In this episode of Life Equals Choices, Choices Equal Life, Kim Olver welcomes Dr. Evisha Ford, licensed clinical social worker, TEDx speaker, and founding director of the I Can Dream Center, a therapeutic school serving neurodiverse learners in Illinois. Dr. Ford, author of Benches in the Bathroom: Leading a Physically, Emotionally, and Socially Safe School Culture, shares her insights on compassionate leadership and the importance of creating supportive environments for both educators and students.

Kim and Dr. Ford explore how compassionate leadership is not about lowering expectations, but about pairing high standards with high levels of support. They discuss the evolving needs of special education, the funding challenges that districts face, and the importance of preparing all teachers to support diverse learners. Dr. Ford also explains why professional development and trauma-informed practices are essential to creating school cultures where both educators and students can thrive.

This thought-provoking conversation is a must-listen for educators, leaders, and parents who want to understand how compassionate leadership can transform classrooms, empower teachers, and unlock the potential of every student.