The Wayne RESA Roundtable Podcast

The Wayne RESA Roundtable Podcast brings together voices from all areas of special education, special education/mental health community, and advocacy to provide valuable resources, insights, and support for families and staff both within Wayne County and beyond.

Featured Episode

S1.E4 - Least Restrictive First: Rethinking Guardianship in Michigan with Representative Sharon MacDonell Representative Sharon MacDonell discusses her bill to reform Michigan’s guardianship system and better protect adults with developmental disabilities.

In this episode, Representative Sharon MacDonell joins us to discuss House Bill 4676, her proposal to reform how guardianship is handled for adults with developmental disabilities in Michigan. We explore what the bill means for families, the importance of least restrictive alternatives, and how the law can better protect both independence and wellbeing.

Most Recent Episodes

S1.E6 - Working Well Together! November 12, 2025 Angela Khater (PAC president) and Mike Essiely (Director of Special Education–Dearborn) host Working Well Together where families and educators come together.

“Working Well Together” brings a special education parent and a special education director to the same table for open, honest conversations about collaboration and partnership. Each episode explores real-world experiences, practical tips, and shared perspectives on how families and schools can work hand-in-hand to support students with disabilities and help them thrive—at school and beyond.

S1.E5 - Collaborative Problem Solving: Tips for parents and school staff November 1, 2025 Beth Kohler, Outreach Coordinator (SEMS), shares how the service helps families and schools work through challenges and collaborate effectively.

Beth Kohler, Outreach Coordinator at Special Education Mediation Services (SEMS), provides information on how SEMS helps families and school staff navigate challenging situations. This session provides tips for working collaboratively.

S1.E4 - Least Restrictive First: Rethinking Guardianship in Michigan with Representative Sharon MacDonell October 1, 2025 Representative Sharon MacDonell discusses her bill to reform Michigan’s guardianship system and better protect adults with developmental disabilities.

S1.E3 - Understanding Guardianship and Power of Attorney for Adults with Disabilities September 17, 2025 Eileen Brandt (Brandt Consulting, Advocate, speaker) explains guardianship vs. power of attorney, giving families clear guidance on legal options, protections, and decision-making supports.

This episode offers clear guidance on the differences between guardianship and power of attorney, helping families and professionals navigate legal options, protections, and decision-making supports for adults with disabilities.

S1.E2 - Voices for Hope with Kevin Fischer and Tom Watkins on Suicide Awareness September 11, 2025 Kevin Fischer of NAMI Michigan and advocate Tom Watkins discuss suicide prevention, awareness, and building a more compassionate, supportive society.

This episode explores the urgent need for suicide prevention, awareness, and advocacy. Kevin Fischer, Executive Director of NAMI Michigan, and Tom Watkins, former State Superintendent and mental health advocate, share personal insights, strategies, and a call to action for building a more compassionate and supportive society.

S1.E1 - The Power of Parent Advisory Committee (PAC) August 20, 2025 Join Kara Clarke on The Power of PAC to discover what a Parent Advisory Committee is, how to start one, and why parent engagement matters.

The Power of Parent Advisory Committee (PAC) explores the vital role parents play in shaping strong school communities. Join Kara Clarke as she highlights what a PAC is, how to create one, and the incredible impact parent engagement has on supporting students and schools. Whether you’re a parent, educator, or community member, you’ll gain insights and inspiration to harness the power of parent voice and partnership.