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In this final Big 3 Briefing of the 2025 legislative session, we walk through where things landed for education funding in Washington state. We cover what passed around special education, MSOC, and transportation, break down key budget numbers, and reflect on the progress made—and the gaps that remain. It's our wrap-up of the session, and a look ahead to what comes next.- Megan Larkin & Christie RobertsonSee our comprehensive Show NotesSupport the showContact us at hello@rainydayrecess.org.Rainy Day Recess music by Lester Mayo, logo by Cheryl Jenrow.
As budget negotiations reach their final phase, we recap where the Big 3 bills—special education, transportation, and MSOC—stand and what's still on the table. We also reflect on the highs, lows, and hard lessons of the past 12 weeks, and talk about what advocacy looks like when progress comes one rung at a time. If you're feeling frustrated or burned out, this one's for you.See our extensive Show Notes.- Megan Larkin and Christie RobertsonSupport the showContact us at hello@rainydayrecess.org.Rainy Day Recess music by Lester Mayo, logo by Cheryl Jenrow.
Will our education bills survive the House Appropriations committee? Senate bills 5192 (MSOC) and 5263 (Special Education) survived the Senate with enough umph to still be worth our advocacy. But now face the committee that previously slashed a $600 per student increase to just $5.55. We reveal which representatives hold the red pens, how to make your voice heard (e.g. sign in pro!) at the crucial March 19th hearing (watch here, 4pm Wednesday), and get real-world town hall advocacy wisdom from high schooler Rafael Brewer, who went toe-to-toe with legislators at the rowdy 43rd district town hall. Plus, we enter "Budget Land" as the final revenue forecast drops - what will this mean for education funding?See our Show NotesWhy Should I Trust You?Bold, unfiltered, and uncompromisingly honest, Why Should I Trust...Listen on: Apple Podcasts SpotifySupport the showContact us at hello@rainydayrecess.org.Rainy Day Recess music by Lester Mayo, logo by Cheryl Jenrow.
In week 7 of our Big 3 Briefing series, we provide updates on the legislative process for the Big 3 education funding priorities: special education, pupil transportation, and materials, supplies, and operating costs (MSOC).All of the Big 3 bills survived the policy cutoff, and some of them look on track to make it through the fiscal cutoff this Friday - the MSOC and special education bills are all scheduled for executive sessions on Thursday, February 27. However, transportation funding increases are at risk, as key bills have not yet been scheduled as of yet.We break down how fiscal committees work, including how legislators may attempt to dial down funding levels or make other changes through the amendment and substitution process in the executive session. We highlight concerns about special education funding, particularly the risk of reduced excess cost multipliers and the possible removal of funding for OSPI's inclusionary work.With a February 28 deadline approaching for fiscal committees, we encourage listeners to contact legislators—especially those on the Senate Ways & Means or House Appropriations Committees—to protect critical funding. Looking ahead, we preview the next hurdles: Rules Committee screenings and floor debates, leading up to the March 12 cutoff for bills to pass their house of origin.See our Show NotesSupport the showContact us at hello@rainydayrecess.org.Rainy Day Recess music by Lester Mayo, logo by Cheryl Jenrow.
See our Show NotesIn Week 6 of the 2025 Washington State legislative session, we delve into the status of the Big 3 funding priorities for public education: special education, pupil transportation, and MSOC (materials, supplies, and operating costs). With the first policy cutoff approaching on February 21st, any bill not passed out of its policy committee by then will be considered dead for the year—though exceptions exist.Megan Larkin shares insights on how to advocate for the Big 3 bills, emphasizing the importance of contacting key legislators and maintaining pressure to get bills scheduled for executive action. We also recap Focus Day, where education advocates gathered in Olympia, demonstrating strong support for the Big 3 priorities. With legislative deadlines looming, staying engaged remains critical to securing full funding for public education.Stay tuned as we continue this journey through the fiscal cutoff and beyond.Support the showContact us at hello@rainydayrecess.org.Rainy Day Recess music by Lester Mayo, logo by Cheryl Jenrow.
We are now in Week 5 of the 2025 Washington State legislative session, continuing our deep dive into the Big 3 priorities—transportation, special education, and MSOC (materials, supplies, and operating costs). Megan Larkin guides us through the latest updates, legislative deadlines, and advocacy actions needed to push these crucial bills forward.This week's theme: “It's a marathon, not a sprint.” With many bills still making their way through the process, now is the time to stay engaged and keep the pressure on lawmakers to ensure full funding for public education.Send us a voice memo with your impact stories at hello@rainydayrecess.org.See our Show NotesEach person's opinions are their own. Support the showContact us at hello@rainydayrecess.org.Rainy Day Recess music by Lester Mayo, logo by Cheryl Jenrow.
the rapid pace continues in Week 3. Bills addressing the Big Three--Special Ed, MSOC; Pupil Transportation-- are set for executive action. conversations about TTK and Levies are hot topics this week, too.
During the second week of this Session, four bills to advance the Big Three--Special Ed; MSOC; and Pupil Transportation--have their first action. We encourage you to jump in and support!
David Parks, Head MSOC Coach of the Crandall Pirates, joins us LIVE from Moody Gardens in Galveston, Texas, for the 2024 TASCO #TXHSSOC Coaches Convention.
Jerry Hurtado, 2024 TASCO Hall of Honor Inductee and Deer Park Head MSOC Coach, along with Bryan Hayman, Head MSOC Coach of Baytown Sterling, join us LIVE from Moody Gardens in Galveston, Texas, for the 2024 TASCO #TXHSSOC Coaches Convention.
Alexi Upton, Head MSOC Coach of Sulphur Springs and friend of the show, joins us LIVE from Moody Gardens in Galveston, Texas, for the 2024 TASCO #TXHSSOC Coaches Convention.
Football cruised against Georgia St. and heads to Norfolk for a big one this weekend. Plus WSOC wins the Belt and plays Ohio St. first in the big dance. MSOC takes on Marshall in the SBC semis.
On this edition of suncast Manny looks in depth at each fall sports, WSOC, MSOC, and VB as things are starting to shake out when it comes to seedings and teams understand where they fall and who they are competing against week in and week out. Then Josh talks about the opening weekend for conference FB and what he saw as well as what he did not see.
On this edition of Suncast, Manny tackles the power rankings for VB, MSOC, and WSOC as we hit the first quarter mark of conference play ahead of some key matchups this Saturday. Then Josh jumps on to help preview the first conference football weekend and the chances of upsets as well as key players to look out for.
Manny talks the biggest takeaways of the 3 sport weekend with MSOC, WSOC, and VB with some changes to the power ranking of the conference teams. Then Josh takes over the FB scene as he recaps the final weekend before conference play starts.
Manny talks about how the standings are shaking out for MSOC, WSOC, and VB as well as the takeaways from the weekend games. Then Josh takes over with the update on FB with the final weekend before conference play.
On this episode of Suncast, Manny goes through the weekend slate of games and what he saw from all the results of WSOC, MSOC, and VB as well as where some teams are currently in the power rankings with the midpoint of conference a few games away. Then Josh takes over and takes everyone through the weekend of FB and what he noticed from all the games as conference play is this weekend.
Season 4 of the Midtown Madness Podcast is brought to you by Two Men and a Garden! That's right they are fueling this podcast with not only delicious pickles, but salsas and most recently Harissa sauce. They are the real deal! Their products are delicious and more importantly local to St. Louis. You can pick up their many products at any local grocery stores or online where they ship nationwide!
For the weekend preview special, Manny looks at WSOC, MSOC, and VB as all three have conference games on a jam packed Sun filled Saturday Slate as well as picks his outcomes and why. Then JB hops on to talk Sun Conference FB with games all day from 12pm to 7pm. JB and Manny make their picks as well as which games they re most interested in. We wrap up the episode with another interview this time Suncast travels to West Palm as KU WSOC star Lauren Riley talks the great start, the number next to their name, her own play, and more.
Adam Gotkin and Tyler Aiken connect to get you ready for the SU Football opener against Ohio. 1. Previewing the opponent (1:06-5:04) 2. Depth Chart surprises (5:04-12:34) 3. What margin of victory are we comfortable with (12:34-16:15) 4. What are we most excited about (16:15-21:20) 5. MSOC Update (21:20-END)
Coach Bryan Hayman, USMNT Super Fan and Head MSOC Coach of Baytown Sterling, joins us for a special "Summer of Soccer" episode. We discuss a wild summer of soccer with Euro, Copa America, and USMNT Head Coach talk, as well as a look ahead at the upcoming Olympics and talk all things USMNT and USWNT. We also discuss TXHSSOC and the inaugural Division I/Division II format. This and so much more. A great information-filled and entertaining show. Don't miss this exciting episode! [Originally Recorded 7-19-2024]
We're LIVE with new Head MSOC Coach of the San Antonio Brennan Bears, Collin Salyers. Coach Salyers takes us through the hiring process and how his unique situation in returning to his Alma Mater where he once played and started his coaching career, as an Assistant. Coach Salyers also shares how he knew he was ready for his first head coaching opportunity. We discuss what has him excited about his new program and his thoughts on TXHSSOC. We also dive into some Euro, Copa America, and USMNT talk. This and so much more. A great information-filled and entertaining show. Don't miss this exciting episode! [Originally Recorded 7-10-2024]
After being awarded as the Region 3 Coaching Staff of the Year, SUNY Cortland men's soccer coach, Steve Axtell joins this weeks episode of "Not Even D2". Axtell has led the Red Dragons to six Sweet 16 appearances and three SUNYAC championships since 2014. Axtell has developed a unique culture within the soccer program and that's changed the narrative surrounding Cortland soccer. Axtell talks with "Not Even D2" about the leadership hierarchy he created, the intense rivalry with SUNYAC powerhouse Oneonta, and how working in the Cortland athletic department has driven so much of his success. This episode is available wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe to the podcasts YouTube channel @ Not Even D2. Enjoy the episode!
We're LIVE with David Johnson, Head MSOC Coach of the San Antonio Johnson Jaguars. We look back at their season so far and discuss winning a district title with two matches remaining in the regular season and what it means to his program and community. We also discuss competing in the highly respected District 28-6A and how that prepares them for the playoffs. Coach Johnson talks about the evolution of his program in his time at Johnson and their preparation and goals for the upcoming State Playoffs. A great information-filled and entertaining show with lots of laughs along the way. Don't miss this exciting episode! [Originally Recorded 3-14-2024]
Coach Bailey Guffin, Head MSOC Coach of Sul Ross State University Lobos, joins us LIVE. We look back at Coach Guffin's first season at Sul Ross. We discuss their upcoming Spring Season and the big jump they are preparing to make from Division III to Division II in July of 2024. Coach Guffin shares with us why he chose Sul Ross and his thoughts after one year in Alpine. We discuss his focus on culture implementation and the programs vision and timeline. Coach Guffin gives us insight into his thoughts on competing in their future conference; The LoneStar Conference. We wrap-up with an inside look on his recruiting focus and thoughts on the TXHSSOC and college soccer scene, as well as showcase events and ID camps he and his coaching staff will be attending in the spring. Don't miss this great episode! [Originally Recorded 1-15-2024]
In this episode Justin Chezem, head coach of Christopher Newport University Men's soccer, welcome one of his former player's father, Jeff Hulett. Jeff tells the story of watching his son's last soccer match and the feelings it brought. He goes on to talk about his company College which is helping high school students make structured decisions about their future and college. I encourage you to check out Jeff's book Making Choices, Making Money which is also a course he teaches at James Madison University as a professor of personal finance. The book connects personal financial success and confident decision-making. This book is a foundation for all getting started or even those of us who have been at it a while. It also highlights a specific incident involving Daniel and a red card during a game against St. Mary's. The introduction of Jeff Hulett, Daniel's father, is made, and the decision-making process for choosing Christopher Newport University is discussed. The confusing college recruiting process and the importance of handling adversity are explored. The misconception of Division I soccer and the emotional impact of the end of a career are addressed. The pressure of social media and instant gratification is examined, along with the need for honest and blunt information. The College Xoice app and the importance of structured decision-making are highlighted, as well as the challenge of information overload. The conversation explores the importance of guided questions in college decision making and the common thread in decision making across various aspects of life. It emphasizes the need for consistency and repeatability in decision making and the importance of character development. The conversation also delves into creating a personal choice architecture, data curation, and the building of a personal decision model. It highlights the value of GPA and work experience in decision making and the importance of resilience. The conversation concludes with a discussion about Jeff's book, 'Making Choices, Making Money,' and the emotions experienced at the end of a sports career.The pressure of social media and instant gratification can influence decision-making, but it is important to make choices based on what is truly important to you.Structured decision-making tools, such as the College Xoice app, can help individuals make informed decisions about their college choices. Guided questions can help students narrow down their college choices and identify their criteria for decision making.GPA can be a strong signal for employers, indicating a student's potential for success.Jeff's book, 'Making Choices, Making Money,' explores the science behind decision making and provides guidance for making confident financial decisions.Chapters01:00 Daniel's Red Card Incident04:16 The Introduction of Jeff Hulett05:44 Choosing Christopher Newport University07:09 The Confusing College Recruiting Process08:06 The Impact of a Game Against Loudon09:29 The Importance of Handling Adversity10:29 The Misconception of Division I Soccer18:21 The Pressure of Social Media and Instant Gratification23:45 The Importance of Making the Right Decision for the Right Reasons26:06 The Need for Honest and Blunt Information28:40 The Disadvantage of Drowning in Information35:29 The College Xoice App and Structured Decision-Making40:14 The Challenge of Information Overload41:19 Guided Questions and College Decision Making42:12 The Common Thread in Decision Making44:10 The Importance of Character Development45:19 Teaching the Decision Process46:30 Creating a Personal Choice Architecture47:31 Data Curation and Information Sources49:56 Building a Personal Decision Model55:26 The Value of Work Experience57:45 The Importance of Value and Resilience
Fresh from briefly joining us at the 2023 TASCO Convention, Coach Zane Barnes, Asst. MSOC Coach of Winthrop and Founder of Texas Soccer Network (TSN), joins us LIVE for a full episode. Coach Barnes discusses the successes and many lessons learned from the 2023 season and the optimism going into 2024, as well as coaching and the level of play in the Big South Conference. We also discuss the world of recruiting as it relates to both the D-I and JuCo world, as well as the many great things he's doing with the launch of his new initiative, the Texas Soccer Network. An episode filed with tons of great info - Don't miss this exciting episode! [Originally Recorded 11-24-2023]
The Dukes keep winning! Football is inside the AP Top 20 this week, Men's Basketball is ranked for the first time in program history, MSOC received an At-Large bid into the NCAA Tournament and COLLEGE GAMEDAY IS COMING TO HARRISONBURG!! Oh, and we got the Live Podcast this Friday too. This is a whirlwind honestly.
Season 4 of the Midtown Madness Podcast is brought to you by Two Men and a Garden! That's right they are fueling this podcast with not only delicious pickles, but salsas and most recently Harissa sauce. They are the real deal! Their products are delicious and more importantly local to St. Louis. You can pick up their many products at any local grocery stores or online where they ship nationwide!
Jerry Hurtado, Head MSOC Coach of Deer Park High School & Director of San Jacinto United, joins us LIVE. We look back at how his program's 2023 season has helped prepare his young squad for a potential breakout season in 2024. We also discuss how he balances being a High School Head Coach and Club Director and how Club and High School can and should co-exist. Lastly, we discuss the state of the TXHSSOC game and where it's headed. An information-filled and entertaining show...Don't miss this exciting episode! [Originally Recorded 10-2-2023]
Season 4 of the Midtown Madness Podcast is brought to you by Two Men and a Garden! That's right they are fueling this podcast with not only delicious pickles, but salsas and most recently Harissa sauce. They are the real deal! Their products are delicious and more importantly local to St. Louis. You can pick up their many products at any local grocery stores or online where they ship nationwide!
Ethan Frank and Tyler Aitken break down the five biggest stories of the week going on with Syracuse Athletics: 1. Football vs. Western Michigan Preview (1:00) 2. Analyzing the Orange's Schedule after Week 1 (7:45) 3. Elijah Moore Transfers High Schools (14:40) 4. Syracuse Men's Soccer Has a Top-10 Matchup (20:45) 5. Predictions/Keys for Western Michigan (25:00)
The first part of the show gives you a rundown of what to expect on our pregame show for the Bulls at Western Kentucky, plus audio from coordinators Joel Gordon (3:45) and Todd Orlando (7:15), CB Aamaris Brown (10:25) and Donovan Jennings (12:00). Then Darek previews volleyball hosting a trio of matches (14:00), men's soccer vs. Mercer including a chat with Head Coach Bob Butehorn (17:00), women's soccer vs. FSU, and cross country began Friday morning with a quick word from junior from Bradenton Sydney Granack (24:00) before finishing up with notes on softball and basketball.
Friday's show began with Darek announcing a new time slot/approach to Bulls Beat which will begin Monday. Then news on the schedules for cross country and men's golf (4:30 mark), highlights of the men's soccer 4-1 exhibition win vs. Southeastern U. (7:00), a basketball update on Tyler Harris' pro destination (14:30), brief recap of women's soccer 3-0 win over Stetson (15:30), then a full interview with new assistant volleyball coach, the 7-foot tall former Brazilian star Leandro Vissotto with Head Coach Jolene Shepardson (16:20).
Season 3 of the Midtown Madness Podcast is brought to you by Two Men and a Garden! That's right they are fueling this podcast with not only delicious pickles, but salsas and most recently Harissa sauce. They are the real deal! Their products are delicious and more importantly local to St. Louis. You can pick up their many products at any local grocery stores or online where they ship nationwide!
Bubble watch begins for women's golf, an amazing schedule announced by men's soccer, AAC tourney preview for women's tennis
In this SimpleCoach to Coach Interview I have a great conversation with Justin Chezem, Head Men's Coach at Christopher Newport University. We cover the season and a range of Division III soccer topics. For information on the Men's team, you can find it here - https://www.cnusports.com/sports/mens-soccer If you are looking to be recruited, fill out the form here - https://www.cnusports.com/sports/2010/8/25/MSOC_0825101452.aspx Twitter - @CNUathletics @CNUcaptains @CNU_MS Thanks to Coach Chezem for the time and great conversation! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/simplecoach/support
Season 3 of the Midtown Madness Podcast is brought to you by Two Men and a Garden! That's right they are fueling this podcast with not only delicious pickles, but salsas and most recently Harissa sauce. They are the real deal! Their products are delicious and more importantly local to St. Louis. You can pick up their many products at any local grocery stores or online where they ship nationwide!
As always, a lot to get to on Monday's show summing up the weekend - a scary injury took place as the football team lost to SMU 41-23, men's soccer dropped the AAC final but its NCAA hopes still look great, Women's Basketball got tested Sunday after an easy win Friday, and the men's team battle Auburn on the road.
What a busy weekend, and great news Monday on the men's soccer front.
Season 3 of the Midtown Madness Podcast is brought to you by Two Men and a Garden! That's right they are fueling this podcast with not only delicious pickles, but salsas and most recently Harissa sauce. They are the real deal! Their products are delicious and more importantly local to St. Louis. You can pick up their many products at any local grocery stores or online where they ship nationwide!
Big match on tap for Tuesday night in men's soccer, notes on football, soccer and baseball, and a fun conversation with point guard for the women's basketball team (9:30 mark).
Season 3 of the Midtown Madness Podcast is brought to you by Two Men and a Garden! That's right they are fueling this podcast with not only delicious pickles, but salsas and most recently Harissa sauce. They are the real deal! Their products are delicious and more importantly local to St. Louis. You can pick up their many products at any local grocery stores or online where they ship nationwide!
A lot to get to from the weekend! The first half of the show features highlights of Tulane's 38-24 win over the Bulls, which was a lot closer before Gerry Bohanon was injured. Also women's soccer in great shape after coming back vs. ECU, highlights from a wild 3-3 tie for the men vs. FIU, and volleyball splits a pair of 5-setters at home.
Show starts off with some women's basketball, and Darek's conversation with the predicted conference player of the year. Then our traditional Thursday check-ins with both the offensive and defensive coordinator. And finally highlights of men's soccer dropping a late lead in a rare loss to Stetson.
Season 3 of the Midtown Madness Podcast is brought to you by Two Men and a Garden! That's right they are fueling this podcast with not only delicious pickles, but salsas and most recently Harissa sauce. They are the real deal! Their products are delicious and more importantly local to St. Louis. You can pick up their many products at any local grocery stores or online where they ship nationwide!
Season 3 of the Midtown Madness Podcast is brought to you by Two Men and a Garden! That's right they are fueling this podcast with not only delicious pickles, but salsas and most recently Harissa sauce. They are the real deal! Their products are delicious and more importantly local to St. Louis. You can pick up their many products at any local grocery stores or online where they ship nationwide!