Podcasts about Education reform

Why GLP-1 weight loss drugs, fad diets, and government inaction are hurting the public—and what we must do instead. #GLP1Risks #FoodPolitics #WellnessReform #HealthTalks

Today on Uncommon Sense, we're discussing the tragic state of the modern world.From the protests in Ireland to growing frustration across Western nations, many people feel as though their voices are no longer being heard by the institutions that claim to represent them. I'll share why I support the right of people to protest and why I believe the demonstrations in Ireland have resonated with so many people around the world.We'll also discuss what I see as a deeper spiritual crisis affecting modern society. Many of the political, cultural, and social problems we face today are symptoms of a broader moral and spiritual decline, one that cannot be solved through politics alone.In this episode:My thoughts on the protests in IrelandWhy so many citizens now feel disconnected from their governmentsThe growing divide between ordinary people and powerful institutionsThe role of faith, morality, and personal responsibility in rebuilding societyWhy I believe many of today's crises point to a deeper spiritual battleWhether you agree or disagree, this episode is an invitation to think critically about the direction of our culture, our governments, and our future.--https://www.youversion.com/bible-app

What lessons did Texas learn from the tragedy in Uvalde—and how are lawmakers working to prevent a similar failure from happening again? On this episode of Texas Talks, host Brad Swail sits down with State Representative Don McLaughlin, who represents Texas House District 80 and previously served as mayor of Uvalde during one of the most difficult periods in the city's history. McLaughlin discusses House Bill 33, the Uvalde Strong Act, which was passed unanimously during his first legislative session and is designed to improve coordination, training, leadership, and preparedness among law enforcement agencies responding to active shooter situations. The conversation covers: • The lessons learned from the Robb Elementary School tragedy • House Bill 33 and active shooter preparedness reforms • Law enforcement recruitment and retention challenges • Mental health support for first responders • Rogue district attorneys and accountability proposals • Border security and immigration enforcement concerns • The New World screwworm threat and Texas agriculture • Property taxes, water policy, and education reform priorities • Key issues facing the 90th Texas Legislature The discussion also explores broader challenges facing Texas law enforcement, including officer shortages, training standards, public support for policing, and ways to improve recruitment while maintaining professional standards. Looking ahead, McLaughlin shares his perspective on the major issues likely to dominate the next legislative session, including property tax relief, water infrastructure, border security, and public education. Throughout the episode, he emphasizes the importance of practical solutions, local experience, and ensuring Texas communities have the resources needed to remain safe and prosperous. 00:00 — Intro + Rep. Don McLaughlin joins 01:00 — From businessman to Uvalde mayor 03:11 — House Bill 33 and the Uvalde Strong Act 05:31 — What went wrong during the Robb Elementary response 08:11 — Early implementation of HB 33 10:16 — Mental health support for first responders 11:52 — Updates from recent public safety hearings 13:37 — Measuring success for school safety reforms 14:10 — Law enforcement recruitment and retention challenges 21:19 — Rogue district attorneys and accountability 23:10 — State prosecutor proposal discussion 24:25 — Police hiring standards and recruitment 25:57 — Childcare, support systems, and officer retention 27:45 — Border security and immigration concerns 30:40 — The New World screwworm threat 33:21 — Property taxes, water, and education priorities 35:15 — Looking ahead to the 90th Legislature 35:53 — Closing thoughts Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@TexasTalks Follow us on social mediaX: @Texas_DispatchInstagram: thetexasdispatchLinkedIn: The Texas DispatchTikTok: texas_talks_podcast Find more at The Texas DispatchYour source for state news, policy, and investigative journalism.https://thetexasdispatch.com

In this week's episode of The Learning Curve, co-hosts Prof. Albert Cheng of the University of Arkansas and Alisha Searcy of the Center for Strong Public Schools speak with Leslie Hiner, Senior Advisor for Legal Policy at EdChoice, about the constitutional foundations and future of educational freedom in America. Hiner reflects on her distinguished career in law and public policy before examining the landmark U.S. Supreme Court decisions that have shaped the modern school choice movement. She discusses how Brown v. Board of Education's promise of equal educational opportunity influenced later efforts to expand parental choice and educational access. Hiner then explores the significance of Zelman v. Simmons-Harris, Trinity Lutheran Church v. Comer, Espinoza v. Montana Department of Revenue, and Carson v. Makin, explaining how each expanded protections for families seeking religious and private educational options. She assesses the legal landscape following Carson, highlights key recent victories such as Loffman v. California Department of Education, and offers insights into the future of school choice litigation, educational tax credits, and parental rights nationwide. Finally, Hiner also examines current legal cases, including Hellman v. Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, and they could mean for the future of school choice in Massachusetts.

Dyslexic entrepreneur and Talamo co-founder Jamie Wace joins Ben for a conversation about why so many children with dyslexia are still being missed - and how technology could radically change access to support.Jamie reflects on his own experience of school, including being told not to pursue subjects he loved because his dyslexia was misunderstood. He shares how years working in tech and entrepreneurship eventually led him to question why dyslexia assessment systems remained so inaccessible, expensive and outdated.Together, they explore the emotional impact of unidentified learning differences, why schools often rely on “wait until they fail” models, and how understanding a child's cognitive profile can shift the conversation from blame to support. Jamie also unpacks the future of assistive technology, overlapping neurodivergent conditions, and why early identification could change life trajectories for millions of children.Join us at hidden20.org/donate.________Host: Ben BransonProduction Manager: Phoebe De LeiburnéVideo Editor: James ScrivenSocial Media Manager: Charlie YoungMusic: Jackson GreenbergHead of Marketing: Kristen Fuller00:00 Introduction01:30 Jamie Wace's Dyslexia Story05:07 Being Told Not To Take History GCSE Because of Dyslexia06:00 Has Awareness of Dyslexia Actually Improved?08:31 Why Schools Need To Understand Cognitive Profiles08:48 How Talamo Was Created09:54 The Statistic That Changed Everything: 80% of Dyslexic Children Go Undiagnosed10:21 Why Traditional Dyslexia Assessments Don't Scale19:19 Dyslexia, ADHD & Understanding The Whole Child29:24 The Future of Assistive Technology For Neurodivergent Students31:16 Dyslexia, Schools & Assistive Technology In The Classroom40:32 Early Dyslexia Screening & Why Schools Are Changing44:24 Why Dyslexic People Often Make Great Communicators46:20 Dyslexia, ADHD & Neurodivergent Overlap50:51 Building Talamo For Impact, Not Profit55:46 Jamie's Green Dot BadgeThe Hidden 20% is a charity founded by AuDHD entrepreneur, Ben Branson.Our mission is simple: To change how the world sees neurodivergence.No more stigma. No more shame. No more silence.1 in 5 people are neurodivergent. That's 1.6 billion of us - yet too many are still excluded, misunderstood, or left without support.To break the cycle, we amplify voices, challenge myths, and keep showing up. Spotlighting stories, stats and hard truths. Smashing stereotypes through honest voices, creative campaigns and research that can't be ignored.Every month, over 50,000 people turn to The Hidden 20% to feel safe, seen and to learn about brilliant brains.With your support, we can reach further, grow louder, and keep fighting for the 1 in 5 who deserve more.Join us at hidden20.org/donate.Become a monthly donor.Be part of our community where great minds think differently.Brought to you by charity The Hidden 20% #1203348______________Follow & subscribe…Website: www.hidden20.orgInstagram / TikTok / Youtube / X: @Hidden20charityBen Branson @seedlip_benJamie Wace @jamiewaceIf you'd like to support The Hidden 20%, you can buy a "green dot" badge at https://www.hidden20.org/thegreendot/p/badge. All proceeds go to the charity. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Send us Fan Mail Test scores are declining, governors are calling for reform, and policy leaders are debating how to fix math and reading instruction—but the deepest problem in K-12 education isn't what we're teaching. It's that we've built a system optimized for narrow test performance instead of genuine intellectual development. In this episode, executive director and educator M.A. Aponte draws on lived experience running a charter school to examine what the research actually says works—and makes a principled case for why critical thinking must be the foundation of everything we teach. Includes a 3-Question Curriculum Audit any teacher, leader, or parent can apply right now. Support the showJoin My Substack for more content: maaponte.substack.comConsulting/Advisory Services: MAAponte.comProfessional LinkedIn Page: www.linkedin.com/in/maaponteFinancial Budget/Wealth Management app (FREE): https://centsora.com/CHECK OUT OUR NEW CRITICAL THINKING GAME APP! Currently in BETA: Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.base692af669b00f0dc8d8ad6653.appWeb: https://play.google.com/apps/testing/com.base692af669b00f0dc8d8ad6653.app*Coming soon to Apple Store

Melissa Arnold Lyon joins The Education Gadfly Show to discuss Fordham's new report, A Crowded Table: Teacher Union Strength in 2026, and what has changed in state education politics since Fordham's 2012 analysis of teacher union power. How influential are teacher unions today, where are they strongest, and what does a more crowded political landscape mean for education policy?Then, on the Research Minute, Amber Northern examines new research on the Common Core State Standards and their effects on achievement beyond math and English language arts.Recommended content:A Crowded Table: Teacher Union Strength in 2026 —Melissa Arnold Lyon, Sandy Frost Waldron, and Rebecca Jacobsen, Thomas B. Fordham InstituteHow Strong Are U.S. Teacher Unions? A State-By-State Comparison —Amber M. Northern, Ph.D., Janie Scull, and Dara Zeehandelaar Shaw, Ph.D., Thomas B. Fordham InstituteTeachers' Unions and Collective Bargaining —Bradley D. Marianno, Live Handbook: Education Policy Research, an initiative of AEFPThe unintended effects of the Common Core State Standards on non-targeted subjects — Benjamin W. Arold, and M. Danish Shakeel, ScienceDirect (2026)Feedback Welcome: Have ideas for improving our show? We would love to hear them. Send them to thegadfly@fordhaminstitute.org

In this week's edition of the Capitol Recap, the latest from Montpelier from Vermont Public's Lola Duffort and Peter Hirschfeld.

Florida State Representative Michelle Salzman joins Gene Valentino for a powerful conversation on term limits, voter integrity, property tax elimination, school choice, constitutional rights, and the future of Florida politics.

Republican Gov. Phil Scott had previously insisted on a proposal that forces school districts to merge into larger governance units. But administration officials say it's become clear that Democratic lawmakers won't agree to mandatory consolidation.

On this week's episode of The Learning Curve, co-hosts Alisha Searcy of the Center for Strong Public Schools and Mary Tamer of MassPotential speak with Rachel Canter, Director of Education Policy for the Progressive Policy Institute's Reinventing America's Schools project and founder of Mississippi First, about Mississippi's remarkable rise in K–12 student achievement and the policy reforms that helped drive it. Drawing on her experience as a former Teach For America teacher and longtime education advocate, Canter reflects on the leadership, accountability, and strategic reforms that helped Mississippi transform from one of the nation's lowest-performing states to one of its fastest-improving on the National Assessment of Educational Progress. She discusses the science of reading, the debate between phonics and whole language instruction, and what schools must do to rebuild academic rigor in literacy, STEM, and civics. Canter also explores the importance of exposing students to great literature and roots music from William Faulkner and Delta bluesmen like Robert Johnson, drawing on Mississippi's rich cultural legacy, and reflects on how lessons from Civil Rights era figures, including Emmett Till and Fannie Lou Hamer, can strengthen civics education today. She concludes by sharing policy recommendations for governors, legislators, educators, and parents seeking dramatic and lasting improvements in student outcomes nationwide.

As part of the Future of Texas series in partnership with Texas 2036, this episode explores what separates effective public policy from policies that simply sound good. Through the Future of Texas podcast series, Texas 2036 brings together diverse perspectives as we explore the opportunities and challenges facing our state over the next ten years. The views expressed in this program are those of the individual speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views of Texas 2036, its staff or its Board of Directors. Host Brad Swail is joined by Laura Arnold, co-founder of Arnold Ventures, and David Leebron, President and CEO of Texas 2036, for a wide-ranging discussion about evidence-based policymaking, education reform, workforce development, philanthropy, and the long-term future of Texas. The conversation focuses on a central question: how can policymakers create systems that produce measurable, long-term results instead of temporary political wins? Arnold and Leebron explain why data, accountability, and long-term thinking are critical to solving some of Texas' biggest challenges — from higher education and workforce readiness to housing affordability, infrastructure, criminal justice, and childcare. Major topics include: • What makes a policy actually “work” • Why data and accountability matter in government • Community college reform and “credentials of value” • Connecting education pathways to workforce needs • The role of philanthropy in shaping public policy • Why Texas lawmakers need trusted nonpartisan data • Housing affordability and infrastructure challenges • Permitting reform and economic growth • Criminal justice reform and public safety • Childcare data gaps and workforce participation • The importance of long-term thinking before problems emerge • Building opportunity and economic mobility in Texas The episode also highlights several major initiatives supported by Arnold Ventures and Texas 2036, including reforms to Texas community college funding and investments in student support systems designed to improve graduation and career outcomes. A major theme throughout the discussion is the belief that good policy making should be judged not by ideology or political messaging, but by measurable outcomes that improve people's lives. Looking toward 2036, both guests argue that Texas' future success will depend on whether leaders can stay focused on evidence, opportunity, and practical solutions that operate at scale. 00:00 — Intro + Future of Texas overview 01:44 — Laura Arnold and David Leebron introductions 04:02 — Focus, scale, and long-term policy impact 05:21 — Why Arnold Ventures tackles systemic problems 07:26 — What makes a policy actually work 08:41 — Community colleges and “credentials of value” 11:01 — Workforce readiness and education reform 14:23 — Why government needs better data 17:34 — Helping lawmakers make better decisions 20:31 — The role of philanthropy in public policy 27:12 — San Jacinto College partnership explained 31:18 — Housing, infrastructure, and permitting reform 33:27 — Criminal justice reform and public safety 34:35 — Raising families and the future of Texas 37:10 — Opportunity, long-term planning, and 2036 vision 39:35 — Final thoughts on evidence-based policymaking Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@TexasTalks

What's really driving declining enrollment in Texas public schools — and how will AI reshape classrooms in the years ahead? On this episode of Texas Talks, host Brad Swail sits down with Chairman Brad Buckley, Chair of the Texas House Public Education Committee, for a wide-ranging conversation about the future of public education in Texas. Buckley discusses the major challenges facing schools across the state, from demographic shifts and declining birth rates to school funding pressures, learning loss, and the growing role of artificial intelligence in education. A major focus of the conversation is the surprising decline in enrollment across traditional Texas public school districts. According to testimony discussed during a recent House Public Education Committee hearing, Texas public schools have seen approximately 76,000 fewer students enrolled for the 2025–2026 school year. The discussion covers: • Why Texas public schools are seeing declining enrollment • Birth rates, housing affordability, and demographic changes • The growth of homeschooling, virtual education, and charter schools • Why some districts continue growing while others shrink • Education Savings Accounts (ESAs) and their potential future impact • How school funding formulas struggle with declining enrollment • The long-term implications of lower birth rates nationwide • AI in classrooms and concerns about age appropriateness • Why Buckley believes teachers — not AI — should drive learning • The risks of AI replacing “productive struggle” in education • Data privacy, ethics, and accuracy concerns surrounding AI • Pandemic learning loss and ongoing struggles in mathematics The episode also explores major testing reforms coming to Texas schools, including the planned replacement of the STAAR test beginning in the 2027–2028 school year. Additional topics include: • Replacing one large test with shorter progress-monitoring assessments • Reducing testing anxiety for students and teachers • Providing real-time instructional feedback to educators • Why middle school outcomes are becoming a growing concern • Workforce readiness and the push toward higher-value technical credentials • Career training in engineering, cybersecurity, and STEM fields • Reducing administrative burdens and compliance mandates on schools Buckley argues that Texas must continue modernizing public education while remaining focused on core fundamentals like literacy, mathematics, and strong classroom instruction. The takeaway: the future of Texas education will depend on balancing innovation, accountability, and flexibility while ensuring students still receive deep, meaningful learning experiences. 00:00 — Intro + Chairman Brad Buckley joins 02:45 — Declining enrollment in Texas schools 05:37 — Housing costs, homeschooling, and demographic shifts 09:09 — ESAs and school funding impacts 13:25 — Long-term effects of declining birth rates 19:32 — AI in classrooms and education policy 21:51 — Why teachers should still drive learning 23:52 — Age-appropriate use of AI in schools 26:16 — Replacing the STAAR test 27:06 — Pandemic learning loss and math struggles 31:19 — Middle school outcomes and workforce readiness 34:05 — New testing models and real-time assessments 38:03 — Reducing school compliance burdens + closing Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@TexasTalks

President John Dramani Mahama has signed the Legal Education Reform Bill (2025) into law, dismantling a 66-year monopoly held by the Ghana School of Law over professional legal education in the country.

Confusion and political disagreement erupt over the newly signed Legal Education Reform Bill as the Minority and Majority clash over whether LLB graduates will still write entrance exams this year.

Send us Fan MailHow does immigration shape leadership?In this episode of The Cultural Curriculum Chat Podcast™, host Jebeh Edmunds sits down with entrepreneur, educator, and author Dr. Nelva Lee to explore the intersection of immigration, education reform, diversity, and leadership.In this episode, we discuss:• Growing up in Panama and immigrating to the United States• Why education systems must adapt to meet students' needs• The role of language access in healthcare and justice systems• Workplace diversity and inclusive leadership• Personal responsibility and resilience in leadershipThis episode offers an inspiring conversation about building opportunity across cultures and communities.Learn more about Dr. Lee's work here: Home | Nelva Lee Support the showCOME SAY Hey!!Instagram: @cultrallyjebeh_Facebook: @JebehCulturalConsultingPinterest: @Jebeh Cultural Consulting LinkedIn: @Jebeh Cultural ConsultingLeave a Review on our Podcast! We value your feedback!Buy My Book: The Orange Blossom  https://a.co/d/dRgzqgB 

In this week's episode of The Learning Curve, co-hosts Prof. Albert Cheng of the University of Arkansas and the Center for Strong Public Schools' Alisha Searcy speak with Julie Young, edupreneur, innovator, and author of Say Yes! How Virtual Became Reality. She reflects on the pivotal moment in 1997 when she said “yes” to launching Florida Virtual School, sharing what it meant to build a new model of education from the ground up with limited resources and bold vision. Young draws a clear distinction between emergency remote learning and higher-quality virtual education, explaining how confusion between the two during the pandemic negatively impacted students. She discusses early leadership lessons, including guidance from then-Governor Jeb Bush, and what it took to scale a model centered on “any time, any place, any path, any pace.” Young also explores how she built a dynamic organizational culture amid skepticism, and what lessons she carried—and intentionally left behind—when founding ASU Prep Digital. She offers insights on staffing innovation, leadership, and the opportunities and challenges AI presents for the future of education. In closing, she reads a passage from Say Yes!: How Virtual Became Reality.

In this episode, Kerry McDonald talks with Caroline Allen, Chief Program Officer at the Center for Education Reform and Founding Director of the Yass Prize, about how this prize recognizes and celebrates K-12 education innovation and impact across the US. Caroline shared her journey from public school teacher to philanthropy, and explained the Yass Prize's four core criteria: sustainability, transformation, outstanding performance, and permissionless operation (S.T.O.P.). She offered practical advice for applicants ahead of this years's June 1 deadline, encouraging educators to clearly articulate what makes their model distinct and in high demand. The conversation also highlighted the diversity of past winners—from microschools to established networks—and the prize's role in connecting innovators while amplifying their work. *** Sign up for Kerry's free, weekly email newsletter on education trends at edentrepreneur.org. Kerry's latest book, Joyful Learning: How to Find Freedom, Happiness, and Success Beyond Conventional Schooling, is available now wherever books are sold!  

Raising Expectations with Pastor Joe Schofield, Dr. Paul Hall, Stefanie Thayer, Dr. Craig Thayer, Pastor Ron Greer California and Restoring Faith, Family and Common-Sense Governance Guest, Elizabeth Wong Ahlers Friends, Elizabeth Wong Ahlers joins us once again on Raising Expectations! Join us for an extraordinary encounter with Elizabeth Wong Ahlers. Elizabeth's unwavering values, profound wisdom, loving family, and strong faith are the catalysts for overcoming every challenge and bringing back the Golden State of California! Her visionary insights and innovative ideas are precisely what America and California need to thrive! Elizabeth possesses the message that can inspire a nation! Remember…YOU hold the power of the VOTE! Pastor Joe Schofield and the "Raising Expectations" team host Elizabeth Wong Ahlers, a candidate for the California State Assembly, to discuss the urgent need for "common sense" governance. The conversation focuses on leveraging faith, family values, and fiscal responsibility to address California's systemic challenges. The "Mama Bear" Candidate and the Call for Experience Elizabeth Wong Ahlers, a fifth-generation Californian and mother of six, positions herself as a "mama bear" fighting for the future of the state's children. With a PhD and experience as a councilwoman in La Crescenta, she argues that the current "one-party rule" in Sacramento has failed to address the basics: education, gas prices, and public safety. The team emphasizes that her background as a parent and community leader provides the "life experience" and "financial wisdom" often missing in career politicians who have never managed a household budget or run a business. Critique of Current Governance and Legislative "Noise" The discussion highlights a disconnect between current legislative priorities and the reality of California citizens. Dr. Paul Hall points to "absurd" bills, such as designating Bigfoot as a state cryptid (AB 666) or imposing rooster fines (AB 928), while the state suffers from the highest cost-adjusted poverty rate and the worst roads in the country. Elizabeth notes that many legislators do not own property or have children, leading to policies that ignore the burden of high taxes and unreliable energy and water supplies. She advocates for a return to "fiscal responsibility" modeled after how families manage their own finances. Education Reform and Constitutional Foundations A central pillar of Elizabeth's platform is SCA1, a school choice initiative that would create flexible accounts for families, allowing them to choose between private, charter, or home schooling. Stephanie Thayer notes that this competition is vital for lower-income families stuck in failing districts. Elizabeth further grounds her mission in the California Constitution, specifically citing the Preamble's gratitude to "Almighty God" and its protection of inalienable rights like liberty and property. She views her campaign not just as a political race, but as a spiritual effort to "let the light shine" in a dark political landscape. The episode serves as both a political endorsement and a spiritual call to action. By contrasting "ridiculous" current legislation with "common sense" solutions like school choice and fiscal transparency, Elizabeth Wong Ahlers and the "Raising Expectations" team aim to mobilize voters to reclaim California's constitutional promise of liberty and prosperity.

As part of the Future of Texas series in partnership with Texas 2036, this episode explores how higher education will shape the state's workforce, economy, and long-term competitiveness. Through the Future of Texas podcast series, Texas 2036 brings together diverse perspectives as we explore the opportunities and challenges facing our state over the next ten years. The views expressed in this program are those of the individual speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views of Texas 2036, its staff or its Board of Directors. Host Brad Swail is joined by Texas A&M Chancellor Glenn Hegar and David Leebron, President and CEO of Texas 2036 and former President of Rice University, for a comprehensive look at the future of higher education in a rapidly growing Texas. With millions more Texans expected by 2036, the conversation examines how universities are adapting to rising demand, changing workforce needs, and growing concerns about the cost and value of a college degree. A major theme is the evolving role of higher education — not just as a pathway to jobs, but as a driver of innovation, economic growth, and opportunity across the state. The discussion covers: • How Texas' population growth is reshaping higher education demand • The gap between workforce needs and degree attainment • Why more Texans need postsecondary credentials • The role of regional universities and community colleges • Affordability challenges and pathways to lower student debt • Differences between public and private institutions • The importance of leadership, flexibility, and institutional independence • Collaboration across universities and with industry • How research drives innovation and new industries • Texas' growing role in semiconductors and advanced manufacturing • Why space exploration is becoming a major economic opportunity • The future of nuclear energy and meeting rising power demand • The importance of K–12 readiness in long-term success • How policymakers can better align education with workforce needs The episode also highlights a key shift: universities are increasingly serving as hubs for talent development, research, and industry collaboration — all critical to maintaining Texas' economic momentum. Looking ahead to 2036, success will be measured not just by enrollment, but by outcomes — including workforce readiness, income growth, and the ability of Texas institutions to compete globally. 00:00 — Intro + Future of Texas series overview 00:26 — Why higher education matters for Texas' future 01:10 — Guest introductions: Glenn Hegar & David Leebron 02:14 — Texas A&M system size and statewide reach 03:19 — Growth across Texas universities 05:00 — Competing for students in a growing state 07:12 — Workforce demand vs degree attainment gap 08:51 — Expanding university missions and impact 10:18 — Growth of AI, semiconductors, and emerging industries 11:44 — Collaboration across universities and systems 13:13 — Interdisciplinary innovation and research 14:09 — Public vs private universities explained 15:55 — Leadership and institutional flexibility 17:09 — Affordability challenges in higher education 18:01 — Community colleges and alternative pathways 19:07 — Financial aid transparency and access 20:21 — Policy priorities for the next decade 21:57 — Investing in research and innovation 23:04 — K–12 pipeline and readiness challenges 24:59 — Space industry growth and Texas' role 27:35 — Economic impact of space innovation 30:37 — Semiconductor investment and workforce pipeline 33:10 — Universities and private industry collaboration 36:14 — Nuclear energy and future power needs 38:46 — Measuring success by 2036 41:15 — Final thoughts on leadership and opportunity 43:07 — Closing Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@TexasTalks

Arts education, identity, and dance collide. Rodney Eric Lpez shares how culture, language, and expression shape who we are, and why it matters now.

In this week's edition of the Capitol Recap, the latest from Montpelier from Vermont Public's Lola Duffort and Peter Hirschfeld break down the politics of education reform.

SPONSORS: 1) HOLLOW SOCKS: For a limited time, Hollow Socks is offering a Buy 2, Get 2 Free Sale—visit https://hollowsocks.com to check it out. JOIN PATREON FOR EARLY UNCENSORED EPISODE RELEASES: https://www.patreon.com/JulianDorey CLIPPERS DISCORD: https://discord.gg/8QmWEKJ3BT (***TIMESTAMPS in description below) ~ Spencer Taylor is a modern filmmaker and humanitarian known for his 2025 documentary, "The Death of Recess," which critiques the traditional American education system. He is the former Co-Host of "Impaulsive." SPENCER's LINKS: IG: https://www.instagram.com/spencervybes/ YT: https://www.youtube.com/@SpencerVybes?app=desktop DOCUMENTARY: https://www.angel.com/movies/death-of-recess FOLLOW JULIAN DOREY IG: https://www.instagram.com/julianddorey/ X: https://x.com/juliandorey JULIAN YT CHANNELS - SUBSCRIBE to Julian Dorey Clips YT: https://www.youtube.com/@juliandoreyclips - SUBSCRIBE to Julian Dorey Daily YT: https://www.youtube.com/@JulianDoreyDaily - SUBSCRIBE to Best of JDP: https://www.youtube.com/@bestofJDP ****TIMESTAMPS**** 0:00 - Rockefeller Epstein Files, Pandemic Kids Crisis, Vaccine Backlash 10:51 - Jake Paul LA, Hollywood Dark Side, Education System Origins 20:35 - Prussian Model, Horace Mann, Industrial Revolution Impact 30:22 - School System Incentives, Homeschooling Rise, Youth Capture 42:00 - Finland Education, No Homework, Recess Science 51:15 - Teacher Pay Debate, Charter Schools, School Choice, NEA Influence 1:00:22 SOGI Curriculum, Arcus Foundation, UN Influence 1:10:25 System Collapse Warning, Revolution Talk, Tax Awareness 1:20:15 Institutional Power, Ukraine Experience, Global Missions 1:29:00 Bucha Massacre, Ukraine War Life, Propaganda, Ground Reality 1:40:42 Drone Warfare, War Reality, Gaza Crossing, Frontline Contrast 1:53:32 Gaza Experience, Civilian Reality, War Trauma, Faith Perspective 1:59:13 Christianity Return, Faith Journey, Archaeology, Spiritual Conviction 2:09:16 Humanitarian Aid, Pakistan Floods, Missions Abroad 2:18:29 NEA Power, Rockefeller Influence, Education System Control 2:32:36 Moral Shift, Family Debate, Cultural Change, Individualism 2:44:30 Raising Kids Today, Education Reform, ESA Accounts 2:47:17 - Spencer's Work CREDITS: - Host, Editor & Producer: Julian Dorey - COO, Producer & Editor: Alessi Allaman - https://www.youtube.com/@UCyLKzv5fKxGmVQg3cMJJzyQ - In-Studio Producer: Joey Deef - https://www.instagram.com/joeydeef/ Julian Dorey Podcast Episode 410 - Spencer Taylor Music by Artlist.io Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Republican Gov. Phil Scott and Democratic leaders in both the House and Senate were in lockstep on mandatory school district consolidation heading into the 2026 legislative session. House Speaker Jill Krowinski says it's since become clear that while voters are desperate for property tax relief, they're not willing to sacrifice control of their local schools to get it.

Lisa Mosko Barros is the founder of SpEducational, a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering families of students with disabilities to effect positive systems change in special education. Lisa is known for her highly detailed knowledge of educational policy, her fierce advocacy through community organizing, and her ability to collaborate and build consensus. Among other positions, she has served as Chairperson for the Los Angeles Unified School District's Community Advisory Committee for Special Education. Lisa is also the mother of two incredible twice exceptional kids. #neurodiversity #neurodivergent #autism #disabilities #podcast #podcasts #specialeducation #specialedadvocacy #IEPs #educationreform #educationpolicy #advocacy #publiceducation #college #highereduction #empowerment www.autismresourceproject.org/podcast 

In this week's episode of The Learning Curve, co-hosts Prof. Albert Cheng of the University of Arkansas and American Federation for Children's Walter Blanks speak with Dr. Keri Ingraham, Senior Fellow at the Discovery Institute. Dr. Ingraham reflects on her academic and athletic journey, including being an Academic All-American, and how it shaped her belief in discipline, opportunity, and high expectations in education. She shares that in deep blue states like Washington, Oregon, California, and New York, strong teacher union political influence has often limited K-12 reform and innovation. Despite roughly $800 billion in annual K–12 spending, she points to stagnant academic outcomes, highlighted by National Assessment of Educational Progress results, as evidence that funding alone is insufficient without meaningful school choice and accountability. She discusses persistent achievement gaps and their economic consequences, emphasizing how today's workforce increasingly rewards knowledge and skills. She also highlights the rapid expansion of school choice policies following landmark U.S. Supreme Court decisions, such as Espinoza v. Montana Department of Revenue and Carson v. Makin, and critiques testing monopolies like those tied to the College Board. Dr. Ingraham concludes by underscoring the importance of federalism and a more limited role for the Beltway in education, with states, localities, and parents leading the way on school reform efforts.

Karen Horwitz is a former elementary school teacher and the author of, "A Graver Danger."   Learn more at https://endteacherabuse.org EPISODE SUMMARY BELOW: Education Reform and Whistleblowing Karen and Nate discussed their shared mission of helping people find ownership and purpose. Karen explained her concept of "white chalk crime," which she trademarked in 2002 to describe corruption in the education system, where problem teachers are fired while schools continue receiving government funding. The conversation began to touch on Karen's experience as a whistleblower and her work in education reform. Educational Corruption Experience Sharing Karen shared her experience as a fourth-grade teacher in the northern suburbs of Chicago where she discovered corruption in the mid-1990s. She described how a young principal targeted older teachers and violated laws regarding age discrimination, leading Karen to consult a lawyer about filing an age discrimination case. When the superintendent threatened to make her life miserable if she created trouble, Karen decided to document the issues and speak out, eventually choosing to focus on reporting educational corruption rather than teaching. Education System Corruption Issues Karen discussed her experiences with corruption in the education system, particularly regarding age discrimination and the protection of problematic teachers. She provided an example of a teacher who was placed on unpaid leave after filing an assault charge against a principal, while another teacher who showed naked pictures to students was merely moved to another school. Karen explained that she had threatened to sue the district due to age discrimination practices, and mentioned her discovery of election fraud in her district where officials were re-elected despite not addressing the issues. Principal's Inappropriate Decision Making Karen discussed her experiences with a young principal who made inappropriate decisions, including moving her from 4th grade to 5th grade to teach science, which Karen believed was an attempt to make her quit. Karen explained that the principal had also reassigned an older librarian to a floating substitute position and had treated several teachers poorly. Nate questioned Karen's interpretation of the principal's motives, particularly regarding the science teaching assignment, suggesting that the principal's actions might not have been discriminatory. Teacher Abuse in School Systems Karen discussed her experiences with teacher abuse and described how school districts can be "mafia-like" in their operations. She shared specific examples, including a case of a Florida teacher who was criminally indicted after preventing a potential school shooting, and the Roslyn School District scandal in New York involving financial misconduct by administrators. Karen explained that in her view, school systems often prefer problematic teachers, including potentially pedophile teachers, over those who would challenge authority or report misconduct, as the latter tend to build positive relationships with parents which districts seek to avoid. Public School System Corruption Issues Karen discussed her observations of systemic issues in public school systems across the United States, claiming that over 50% of schools exhibit problematic behavior similar to a "mafia" structure. She shared the specific case of Ed Coben, a teacher who was allegedly framed for a mass shooting at a Miami-Dade public school and later received a small settlement after retiring. Karen explained that many competent teachers are silenced or pushed out of the system, with the remaining teachers either complicit in inappropriate practices or being used as pawns in administrative conflicts. She argued that these issues have created division between homeschooling parents and those still involved in traditional schools, while the actual problem lies with corrupt administrators who prioritize control over education quality. Modern Education Challenges Discussion Karen and Nate discussed the challenges in modern education, particularly regarding how controversial issues like gender identity and furries are used to distract from more serious problems. Karen explained how these distractions prevent teachers from addressing real issues with troubled students, potentially contributing to school shootings. She emphasized the need for more teachers like herself who can connect with and help troubled students, contrasting with younger teachers who focus more on popular culture. The conversation also touched on the complexity of trans issues and how effective democratic schools with supportive teachers could address these challenges. Education Reform and Systemic Issues Karen discussed her experiences and observations in education, asserting that administrators often pressure teachers to be less caring, creating a hostile environment that can lead to the removal of dedicated educators. She attributed much of the problem to systemic issues, including corruption and mismanagement of funds, rather than malicious intent by all administrators. Karen emphasized the need for reform in education to restore democracy and protect students' well-being, highlighting her ongoing efforts through her websites and book, "A Graver Danger." Nate expressed concerns about the complexity and messaging of Karen's arguments, encouraging her to clarify her key grievances for broader impact. Conclusion Nate interviewed Karen Horwitz, author of "A Graver Danger: White Chalk Crime - The Stunning First Ever Explanation for School Shootings and How We End Them," about her 30-year investigation into corruption in public school systems. Karen described her experience as a whistleblower who was fired from her teaching position in 1999 after discovering age discrimination and other wrongdoing by administrators in her district. She claimed that more than 50% of school systems across America operate like "mafia operations" prioritizing money and control over student welfare, often protecting problematic teachers while targeting competent ones who question authority. Karen's research includes numerous examples of financial misconduct, administrative abuse, and systemic issues that she believes are destroying democracy and contributing to broader societal problems. She maintains websites documenting these issues and hopes her book will reach the next U.S. President to help reform the education system.

In this week's episode of The Learning Curve, co-hosts Prof. Albert Cheng of the University of Arkansas and Center for Strong Public Schools' Alisha Searcy speak with Jim Blew, founder of the Defense of Freedom Institute, and Katie Everett, executive director of the Lynch Foundation. They explore the newly established federal education tax credit program and its national implications. Blew traces the policy's origins to proposals from former U.S. Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos, while unpacking how the program allows taxpayers to receive credits for donations that fund scholarships for private schooling, tutoring, and specialized services. Everett discusses the growing number of states opting in and why Massachusetts remains a key battleground, citing political resistance, state constitutional barriers to private school choice, and the influence of teachers' unions, while arguing the program could expand access and greater opportunity for all students. They highlight lessons from post-pandemic school choice expansion, the significance of Colorado's Democratic Gov. Jared Polis opting in, and whether the program's voluntary structure will encourage broader adoption or deepen divides. Katie concludes with a preview of her upcoming event on April 15th at the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library on what this federal initiative could mean for families across Massachusetts and the country.

How do you find the main idea when every paragraph has a different argument? In this Jack Westin CARS Reading Skills Workshop, Usher and Molly break down the daily CARS passage "Teacher's Merit Pay" (April 8th), a passage they've both taught many times in their CARS strategy courses. This one is packed with arguments, counterarguments, examples, and named individuals, making it the perfect passage to practice identifying what actually matters.Get started with our resources!

Send Wilk a text with your feedback! (incoming msgs only - I can't reply) Monica Harris returns to Derate the Hate — this time in person — to talk about FAIR's newly renamed curriculum, Many Stories, One Nation. It's a high school social studies elective that takes a different approach to teaching American history: broad, honest, chronological, and built around civil discourse.Monica breaks down what separates this curriculum from liberated ethnic studies — and why the oppressor/oppressed framework, even when well-intentioned, ends up hurting the very students it's trying to help. The damage, she argues, runs in both directions.They also dig into the "competing goods" framework, the reticular activating system and confirmation bias, what it means to teach kids how to think instead of what to think — and what Monica sees as realistic success in a state like Minnesota.If you care about what's happening in classrooms and why it matters beyond the classroom, this is the conversation for you.The world is a better place if we are better people. That begins with each of us as individuals. Be kind to one another. Be grateful for all you've got. Make every day the day that you want it to be!Please follow The Derate The Hate podcast on:Facebook, Instagram, Twitter(X) ,  YouTube Subscribe to us wherever you enjoy your audio or from our site. Please leave us a rating and feedback on Apple podcasts or other platforms. You can share your thoughts or request Wilk for a speaking engagement on our contact page: DerateTheHate.com/ContactThe Derate The Hate podcast is proudly produced in collaboration with Braver Angels — America's largest grassroots, cross-partisan organization working toward civic renewal and bridging partisan divides. Learn more: BraverAngels.orgWelcome to the Derate The Hate Podcast!*The views expressed by Wilk, his guest hosts &/or guests on the Derate The Hate podcast are their own and should not be attributed to any organization they may otherwise be affiliated with.

Modern education often promises clarity, efficiency, and measurable results. But what if those very strengths are quietly reshaping what we believe education is for? In this episode of BaseCamp Live, Davies Owens sits down with Joshua Pauling to explore the subtle but powerful influence of what he calls the “tyranny of technique.” When systems, metrics, and methods take center stage, students can easily become outputs to manage rather than persons to form. Josh brings a thoughtful perspective shaped by years in public education, classical education, and his work launching a new hybrid classical school. Together, they reflect on how common educational practices can unintentionally erode relationships, diminish wonder, and narrow our vision of formation. But this conversation is not merely critical - it is deeply constructive. In this episode, you'll hear: What Joshua Pauling means by the “tyranny of technique” and how it shows up in modern education How efficiency, grading systems, and metrics can subtly redefine what success looks like Why relationships, trust, and contemplation are essential to true learning The role of narration, oral assessment, and embodied practices in forming students What it looks like to resist a purely mechanistic model of schooling How Josh's hybrid classical school is pursuing a more humane and restful vision of education Practical encouragement for parents and educators seeking to prioritize formation over performance This episode is an invitation to step back and reconsider our assumptions. For parents, educators, and school leaders alike, it offers a compelling reminder: education is not primarily about producing results, but about raising human beings. Show Notes: All Saints Classical Academy Are We All Cyborgs Now? Reclaiming Our Humanity from the Machine Writing Portfolio Special Thanks to our partners who make BaseCamp Live possible: Wisdom and EloquenceThe Herzog FoundationThe Champion GroupLife ArchitectsWisephone by TechlessZipCastWilson Hill Academy Stay tuned for more enlightening discussions on classical Christian education, and join us next time on BaseCamp Live! Remember to subscribe, leave us a review, and reach out to us at info@basecamplive.comDon't forget to visit basecamplive.com for more info and past episodes.

Rebecca Davis, Senior Journalist at Daily Maverick, speaks to John Maytham about Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube’s efforts to clean up the Department of Basic Education, and the reported pushback she is facing from within the department as she tries to drive reforms aimed at improving governance, accountability, and overall efficiency. The discussion explores the internal dynamics that may be slowing down or complicating these changes, as well as what these challenges reveal about the state of the education system, and what it will take for meaningful reform to take root and deliver better outcomes for learners across South Africa. Presenter John Maytham is an actor and author-turned-talk radio veteran and seasoned journalist. His show serves a round-up of local and international news coupled with the latest in business, sport, traffic and weather. The host’s eclectic interests mean the program often surprises the audience with intriguing book reviews and inspiring interviews profiling artists. A daily highlight is Rapid Fire, just after 5:30pm. CapeTalk fans call in, to stump the presenter with their general knowledge questions. Another firm favourite is the humorous Thursday crossing with award-winning journalist Rebecca Davis, called “Plan B”. Thank you for listening to a podcast from Afternoon Drive with John Maytham Listen live on Primedia+ weekdays from 15:00 and 18:00 (SA Time) to Afternoon Drive with John Maytham broadcast on CapeTalk https://buff.ly/NnFM3Nk For more from the show go to https://buff.ly/BSFy4Cn or find all the catch-up podcasts here https://buff.ly/n8nWt4x Subscribe to the CapeTalk Daily and Weekly Newsletters https://buff.ly/sbvVZD5 Follow us on social media: CapeTalk on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@capetalk CapeTalk on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ CapeTalk on X: https://x.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CapeTalk567 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How the rise of the culture wars afflicts the politics of education.  On August 9, 2022, the Denton Independent School District held a meeting to address complaints about its libraries. Like so many districts in Texas and across the country, Denton had been responding to accusations that children had access to inappropriate books at school. During the public comment session, a local man stood up to the podium and read a sexually explicit passage from a book that he wanted removed from Denton's school libraries. But beguiled by the prospect of securing a political win, he had confused the title of the lurid psychological thriller he read aloud with a young adult fiction series about mermaids. While his attempt to ban a book that was never in Denton's school libraries in the first place received a few laughs, it also reflects a deeply serious and troubling culture of conflict that has taken over the politics of education and now divides people so completely as to make public education as a shared endeavor seem impossible.  In Willing Warriors, Mark Hlavacik shows how the culture wars have redefined the politics of US schooling from the 1970s to the present through vivid accounts of public controversies featuring Allan Bloom, Oprah Winfrey, Lynne Cheney, Rush Limbaugh, Betsy DeVos, Nikole Hannah-Jones, and others. Beginning in the 1970s, Hlavacik shows, efforts at innovation in schooling have increasingly been met by attempts to discredit them through exposé. As the culture wars have accelerated and exploded, this cycle of innovation and exposé has embroiled public schools in increasingly heated debates. He explains the dynamics that make curriculum controversies so intractable and confronts the delicate question of whether raucous public arguments are bad for education. With clarity and insight, Hlavacik reveals why bitter contests between educational ideologies not only add another burden for the schools, but also for the people—the willing warriors—who devote their lives to fighting for their betterment. Mark Hlavacik is assistant professor in the Department of Communication and Journalism at Texas A&M University. He is the author of Assigning Blame: The Rhetoric of Education Reform. Laura Beth Kelly is an associate professor of Educational Studies at Rhodes College in Memphis, Tennessee. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/american-studies

How the rise of the culture wars afflicts the politics of education.  On August 9, 2022, the Denton Independent School District held a meeting to address complaints about its libraries. Like so many districts in Texas and across the country, Denton had been responding to accusations that children had access to inappropriate books at school. During the public comment session, a local man stood up to the podium and read a sexually explicit passage from a book that he wanted removed from Denton's school libraries. But beguiled by the prospect of securing a political win, he had confused the title of the lurid psychological thriller he read aloud with a young adult fiction series about mermaids. While his attempt to ban a book that was never in Denton's school libraries in the first place received a few laughs, it also reflects a deeply serious and troubling culture of conflict that has taken over the politics of education and now divides people so completely as to make public education as a shared endeavor seem impossible.  In Willing Warriors, Mark Hlavacik shows how the culture wars have redefined the politics of US schooling from the 1970s to the present through vivid accounts of public controversies featuring Allan Bloom, Oprah Winfrey, Lynne Cheney, Rush Limbaugh, Betsy DeVos, Nikole Hannah-Jones, and others. Beginning in the 1970s, Hlavacik shows, efforts at innovation in schooling have increasingly been met by attempts to discredit them through exposé. As the culture wars have accelerated and exploded, this cycle of innovation and exposé has embroiled public schools in increasingly heated debates. He explains the dynamics that make curriculum controversies so intractable and confronts the delicate question of whether raucous public arguments are bad for education. With clarity and insight, Hlavacik reveals why bitter contests between educational ideologies not only add another burden for the schools, but also for the people—the willing warriors—who devote their lives to fighting for their betterment. Mark Hlavacik is assistant professor in the Department of Communication and Journalism at Texas A&M University. He is the author of Assigning Blame: The Rhetoric of Education Reform. Laura Beth Kelly is an associate professor of Educational Studies at Rhodes College in Memphis, Tennessee. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/new-books-network

How the rise of the culture wars afflicts the politics of education.  On August 9, 2022, the Denton Independent School District held a meeting to address complaints about its libraries. Like so many districts in Texas and across the country, Denton had been responding to accusations that children had access to inappropriate books at school. During the public comment session, a local man stood up to the podium and read a sexually explicit passage from a book that he wanted removed from Denton's school libraries. But beguiled by the prospect of securing a political win, he had confused the title of the lurid psychological thriller he read aloud with a young adult fiction series about mermaids. While his attempt to ban a book that was never in Denton's school libraries in the first place received a few laughs, it also reflects a deeply serious and troubling culture of conflict that has taken over the politics of education and now divides people so completely as to make public education as a shared endeavor seem impossible.  In Willing Warriors, Mark Hlavacik shows how the culture wars have redefined the politics of US schooling from the 1970s to the present through vivid accounts of public controversies featuring Allan Bloom, Oprah Winfrey, Lynne Cheney, Rush Limbaugh, Betsy DeVos, Nikole Hannah-Jones, and others. Beginning in the 1970s, Hlavacik shows, efforts at innovation in schooling have increasingly been met by attempts to discredit them through exposé. As the culture wars have accelerated and exploded, this cycle of innovation and exposé has embroiled public schools in increasingly heated debates. He explains the dynamics that make curriculum controversies so intractable and confronts the delicate question of whether raucous public arguments are bad for education. With clarity and insight, Hlavacik reveals why bitter contests between educational ideologies not only add another burden for the schools, but also for the people—the willing warriors—who devote their lives to fighting for their betterment. Mark Hlavacik is assistant professor in the Department of Communication and Journalism at Texas A&M University. He is the author of Assigning Blame: The Rhetoric of Education Reform. Laura Beth Kelly is an associate professor of Educational Studies at Rhodes College in Memphis, Tennessee. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/history

How the rise of the culture wars afflicts the politics of education.  On August 9, 2022, the Denton Independent School District held a meeting to address complaints about its libraries. Like so many districts in Texas and across the country, Denton had been responding to accusations that children had access to inappropriate books at school. During the public comment session, a local man stood up to the podium and read a sexually explicit passage from a book that he wanted removed from Denton's school libraries. But beguiled by the prospect of securing a political win, he had confused the title of the lurid psychological thriller he read aloud with a young adult fiction series about mermaids. While his attempt to ban a book that was never in Denton's school libraries in the first place received a few laughs, it also reflects a deeply serious and troubling culture of conflict that has taken over the politics of education and now divides people so completely as to make public education as a shared endeavor seem impossible.  In Willing Warriors, Mark Hlavacik shows how the culture wars have redefined the politics of US schooling from the 1970s to the present through vivid accounts of public controversies featuring Allan Bloom, Oprah Winfrey, Lynne Cheney, Rush Limbaugh, Betsy DeVos, Nikole Hannah-Jones, and others. Beginning in the 1970s, Hlavacik shows, efforts at innovation in schooling have increasingly been met by attempts to discredit them through exposé. As the culture wars have accelerated and exploded, this cycle of innovation and exposé has embroiled public schools in increasingly heated debates. He explains the dynamics that make curriculum controversies so intractable and confronts the delicate question of whether raucous public arguments are bad for education. With clarity and insight, Hlavacik reveals why bitter contests between educational ideologies not only add another burden for the schools, but also for the people—the willing warriors—who devote their lives to fighting for their betterment. Mark Hlavacik is assistant professor in the Department of Communication and Journalism at Texas A&M University. He is the author of Assigning Blame: The Rhetoric of Education Reform. Laura Beth Kelly is an associate professor of Educational Studies at Rhodes College in Memphis, Tennessee. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/political-science

How the rise of the culture wars afflicts the politics of education.  On August 9, 2022, the Denton Independent School District held a meeting to address complaints about its libraries. Like so many districts in Texas and across the country, Denton had been responding to accusations that children had access to inappropriate books at school. During the public comment session, a local man stood up to the podium and read a sexually explicit passage from a book that he wanted removed from Denton's school libraries. But beguiled by the prospect of securing a political win, he had confused the title of the lurid psychological thriller he read aloud with a young adult fiction series about mermaids. While his attempt to ban a book that was never in Denton's school libraries in the first place received a few laughs, it also reflects a deeply serious and troubling culture of conflict that has taken over the politics of education and now divides people so completely as to make public education as a shared endeavor seem impossible.  In Willing Warriors, Mark Hlavacik shows how the culture wars have redefined the politics of US schooling from the 1970s to the present through vivid accounts of public controversies featuring Allan Bloom, Oprah Winfrey, Lynne Cheney, Rush Limbaugh, Betsy DeVos, Nikole Hannah-Jones, and others. Beginning in the 1970s, Hlavacik shows, efforts at innovation in schooling have increasingly been met by attempts to discredit them through exposé. As the culture wars have accelerated and exploded, this cycle of innovation and exposé has embroiled public schools in increasingly heated debates. He explains the dynamics that make curriculum controversies so intractable and confronts the delicate question of whether raucous public arguments are bad for education. With clarity and insight, Hlavacik reveals why bitter contests between educational ideologies not only add another burden for the schools, but also for the people—the willing warriors—who devote their lives to fighting for their betterment. Mark Hlavacik is assistant professor in the Department of Communication and Journalism at Texas A&M University. He is the author of Assigning Blame: The Rhetoric of Education Reform. Laura Beth Kelly is an associate professor of Educational Studies at Rhodes College in Memphis, Tennessee. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/public-policy

How the rise of the culture wars afflicts the politics of education.  On August 9, 2022, the Denton Independent School District held a meeting to address complaints about its libraries. Like so many districts in Texas and across the country, Denton had been responding to accusations that children had access to inappropriate books at school. During the public comment session, a local man stood up to the podium and read a sexually explicit passage from a book that he wanted removed from Denton's school libraries. But beguiled by the prospect of securing a political win, he had confused the title of the lurid psychological thriller he read aloud with a young adult fiction series about mermaids. While his attempt to ban a book that was never in Denton's school libraries in the first place received a few laughs, it also reflects a deeply serious and troubling culture of conflict that has taken over the politics of education and now divides people so completely as to make public education as a shared endeavor seem impossible.  In Willing Warriors, Mark Hlavacik shows how the culture wars have redefined the politics of US schooling from the 1970s to the present through vivid accounts of public controversies featuring Allan Bloom, Oprah Winfrey, Lynne Cheney, Rush Limbaugh, Betsy DeVos, Nikole Hannah-Jones, and others. Beginning in the 1970s, Hlavacik shows, efforts at innovation in schooling have increasingly been met by attempts to discredit them through exposé. As the culture wars have accelerated and exploded, this cycle of innovation and exposé has embroiled public schools in increasingly heated debates. He explains the dynamics that make curriculum controversies so intractable and confronts the delicate question of whether raucous public arguments are bad for education. With clarity and insight, Hlavacik reveals why bitter contests between educational ideologies not only add another burden for the schools, but also for the people—the willing warriors—who devote their lives to fighting for their betterment. Mark Hlavacik is assistant professor in the Department of Communication and Journalism at Texas A&M University. He is the author of Assigning Blame: The Rhetoric of Education Reform. Laura Beth Kelly is an associate professor of Educational Studies at Rhodes College in Memphis, Tennessee. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/education

In this episode of the Anchored Podcast, Jeremy Tate sits down with Stuart Williams to discuss the launch of the Classic Learning Foundation.The Foundation is being established to come alongside students and assist with the funding of both secondary and collegiate education. With a focus on merit-based and need-based scholarships, the goal is to support students pursuing a classically based, liberal arts education.Drawing a parallel to the National Merit Scholarship Corporation, Stuart explains how the Classic Learning Foundation aims to create recognition and prestige around strong pre-college preparation—particularly for students in the 10th and 11th grades—and to help carry that recognition into the college experience.The conversation also explores broader questions about education: Has the purpose of college shifted toward return on investment?  What is lost when education is reduced to job training?  Why do reading, writing, and clear thinking still matter? Reflecting on his own experience—from a career at IBM to studying at St. John's College—Stuart shares how a liberal arts education shaped his thinking and why he believes it remains essential today.00:00 Introduction 01:00 Stuart Williams' background 08:00 Returning to school at St. John's College 15:40 What is the Classic Learning Foundation? 18:20 National Merit and education incentives 21:49 The purpose of education 24:27 Education, work, and the futureWatch more from the Anchored Podcast and explore the ideas shaping the future of education.#ClassicLearningFoundation, #ClassicalEducation, #LiberalArts, #CLT, #AnchoredPodcast, #JeremyTate, #StuartWilliams, #EducationReform, #scholarships

The Steve Gruber Show | Fake Moderates, Real Consequences: How the Middle Class Gets Crushed --- 00:00 - Monologue 18:51 – Nick Hopwood, Certified Financial Planner and Founder of Peak Wealth Management. Hopwood shares a personal story about a trip to Jamaica that turned into a mission effort following hurricane devastation. He discusses helping rebuild homes and the impact of stepping in to serve communities in need. 27:43 – Sen. Camera Bartolotta, representing Pennsylvania's 46th Senatorial District. Bartolotta discusses concerns about widespread fraud and how deep the issue may go. She outlines ongoing investigations and the need for accountability. 37:49 - Monologue featuring Ivey Gruber 46:38 – Tom Simon, spokesperson for Home Title Lock and former FBI Special Agent with 26 years of experience. Simon discusses a case involving a $1.5 million home in Burbank that was allegedly stolen through real estate fraud. He explains how these schemes operate and how homeowners can protect themselves. 56:39 – Justin Davis, Director of Public Affairs for the NRA. Davis discusses the NRA's “Be Ready” campaign amid rising concerns about security threats. He emphasizes the importance of preparedness and responsible firearm ownership. 1:05:30 – Ivey Gruber, President of the Michigan Talk Network. Gruber discusses personal safety and preparedness, including the importance of training and responsible firearm use. The conversation also touches on the case of Mahmoud v. Taylor and broader legal implications. 1:15:38 - Monologue 1:24:30 – Jeanne Allen, Founder and CEO of the Center for Education Reform and the Yass Center for Education. Allen discusses recent developments suggesting the Department of Education is moving closer to potential restructuring or shutdown. She explains what this could mean for education policy nationwide. 1:34:20 – Wendy Block, Senior Vice President of Business Advocacy for the Michigan Chamber. Block discusses key ballot and policy issues, including opposition to a graduated income tax proposal and a potential constitutional convention. She also addresses concerns about proposals affecting political spending and business advocacy. 1:43:08 – Ivey Gruber, President of the Michigan Talk Network. Gruber discusses the Army raising the enlistment age to 42 and whether declining health among young Americans is a factor. The segment also explores the broader issue of obesity and the importance of healthier lifestyles and nutrition. --- Check out our brand new podcast, 'Forgotten America'... The sixth episode is live NOW at Steve Gruber on YouTube! Link below: https://youtu.be/aKxApESBYuo

In this week's episode of The Learning Curve, co-hosts U-Ark Prof. Albert Cheng and Center for Strong Public Schools' Alisha Searcy speak with Sarah Cohodes, Associate Professor of Public Policy at the University of Michigan, about her extensive research on charter public schools and education reform. Cohodes reflects on her academic journey and how it shaped her focus on school accountability, autonomy, and student outcomes. She explains the foundational charter school model—greater state regulatory flexibility in exchange for stronger accountability—and emphasizes the importance of rigorous authorization and data transparency. She highlights her 2021 research on charter effectiveness, showing strong gains for low-income students in urban areas and positive competitive effects on district schools. Cohodes also discusses high-performing charter networks, the importance of exceptional teachers and leaders, and Massachusetts' charter schools' standout success in closing achievement gaps and improving college outcomes. She concludes with a forward-looking discussion on policy solutions to address declining academic performance and how research can guide leaders and families in improving opportunities for urban students nationwide.

What if the biggest problem with education isn't your child… but the school system itself?In this episode of the Homeschool How To Podcast, Cheryl sits down with Dr. Peter Gray, author of Free to Learn, to talk about what schools get fundamentally wrong about how children actually learn.They discuss the hidden history of schooling, why shame and obedience are still built into the system, how kids learn to read and do math when they're actually ready, and why self-directed learning may be far more effective than most parents have been led to believe.If you've ever wondered whether your child is really “behind,” whether school is preparing kids for life, or whether there's a better way to learn, this conversation will challenge the way you think about education.In this episode, we discuss: what schools were originally designed to do  why forced learning often backfires  reading without a rigid timeline  math anxiety and real-life math  why motivation changes everything  how children learn when they're trusted About Dr. Peter Gray: Dr. Peter Gray is a research professor, psychologist, and author of Free to Learn. His work focuses on self-directed education, play, and the ways modern schooling conflicts with children's natural development.Resources mentioned:Free to Learn by Dr. Peter Gray Dr. Gray's website: https://www.petergray.org/Check out Dr. Gray's SubstackCheryl's eBook- The Homeschool How To: Complete Starter GuideIf this episode encouraged you, be sure to follow the show, leave a review, and share it with a parent who needs to hear this.Support the showInstagram: TheHomeschoolHowToPodcast Facebook: The Homeschool How To Podcast

Did your high school experience feel a little like a relic from another era? Beneath the daily routines of bells and benchmarks is a history of deliberate choices (made by a small number of voices), evolving philosophies, and healthy controversy that evolved through a period of rapid social change. This week, the hosts examine the origins of the American high school system as we know it, prompting critical inquiries into the emergence and evolution of the course and assessment structure that dictates the rhythms of adolescence in the United States. We review the landmark report of the Committee of Ten, an 1892 working group of National Education Association of the United States Committee on Secondary School Studies, which was convened in order to create a framework of educational standards to bring order to the patchwork chaos of secondary schooling in the U.S. left in the wake of the Civil War. We discuss the initial goals of the secondary school system and to what extent original intentions are still serving our students today. The episode also interrogates the notion of a singular “best” teaching or assessment method. 00:15 Intro & Recap of Holocaust Education Museum Exhibit (Cincinnati) and Guided Virtual Tour of Auschwitz-Birkenau 06:50 An Academic Conference with Enormous Power Over American High Schools 10:15 The Report of the Committee of Ten: The Most Important Education Document Ever Issued? 12:00 The Formalizing of Education as a Profession  14:50 The National Education Association: Convener of Educational Change 16:00 Horace Mann, Common Schooling, & the Evolution of Standards  19:30 Who Decides What is “Best”? And Better Questions 25:50 Ten After Ten: Retrospective Look & Influence of the Report 30:20 The End of Differentiation & Discussion Questions 40:00 What We Learned For a full list of episode sources and resources, visit our website.   Sources & Further Reading: Report of the Committee of Ten on Secondary School Studies : with the reports of the conferences arranged by the Committee United States. Bureau of Education. Report of the Commissioner of Education Made to the Secretary of the Interior for the Year ... With Accompanying Papers. Washington: G.P.O., 18701928. Education Reform in Antebellum America | Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History The History of NEA Ten Years' Influence of the Report of the Committee of Ten Episode 60 - Where No Mann Has Gone Before - 16:1 - An Education Podcast Episode 40 - A More Perfect Union? - 16:1 - An Education Podcast NEA Leadership on Teach for America Cardinal Principles of Secondary Education The Carnegie Unit

This podcast is made possible by our listeners and viewers. If this show has brought you value, you can support it by becoming a member of The Way Forward, our platform designed to help you find the health and freedom community (people, practitioners, schools, farms, and more) near you. Your membership directly supports the podcast and the work we do.The public school system has been damaging our children… but it doesn't have to be this way.In this conversation, I sit down with the founders of Infinity Academy, a project-based and nature-rooted school that was created after years of questioning the assumptions behind institutional education.Gillian, the school's Curriculum and Instructional Lead, spent more than a decade teaching in public education and repeatedly felt that something about the system wasn't working. Her work now focuses on project-based learning designed to nurture curiosity, critical thinking, and intrinsic motivation in children.Jenna, a Registered Nurse and wellness educator, co-founded the school after recognizing similar systemic problems in healthcare and education. Her work helps integrate nature, hands-on learning, and whole-person wellbeing into the educational experience.Together, they're building a model where learning follows the child's interests through questioning, research, creation, and reflection. Their goal is to help children develop agency, curiosity, and the confidence to keep learning long after the classroom.You'll Learn:[00:00] Introduction[03:40] How public school was designed to crush curiosity[21:31] The grief, the infinity fountain, and the 30-day scramble to open Infinity Academy[41:12] What is project-based learning, and what does it look like?[43:11] Why community beats homeschooling, and what learning looks like at the Academy[01:04:14] Teaching history without presenting it as an absolute truth[01:25:49] Sex ed, gender ideology, and the topics deliberately left to parents[01:48:48] Why "preparing kids for the real world" might be the wrong goal entirely[01:56:41] Advice for the single mom trapped in the public school systemLearn more from Gillian and Jenna:Infinity Education | WebsiteInfinity Education | InstagramInfinity Academy | WebsiteGillian Berard | Instagram Find more from Alec:Alec Zeck | InstagramAlec Zeck | XThe Way Forward | InstagramThe Way Forward is Sponsored By:RMDY Academy & Collective: Homeopathy Made AccessibleHigh-quality remedies and training to support natural healing.Enroll hereExplore here Paleovalley: 100% Grass-Fed Bone Broth Protein is a nutrient-dense, easy-to-digest source of collagen and essential amino acids. Sourced from grass-fed cows, this protein powder provides the building blocks for healthy joints, skin, and gut function—without fillers or artificial ingredients. Support the show and claim 15% off your PaleoValley order!New Biology Clinic: Redefine Health from the Ground UpExperience tailored terrain-based health services with consults, livestreams, movement classes, and more.Visit New Biology Clinic and use code THEWAYFORWARD (case sensitive) for $50 off activation.The Way Forward members get the $150 fee waivedWant to grow your podcast but not sure what's actually working? Podigy helps me produce The Way Forward. Take their free assessment to get clear on your next move—and a chance to win a call with their founder.

In this week's episode of The Learning Curve, co-hosts U-Ark Prof. Albert Cheng and Center for Strong Public Schools' Alisha Searcy speak with with Neal McCluskey and James Shuls, co-editors of Fighting for the Freedom to Learn: Examining the Nation's Centuries-Old School Choice Movement, about the historical roots and modern evolution of educational freedom in America. They discuss the inspiration behind the book and highlight key chapters that trace the development of school choice from the nation's founding to today. Their conversation explores how early American leaders viewed education as essential to republican self-government and how early state constitutions supported pluralistic schooling that included religious and private institutions. McCluskey and Shuls examined the rise of the 19th-century Common School movement, its influence on public education, and the ways it departed from the Founders' more decentralized, locally controlled vision of schooling. They also addressed major historical milestones, including the Roberts v. Boston (1850) and Brown v. Board of Education (1954) legal cases and the struggle for equal educational opportunity for Black Americans. They conclude with reflections on modern school choice debates, critiques of choice programs, and the growing legal and policy momentum behind expanding educational freedom across the United States.

In this episode, Henry speaks with Professor Pasi Sahlberg, Professor of Educational Leadership at the University of Melbourne, about some of the big issues shaping education today, including innovation, system change, leadership and the future of education reform.Audio production by Rob Kelly.

What if the biggest education question isn't “public vs. private”… but who is shaping your child's worldview?This week on The Homeschool How To Podcast, I'm joined by documentary filmmaker Spencer Taylor, creator of The Death of Recess (streaming on Angel Studios). Spencer shares what sparked the film—when his school eliminated recess—and how that change connected to a bigger story: the erosion of childhood, creativity, and parental authority in modern education.We talk about:Why removing recess impacts behavior, mental health, and learningThe rise of standardized testing (and what it's costing kids)How education funding and influence shape curriculum decisionsWhy school choice and homeschooling are growing fast after COVIDWhat Spencer discovered when he went undercover at an NEA leadership summitHow parents can reclaim their role without fearIf you're homeschooling, considering homeschooling, or trying to get your spouse on board, this episode will challenge your assumptions—and give you language for the conversations that matter.

Social justice and “anti-racist” warriors are eroding the foundations of order and learning in schools. Steven Wilson, author of The Lost Decade: Returning to the Fight for Better Schools in America, joins the podcast for a frank discussion about the entities that forced the “lost decade” in K-12 education onto students, families, and school communities. […]

Political correspondent Alexandra Topping and special educational needs student Jake with his mum, Laura, explore the government's controversial plans for reform. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/infocus

EDUCATION REFORM AND THE AVOIDANCE OF A FEDERAL AI DEPARTMENT Colleague Kevin Frazier. Frazier argues for updating education, starting with teacher training in elementary schools and vocational partnerships in high schools, to prepare students for an AI future. He advises against creating a federal Department of AI, suggesting society should adapt to it as advanced computing rather than a unique threat. NUMBER 121921 FRANCE