In this inspiring episode of Everything But The Lesson Plan, host Franchesca Thompson sits down with Dr. Kimberly West, founder of Teach STEM Global, to unpack why advancing STEM education globally matters now more than ever. From the lens of an educator, Dr. West shares how teachers can break down barriers, spark innovation, and empower the next generation of problem-solvers—no matter where they live. Tune in for insights, ideas, and practical steps to help you think globally while teaching locally.

About Dr. Kimberly West Dr. Kimberly West is a distinguished educator and educational consultant with a commitment to fostering learning among diverse populations, including English language learners and students with disabilities. Throughout her career, she has garnered numerous accolades, such as Teacher of the Year and Outstanding Technology Teacher of the Year. Dr. West has also dedicated her expertise to the development of instructional and assessment resources, enhancing educational practices. Furthermore, she has taken on the role of mentor teacher, guiding pre-service and early-career educators in their professional journeys.

In 2022, following a transformative trip to Ghana, Dr. West founded Teach STEM Africa, a nonprofit organization aimed at advancing STEM education across the continent. By 2025, the organization rebranded as Teach STEM Global, reflecting its mission to expand its impact on a global scale.

*Social Media:

@TeachSTEMGlobal on IG, Tik Tok, LinkedIn, and Facebook

About Franchesca ThompsonWelcome to the "Everything But the Lesson Plan" a podcast brought to you by Thrive12, an education company designed to ensure you thrive every month of the year. I am an educator, entrepreneur, and influencer on a mission to transform education with innovative tools, tips, and resources for educators everywhere!

LinkedIn:⁠ / ⁠ Facebook:⁠ / ithrive12⁠

Instagram: ithrive_12

Website:⁠ ⁠⁠www.thrive12.com⁠

The Educator’s Voice – Classroom Stories with Kayron Spellman Step inside the classroom walls and hear what really happens between the bells. In this heartfelt episode of Everything But The Lesson Plan, host Franchesca Thompson launches a brand‑new segment—“The Educator’s Voice.” No scripts, no filters—just genuine stories that capture the highs, lows, and unforgettable “aha!” moments of teaching.

About Kayron Spellman

Kayron Spellman is a dedicated Special Education teacher with a passion for empowering exceptional learners. He creates supportive and inclusive classrooms where every student is valued, challenged, and celebrated for their unique strengths. With a mission to foster independence, build confidence, and nurture growth, Kayron works to help each child reach their fullest potential—academically, socially, and emotionally.

*Please list social media: Social Media:

• 📘 Facebook: facebook.com/KayronSpellman

• 📸 Instagram: @Kayron_Tylesha

About Franchesca Thompson

Welcome to the "Everything But the Lesson Plan" a podcast brought to you by Thrive12, an education company designed to ensure you thrive every month of the year. I am an educator, entrepreneur, and influencer on a mission to transform education with innovative tools, tips, and resources for educators everywhere!

• Linkedin:⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/in/franchesca-thompson95/⁠

• Facebook:⁠ https://www.facebook.com/ithrive12⁠

• Instagram: ithrive_12

• Website:⁠ ⁠⁠www.thrive12.com⁠

Store:⁠ https://www.amazon.com/stores/Thrive12/page/7B59A01F-7FDB-460B-AB17-E71E26836B3A?ref_=cm_sw_r_ud_ast_store_JGSDBACHJC9AHHTJ6XVM

In this episode of Everything But The Lesson Plan, host Franchesca Thompson sits down with educator and SEL strategist Winona Jones-Archie to unpack what Social and Emotional Learning really means beyond the behavior charts and buzzwords. From the post-pandemic realities facing students to the controversy around SEL in schools, Winona offers clear insights, culturally responsive strategies, and practical tools for teachers who want to support the whole child—without burning out.

About Winona Jones-Archie

Winona Jones-Archie is a highly skilled, creative professional with an exemplary record of mentoring, training, and professional learning, with demonstrated leadership skills in instructional planning and professional development. With over 30 years of experience in public education, Winona has served in various roles including 1st, 2nd, and 3rd grade teacher, Early Intervention Program (EIP) teacher, Teacher Support Specialist, Early Numeracy Specialist, Instructional Coach, Core Content Specialist, Math Instructional Specialist, and Assistant Principal. She recently retired from Gwinnett County Public Schools where she was the Coordinator of Social Emotional Learning for the last 2 years. She has served as a GIFT Coach at Georgia Gwinnett College (GGC) and is currently a professional learning contractor with CharacterStrong. Throughout her career, Winona has played an integral role in teacher/leader mentoring and effectiveness by modeling best practices for educators across the Atlanta Metro Area. She holds a B.A. in early childhood education from Clark-Atlanta University, a M.Ed. from Central Michigan University, an EdS from Lincoln Memorial University, and also obtained her Leadership Certification from the University of Georgia. Winona is skilled in Career Development, Coaching, Lesson Planning, Educational Technology, and Instructional Design in the primary/secondary education industry. She is "widely recognized throughout the state as the personification of excellence in education"

*Social Media:

www.linkedin.com/in/winonajarchie1908

About Franchesca Thompson

Welcome to the "Everything But the Lesson Plan" a podcast brought to you by Thrive12, an education company designed to ensure you thrive every month of the year. I am an educator, entrepreneur, and influencer on a mission to transform education with innovative tools, tips, and resources for educators everywhere!

• LinkedIn:⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/in/franchesca-thompson95/⁠

• Facebook:⁠ https://www.facebook.com/ithrive12⁠

• Instagram: ithrive_12

• Website:⁠ ⁠⁠www.thrive12.com⁠

• Amazon Store:⁠ https://www.amazon.com/stores/Thrive12/page/7B59A01F-7FDB-460B-AB17-E71E26836B3A?ref_=cm_sw_r_ud_ast_store_JGSDBACHJC9AHHTJ6XVM