The Classical Academies Partnering With Parents

David Bower teaches physics, engineering, and robotics at Classical Academy High School, where his passion for problem-solving and innovation fuels a student-led robotics program unlike any other. Through hands-on projects like game-playing robots, students gain technical expertise and essential soft skills in teamwork, leadership, and perseverance. Bower discusses the importance of strong foundational learning, creating a supportive environment for beginners, and making STEM accessible and fun. He also offers practical encouragement for parents: no matter your background, your support and presence can impact your child's STEM journey.

Pediatrician Dr. Akash Rajaratnam explores the critical link between nutrition and academic success in children. With 1 in 5 kids in the U.S. affected by childhood obesity, he sheds light on how ultra-processed foods can lead to nutrient deficiencies, reduced focus, and behavioral challenges in the classroom. Discover practical strategies for cutting back on sugar, choosing brain-boosting foods, and supporting healthy development. Learn more!

Classical Academy Art Teacher Cathy Hamilton shares her inspiring journey in art education, which was deeply influenced by her experience as a mother to a daughter with disabilities. She explains how creativity empowers students through self-expression, confidence, and connection, reaching beyond traditional academic metrics. Cathy highlights the inclusive nature of art and its integration across subjects. She invites families to celebrate student creativity at the Spring Art Show in April.Learn more here!

Gardening provides children with hands-on experiences that teach responsibility, resilience, and environmental awareness. Kimberly Tomlinson, Director of Education at Coastal Roots Farm, explores how gardening also enhances skills in math, reading, and problem-solving, along with social skills like resilience, perseverance, and patience. She highlights the vital connection with nature that gardening cultivates and discusses the many educational programs offered at Coastal Roots Farm.https://coastalrootsfarm.org/

The Classical Academies' Virtual Learning Program offers a flexible and engaging educational experience for students in grades 1-8. Virtual Teacher Stephanie Brown shares how the program combines interactive lessons, hands-on activities, and meaningful social connections to bring learning to life. She explains how virtual learning nurtures collaboration, meets diverse student needs, and creates a personalized, dynamic environment for students to connect beyond the classroom.

The Classical Academies is committed to supporting students with special needs through flexible, personalized special education programs. Program Specialist Regina Darling shares insights on creating collaboration between families and educators, addressing key challenges such as navigating the special education system, maintaining open communication, and ensuring IEPs (Individual Education Plans) adapt to each student's evolving needs. She emphasizes the importance of assuming the best intentions, fostering strong communication, and creating adaptable IEP plans to support student success best.

Self-care is more than just a break, it's a way to reconnect with yourself and show up as your best self for your family. Dr. Robyn Koslowitz, a psychologist specializing in post-traumatic parenting, explores the role of self-care in building resilience and preventing burnout. She emphasizes the importance of intentional well-being and offers practical strategies for setting boundaries, managing guilt, delegating responsibilities, and being fully present. Dr. Koslowitz is a frequent media contributor, appearing on Fox, CNN, NewsNation, and more.https://www.drrobynkoslowitz.com/about/

Educational psychologist Dr. Michelle Borba shares practical strategies to help parents nurture resilience in their children by developing key character traits like self-confidence, empathy, self-control, integrity, curiosity, perseverance, and optimism. From encouraging hobbies and teaching emotional literacy to modeling core values and promoting positive self-talk, Dr. Borba offers actionable steps to help kids navigate challenges with confidence. By focusing on these essential skills, parents can empower their children to develop strong coping mechanisms and thrive academically and emotionally and academically.

Stephen Covey's Seven Habits of Highly Effective Families offers practical tools to help parents be intentional in family life. Charlene Smith, Executive Director of Educational Services, emphasizes how aligning family decisions with shared values strengthens connections. She also highlights the importance of open communication, active listening, and modeling positive behaviors to build mutual respect and understanding. Families can nurture strong and lasting bonds by prioritizing parental presence and celebrating achievements.

Balancing a career and homeschooling might seem impossible, but teachers Julie Enzminger and Desirae Heath prove that it can be done successfully with the right strategies. They share how they manage professional commitments and offer practical tips for effective time management, establishing flexible routines, and building supportive accountability systems to stay on track. They've found innovative ways to balance their roles by leveraging virtual resources and strong community connections.

Parenting during the preteen and teenage years often involves navigating the natural individuation process as children strive for independence. In this episode, leadership coach and author Keith Merron, founder of Leadership Pathways, explores the concept of sovereignty in personal development and parenting. The discussion highlights the importance of cultivating resilience, embracing diversity, and encouraging growth through risk and failure, which are essential for preparing children for adulthood. Keith also shares insights on how schools and parents can work together to create a nurturing environment that inspires a love of learning, builds character, and supports a holistic approach to independence.

Amy Saloner is a licensed clinical social worker and functional nutritional therapy practitioner who shares the complexities of teen mental health. She helps differentiate between normal emotional experiences and signs of mental health challenges while exploring the physiological and psychological impacts of anxiety and depression. Amy also discusses the influence of social media on teens' mental well-being. She offers valuable insights into supporting teens through the formative years by drawing on a resilience framework centered on four key pillars: body, mind, relationships, and purpose.Workshop: Keeping The Peace: Creating meaningful agreements with your Teen/Tween:Sunday, January 26, 2025, from 1-3 pmhttps://amy-saloner-3302.mykajabi.com/keeping-the-peacewww.amysaloner.comInstagram: @resilientfamily_resilientteenFacebook: @amysalonerprofessional

In his new book Job Moves: Nine Steps for Making Progress in Your Career, Michael Horn explores career paths' evolving, non-linear nature and the growing importance of personal agency when making career choices. He highlights the rise of career technical education and apprenticeships, emphasizing how students can begin exploring their interests early to better align with future opportunities. Horn encourages parents and educators to create environments where students can reflect on their values, develop practical skills, and gain real-world experience, empowering them to navigate the dynamic job market confidently.https://www.jobmoves.com/

Classical Academy Middle School Principal Jennifer Morrow shares her journey from homeschool parent to school leader, highlighting the school's innovative three-day program for seventh and eighth graders. Balancing academic, social, and emotional growth, Classical Academy Middle School incorporates unique elements like "Flex" and "Win Time" to help students develop organizational and time management skills. Principal Morrow also discusses the diverse range of electives and community service projects that build independence and teach self-management, equipping students with lifelong skills.

Coastal Academy High School Principal Samantha Martinez discusses the impressive growth and innovative programs at Coastal Academy High School. Principal Martinez reflects on her educational journey and highlights the school's focus on personalized learning, student empowerment, and flexible scheduling to meet individual needs. With new facilities on the horizon and a solid commitment to Career and Technical Education pathways, Coastal Academy is dedicated to preparing students for college and careers while offering a supportive learning community. This is episode four in a special six-part series on school leadership.

Classical Academy High School (CAHS) Principal Dana Moen shares his personal journey and the innovative ways CAHS is shaping students for life beyond high school. With a focus on the four "F's"—fun, fitness, friendships, and future—Dana discusses how these pillars, extracurricular engagement and reducing cell phone distractions, contribute to student well-being and academic achievement. Dana explains how CAHS' supportive culture builds genuine connections, develops character, and equips students for leadership, community involvement, and personal growth.

Kirstin Lasto, Principal of Classical Academy Vista, shares her journey from parent to school leader. She discusses the school's remarkable growth, commitment to building a strong community, and the initiatives shaping student character and leadership. From the transformative Leader in Me program to expanding sports opportunities, Kirstin highlights Classical Academy Vista's supportive, engaging environment. With a forward-thinking approach to preparing students for the future, she emphasizes the importance of parent collaboration in creating an enriching educational experience.*This is episode #3 in a six-part series featuring school principals.

Coastal Academy Principal Marcy Cashin has been a teacher and principal for the past 21 years. She shares her passion for community and engaging students, parents, and staff. She explains how character development and creating a sense of belonging through events and clubs provide a safe environment for students to learn and grow. This year's theme, “strong foundation, bright future,” reflects Coastal Academy's commitment to high-quality education and continuous improvement. Marcy expresses gratitude and the importance of collaborating with parents for student success.

Kenna Molina has dedicated 26 years to the Classical Academies, rising from a part-time teacher to principal. Kenna emphasizes the importance of nurturing well-rounded individuals with character alongside academic skills, highlighted by the school's theme, "Strong Foundation, Bright Future." As she prepares for retirement, she expresses confidence in maintaining school culture and encourages parents to focus on core motivations for homeschooling. Kenna's legacy illustrates the profound impact of parent partnership and collaboration, inspiring us to support our children's growth together.

Josiah Cruz, Athletic Director at Classical Academy High School, challenges the common belief that "athletics doesn't develop character; it only reveals it." He argues that athletics is a powerful tool for teaching young people how to persevere, practice, push beyond their limits, and put others first. Through the long conditioning process, athletics offers students the chance to define their purpose and grow their character. Cruz emphasizes the importance of the four D's, Discipline, Dedication, Determination, and Desire, and highlights relationship-centered coaching that is supportive, encouraging, and focused on success both on and off the field.  

Co-Founder, President, and Chief Guide of YouSchool Scott Schimmel discusses the growing concerns around social media and its impact on children's development. He provides essential resources to help parents guide their children to become self-aware, responsible, and self-driven adults with meaningful lives. Drawing on Jonathon Haidt's research, he breaks down the four foundational harms of social media on children: social and sleep deprivation, attention fragmentation, and addiction. He stresses the importance of teaching children to manage their lives by building healthy habits and understanding the role technology plays in them. Follow @TechHealthyParenting on Instagram Download our free Five Conversations Guide fivetechconversations.com Sign up for our Tech Healthy Parenting Course theyouschool.com 25% off use the Promo Code ‘CLASSICAL' The Anxious Generation - https://www.anxiousgeneration.com/book

The Leader in Me program is a transformative approach that empowers students to become leaders in their own lives. By equipping them with self-confidence and essential life skills, this program prepares students to thrive academically and personally. Director of Educational Services Charlene Smith shares her insights on how The Leader in Me instills the "Seven Habits of Healthy Kids," a framework to shape students' academic success while cultivating their personal growth, sense of responsibility, and overall well-being. Smith has seen the impact beyond the classroom, as students carry these principles into their daily lives, enhancing their interactions with peers, teachers, and family members.Charlene SmithDirector of Educational Servicescsmith@classicalacademy.comhttps://www.leaderinme.com/The 7 Habits of Highly Effective KidsThe 7 Habits of Highly Effective TeensThe 7 Habits of Highly Effective FamiliesThe 7 Habits of Highly Effective People

Coastal Academy teacher and homeschooling parent Alyssa Cavalier discusses strategies for successfully homeschooling a kindergartner. She covers topics like creating a mission statement, the importance of preparation, building community, weekly planning, incorporating play, setting up incentives, and managing challenging days and distractions.

This year's JumpStart Keynote Speaker, Jeremy Adams, shares what he has learned with his 25 years of teaching experience. Adams discusses the universal crisis affecting young people, including rising levels of isolation, anxiety, loneliness, and a lack of connection. He emphasizes the necessity of preparing our youth to navigate a world while instilling in them the knowledge, behavior, and habits for success. Adams highlights how adults can be positive role models by modeling healthy relationships and encouraging healthy environments. Discover practical strategies for supporting the next generation, giving them the roots to stay grounded and the wings to soar. Hallowed OutLessons in Liberty

AI and machine learning tools, though available for the past decade, are now more accessible to the general public. Classical Academy High School teachers Jonathon Sonoda and Nicolas Heyming explore the transformative benefits of AI in education, emphasizing its ethical and responsible use. They highlight how students can leverage AI to enhance learning outcomes, expand their skills, and boost productivity. By serving as an efficient executive assistant, AI offers valuable support in various educational tasks, making it a powerful tool for modern learning.

The Classical Academies welcomes Kurtis Indorf, the newly appointed CEO, to explore the experience and insights that have shaped his past and leadership journey. Board President Mark Reardon reflects on this transition and discusses the vision and strategies that will steer the organization forward under Kurtis's leadership.

In this candid conversation, Cameron Curry, the outgoing CEO of Classical Academies, shares his 25-year journey at the helm. Joined by Board President Mark Reardon, Curry reflects on the joys, challenges, and struggles he faced while leading the organization. His insights offer a glimpse into the life of a transformative leader who navigated the complexities of steering an educational institution toward excellence. Curry's parting wisdom promises to inspire and guide others in their service and pursuits.

Homeschooling offers a unique opportunity for parents to instill values, cultivate character development, and teach a love for learning in their children. However, managing the homeschooling of multiple children can be challenging. Leah Ferkins, an experienced Educational Specialist who has successfully homeschooled her three sons, shares invaluable insights on creating effective quiet workspaces, incorporating essential breaks, and prioritizing personal self-care.  Whether you're a seasoned homeschooler or just starting out, Leah provides practical tips and strategies to enhance your homeschooling journey.

There are nearly 120 community colleges in California that offer affordable and accessible education. Monica McMillian, a counselor at Classical Academy High School, shares the advantages of attending community college. She highlights how community college is an excellent avenue for students to navigate their career paths while maintaining connections with their community. Drawing from her personal journey, Monica offers insights and encouragement for students to embrace this valuable educational opportunity.

Jeremy S. Adams has been teaching AP Political Science in Bakersfield, California, for the past 25 years. When he noticed his students needed inspiration, connection, and positive role models, he was motivated to author the book Lessons in Liberty: Thirty Lessons in Life From Ten Extraordinary Americans. He explores the lives of George Washington, Daniel Inouye, Clara Barton, Arthur Ash, and more to learn how they have used their freedom to inspire ideas and outcomes to make life more meaningful.Buy here!

Drawing from her role as Vice Principal at Classical Academy High School and her experience as an Academic Coach, Tayler Williams provides insightful advice on navigating the complexities of college preparation. Covering topics such as researching college options, understanding admission requirements, and selecting majors, Tayler offers practical tools and encourages collaborative efforts between students and parents to ensure students graduate on time and are well-equipped for their future.

Many teens are experiencing escalated stress and anxiety stemming from academic pressures, technological influences, social media dynamics, the pursuit of success, and apprehensions about what lies ahead. School counselors Angie Winkler and Brian Duyst shed light on their strategies for assisting students and families navigating through these challenging seasons. They offer valuable perspectives on reframing stress and anxiety as natural responses from a constructive desire for achievement.

Jen Hernandez is a Classical Academy High School (CAHS) Counseling Technician, Volleyball Coach, and military spouse. She shares military families' unique challenges, including frequent moves, finding quality schools, navigating new friendships, deployment separation, and accessing support services. Jen sheds light on how communities can support and assist those serving our country.

The pressures of social media and perfectionism have led to an increase in low self-esteem in adolescents nationwide. Low self-esteem can lead to negative self-talk, fear of failure, difficulty making friends, diminished motivation and interest, and the inability to deal with frustration. Coastal Academy High School counselor Stephanie Fremstad offers practical advice for parents, providing valuable insights to initiate meaningful conversations with their children.Care Solace: http://www.caresolace.com/classicalacademies

Diverse learners possess unique characteristics, experiences, and learning styles that may differ from the average student. This diversity can manifest in various ways, including differences in academic abilities, language proficiency, cultural background, socioeconomic status, and physical or cognitive abilities. Tenielle Araujo is an Intervention Coordinator and Reading Specialist who provides a unique perspective from her professional role and personal experience with dyslexic children. Recognizing and addressing the needs of diverse learners involves implementing inclusive educational strategies where all students have equitable opportunities to succeed and reach their full potential.

Positive and proactive parenting provides a supportive and constructive environment that nurtures a child's emotional well-being, builds strong connections, and teaches life skills through positive reinforcement. School Counselors Katie Orian and Krista Gravelle share more about effectively communicating, managing expectations, and providing consistent and fair consequences as we move through the stages of commander, coach, counselor, and consultant.

Explore the evolution of writing education with Andrew Pudewa, the Director of the Institute for Excellence in Writing. Drawing on his 30 years of experience, Pudewa shares the dynamic intersection of traditional methodologies and technological advancements in teaching writing. He shares the importance of teaching fundamental skills, such as exposure to quality literature, mastery of rich vocabulary, adherence to spelling and grammar rules, and cultivation of memorization abilities. These timeless foundations empower students to become adept and proficient writers.

Kevin Pressley, EdTech & Innovative Learning Coordinator at The Classical Academies, shares how personalized, portable, seamless, and social learning experiences benefit students. Drawing on his expertise, he explores how tailoring educational approaches to each student's unique needs enhances their learning journey and makes education more accessible and engaging. With a keen focus on leveraging technology, Pressley shares valuable insights into the transformative impact of creating an inclusive and dynamic learning environment that empowers students to thrive in the digital age.

Safe spaces prioritize providing individuals with security and comfort, cultivating an environment where people can freely express themselves without fearing judgment. Brave spaces push boundaries by encouraging uncomfortable yet necessary conversations. Chalese Young, the Assistant Principal at Classical Academy High School, distinguishes between these two perspectives, highlighting how brave spaces leverage discomfort as a catalyst for growth. In these spaces, challenging perspectives and embracing discomfort become pathways to learning, understanding, sharing perspectives, and connecting with others.

Wendy and Dana Moen serve The Classical Academies in leadership roles and have raised three adult children. Together, they candidly share their triumphs, mistakes, and invaluable lessons learned, providing a roadmap for successfully guiding teenagers toward adulthood. They review the four stages of parenting and provide parents with practical, actionable advice that nurtures the growth of teenagers into individuals equipped with the skills, resilience, and confidence needed for a successful transition into adulthood.

As the founder and director of the Institute for Excellence in Writing, Andrew Pudewah has been equipping teachers and parents with the skills to teach English grammar and composition for over two decades. He explains how new artificial intelligence technology tools can write better and faster than most individuals.Andrew shares his recommendations for when AI should be used and how it can enhance student outcomes , unlocking unprecedented opportunities for students to refine their writing skills and excel in learning.https://iew.com/intro-iew

Looking back on her experience homeschooling, Educational Specialist Sarah DeNeve shares her insightful journey and the lessons she's learned. Sarah explains the nuances of adapting teaching methods to match a child's unique learning style, embracing grace amidst inevitable challenges, prioritizing self-care, and staying rooted in the core 'why' behind homeschooling. Through her personal experiences, she discovered how these essential elements can transform the homeschooling journey, making it a fulfilling and enjoyable adventure for both parents and children alike.

Nurturing Executive Functioning Skills, such as planning, organizing, and managing time and self-care, are essential for a successful transition to college, the workforce, and adulthood. School Psychologist Michael Kester provides valuable insights into how parents can actively prepare their children to learn and practice these skills while setting an example of social and emotional well-being. Michael also highlights the significance of extracurricular opportunities, explaining how they offer students a unique avenue to acquire essential communication skills, setting them toward a successful future.

Lance Izumi, a distinguished author, renowned researcher, and passionate education advocate, serves as the Senior Director of the Center for Education at the esteemed Pacific Research Institute. Izumi discusses his impressive background and latest 2023 co-authored masterpiece, "The Great Parent Revolt." Izumi provides deep insights into the ever-evolving landscape of American public education, shedding light on the crucial issues and innovations shaping its future.

The Centers for Disease Control now estimate that 1 in 13 children has a food allergy. While we do not precisely know why, doctors like Dr. Tracy Clark, a lead physician with the Food Allergy Institute, believe that environment, diet, early viral exposure, and antibiotics may play a significant role. Dr. Clark explains how to recognize overt and subtle allergy symptoms parents should watch for and explains the importance of having an action plan in place.socalfoodallergy.org

Resilience is the capacity to go through diversity and emerge stronger. Kevin Hammond is a Resilience First Aid trainer with First Watch Advanced Data Services. Kevin shares how the 6 Domains of Resilience, including one's sense of purpose, composure, reasoning, health, tenacity, and collaboration, can determine overall health and wellness. He explains how learning to self-regulate can strengthen our resilience skills.www.hellodriven.comhttps://home.hellodriven.com/resilience-training/programs/resilience-first-aid/why-rfa/

Hearing and vision play a pivotal role in a student's growth and learning; problems often go unnoticed until issues arise. The Classical Academies test hearing and vision in K, 2nd, 5th, and 8th grade. They also test hearing in 10th grade and test boys for color blindness. School Nurse John Fitzgerald highlights the significance of proactive testing during these formative years, shedding light on the warning signs and testing processes. He explains how addressing hearing and vision concerns early can positively impact a child's academic performance, social interactions, and overall well-being.

Behavior Analysts work proactively in the classroom, with Independent Study Plans, and with parent partners to lower behavior disruption and increase engagement. Special Education Teacher and Behavior Analyst Dave Urban shares tools and strategies such as scheduling breaks, encouraging exercise, contingency management, and planning rewards to minimize negative behavior and set students up for success.

TikTok, Snapchat, Instagram, Youtube, Discord, Minecraft, Fortnight, and Roblox... the list of social apps, games, and video apps are ever-changing. Teens spend an average of 7 hours daily on screens, and many of these apps are designed to be physically and psychologically addictive. School Counselors Alyssa Atkins and Lisa Taylor share how parents can be more aware and involved in their teen's online activities. They offer helpful strategies and tools to set up family passwords, boundaries, and phone-free zones to teach teens to self-monitor and regulate better.Contact: counseling@classicalacademy.comSmart Social

Jumpstart your school year with nationally renowned psychotherapist, school counselor, and parenting expert, Tom Kersting. Author of the books Raising Healthy Teenagers and Disconnected, Tom explains that he sees a mental health epidemic among teens. He shares how to break the cycle of anxiety and depression and hopes to provide impactful strategies and tools parents can implement to raise healthy, happy teenagers.Tom has been featured on CBS, MSN, FOX, A&E, Today, and Oprah Wellness Network and is the founder and owner of Valley Family Counseling Center in Park Ridge, NJ.https://www.tomkersting.com/

Dr. Judy White is a retired Superintendent and educator and is now a master trainer for The Third Option. Dr. White explains how The Third Option celebrates our commonalities and addresses blind spots and labeling, She feels meaningful conversations create positive group interactions that value and honor our humanity.