The Honoring Educators Podcast
Welcome to The Honoring Educators Podcast — a space to slow down and recognize the people who shape education through their presence, their stories, and their impact.
This podcast exists to remember retirees, celebrate those doing the work today, and inspire the educators still to come. Through honest conversations and real storytelling, we highlight the human side of education — the quiet moments, the hard-earned lessons, and the people down the hall who make a difference every day.
If you are an educator, support staff member, school leader, parent, or someone who simply believes great people shape great schools, you belong here.
Episodes feature authentic conversations with educators and community members who have influenced others in meaningful ways. Some episodes are reflective, some are practical, and all are rooted in curiosity, gratitude, and connection.
New episodes will be released regularly as conversations unfold — because this podcast is built around real people, not a rigid schedule.
You can also connect with the Honoring Educators Facebook community to continue the conversation, share stories, and help grow a culture that celebrates the people who make education better.
Thanks for being here. Pull up a chair — we’re glad you’re listening!
The Honoring Educators Podcast
Episode 1 - Mary LeFevre (School Social Worker) - My Mom and my Hero
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For the first official episode of the Honoring Educators Podcast, Jon sits down with someone who helped shape his understanding of education long before he ever entered a school professionally — his mom, Mary LeFevre, a retired school social worker.
This conversation explores the heart of education through stories, laughter, and reflection. Together they talk about peer-to-peer programs, the power of relationships, the unsung heroes who keep schools running, and what great educators do that often goes unnoticed.
More than anything, this episode sets the tone for what this podcast is about: honoring the people behind the work and learning from the stories that shaped them.
If you hear names mentioned throughout the episode, know that they’re shared with appreciation — because education is always a team effort.
🔹 In this episode:
• Peer-to-peer programs and why they mattered
• The characteristics of great general and special education teachers
• Unsung heroes in school buildings
• The START Project out of Grand Valley State University
• Stories, laughter, and lessons learned across a career in education
⭐ If this episode resonates with you, share it with an educator who made a difference in your life.