, and our every action is guided by an unparalleled commitment to a world where every child with a language-based learning disability is empowered to achieve unlimited success. Growth – We believe that everyone is capable of growing and learning. At Windward, a growth mindset is shared by all and takes many forms, from academic growth for students to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠professional growth⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ (https://www.thewindwardschool.org/about/teacher-training-program) for faculty and staff. Impact - Each day Windward strives to serve as many students as we can and to make a life-changing and transformational impact on every individual child in the classroom as well as within the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠greater learning disability population⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ (https://www.thewindwardschool.org/fs/pages/247)⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ (https://www.thewindwardschool.org/the-windward-institute) Community - Windward believes in fostering a strong, cohesive, and collaborative culture and building a ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠diverse and inclusive community⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ (https://www.thewindwardschool.org/about/deib) that puts our students at the center of all we do, and where everyone feels valued and a sense of belonging. At The Windward School, we are committed to a world where every child with a language-based learning disability is empowered to achieve unlimited success – a vision fulfilled by disrupting the educational status quo. The Windward School deliberately builds both its curriculum and culture to foster a powerful sense of belonging through a research-based program that is authentically inclusive and a community in which everyone is seen in their full humanity.  The Windward School aspires to bring forth students who are culturally engaged critical thinkers, confident self-advocates who understand and celebrate their differences, and upstanders who identify and challenge all forms of injustice. Windward is committed to these values and expectations of its community members by embracing the importance of ongoing anti-oppression dialogue and critical conversations; by advancing educational equity in underrepresented communities, especially those historically marginalized by society; and by working to ensure that our program is accessible to all who need it.

3. 

   2 Dec 2025

   Pencils Down With Jamie Williamson Ep 13: Melissa Stewart, Associate Director of Development

   Head of School Jamie Williamson interviews Melissa Stewart, Associate Director of Development, about how her travels inform her work, emphasizing empathy, optimism, and family connections to support The Windward School's mission.

4. 

   10 Nov 2025

   Pencils Down With Jamie Williamson Ep 12: Diane Kissner, Outplacement Director

   Host Jamie Williamson interviews Diane Kissner, Outplacement Director, about her 30 years at Windward, the outplacement department's work, and the grade 8 study skills program, highlighting the importance of supporting students with language-based learning disabilities.

5. 

   26 Oct 2025

   Pencils Down With Jamie Williamson Ep 11: JP Bifone, Director of Marketing and Communications

   Host Jamie Williamson interviews JP Bifone, Windward's Director of Marketing and Communications, about the marketing department's work, including the launch of the school's new website, and Bifone's journey to Windward.

6. 

   21 Oct 2025

   Pencils Down Ep 10: Windward Parents Association Co-Presidents

   Host Jamie Williamson interviews Windward Parents Association Co-Presidents Lindsay Friedman and Jessie Spain, who highlight their children's experiences at Windward and the importance of community involvement.

7. 

   30 May 2025

   Pencils Down With Jamie Williamson Ep 9: Student Council Leaders Sophia Hadar, Jesse Brown, Clara Gaudelet, & Stuart Ross

   Host Jamie Williamson interviews student council leaders Sophia Hadar, Jesse Brown, Clara Gaudelet, and Stuart Ross about their experiences at Windward School and their advice for future students.

8. 

   30 Apr 2025

   Pencils Down with Jamie Williamson Episode 8: Marilyn Hunt, Director of Health, PE & Athletics and Dan Smith, Athletic Director

   In this episode of Pencils Down, Director of Health, PE and Athletics Marilyn Hunt, and Athletic Director Dan Smith sit down with Jamie. Both Marilyn and Dan reflect on their time at Windward and how they’ve both been involved in building and shaping our athletics program over the years. The program instills teamwork, athletics skills, and confidence in Windward students, and Marilyn and Dan discuss the importance of the program and the variety of offerings. The Windward School Official Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ (https://www.thewindwardschool.org/) Windward is a coeducational, independent day school dedicated to providing a proven instructional program for children with language-based learning disabilities. The multisensory curriculum is designed for students of average to superior intelligence who can benefit from the unique educational experience provided. Through direct instruction in small class settings, a trained staff assists students to improve their language skills. Academic success, combined with opportunities for social and emotional growth within an intentionally diverse and inclusive setting, enables students to understand their learning differences, build confidence, and develop self-advocacy skills. Windward is committed to helping students achieve their full potential in preparation for a successful return to a mainstream educational environment. To meet these goals, the School provides ongoing training to its faculty based on the most current research and shares its expertise with the parent body, other educators, and the broader community. Our Vision: A world where every child with a language-based learning disability is empowered to achieve unlimited success. Our Core Values Commitment – Windward maintains a disciplined and rigorous approach to all we do, and our every action is guided by an unparalleled commitment to a world where every child with a language-based learning disability is empowered to achieve unlimited success. Growth – We believe that everyone is capable of growing and learning. At Windward, a growth mindset is shared by all and takes many forms, from academic growth for students to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠professional growth⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ (https://www.thewindwardschool.org/about/teacher-training-program) for faculty and staff. Impact - Each day Windward strives to serve as many students as we can and to make a life-changing and transformational impact on every individual child in the classroom as well as within the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠greater learning disability population⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ (https://www.thewindwardschool.org/fs/pages/247)⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ (https://www.thewindwardschool.org/the-windward-institute) Community - Windward believes in fostering a strong, cohesive, and collaborative culture and building a ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠diverse and inclusive community⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ (https://www.thewindwardschool.org/about/deib) that puts our students at the center of all we do, and where everyone feels valued and a sense of belonging. At The Windward School, we are committed to a world where every child with a language-based learning disability is empowered to achieve unlimited success – a vision fulfilled by disrupting the educational status quo. The Windward School deliberately builds both its curriculum and culture to foster a powerful sense of belonging through a research-based program that is authentically inclusive and a community in which everyone is seen in their full humanity.  The Windward School aspires to bring forth students who are culturally engaged critical thinkers, confident self-advocates who understand and celebrate their differences, and upstanders who identify and challenge all forms of injustice. Windward is committed to these values and expectations of its community members by embracing the importance of ongoing anti-oppression dialogue and critical conversations; by advancing educational equity in underrepresented communities, especially those historically marginalized by society; and by working to ensure that our program is accessible to all who need it.

9. 

   21 Mar 2025

   Pencils Down with Jamie Williamson Episode 7: Jon Rosenshine, Associate Head of School

   In this episode of Pencils Down with Jamie Williamson, Jamie is joined by Associate Head of School Jon Rosenshine. The conversation dives into some of Jon’s contributions to Windward over the years, from working to define the school’s core values to enriching SEL programs and extracurricular opportunities. Jon shares his perspective on education, student growth, and what makes the Windward experience special. ⁠The Windward School Official Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ (https://www.thewindwardschool.org/) Windward is a coeducational, independent day school dedicated to providing a proven instructional program for children with language-based learning disabilities. The multisensory curriculum is designed for students of average to superior intelligence who can benefit from the unique educational experience provided. Through direct instruction in small class settings, a trained staff assists students to improve their language skills. Academic success, combined with opportunities for social and emotional growth within an intentionally diverse and inclusive setting, enables students to understand their learning differences, build confidence, and develop self-advocacy skills. Windward is committed to helping students achieve their full potential in preparation for a successful return to a mainstream educational environment. To meet these goals, the School provides ongoing training to its faculty based on the most current research and shares its expertise with the parent body, other educators, and the broader community. Our Vision: A world where every child with a language-based learning disability is empowered to achieve unlimited success. Our Core Values Commitment – Windward maintains a disciplined and rigorous approach to all we do, and our every action is guided by an unparalleled commitment to a world where every child with a language-based learning disability is empowered to achieve unlimited success. Growth – We believe that everyone is capable of growing and learning. At Windward, a growth mindset is shared by all and takes many forms, from academic growth for students to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠professional growth⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ (https://www.thewindwardschool.org/about/teacher-training-program) for faculty and staff. Impact - Each day Windward strives to serve as many students as we can and to make a life-changing and transformational impact on every individual child in the classroom as well as within the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠greater learning disability population⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ (https://www.thewindwardschool.org/fs/pages/247)⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ (https://www.thewindwardschool.org/the-windward-institute) Community - Windward believes in fostering a strong, cohesive, and collaborative culture and building a ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠diverse and inclusive community⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ (https://www.thewindwardschool.org/about/deib) that puts our students at the center of all we do, and where everyone feels valued and a sense of belonging. At The Windward School, we are committed to a world where every child with a language-based learning disability is empowered to achieve unlimited success – a vision fulfilled by disrupting the educational status quo. The Windward School deliberately builds both its curriculum and culture to foster a powerful sense of belonging through a research-based program that is authentically inclusive and a community in which everyone is seen in their full humanity.  The Windward School aspires to bring forth students who are culturally engaged critical thinkers, confident self-advocates who understand and celebrate their differences, and upstanders who identify and challenge all forms of injustice. Windward is committed to these values and expectations of its community members by embracing the importance of ongoing anti-oppression dialogue and critical conversations; by advancing educational equity in underrepresented communities, especially those historically marginalized by society; and by working to ensure that our program is accessible to all who need it.

10. 

    27 Feb 2025

    Pencils Down with Jamie Williamson Episode 6: Christopher Eberhard, Westchester Middle School Campus Head

    In episode 6, Jamie Williamson sits down with Westchester Middle School Campus Head Chris Eberhard to reflect on Chris’ 27-year journey at Windward. From his early days as a teacher to his current role as a campus head, Chris has seen Windward evolve over the years, both inside and outside of the classroom. They dive into some of the values that guide Chris’ work, Windward’s growth, and the lasting impact the School has on students. ⁠The Windward School Official Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ (https://www.thewindwardschool.org/) Windward is a coeducational, independent day school dedicated to providing a proven instructional program for children with language-based learning disabilities. The multisensory curriculum is designed for students of average to superior intelligence who can benefit from the unique educational experience provided. Through direct instruction in small class settings, a trained staff assists students to improve their language skills. Academic success, combined with opportunities for social and emotional growth within an intentionally diverse and inclusive setting, enables students to understand their learning differences, build confidence, and develop self-advocacy skills. Windward is committed to helping students achieve their full potential in preparation for a successful return to a mainstream educational environment. To meet these goals, the School provides ongoing training to its faculty based on the most current research and shares its expertise with the parent body, other educators, and the broader community. Our Vision: A world where every child with a language-based learning disability is empowered to achieve unlimited success. Our Core Values Commitment – Windward maintains a disciplined and rigorous approach to all we do, and our every action is guided by an unparalleled commitment to a world where every child with a language-based learning disability is empowered to achieve unlimited success. Growth – We believe that everyone is capable of growing and learning. At Windward, a growth mindset is shared by all and takes many forms, from academic growth for students to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠professional growth⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ (https://www.thewindwardschool.org/about/teacher-training-program) for faculty and staff. Impact - Each day Windward strives to serve as many students as we can and to make a life-changing and transformational impact on every individual child in the classroom as well as within the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠greater learning disability population⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ (https://www.thewindwardschool.org/fs/pages/247)⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ (https://www.thewindwardschool.org/the-windward-institute) Community - Windward believes in fostering a strong, cohesive, and collaborative culture and building a ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠diverse and inclusive community⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ (https://www.thewindwardschool.org/about/deib) that puts our students at the center of all we do, and where everyone feels valued and a sense of belonging. At The Windward School, we are committed to a world where every child with a language-based learning disability is empowered to achieve unlimited success – a vision fulfilled by disrupting the educational status quo. The Windward School deliberately builds both its curriculum and culture to foster a powerful sense of belonging through a research-based program that is authentically inclusive and a community in which everyone is seen in their full humanity.  The Windward School aspires to bring forth students who are culturally engaged critical thinkers, confident self-advocates who understand and celebrate their differences, and upstanders who identify and challenge all forms of injustice. Windward is committed to these values and expectations of its community members by embracing the importance of ongoing anti-oppression dialogue and critical conversations; by advancing educational equity in underrepresented communities, especially those historically marginalized by society; and by working to ensure that our program is accessible to all who need it.

11. 

    28 Jan 2025

    Pencils Down with Jamie Williamson Episode 5: Dr. Anna Weiser, Director of Student Support and Social-Emotional Learning

    Meet Dr. Anna Weiser, director of student support and social-emotional learning. In this episode of Pencils Down, Jamie Williamson discusses a range of topics with Dr. Weiser including the gift of unconditional love, the tremendous value of Windward’s student support team and their accessibility to the greater community, and the importance of implementing daily student support structures that help our students to continue to strengthen and build new skills. The Windward School Official Website⁠⁠⁠⁠ (https://www.thewindwardschool.org/) Windward is a coeducational, independent day school dedicated to providing a proven instructional program for children with language-based learning disabilities. The multisensory curriculum is designed for students of average to superior intelligence who can benefit from the unique educational experience provided. Through direct instruction in small class settings, a trained staff assists students to improve their language skills. Academic success, combined with opportunities for social and emotional growth within an intentionally diverse and inclusive setting, enables students to understand their learning differences, build confidence, and develop self-advocacy skills. Windward is committed to helping students achieve their full potential in preparation for a successful return to a mainstream educational environment. To meet these goals, the School provides ongoing training to its faculty based on the most current research and shares its expertise with the parent body, other educators, and the broader community. Our Vision: A world where every child with a language-based learning disability is empowered to achieve unlimited success. Our Core Values Commitment – Windward maintains a disciplined and rigorous approach to all we do, and our every action is guided by an unparalleled commitment to a world where every child with a language-based learning disability is empowered to achieve unlimited success. Growth – We believe that everyone is capable of growing and learning. At Windward, a growth mindset is shared by all and takes many forms, from academic growth for students to ⁠⁠⁠⁠professional growth⁠⁠⁠⁠ (https://www.thewindwardschool.org/about/teacher-training-program) for faculty and staff. Impact - Each day Windward strives to serve as many students as we can and to make a life-changing and transformational impact on every individual child in the classroom as well as within the ⁠⁠⁠⁠greater learning disability population⁠⁠⁠⁠ (https://www.thewindwardschool.org/fs/pages/247)⁠⁠⁠⁠.⁠⁠⁠⁠ (https://www.thewindwardschool.org/the-windward-institute) Community - Windward believes in fostering a strong, cohesive, and collaborative culture and building a ⁠⁠⁠⁠diverse and inclusive community⁠⁠⁠⁠ (https://www.thewindwardschool.org/about/deib) that puts our students at the center of all we do, and where everyone feels valued and a sense of belonging. At The Windward School, we are committed to a world where every child with a language-based learning disability is empowered to achieve unlimited success – a vision fulfilled by disrupting the educational status quo. The Windward School deliberately builds both its curriculum and culture to foster a powerful sense of belonging through a research-based program that is authentically inclusive and a community in which everyone is seen in their full humanity.  The Windward School aspires to bring forth students who are culturally engaged critical thinkers, confident self-advocates who understand and celebrate their differences, and upstanders who identify and challenge all forms of injustice. Windward is committed to these values and expectations of its community members by embracing the importance of ongoing anti-oppression dialogue and critical conversations; by advancing educational equity in underrepresented communities, especially those historically marginalized by society; and by working to ensure that our program is accessible to all who need it.

12. 

    19 Dec 2024

    Pencils Down with Jamie Williamson Episode 4: Dr. Romina Pacheco, Director of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging

    Jamie Williamson is joined by Dr. Romina Pacheco, director of diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB) in this episode of Pencils Down. Listen to Dr. Pacheco share her journey from starting out as a teacher in Venezuela to becoming director of DEIB at Windward. The episode dives into how Dr. Pacheco leverages her experiences to inform the important work she is doing at Windward to support students, faculty, staff, and greater community. The Windward School Official Website⁠⁠⁠ (https://www.thewindwardschool.org/) Windward is a coeducational, independent day school dedicated to providing a proven instructional program for children with language-based learning disabilities. The multisensory curriculum is designed for students of average to superior intelligence who can benefit from the unique educational experience provided. Through direct instruction in small class settings, a trained staff assists students to improve their language skills. Academic success, combined with opportunities for social and emotional growth within an intentionally diverse and inclusive setting, enables students to understand their learning differences, build confidence, and develop self-advocacy skills. Windward is committed to helping students achieve their full potential in preparation for a successful return to a mainstream educational environment. To meet these goals, the School provides ongoing training to its faculty based on the most current research and shares its expertise with the parent body, other educators, and the broader community. Our Vision: A world where every child with a language-based learning disability is empowered to achieve unlimited success. Our Core Values Commitment – Windward maintains a disciplined and rigorous approach to all we do, and our every action is guided by an unparalleled commitment to a world where every child with a language-based learning disability is empowered to achieve unlimited success. Growth – We believe that everyone is capable of growing and learning. At Windward, a growth mindset is shared by all and takes many forms, from academic growth for students to ⁠⁠⁠professional growth⁠⁠⁠ (https://www.thewindwardschool.org/about/teacher-training-program) for faculty and staff. Impact - Each day Windward strives to serve as many students as we can and to make a life-changing and transformational impact on every individual child in the classroom as well as within the ⁠⁠⁠greater learning disability population⁠⁠⁠ (https://www.thewindwardschool.org/fs/pages/247)⁠⁠⁠.⁠⁠⁠ (https://www.thewindwardschool.org/the-windward-institute) Community - Windward believes in fostering a strong, cohesive, and collaborative culture and building a ⁠⁠⁠diverse and inclusive community⁠⁠⁠ (https://www.thewindwardschool.org/about/deib) that puts our students at the center of all we do, and where everyone feels valued and a sense of belonging. At The Windward School, we are committed to a world where every child with a language-based learning disability is empowered to achieve unlimited success – a vision fulfilled by disrupting the educational status quo. The Windward School deliberately builds both its curriculum and culture to foster a powerful sense of belonging through a research-based program that is authentically inclusive and a community in which everyone is seen in their full humanity.  The Windward School aspires to bring forth students who are culturally engaged critical thinkers, confident self-advocates who understand and celebrate their differences, and upstanders who identify and challenge all forms of injustice. Windward is committed to these values and expectations of its community members by embracing the importance of ongoing anti-oppression dialogue and critical conversations; by advancing educational equity in underrepresented communities, especially those historically marginalized by society; and by working to ensure that our program is accessible to all who need it.

13. 

    2 Dec 2024

    Pencils Down with Jamie Williamson Episode 3: Windward Faculty Award Recipients Lacey Fraser and Ashley Anne Bloom

    In this episode, Jamie Williamson is joined by two of Windward’s 2024 faculty award winners: Lacey Fraser, recipient of the Isabel Greenbaum Stone Master Teacher Award, and Ashley Anne Bloom, Sandi Galst Scholar Award recipient. Tune in as they share their teaching experiences and discuss what makes Windward such a special place to work and grow, reflecting on their personal “why,” and their commitment to the School’s mission. The Windward School Official Website⁠⁠ (https://www.thewindwardschool.org/) Windward is a coeducational, independent day school dedicated to providing a proven instructional program for children with language-based learning disabilities. The multisensory curriculum is designed for students of average to superior intelligence who can benefit from the unique educational experience provided. Through direct instruction in small class settings, a trained staff assists students to improve their language skills. Academic success, combined with opportunities for social and emotional growth within an intentionally diverse and inclusive setting, enables students to understand their learning differences, build confidence, and develop self-advocacy skills. Windward is committed to helping students achieve their full potential in preparation for a successful return to a mainstream educational environment. To meet these goals, the School provides ongoing training to its faculty based on the most current research and shares its expertise with the parent body, other educators, and the broader community. Our Vision: A world where every child with a language-based learning disability is empowered to achieve unlimited success. Our Core Values Commitment – Windward maintains a disciplined and rigorous approach to all we do, and our every action is guided by an unparalleled commitment to a world where every child with a language-based learning disability is empowered to achieve unlimited success. Growth – We believe that everyone is capable of growing and learning. At Windward, a growth mindset is shared by all and takes many forms, from academic growth for students to ⁠⁠professional growth⁠⁠ (https://www.thewindwardschool.org/about/teacher-training-program) for faculty and staff. Impact - Each day Windward strives to serve as many students as we can and to make a life-changing and transformational impact on every individual child in the classroom as well as within the ⁠⁠greater learning disability population⁠⁠ (https://www.thewindwardschool.org/fs/pages/247)⁠⁠.⁠⁠ (https://www.thewindwardschool.org/the-windward-institute) Community - Windward believes in fostering a strong, cohesive, and collaborative culture and building a ⁠⁠diverse and inclusive community⁠⁠ (https://www.thewindwardschool.org/about/deib) that puts our students at the center of all we do, and where everyone feels valued and a sense of belonging. At The Windward School, we are committed to a world where every child with a language-based learning disability is empowered to achieve unlimited success – a vision fulfilled by disrupting the educational status quo. The Windward School deliberately builds both its curriculum and culture to foster a powerful sense of belonging through a research-based program that is authentically inclusive and a community in which everyone is seen in their full humanity.  The Windward School aspires to bring forth students who are culturally engaged critical thinkers, confident self-advocates who understand and celebrate their differences, and upstanders who identify and challenge all forms of injustice. Windward is committed to these values and expectations of its community members by embracing the importance of ongoing anti-oppression dialogue and critical conversations; by advancing educational equity in underrepresented communities, especially those historically marginalized by society; and by working to ensure that our program is accessible to all who need it.

14. 

    29 Oct 2024

    Pencils Down with Jamie Williamson Episode 2: Alexis Pochna, Director of The Windward Institute

    Jamie Williamson sits down with Director of The Windward Institute Alexis Pochna for a special Dyslexia Awareness Month episode of Pencils Down. Together they dive into Alexis' journey from assistant teacher to leading the crucial work of The Windward Institute, and discuss the various opportunities the Institute offers for teachers, families, and the greater community. The Windward School Official Website⁠ (https://www.thewindwardschool.org/) Windward is a coeducational, independent day school dedicated to providing a proven instructional program for children with language-based learning disabilities. The multisensory curriculum is designed for students of average to superior intelligence who can benefit from the unique educational experience provided. Through direct instruction in small class settings, a trained staff assists students to improve their language skills. Academic success, combined with opportunities for social and emotional growth within an intentionally diverse and inclusive setting, enables students to understand their learning differences, build confidence, and develop self-advocacy skills. Windward is committed to helping students achieve their full potential in preparation for a successful return to a mainstream educational environment. To meet these goals, the School provides ongoing training to its faculty based on the most current research and shares its expertise with the parent body, other educators, and the broader community. Our Vision: A world where every child with a language-based learning disability is empowered to achieve unlimited success. Our Core Values Commitment – Windward maintains a disciplined and rigorous approach to all we do, and our every action is guided by an unparalleled commitment to a world where every child with a language-based learning disability is empowered to achieve unlimited success. Growth – We believe that everyone is capable of growing and learning. At Windward, a growth mindset is shared by all and takes many forms, from academic growth for students to ⁠professional growth⁠ (https://www.thewindwardschool.org/about/teacher-training-program) for faculty and staff. Impact - Each day Windward strives to serve as many students as we can and to make a life-changing and transformational impact on every individual child in the classroom as well as within the ⁠greater learning disability population⁠ (https://www.thewindwardschool.org/fs/pages/247)⁠.⁠ (https://www.thewindwardschool.org/the-windward-institute) Community - Windward believes in fostering a strong, cohesive, and collaborative culture and building a ⁠diverse and inclusive community⁠ (https://www.thewindwardschool.org/about/deib) that puts our students at the center of all we do, and where everyone feels valued and a sense of belonging. At The Windward School, we are committed to a world where every child with a language-based learning disability is empowered to achieve unlimited success – a vision fulfilled by disrupting the educational status quo. The Windward School deliberately builds both its curriculum and culture to foster a powerful sense of belonging through a research-based program that is authentically inclusive and a community in which everyone is seen in their full humanity.  The Windward School aspires to bring forth students who are culturally engaged critical thinkers, confident self-advocates who understand and celebrate their differences, and upstanders who identify and challenge all forms of injustice. Windward is committed to these values and expectations of its community members by embracing the importance of ongoing anti-oppression dialogue and critical conversations; by advancing educational equity in underrepresented communities, especially those historically marginalized by society; and by working to ensure that our program is accessible to all who need it.

15. 

    22 Oct 2024

    Pencils Down with Jamie Williamson Episode 1: Lisa Murray, Associate Head of School for Academic Programs

    Head of School Jamie Williamson sits with Lisa Murray, associate head of school for academic programs to discuss her career, the unique programs at The Windward School, and how this recently added role helps to advance and continue to evolve those programs. The Windward School Official Website (https://www.thewindwardschool.org/) Windward is a coeducational, independent day school dedicated to providing a proven instructional program for children with language-based learning disabilities. The multisensory curriculum is designed for students of average to superior intelligence who can benefit from the unique educational experience provided. Through direct instruction in small class settings, a trained staff assists students to improve their language skills. Academic success, combined with opportunities for social and emotional growth within an intentionally diverse and inclusive setting, enables students to understand their learning differences, build confidence, and develop self-advocacy skills. Windward is committed to helping students achieve their full potential in preparation for a successful return to a mainstream educational environment. To meet these goals, the School provides ongoing training to its faculty based on the most current research and shares its expertise with the parent body, other educators, and the broader community. Our Vision: A world where every child with a language-based learning disability is empowered to achieve unlimited success. Our Core Values Commitment – Windward maintains a disciplined and rigorous approach to all we do, and our every action is guided by an unparalleled commitment to a world where every child with a language-based learning disability is empowered to achieve unlimited success. Growth – We believe that everyone is capable of growing and learning. At Windward, a growth mindset is shared by all and takes many forms, from academic growth for students to professional growth (https://www.thewindwardschool.org/about/teacher-training-program) for faculty and staff. Impact - Each day Windward strives to serve as many students as we can and to make a life-changing and transformational impact on every individual child in the classroom as well as within the greater learning disability population (https://www.thewindwardschool.org/fs/pages/247). (https://www.thewindwardschool.org/the-windward-institute) Community - Windward believes in fostering a strong, cohesive, and collaborative culture and building a diverse and inclusive community (https://www.thewindwardschool.org/about/deib) that puts our students at the center of all we do, and where everyone feels valued and a sense of belonging. At The Windward School, we are committed to a world where every child with a language-based learning disability is empowered to achieve unlimited success – a vision fulfilled by disrupting the educational status quo. The Windward School deliberately builds both its curriculum and culture to foster a powerful sense of belonging through a research-based program that is authentically inclusive and a community in which everyone is seen in their full humanity.  The Windward School aspires to bring forth students who are culturally engaged critical thinkers, confident self-advocates who understand and celebrate their differences, and upstanders who identify and challenge all forms of injustice. Windward is committed to these values and expectations of its community members by embracing the importance of ongoing anti-oppression dialogue and critical conversations; by advancing educational equity in underrepresented communities, especially those historically marginalized by society; and by working to ensure that our program is accessible to all who need it.

Who has been a guest on Pencils Down with Jamie Williamson

Names identified in recent episode analyses. Showing up to five guests.

• Melissa Stewart
• Diane Kissner
• JP Bifone
• Lindsay Friedman
• Jessie Spain

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

YouTube views

2,717

Score snapshot 15 Sept 2025

Apple Podcasts (US)

5.0 / 5

1 ratings

Podcast Authority Score: 23 / 100

A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.

Quality

19

Social presence

0

YouTube

68

Engagement

0

Contact Pencils Down with Jamie Williamson

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Books guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.

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