What Do You Say? with Dr. Eric J.

A Conversation with Speaker Joanna McClinton

In this episode of What Do You Say? With Dr. Eric J., Superintendent Dr. Eric Becoats sits down with Pennsylvania Speaker of the House Joanna McClinton for an inspiring and thoughtful conversation about leadership, service, and civic engagement.
Speaker McClinton shares how her lifelong commitment to serving her community led her into public service, even though being an elected office wasn’t part of her original plan. She reflects on her journey to Harrisburg, the challenges and lessons from this year’s state budget process, and what motivates her to advocate for students, families, and educators across the Commonwealth.
Dr. Becoats also asks her what young people can do to make a difference today, and her answer is clear, practical, and empowering.
Tune in for a conversation filled with insight, encouragement, and a powerful reminder of the impact each of us can make.

Optimistic Visionary - A Conversation with Ms. Alisha Graves

In this episode of What Do You Say? With Dr. Eric J., Dr. Becoats continues the William Penn School District’s Portrait of a Graduate series with a focus on the next attribute: Optimistic Visionary.
In this episode, Dr. Becoats is joined by Ms. Alisha Graves, a speech and language pathologist, who has over twenty years of experience in the William Penn School District. Together, they explore what fuels optimism after two decades of service, the most rewarding parts of helping students find their voice, and the lessons that have guided Ms. Graves in fostering growth and positivity in her work.
They also talk about the challenges and joys of teaching, how educators can help students stay confident and curious in their learning, and what Ms. Graves envisions for herself as she continues to make a difference in the lives of children and their families.
Tune in for a heartfelt conversation that celebrates the spirit of the Optimistic Visionary and honors the educators who help our students believe in the beauty of their dreams.
 
🎁 Don’t miss your chance to win one of three $10 gift cards to the Royal Diner in Lansdowne! To enter, please answer the following question and send your answer to whatdoyousaywithdrericj@gmail.com
What’s something you’re hopeful about or looking forward to right now?

Driven Achiever – A Conversation with Dr. Guy Thigpen

In this episode of What Do You Say? With Dr. Eric J., Dr. Becoats kicks off the William Penn School District’s Portrait of a Graduate series with a focus on the first attribute: Driven Achiever.
He’s joined by Dr. Guy Thigpen, a proud Yeadon High School Class of 1981 alumnus and respected expert in urban planning and analytics for the City of Philadelphia. Together, they reflect on how the foundation built in our schools shapes lifelong success, the importance of perseverance, and what it truly means to be driven — both in school and beyond.
Tune in for an inspiring conversation that connects our past, celebrates our present, and looks ahead to how William Penn students are preparing to Focus Forward and Beyond.
 
🎁 Don’t miss your chance to win a gift certificate to My Old Place Bakery in Lansdowne! To enter, please answer the following question and send your answer towhatdoyousaywithdrericj@gmail.com
What’s one small effort you do every day that helps you succeed?

Season 3 Kickoff: Back to School & Back on the Field!

What Do You Say with Dr. Eric J. returns for Season 3! In this first episode of the new school year, Dr. Becoats shares reflections from the opening days of school and the district’s vision for preparing every student for success through the Portrait of a Graduate. Then, he’s joined by special guests Coach Darren “Ducky” Ryals ‘86, Penn Wood alum and new head football coach, along with student-athletes Jaiden Smith ‘27 and Sheldon Hannibal ‘27. Together, they talk about tradition, teamwork, and what it means to represent Penn Wood on and off the field.

Season Finale: Learning, Leading, and Leaping Together

In this special end-of-year episode, Superintendent Dr. Eric Becoats reflects on the William Penn School District’s ongoing budget challenges and the vital role of community voice and advocacy in shaping the future of our schools. He shares a heartfelt message of unity, urgency, and hope as the district approaches its June 30th budget deadline.
Then, Dr. Becoats sits down with three members of the Superintendent’s Student Advisory Council: Nykeysiah Williams (12th grade), Kadija Dukuray (11th grade), and Robert Dunlap (11th grade). Together, they discuss student leadership, what it means to represent their peers, and the lessons they’ve learned, both in and outside of the classroom.
With reflections, laughter, and a bit of Kermit the Frog wisdom, this episode reminds us that in William Penn, we don’t leap alone — we leap together.

Teacher Appreciation: Senior Reflections on Impactful Educators

In this heartfelt episode of What Do You Say? With Dr. Eric J., Superintendent Dr. Eric J. Becoats sits down with four graduating seniors to celebrate Teacher Appreciation Week. As they prepare to turn the page on their high school journeys, these students share reflections on the teachers who shaped their lives while offering gratitude, memories, and wisdom. From inspiring classroom moments to the lasting impact of encouragement and support, this conversation is a tribute to the educators who make a difference every single day.
Tune in for an uplifting, student-centered celebration of the lessons that last a lifetime.
Thank you to Penn Wood High School seniors Victory Kelechi-Nwaogu, Iyana Miller, Tyler Gardner, and Janet Smith for joining Dr. Becoats. Good luck on your next adventures!

Rooted in the Past, Growing Toward the Future

In this episode, Dr. Becoats embraces the theme of spring as a season of renewal and growth, both in our schools and in our lives. He first speaks with Kelly Brandt, a special education teacher at Colwyn Elementary School and a member of the Focus Forward and Beyond strategic planning committee. Kelly shares insights into the planning process, the progress made, and what’s ahead as the district prepares to launch its vision for the future.
Dr. Becoats then sits down with two inspiring William Penn School District alumni who have returned to give back to the community that shaped them. Joyline Jefferson (‘17), a school counselor at the Ninth Grade Academy, and Elizabeth Brown (‘97), assistant principal at Penn Wood High School, reflect on the teachers and mentors who impacted their lives and how that influence led them back to serve the next generation of students. Their stories highlight the power of connection, growth, and the lasting impact of education and community.
Tune in as Dr. Becoats explores the past, present, and future of the William Penn School District through the lens of progress and purpose.
 
🎉 Giveaway Alert! 🎉We’re giving away two gift cards to Bernie's Pretzels in Clifton Heights! To enter, please answer the following question and send your response to whatdoyousaywithdrericj@gmail.com:
If you could go back in time and give high school you one piece of advice, what would it be?
Thank you to Bernie's Pretzels for sponsoring this episode.

Podcast Anniversary, New Year, New Strategic Plan

On this episode of What Do You Say? with Dr. Eric J, we celebrate a fresh start to the new year and reflect on the progress we’ve made so far in the 2024-25 school year.
Dr. Eric Becoats sits down with Bell Elementary School Principal Dr. Kim Evans-Johnson and sixth-grade teacher, alumna, and parent, Afia Lewis, to discuss how WPSD is striving for efficiency, effectiveness, and equity, a key focus of our strategic plan. They share their perspectives on supporting students, streamlining processes, and ensuring a strong foundation for success.
Plus, hear from Penn Wood alumnus, social worker, and football coach Joe Cuff-Wright as he reflects on the impact of the MLK Day of Service and how giving back strengthens our school community.
And, of course, we couldn’t mark the one-year anniversary of this podcast without hearing from some of our most important voices - our students! Two Bell Elementary sixth graders join us to share their goals, excitement for the future, and what brings them joy at school.
🎉 Giveaway Alert! 🎉To celebrate one year of What Do You Say? with Dr. Eric J, we’re giving away two gift certificates to Camellia Coffee in Lansdowne! To enter, answer this question and send your response to whatdoyousaywithdrericj@gmail.com:
If you had to pick a word or theme for 2025 - either personally or professionally - what would it be and why?
Don't miss this inspiring episode!

Building Community, Together

On this episode of What Do You Say? with Dr. Eric J we dive into the importance of community involvement with Jonathan Brooks-Brown, a parent volunteer, and Troy Brooks, a PWHS teacher, activities director, and coach. 
Plus, hear from Supervisor of Research and Evaluation Mike MacArthur as he shares key insights from the fall staff and student survey and why your voice matters.
🎁 Don’t miss your chance to win a gift certificate to Kay Way Juice in Lansdowne! To enter, please answer the following question and send your answer to whatdoyousaywithdrericj@gmail.com
What are your best tips for fostering a fun and active school community? 

Journeys Through WPSD

Join Dr. Becoats for an in-depth conversation with Park Lane Elementary School’s staff members as they discuss priority three of the strategic plan: “Academic Excellence.” They highlight their successes, challenges, and plans for the future.  
Then, some of our Ninth Grade Academy students share what they have to say about their transition to high school. They give shout-outs to teachers and staff who have helped them along the way and made WPSD feel like “family.”
Plus, don’t miss your chance to win! Listeners who tune in can enter a drawing for a $10 gift certificate to Leo’s Breakfast and Lunch in Lansdowne, courtesy of Leo’s Foods, by answering this question:
"If you could instantly master one skill or subject, what would it be?"
Send your response to WhatDoYouSayWithDrEricJ@gmail.com by Wednesday, November 20. Winners will be selected at random.
Thanks for tuning in!