Episodes
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In this bonus episode, host Sarah Milligan welcomes Molly Collins, Executive Director of Policy and Government Affairs at Institute for Quality Education, and Jennifer Wagner, Vice President of Communications at Excel in Ed, to break down the big wins for school choice in the latest elections—both in Indiana and nationwide. They dive into how legislative support drives progress for school choice, unpack the bill-to-law process, and examine how the political landscape is shifting in favor of education options. The discussion covers generational shifts in attitudes, the role of demographics in school choice participation, and the challenges ahead for expanding access to quality education.
With school choice now resonating with both parents and policymakers, Molly and Jennifer urge parents, educators and policymakers to keep pushing for educational freedom and innovation.
Key Takeaways:
Legislative Power: Legislative support is the secret sauce for advancing school choice and gaining traction across the political spectrum.
The Power of Grassroots Advocacy: The power of personal stories and grassroots efforts can't be overstated.
New Education Models: Micro-schools and other new models are gaining ground.
Universal Vouchers: Growing momentum for universal vouchers that aim to give families more options, regardless of income.
Generational Shifts: Younger generations are increasingly supportive of school choice and exploring alternative education options.
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Dr. Robin Koslowitz, a licensed clinical psychologist, discusses her book 'Post Traumatic Parenting' and the impact of trauma on parenting. She introduces the AIM model (Acceptance, Integration, and Meaning) to help parents break the cycle of trauma and create positive experiences. Dr. K emphasizes the importance of creating a parent mission statement to align actions with values. She also addresses the misconceptions about trauma and homeschooling, highlighting the need for mindful decision-making. Additionally, she discusses how teachers can identify children in need of extra attention due to trauma and the role of parents in supporting their children in traditional school settings. Traumatized children often hide their trauma and may appear fine on the surface. It is important for schools to understand and acknowledge both obvious and secret adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) that children may be going through. Good communication between parents and schools is crucial in supporting children with trauma. Teachers can create a signaling system for immediate attention and provide a safe space for children to calm down and express their feelings. Social and emotional learning, teaching children the science of themselves, can help prevent and address trauma. School choice allows parents to find a school that aligns with their values and provides the necessary support for their child's trauma.
Takeaways
The AIM model (Acceptance, Integration, and Meaning) can help parents break the cycle of trauma and create positive experiences for their children.
Creating a parent mission statement can help align actions with values and provide a guiding framework for parenting.
Homeschooling should be a mindful choice informed by trauma or a child's unique needs, rather than a knee-jerk reaction.
Teachers can identify children in need of extra attention due to trauma by observing behavioral and emotional signs.
Parents play a crucial role in supporting their children in traditional school settings by communicating with teachers and advocating for their child's needs. Traumatized children often hide their trauma and may appear fine on the surface.
Good communication between parents and schools is crucial in supporting children with trauma.
Teachers can create a signaling system for immediate attention and provide a safe space for children to calm down and express their feelings.
Social and emotional learning, teaching children the science of themselves, can help prevent and address trauma.
School choice allows parents to find a school that aligns with their values and provides the necessary support for their child's trauma.
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Episodes manquant?
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In this episode, Tom Fisher, Vice President and Director of Litigation for Ed Choice, discusses the critical role of legal advocacy in the school choice movement. He shares insights from his experience as Solicitor General of Indiana, the challenges faced in defending school choice programs, and the importance of parental choice in education. Fisher highlights the successes of Indiana's voucher program and the ongoing legal battles across the nation, emphasizing the need for continued advocacy to protect educational options for families.
Takeaways
Tom Fisher leads Ed Choice Legal Advocates, focusing on litigation for school choice.
The partnership with the Institute for Justice has been pivotal in defending school choice.
Fisher's background as Solicitor General provided valuable experience in education law.
The Indiana Supreme Court's ruling was a significant victory for school choice advocates.
Litigation in state supreme courts focuses on legal arguments rather than evidence.
School choice programs face ongoing legal challenges in various states.
Indiana's unique approach includes vouchers, ESAs, and tax credit scholarships.
The success of voucher programs is linked to parental choice and responsibility.
Micro schools are an emerging trend in education, offering personalized options.
Fisher is optimistic about the future of school choice and its impact on families.
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Learn more about Tom’s work at Ed Choice: https://www.edchoice.org -
Shaunette Parker, Director of Awareness Events for National School Choice Week, discusses the education climate in South Carolina and the importance of education choice. She highlights the need for options and opportunities for families, especially those from underrepresented groups. Parker emphasizes the importance of parent advocacy and engagement in education. She also discusses the work of the National School Choice Week organization in raising awareness and providing resources for families. The challenges facing the school choice movement include the misappropriation of funds and the polarization of opinions on education funding. The National School Choice Week Foundation measures success through media coverage, website traffic, and the growth of new schools and education programs. Community events and awareness campaigns help foster a better understanding of school choice options among parents and students. It is important to meet families where they are and build trust by engaging with trusted community resources. Strategies for engaging underserved communities include talking to families, letting go of stereotypes, and understanding their unique challenges. The goals for the Education Foundation include expanding awareness campaigns, supporting grassroots communities, and providing concrete tools and resources for parents. The hope for the future of school choice is to expand programs, bridge funding gaps, and ensure that families are part of the education system.
Takeaways
Education choice is important for providing options and opportunities for families, especially those from underrepresented groups.
Parent advocacy and engagement are crucial for improving education and ensuring that the needs of children are met.
The National School Choice Week organization raises awareness and provides resources for families, highlighting the importance of education choice.
Challenges facing the school choice movement include the misappropriation of funds and the polarization of opinions on education funding. Success in school choice is measured through media coverage, website traffic, and the growth of new schools and education programs.
Community events and awareness campaigns play a crucial role in fostering understanding and engagement with school choice options.
Engaging underserved communities requires building trust, letting go of stereotypes, and understanding their unique challenges.
The goals for the Education Foundation include expanding awareness campaigns, supporting grassroots communities, and providing concrete tools and resources for parents.
The hope for the future of school choice is to expand programs, bridge funding gaps, and ensure that families are part of the education system.
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In this episode of Education Matters with MySchoolOptions, host Cesar Roman is joined by two leading voices in the education policy arena: Betsy Wiley, President and CEO of the Institute for Quality Education, and Robert Enlow, President and CEO of Ed Choice. Together, they dive into the recent media debate surrounding the Indiana voucher program and school choice efforts across the country.
The conversation highlights the evolution of school choice in Indiana, particularly through the voucher system, and its role in expanding educational opportunities for families. Betsy and Robert break down the common misconceptions about school vouchers and explain how these programs empower parents, particularly in underserved communities. They also discuss the future of school choice, the importance of charter schools and private schools, and the critical need for educational freedom.
Takeaways
School choice is rapidly growing, reshaping the landscape of education policy in the U.S.
The Indiana voucher program, launched in 2011, has seen significant progress, offering more students access to diverse educational options.
Vouchers allow funding to follow the student rather than being tied to the institution.
Charter schools and private schools play a vital role in the school choice ecosystem, increasing diversity and innovation in education.
Misconceptions about school vouchers often stem from misunderstanding how the system works and its benefits for families.
The future of school choice in Indiana could see a move toward universal eligibility, providing every family the opportunity to choose the best education for their child.
Milton Friedman's ideas on education continue to influence school choice advocates, pushing for innovation and entrepreneurship in education.
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Learn more about Robert’s work at Ed Choice: https://www.edchoice.org -
In this episode of Education Matters with MySchoolOptions, Sarah is joined by Dr. Rebecca Estes, Assistant Secretary of Educator Talent at the Indiana Department of Education, to discuss challenges and ongoing initiatives in education in Indiana along with exciting innovation’s such as the stat’s real-time supply-demand marketplace to address the educator shortage and identify areas of need, programs developed to fill gaps in special education and STEM education, the state’s renewed focus in improving literacy (with a goal of ensuring that all students can read by the end of third grade) and, of course, The Indiana Department of Education upcoming Educational Excellence Gala to celebrate and recognize educators throughout the state of Indiana.
Takeaways
Indiana has implemented a real-time supply-demand marketplace to address the educator shortage and identify areas of need.
The state has developed programs to fill gaps in special education and STEM education.
Indiana is focused on improving literacy and has set a goal of ensuring that all students can read by the end of third grade.
The Indiana Department of Education celebrates and recognizes educators through events like the Educational Excellence Gala.
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Brianna Morse, Director of Youth Initiatives and Field Support for the Indiana Department of Workforce Development, discusses the JAG program and its impact on students. JAG, which stands for Jobs for America's Graduates, is a program that focuses on workforce preparation and career development for high school students. The program provides employability skills, leadership opportunities, and mentorship to help students succeed in school and beyond. Morse shares success stories of students who have overcome challenges and transformed their lives through JAG. The program is expanding to include middle school students, providing them with goal-setting and self-esteem building skills. The JAG program in Indiana is expanding to include all four years of high school, with some schools even offering JAG in middle school. Partnerships with local employers and community organizations are crucial for the success of the program, as they provide job opportunities and real-world experiences for students. JAG also provides support for students facing challenges such as homelessness, mental health issues, and parenting. The program aims to continue expanding and evolving to meet the changing needs of workforce and education, and to give students a voice in decision-making processes. The ultimate goal is to provide individualized opportunities for all students and prepare them for success in their chosen paths.
Takeaways
The JAG program focuses on workforce preparation and career development for high school students
The program provides employability skills, leadership opportunities, and mentorship
JAG has had a transformative impact on students, helping them overcome challenges and succeed
The program is expanding to include middle school students, providing them with goal-setting and self-esteem building skills The JAG program in Indiana is expanding to include all four years of high school, with some schools even offering JAG in middle school.
Partnerships with local employers and community organizations are crucial for the success of the program, as they provide job opportunities and real-world experiences for students.
JAG provides support for students facing challenges such as homelessness, mental health issues, and parenting.
The program aims to continue expanding and evolving to meet the changing needs of workforce and education, and to give students a voice in decision-making processes.
The ultimate goal is to provide individualized opportunities for all students and prepare them for success in their chosen paths.
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Jill Haskins and Don Sofier of the National Microschool Center and this episode is all about the innovation of micro schooling. We dive into what exactly a “microschool” is, how they’re formed, how they fit into the school choice framework, and why these exciting educational innovations are key to furthering great, personalized educational opportunities for all students in Indiana and across America.
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Ryan Black, Vice President of Education for Stand Together, discusses the importance of education choice and the need for a pluralistic approach to education. He shares his personal experience in choosing the best education for his son and emphasizes the role of parents in navigating the educational experience. Ryan explains the work of Stand Together in partnering with change makers to solve America's root problems and create a better future. He highlights the challenges of promoting school choice, including the public versus private debate and the need for funding and accountability. Ryan envisions a future with a robust marketplace of educational options that cater to the unique needs of each child.
Takeaways
Parents play a critical role in choosing the best education for their children and should be empowered to navigate the educational experience.
Stand Together partners with change makers to solve America's root problems and create a better future.
The public versus private debate in education hinders progress and should be replaced with a focus on building a new frontier in education.
School choice promotes a pluralistic approach to education, allowing for different methods of teaching and learning.
The future of education will see a marketplace of robust options that cater to the unique needs of each child.
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Whitley Yates shares her personal educational journey and the process of choosing the best educational option for her daughter. She discusses the challenges, barriers, and considerations involved in making this decision, as well as the impact of school choice programs on public schools. The conversation also delves into the importance of educational freedom, diversity in school environments, and the need to address disparities in funding and resources. The conversation covers the importance of local politics, the benefits of school choice, and the impact of community involvement in education. It also delves into the experiences of a parent navigating educational options for their child and the positive outcomes of school choice initiatives.
Takeaways
The importance of parental choice in shaping a child's educational journey
The impact of school choice programs on public schools and the need to address disparities in funding and resources
The significance of diversity in school environments and the consideration of various factors in choosing the best educational option for a child Local politics play a crucial role in education and community development.
School choice provides opportunities for students to thrive and develop their identity.
Community involvement in education creates a supportive and engaging environment for students and parents.
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In this enlightening episode of "Education Matters with MySchoolOptions," Adam O'Doherty, the President and CEO of the United Way of Northwest Indiana, delves into his personal journey, career path, and the impactful initiatives led by his organization. Focusing on education and the transformative power of school choice, Adam discusses the significant challenges and opportunities within the Northwest Indiana community.
Takeaways
Adam O'Doherty's Personal Background: Discover how Adam's unique experiences have shaped his leadership style and commitment to community service.
United Way's Educational Initiatives: Learn about the various programs targeting workforce development, youth activities, and the creation of opportunity hubs to support the community.
Partnerships and Collaborations: Understand the crucial role of partnerships with local schools, government agencies, and non-profits in achieving United Way's educational goals.
Challenges in Northwest Indiana: Explore the pressing issues such as segregation, the scarcity of community centers, and the need for quality early childcare.
Empowering Families and Students: Adam emphasizes the importance of enabling families and students to make informed choices that enhance their educational experiences.
Two-Generation Approach to Poverty Alleviation: Discover how this innovative approach aims to uplift both parents and children simultaneously out of poverty.
Collaboration Among Agencies: Insight into how effective collaboration between agencies focusing on both youth and adults can amplify the impact of educational services.
Impact of Early Childhood Education: The critical role early education plays in preparing children for academic success and addressing truancy issues.
Community Involvement: Learn how community members can contribute to educational initiatives through mentorship, volunteering, and advocacy.
Leadership in Nonprofits: Adam shares his thoughts on how nonprofit leaders can drive change in education by being bold, collaborative, and receptive to feedback.
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Education Matters with MySchoolOptions host Cesar Roman is joined in this episode by Inga Shannon, a judge at the Gary City Court and founder of the non-profit Project Rebuild Foundation. Inga discusses her work in the community and the importance of advocacy for school choice. She shares a heartwarming story of a young woman whose life was transformed through the drug court program and the love of our children that is common among us all, regardless of station - and how educational choice and education options are key to the success of our children. Inga also explains the focus of her non-profit, which is truancy termination and prevention. She highlights the various reasons why kids are not attending school, such as bullying, undiagnosed special needs, and falling behind due to COVID. Inga emphasizes the need for family support and the importance of advocating for children's education, especially for those with special needs. She shares her personal experience advocating for her own daughter and the impact of MySchoolOptions in empowering families to advocate for their children's education. Inga also discusses her experience testifying in front of lawmakers and the lasting impact of MySchoolOptions in connecting with communities and giving a voice to the unheard.
Takeaways
Through her work with the drug court program in Gary City Court, Inga has made a significant difference in the lives of individuals struggling with substance abuse, helping them find employment and improve their overall well-being.
Project Rebuild Foundation, a non-profit founded by Inga Shannon, focuses on truancy termination and prevention, addressing the various reasons why kids are not attending school.
Family support is crucial in addressing truancy issues, as it is not just a child issue but a family issue.
Advocacy plays a vital role in ensuring that children with special needs receive the education and services they are entitled to.
My School Options empowers families by teaching them how to advocate for their children's education and providing them with information and resources.
Testifying in front of lawmakers can have a significant impact in influencing legislation and bringing attention to important issues.
The lasting impact of My School Options includes giving a voice to the unheard, connecting with communities, and empowering families to advocate for their children's education.
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Garrett Ballengee from the Cardinal Institute discusses education reform and school choice in West Virginia. The state has a high poverty rate and a struggling education system. The Cardinal Institute aims to build the 'West Virginia miracle' through four pillars: education freedom, economic freedom, workforce freedom, and a culture of freedom. They have been successful in passing comprehensive school choice programs, including public charter school laws and the expansive HOPE Scholarship ESA program. The ESA program has had a positive impact on parents and students, with increased enrollment in private schools and the ability to customize education experiences. The conversation explores the impact of school choice and education innovation, specifically focusing on West Virginia's ESA program. Sarah and Garrett discuss the benefits of school choice for students, families, and teachers, highlighting the ability to customize education and create economically viable careers for teachers. They also discuss the challenges and growing pains of implementing and administering ESA programs, including legal battles and technological issues. The conversation emphasizes the importance of raising awareness about school choice and creating alternative pathways for students who don't fit into traditional education systems.
Takeaways
The lack of school choice or education freedom is a primary reason for the struggles in West Virginia's education system.
The Cardinal Institute aims to build the 'West Virginia miracle' through education freedom, economic freedom, workforce freedom, and a culture of freedom.
West Virginia has passed comprehensive school choice programs, including public charter school laws and the expansive HOPE Scholarship ESA program.
The HOPE Scholarship ESA program has had a positive impact on parents and students, with increased enrollment in private schools and the ability to customize education experiences. School choice allows for customization of education and empowers students and families to make decisions about their education.
ESA programs can create economically viable careers for teachers and provide alternative pathways for students who don't fit into traditional education systems.
Raising awareness about school choice is crucial for its success, and organizations play a vital role in marketing and communication efforts.
Implementing and administering ESA programs can come with challenges, including legal battles and technological issues.
Education innovation is evolving, with a focus on preparing students for the future and recognizing the value of different career paths.
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In honor of Charter School Week, Education Matters with MySchoolOptions is bringing you this conversation with host Cesar Roman and guests Jacqueline Kronk, CEO of the Boys and Girls Club of St. Joseph County, and Jeremy Lugbill, Superintendent for Career and Success Academy Network of Public Schools in South Bend, Indiana. The conversation explores the partnership between the Boys and Girls Club and Career Academy Network of Public Schools on a new Charter School in South Bend, Indiana. The main themes include enhancing the educational experience, creating a teacher pipeline, providing access to different opportunities, and making learning relevant and impactful. The partnership aims to prepare students for the future by offering project-based learning, interdisciplinary connections, and real-world experiences. The Boys and Girls Club aims to inspire and enable all kids to reach their full potential through innovative programming and partnerships. Career and Success Academy Network focuses on transforming lives through passionate, innovative, and impactful learning experiences. The conversation highlights their collaboration in creating a micro school and other initiatives to meet the needs of students in the community.
Takeaways
Charter schools offer high-quality, tuition-free options with accountability and flexibility.
Addressing the emotional needs of students is crucial for their overall well-being and academic success.
Creating innovative learning experiences, such as micro schools and makerspaces, can enhance student engagement and prepare them for the future. The partnership between the Boys and Girls Club and Career Academy Network aims to enhance the educational experience for students in South Bend, Indiana.
The partnership focuses on creating a teacher pipeline and providing access to different opportunities for students.
Project-based learning, interdisciplinary connections, and real-world experiences are key components of the educational model.
Community collaboration and education advocacy play a crucial role in driving change in education.
The lasting impact of the partnership is to prepare students for the future and transform the educational landscape in the South Bend community.
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John Elcesser, the executive director of Indiana Non-Public Education Association (INPEA), discusses his background in non-public education and the importance of school choice advocacy. He highlights the impact of non-public schools in Indiana and the need for diverse educational options. Elcesser emphasizes the role of advocacy in protecting and expanding school choice programs, and the importance of grassroots support. He shares his favorite moments of successful advocacy efforts and the growth of enrollment in non-public schools. Elcesser also looks ahead to the goal of universal school choice in Indiana by 2025. The future of school choice is moving towards universal access, with the goal of providing choice to all families. However, there is a concern about regulatory creep, where more regulations are being imposed on non-public and choice schools, dampening their excitement. Advocacy is crucial to ensure the expansion of school choice and address barriers such as transportation and athletic eligibility. Capital-related issues, like limited access to outside funding, also pose challenges for non-public schools. The SGO program has been instrumental in making high school education affordable, and there is a need to keep it viable and explore ways to enhance it. It is essential for individuals to be involved, engaged, and informed in the political process to support school choice initiatives.
Takeaways
Non-public schools in Indiana have made significant contributions to the educational landscape and have produced many leaders in the state.
Advocacy is crucial for protecting and expanding school choice programs, and grassroots support plays a vital role in influencing legislators.
The impact of school choice legislation can be seen in increased enrollment and growth of non-public schools.
The goal of universal school choice in Indiana by 2025 is achievable with continued advocacy and engagement. The future of school choice is focused on achieving universal access for all families.
Regulatory creep, with increasing regulations on non-public and choice schools, is a concern that dampens schools' excitement.
The current system creates an awkward environment in schools where only a small percentage of families are eligible for choice programs.
Advocacy is crucial to expand school choice and address barriers such as transportation and athletic eligibility.
Capital-related issues, like limited access to outside funding, pose challenges for non-public schools.
The SGO program has been instrumental in making high school education affordable and needs to be kept viable and enhanced.
Individuals need to be involved, engaged, and informed in the political process to support school choice initiatives.
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Sarah and returning guest Molly from IQE cover all the news that’s fit to print about school choice around Indiana and the nation in this first news roundup segment!
The two discuss the landscape of school choice in Indiana and the importance of policy and grassroots efforts in advancing school choice initiatives. They highlight the collaboration between policy and grassroots teams in achieving school choice expansions in the state. They also discuss the increasing attention and discussions around school choice in recent years, as well as the role of Indiana in paving the way for other states.
The conversation touches on the legislative process and the challenges of navigating different perspectives within the Republican Party. They also explore the cost savings of school choice programs and the positive outcomes of voucher programs in Indiana. Finally, they mention articles that discuss the cost of school choice and the different perspectives in the school choice debate.
The conversation explores the topic of school choice and its various aspects. The speakers emphasize that school choice does not demonize public schools but rather aims to provide parents with options for their children's education.
They discuss the importance of allowing parents to make decisions about their child's education and highlight the need for access to different types of schools. The conversation also touches on the misconception that school choice takes money away from public schools, emphasizing that the funds should follow the student. The speakers delve into the concept of micro schools and their benefits, particularly for rural communities. They conclude by noting that school choice is a dynamic and evolving movement that varies from state to state and will continue to expand and be implemented in the coming years.
Read The Articles:
In Arkansas, School Choice Is Encouraging Education Entrepreneurship
U.S. Catholic school report highlights steady enrollment, disability accessibility, and school choice
Opinion | Rural Republicans Embrace School Choice
Tennessee House, Senate divided on school choice bill as governor aims for compromise
School Choice Is Key to Ensuring Parents' Rights
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Cesar is joined by Monique Love, a mother of four and an educator specializing in reading, who shares her unique perspective on education. She discusses her journey from being a public school teacher to becoming a homeschooling parent. Monique's decision to homeschool was influenced by her experiences in the school system and her desire to provide the best education for her children. She also talks about her involvement in evaluating charter schools and the challenges of ongoing evaluation. In this conversation, Monique Love discusses various aspects of education, including evaluation and coaching practices, what makes a great school, the importance of credible teachers, special education practices, and the need to pay teachers adequately. She emphasizes the role of advocacy and the importance of choices in education. Monique also shares her experience in finding school options and highlights the need to address barriers to ensure equitable access to high-quality education for all students. She encourages parents to be involved, ask questions, and hold schools accountable.
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Sarah is joined by Lorenza Jara Pastrick, Principal of the Bishop Knoll Institute, who shares her personal background and journey through education to end up as principal of her alma mater, the Bishop Knoll Institute. She discusses her experiences and the immense personal and professional rewards she has received by shepherding so many children in the region through their Catholic education journeys. Principal Pastrick covers the emergence of AI and coaching her students through booms in technological advancements in the tools available to kids with innovation coaches, breaks down how her STEM labs work differently than legacy schooling, and cover how this is all made possible by the advancement of school choice over the course of her career from a young teacher to now a school principal.
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Sarah is joined by Marcie Brown Carter, Executive Director of the Indiana Charter School Network, who shares her personal background and journey in education. She discusses her experience working with Governor Mitch Daniels and Dr. Tony Bennett, highlighting the accomplishments and challenges they faced in education policy over the course of her tenure. Marcie explains the role of the Indiana Charter School Network in supporting charter schools and advocating for school choice. She addresses misconceptions about charter schools and emphasizes their status as public schools. Marcie also shares insights for individuals aspiring to make an impact in education, encouraging them to start with their family and local community. Marcie discusses the importance of getting involved in your local community and paying attention to school board members and local legislators. She also shares her experience in finding the right school for her children, emphasizing that different schools have different strengths and weaknesses. Marcie encourages parents not to be discouraged and to keep looking for the right fit for their child. Finally, she talks about her motivation and passion for her work at the Indiana Charter School Network.
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In this conversation, School Choice parent advocate and medical momma Erica Hunt shares her family's journey in finding the right educational environment for their daughter Ella, who has special needs. They initially explored private school for a faith-based education but faced challenges as Ella's needs became more complex, resulting in the difficult decision to transition to homeschooling and, later, discovering the ESA program, which provided them with the flexibility and customization they needed. The ESA program has empowered Ella to learn at her own pace and pursue her interests. Erica advocates for expanding school choice options to meet the unique needs of every Hoosier child.
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