In this gripping and emotional episode of A Note From the Principal’s Desk, Dr. Shepard delivers a raw and urgent message to parents: Know where your children are, who they’re with, and what they’re doing this summer.

From BB gun “drive-bys” to fighting in the streets, vaping, drug use, and senseless acts of violence — the stakes have never been higher. She challenges parents to break the cycle, stop making excuses, and start taking full accountability for what happens outside their presence.

This episode is more than a warning — it’s a call to action to search the book bags, install the cameras, ask the hard questions, and bring the village back. Because silence and assumption will not protect your child. Awareness and action will.

In this powerful and practical episode of A Note From the Principal’s Desk, Dr. Shepard shares real, relatable strategies to help parents keep their children academically engaged during the summer. From setting routines to choosing the right books, incorporating math and science, and even creating cozy reading corners at home—she covers it all.

Dr. Shepard also reminds us of the importance of writing, emotional connection, and breaking generational habits, all while encouraging parents to be intentional, even in the busiest seasons. Whether you have 10 minutes or a full day, you can make a difference this summer.

Bonus: A list of must-have apps and free resources to jumpstart your child’s summer learning journey.

In this eye-opening episode, Dr. Shepard sounds the alarm on two disturbing trends affecting today’s youth: the misuse of “Honey Packs” (Viagra) and the rise of vape-style breath mints. These aren’t just internet fads—they’re reaching our schools, our scholars, and even our youngest students. Dr. Shepard breaks down what these terms mean, how they’re being accessed, and why parents, caregivers, and educators must act fast. This is your call to check in, have real conversations, and stay alert—because the more we know, the better we protect our children.

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In this gripping episode of A Note From the Principal’s Desk, Dr. Shepard breaks down a dangerous new TikTok trend that’s setting more than just devices on fire — it’s igniting real consequences. Scholars are inserting metal objects into Chromebook charging ports, causing explosions, smoke, and injury — all in the name of social media fame.

But this episode isn’t just about fire safety — it’s a full call to action. Dr. Shepard urges parents, educators, and community leaders to monitor digital behavior, educate children about the dangers of trends, and stop passing the blame to schools. If we want change, we all must get involved — now.

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In this important note from the principal’s desk, Dr. Shepard sheds light on the dangers of a new website called "Hentai," which children might access thinking it's harmless anime content. Unfortunately, it’s a site where explicit pornography is disguised as cartoons. Dr. Shepard urges parents to take action by monitoring their children's devices, checking apps, and keeping track of what they're exposed to online. With the rise of clever ways children are accessing inappropriate material, Dr. Shepard emphasizes the need for parental involvement, setting up parental controls, and having open conversations about sensitive topics. This episode aims to help keep kids safe in an increasingly digital world.

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In this powerful episode of A Note From the Principal’s Desk, Dr. Shepard tackles the often-hidden reality of student homelessness — and the stigma surrounding it. She breaks down what it truly means to be homeless under federal education law and challenges educators, parents, and communities to shift their lens from judgment to compassion.

From misunderstood situations to the impact on a child’s behavior and academics, this episode is a passionate call to action. Dr. Shepard not only names the issue — she offers real, tangible ways families, churches, and businesses can help. Because no child should have to choose between survival and school.

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In this urgent message from The Principal’s Desk, Dr. Shepard addresses a growing concern affecting schools nationwide — the accidental and intentional distribution of THC-infused edibles among students. She calls on parents who use such products to secure them properly, and urges all families to speak with their children about the dangers of accepting unsealed or unfamiliar food items from classmates. From kindergarten to high school, no grade is immune. This episode serves as a compassionate but firm reminder that we all share responsibility in keeping our scholars safe.

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In this episode of A Note From the Principal’s Desk, Dr. Shepard encourages educators, parents, and school leaders to remain steadfast and focused, even when challenges arise. She shares empowering insights about the importance of staying grounded in your purpose, trusting the process, and remembering that your position is often the preparation ground for the promise ahead. Whether you're navigating a difficult season or leading through uncertainty, this message will remind you why holding your position matters.

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