Episode 14 In Episode 14 of On the School Bus with Dr. Spates, I sat down with TaVia Wooley, founder of Empower Them Collective, and I left with pages of notes and a full heart.

TaVia reminds us that lived experience is expertise. From advocating for her brother on the autism spectrum to navigating medical systems after the loss of her son, she has transformed personal pain into policy literacy and leadership development for families.

This conversation challenged me deeply as a principal. We discussed humility in leadership, compensating parents for their expertise, and why educators must stop believing policy only happens in Sacramento. If you can write a lesson plan, you can write a bill.

TaVia’s work through Empower Them Collective and 661 Creators Space is shifting narrative, building collective power, and reminding families that their voice matters.

This episode is not just about advocacy.

It’s about shared ownership of student success.

Guest

Special thanks to TaVia Wooley  for joining this amazing episode.