Red Pens And Red Flags - a Public Education Podcast - Episode 2

Break it Down with Rick and Tim

In this second episode of Red Pens and Red Flags, host Rictor Riolo sits down with Veronica Spedner, a veteran special education teacher working in one of Oregon's most diverse high schools. Veronica shares how her core values—hard work, preparation, and inclusion—guide her daily work with students who have IEPs. She emphasizes the importance of supporting students not just academically, but socially and emotionally, so they can thrive beyond high school, whether in college, the workforce, or independent living. The conversation takes a powerful turn as Veronica critiques the current political climate, expressing deep concern about efforts to dismantle the Department of Education and roll back DEI policies. She argues that the erosion of federal oversight could severely impact students with disabilities, English learners, and other marginalized groups. Veronica shares her fears that without strong federal protections, we risk returning to an era of segregation and exclusion. Her response to Project 2025 is blunt: “It feels like we’re going backward.” But amid these challenges, Veronica remains hopeful. She believes in the resilience of educators and the power of inclusive classrooms where students with disabilities not only belong but also enrich the learning experience for everyone. Her message to policymakers is clear: spend time in public schools, talk to students, and see the impact of inclusive education firsthand. This episode is a powerful reminder that equity in education isn’t a luxury, it’s a legal and moral imperative.